9 Best Kayak Trailers (2024 Reviews and Guide)

Kayaking is one of the most popular outdoor sports, but the problem is that kayaks are heavy and difficult to transport from place to place. You’ll need a kayak trailer for transporting your kayak, but what type? There are many different types of kayak trailers on the market today, each having its own pros and cons.

The best kayak trailer will depend on your needs. If you have a large kayak or are transporting multiple kayaks, you will need a trailer up to the task.

In this article, we will help you determine what trailer is best for you to make an informed decision before purchasing.

In a hurry? Check out our top picks:

Best Kayak Trailer

The best kayak trailers provide convenience, portability, and security for kayaks and can be towed by a vehicle with a hitch receiver. In addition, they provide an easy way to get your kayaks to the water, especially when you have a long way to travel to your favorite paddling spot.

With that said, let’s get to it.

Malone MicroSport Sports Trailer

Malone MicroSport Sports Trailer for Kayaks, Canoes and Bikes
  • Transports 4 kayaks up to 20' long (800 lb. capacity)
  • Galvanized steel frame with 60" aluminum cross rails
  • 54" galvanized axle with sealed hubs & wheels (maintenance free)
  • Easily assembles in 2-3 hours with award winning instructions
  • 12" galvanized slotted wheels with chrome acorn nuts

Transporting kayaks is hard. You want to kayak but don’t want to deal with the hassle of loading and unloading kayaks from your car or truck.

The Malone MicroSport Sports Trailer is one of the best kayak trailers because it’s easy to assemble, transport, and store. In addition, this is a medium-duty trailer, which is excellent for hauling kayaks.

The trailer weighs about 200 pounds and can easily tow behind almost any vehicle. It’s also easy to handle when you need to move it around for storage.

The Malone MicroSport has submersible lights and wheel hubs, so you can back your kayaks right into the water without worrying about the trailer getting wet.

This trailer has 12″ wheels, so it’s great for highway speeds. Make sure you have your kayaks are securely tied down before you hit the open road.

The cross rails are 60 inches wide, and you can add your own kayak rack to the bars it works with most major brands.

With a reinforced steel tongue, the MicroSport holds up to 4 kayaks at a time (up to 20′ long) and has an 800 lb capacity. This robust trailer is an excellent option for loading and transporting many different types of kayaks.

This kayak trailer has a galvanized steel frame that will withstand weather, dust, dirt, and grime. If treated properly, this durable frame will last you for many years.

This versatile trailer can be used with kayaks, canoes, mountain bikes, etc. In addition, you can accessorize the trailer with different rack systems depending on what you are hauling.

I hope you are handy! The trailer needs to be assembled, so plan for about half a day to finish that job. The instructions with the kayak trailer are clear and easy to follow.

It helps if you have a helper, but it’s not an absolute necessity. If you’re having trouble assembling your kayak trailer, consider getting a friend or family member to look at the manual and guide you through the assembly.

You will need some essential tools, like wrenches, screwdrivers, and a rubber mallet. However, this is an excellent option if you are in the market for a durable kayak trailer.

PROS

800-pound weight capacity
Easy to load
12″ galvanized wheels
Holds up to 4 kayaks
60″ cross rails

CONS

Doesn’t come with a kayak rack
Might be more than you need

Malone Auto Racks EcoLight Sport Trailer

Malone Auto Racks EcoLight Sport Trailer
  • Marine grade galvanized frame - DOT approved submersible incandescent lighting - Flat...
  • 58" coated steel load bars - 2pc extended tongue - 2" receiver
  • Five 8" lug high-speed powder coated wheel, rated to 70 MPH - Injection molded...
  • Galvanized heavy duty axle - Leaf spring suspension - Tongue skid plate
  • Five Year Limited Warranty - Made in the USA

A lighter-weight option, the Malone Auto Racks EcoLight Sport Trailer is a kayak trailer that could be the answer to your kayaking transportation needs. It has a marine-grade galvanized frame that will last a long time.

The kayak trailer has DOT-approved submersible incandescent lighting combined with the galvanized frame. So you can back the trailer straight into the water to unload your boats quickly.

The 58″ coated steel load bars provide plenty of strength and durability for transporting your kayaks, canoes, or other gear to the water.

If your favorite paddling spot requires a trip on the freeway, never fear. The 8″ lug high-speed powder-coated wheels are rated to 70 MPH, perfect for highway and freeway driving.

Injection-molded fenders offer protection from dirt or water splashes to help keep your kayaks from picking up dirt and grime from the roadway.

The trailer also has a galvanized heavy-duty axle, leaf spring suspension for smooth rides, tongue skid plate, and a 2pc extended tongue.

This kayak trailer can accommodate boats up to 16′ long by 7′ wide so it will work well with most kayaks or canoes.

The EcoLight Sport Trailer is rated to support up to 400 pounds to work well with kayaks, canoes, or other kayak equipment.

The quality construction ensures that your kayaks will be protected during transport so they arrive at your kayaking location in pristine condition.

The trailer is versatile, and you can configure it for different needs. So whatever watersports you are into, kayaking, canoeing, SUP, etc., this trailer can be set up to fit your needs.

The Malone Auto Racks EcoLight Sport Trailer is a great kayak trailer that works well for most kayakers at a very reasonable price.

Plan on about 3-5 hours to assemble this trailer, and it’s always nice to have a helper, although not required. You should be good to go if you have some basic tools, wrenches, screwdrivers, and a rubber mallet.

PROS

Can hold up to 4 kayaks
Low to the ground, easy to load
400-pound capacity
Lightweight trailer (145 pounds)

CONS

8″ wheels are smaller than other models
Doesn’t come with kayak carriers

CE Smith Multi-Sport Trailer

No products found.

Hauling your kayak to the water can be a pain. The CE Smith Multi-Sport Trailer is the perfect solution and is designed to make hauling your kayak easy.

This kayak trailer has an overall length of 140″ and a width of 54″. The galvanized steel is solid and has an 800-pound capacity. Another bonus is that the frame sits 18″ off the ground, making loading and unloading your kayaks much easier.

The trailer comes with a sturdy pair of 5′ long carpeted boards that are adjustable. This is great for carrying multiple kayaks; the carpeting will help keep your kayaks from scratches while traveling.

The support boards are also strong enough to carry the heaviest of kayaks. Some fishing kayaks (and all the gear) can weigh a couple of hundred pounds. Just make sure you strap your kayak down nice and tight so it doesn’t slip on the carpet.

The trailer weighs about 200 pounds and is easy to maneuver when storing. The wheels are rated for highway speed, which is excellent if you travel a long way to your kayaking spot.

As with most trailers, you get to enjoy the fun of assembly. Honestly, the instructions are clear and concise, so don’t worry if you don’t know a wrench from a screwdriver.

The CE Smith Multi-Sport Trailer is great for hauling kayaks and other small watercraft. However, it might be more than some people need.

This trailer has been designed for use with many different types of boats and is easy to assemble, well-built, and includes everything you need to get on the water quickly.

With this kayak trailer, you’ll never have an excuse not to go out on the water again.

PROS

200-pound trailer easy to maneuver by hand
Comes with bunk carpet
Hauls 2 kayaks, or other watercraft
Robust 800-pound weight capacity

CONS

More expensive than other models
Assembly takes a long time

Rambo Bikes Canoe Trailer and Kayak Trailer

Sale
Rambo Bikes Canoe and Kayak Trailer Cart - Heavy-Duty Kayak Cart with 300lbs Maximum Capacity - Extendable Bike Trailer - Adjustable Steel Frame, Padded Contact Points, 16"x3" Wheels for Any Terrain
  • Haul to Your Favorite Destination: Haul your favorite kayak right to your launching...
  • Extendable and Easy to Assemble: A heavy-duty cart that extends up to 10 feet. Our...
  • Padded Contact Points: Thick and durable foam pads protect your watercraft from dents...
  • Built and Compatibility: Durable and indestructible, this utility trailer is built...
  • Built Rambo Tough: Rambo is the pioneer for electric bikes in the hunting industry....

Okay, let’s take a slight detour from the traditional kayak trailer. Hang in there with me on this one.

We all know that transporting your kayak or canoe can be a pain. You need the right vehicle, load the kayak, and then drive to the water. Getting in and out of tight spaces with a trailer is not always easy.

The Rambo Bikes Canoe Trailer and Kayak Trailer is the perfect solution for transporting your boat without all the hassle.

It’s bike power to the rescue! If the situation is right for you, this might be just what you are looking for.

This trailer has adjustable straps that allow you to attach it securely to your bike frame. It also features padded contact points so you don’t scratch up your boat when loading or unloading it.

Plus, this trailer can hold 300 lbs when used as a hand cart or 70 lbs when attached to a bike, which gives you plenty of options for loading it up.

It’s adjustable to fit different sizes so you can use it with 8′ – 10′ length boats with 3′ widths.

The padded contact points will protect your boat from scratches during transport. And this trailer includes tie-down straps that will keep everything secure while on the go!

The Rambo Bike kayak trailer is an excellent option if you live close to a kayaking spot or want to take your kayak from your campsite to the water with your bike.

You can also hook this kayak trailer to an ATV or golf cart.

It’s a little outside the box, but it’s a solid option if it fits your style. This is one of the best kayak trailers because it’s compact, easy to use, and won’t scratch your boat.

PROS

You can hook it up to a bike
Maneuverable in places other trailers can’t go
Lightweight and easy to store
Supports up to 300 pounds

CONS

Not as versatile or heavy-duty as other models

Ultra-Tow 4ft. x 8ft. Folding Aluminum Utility Trailer Kit

Ultra-Tow 4ft. x 8ft. Folding Aluminum Utility Trailer Kit - 1170-Lb. Load Capacity
  • Rustproof aluminum frame
  • Folds to 72 5/8in.L for convenient storage
  • Large 4ft. x 8ft. bed
  • 1,170-lb. payload capacity
  • 1,400-lb. max. GVWR

The Ultra-Tow 4 ft x 8 ft Folding Aluminum Utility Trailer Kit is an excellent solution for transporting your kayaks. This trailer has a space-saving design to be folded down when not in use, making it simple to store at home.

With a weight capacity of 1,100+ lbs, this aluminum boat trailer is built to handle the load without sacrificing quality. In addition, the rust-proof frame gives you plenty of stability for your kayaks.

This heavy-duty trailer is excellent for heavy fishing kayaks transporting multiple kayaks and other gear. In addition, you can transport all kinds of watersport toys with this durable trailer.

One unique feature is adding your own decking to this trailer to customize it for hauling. In addition, you can load up your kayaks and have room for other gear, making this a perfect trailer to take camping.

The trailer weighs about 200 pounds and folds up for easy storage. You can store it in a garage, shed, or outdoors.

One downside to this trailer is that the 12″ tires are not designed for highway travel, as some other trailers are. So while the tires are sturdy, you may consider other options if you plan to take your kayak trailer on highways.

This is a low-cost option for kayak trailers that can easily be used for other purposes by adding custom decking. The Ultra-Tow 4 ft x 8 ft Folding Aluminum Utility Trailer Kit is a good value for the price.

As with other trailers on the list, you will need to assemble this kayak trailer. But you can finish the job pretty easily with a few hours of your time and some tools.

The Ultra-Tow is an excellent option if you are looking for a versatile kayak trailer.

PROS

Versatile trailer
You can add a plywood base and side rails
Heavy-duty towing capacity
You can haul kayaks and other gear
Great value

CONS

It’s a bigger trailer than others on the list so it’s more difficult to store and maneuver
The assembly instructions could be better

Malone EcoLight 2-Boat J-Rack Kayak Trailer Package

Malone EcoLight 2-Boat J-Rack Kayak Trailer Package
  • Marine-grade galvanized steel frame for years of dependable service
  • Galvanized heavy-duty axle & leaf spring suspension deliver a smooth stable ride...
  • Reinforced extra-long tongue with lift handle and tongue skid plate
  • Coated steel load bars fit most manufacturer's kayak carriers
  • Powder-coated 5-lug high-speed wheels and injection-molded fenders

It can be hard to find the best kayak trailer. So many options exist, but not all trailers are created equal.

Some have more features than others, some are better quality than others, and others are cheaper than others… It’s hard to know what’s best.

The Malone EcoLight 2-Boat J-Rack Kayak Trailer Package is a great way to transport your kayaks and gear.

The kayak trailer will support up to 400 pounds, which is plenty for most kayaks. In addition, the 58″ crossbars provide plenty of space for two kayaks.

This trailer package includes everything you need to transport your kayaks and gear easily. With this kayak trailer, you get a marine-grade galvanized steel frame that will last years of dependable service.

You also get two J-style racks to secure your kayaks to the trailer. Thus, plenty of room is left to take other gear with you. This setup is designed to carry two medium-sized touring or recreational kayaks.

The J-cradles are easy to load your kayaks on, especially because they are low to the ground on this trailer. Not much lifting is required, like when you have J-cradles on the roof of a car. It’s like having the roof rack on a car at ground level.

The 8″ wheels on this trailer are smaller than the wheels on other models. The downside is that you may not want to drive freeway speeds with this trailer, although the trailer is rated for 70 MPH.

The Malone EcoLight kayak trailer is a safe and affordable way to transport your kayaks to and from your favorite paddling spot. The EcoLight is an excellent choice for those who want to go as light as possible and have a worry-free experience on the road.

PROS

Holds 2 kayaks
Comes with kayak carriers (J-cradles)
400-pound capacity
Low to the ground for easy loading
Lightweight trailer easy to maneuver by hand

CONS

If your kayaks are over 14′ you need to look at other options
It takes about 5 hours to assemble by yourself

Malone EcoLight 4-Boat Stacker Kayak Trailer Package

Malone EcoLight 4-Boat Stacker Kayak Trailer Package
  • Marine-grade galvanized steel frame for years of dependable service
  • Galvanized heavy-duty axle & leaf spring suspension deliver a smooth stable ride...
  • Reinforced extra-long tongue with lift handle and tongue skid plate Coated steel load...
  • Coated steel load bars fit most manufacturerâ€s kayak carriers
  • Powder-coated 5-lug high-speed wheels and injection-molded fenders

If you and your family love to spend time on the water, this kayak trailer is an excellent option.

You guessed it. The Malone EcoLight 4-Boat Stacker Kayak Trailer can transport up to 4 kayaks simultaneously, which is perfect for kayaking with family or friends.

The trailer is versatile, allowing you to carry a combination of kayaks, paddleboards, other water toys, and your gear.

The robust kayak trailer includes a durable galvanized steel frame with heavy-duty leaf spring suspension, so your kayaks ride smoothly under full load.

This trailer package has a reinforced extra-long tongue with a lift handle. In addition, it comes with powder-coated 8-inch, five high-speed lug wheels and injection-molded fenders to help keep dirt and grime off your kayaks as you travel down the road.

The trailer works best with traditional V-style kayak hulls and has a maximum weight limit of 400 pounds. So, you can even transport a couple of heavy fishing kayaks since the carrier has a 400-pound capacity.

The kayak trailer package comes with foam blocks that serve multiple purposes. First, to help keep your kayaks securely in place as you travel, the foam blocks keep your kayaks from sliding and getting scratched.

You also get stacker-style carriers and tie-downs, making this one of the best kayak trailers.

The downside is the 8″ wheels, smaller than other trailers on this list. Also, the trailer is rated for 70 MPH, so keep that in mind if you are speeding down the freeway.

Be prepared to spend about half a day (3-5 hours) assembling the trailer. Having a helper is always nice, but you can do it yourself if you are up to the task. You will need a few tools and a flat area to build this trailer.

PROS

Comes with a kayak stacker and foam pads
Comes with tie-downs
Heavy-duty galvanized frame
You can back the trailer straight into the water for easy loading and unloading

CONS

Capacity is less than other models
If you only have 1 or 2 kayaks, you might consider something smaller

Malone MicroSport SeaWing Kayak Carrier

Malone MicroSport 2-Boat MegaWing Kayak Trailer Package
  • Transports 2 kayaks up to 18' long
  • Includes 2 sets of SeaWing kayak carriers
  • Galvanized steel frame with 60" aluminum cross rails
  • Easily assembles in 2-3 hours with award winning instructions
  • Galvanized Spare Tire with Locking Attachment

We all know that transporting your kayak can be a pain, especially if you don’t have the right equipment.

You need to find a way to transport your kayak that is safe and easy for you.

Malone MicroSport SeaWing Kayak Carrier is an excellent choice for your kayak trailer needs. These carriers are designed with safety in mind and are so easy to use.

The galvanized steel frame has a carrying capacity of 800 pounds. This allows you to transport heavy kayaks, like a couple of fully outfitted fishing kayaks.

Also, the 12″ galvanized wheels come with marine-grade sealed bearings, so you can back the trailer straight into the water to unload your boats.

Yes, this trailer is sturdy and robust, but that is only part of what makes this kayak trailer such a great option.

The SeaWing (V-style) carriers are fantastic for hauling your kayaks down the road. With the V-style carries, kayaks sit bottom down, which helps reduce wind resistance when you are driving.

The V-shaped carriers also cradle your kayaks, and it’s easy to tie them down securely. The trailer comes with tie-downs, too, which is an excellent addition.

You can load a kayak or canoe up to 18′ long, so big boats are welcome.

One downside to this kayak trailer is that there isn’t much (or any) room for other gear or accessories. Some models have space to haul other “stuff.”

What makes this one of the best kayak trailers? The SeaWing carriers sit fairly low to the ground, so loading your kayaks is easy.

As with the other kayak trailers, you must assemble this bad boy. Just a hint, deep sockets are a must for this trailer.

PROS

Comes with SeaWing kayak carriers
Sturdy, galvanized steel frame
Includes spare tire
Easy assembly

CONS

Won’t work with more than 2 kayaks
More expensive than other models

Krypt Towers Multisport Small Boat Trailer

No products found.

Kayakers all have one thing in common: they need to get their boat from their house to the water and back home again.

This often means using a kayak trailer for many casual kayakers and kayak anglers. The Krypt Towers Multisport kayak trailer is an efficient way to transport your kayak to and from the water.

This is the perfect option for small watercrafts, like kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, etc. The trailer has a maximum load capacity of 300 pounds to carry a heavy kayak, like a fishing kayak, plus gear.

The adjustable length is the feature that sets this kayak trailer apart from other models. You can set the trailer up to 4.5′, 7.5′, or 11′ long, making this a versatile trailer for different types of watersports.

The 16-inch oversized, air-filled tires are great for various terrain and surfaces. This trailer will fit in places a larger carrier won’t.

You can also purchase a T dolly handle from Krypt Towers, which allows you to manually maneuver the kayak and trailer where you want it to go. This is great for getting into spots other trailers can’t.

If you are looking for a kayak trailer that is easy to maneuver and store, make sure you check out the Multisport trailer from Krypt-Towers.

PROS

Lightweight and easy to maneuver
Can be used for kayaks, SUP, canoes
Oversized tires are good for various terrain

CONS

Some people need a more heavy-duty trailer

How to Choose the Best Kayak Trailer

There is a lot to think about when shopping for a kayak trailer, things like weight capacity, how many kayaks you need to carry, etc. Next, we will discuss what to consider when picking a kayak trailer.

Where Will You Store Your Kayak Trailer?

Many people don’t think about where they will store their kayak trailers. However, this is an important step to take before buying one.

You need to find a place that offers enough space for the size of trailer you are planning on purchasing and also be sure it has easy access so that loading and unloading your kayak from the trailer is as simple as possible.

This may seem like a small detail, but having all your gear with you can make a huge difference in how much time is spent getting ready every day.

Some kayak trailers fold up for easy storage, and others require more effort. Many trailers are light enough to move by hand if you need to fit the trailer into a tight spot.

If you have room in your garage or a storage shed, that’s great. Otherwise, you might have to store the trailer outside. Just make sure the trailer is secure wherever you end up storing it.

Kayak Trailer Assembly

A kayak trailer comprises individual parts that must be put together before you can use it. If you are mechanically inclined, this might be pretty easy for you. If not, you might want to enlist some help.

All of the trailers will need to be put together. Some are easier than others, and some require more time, depending on the design.

You will need the right tools, usually various wrenches, a rubber mallet, and screwdrivers. But, again, each trailer will have unique requirements.

Make sure you have a level surface and plenty of room for all the parts. Most of these trailers will take about half a day to build.

Tongue Length

It’s important to have a trailer with the appropriate tongue length. The tongue length on a kayak trailer is the distance between the hitch and the axle.

Ideally, your kayaks should be loaded so that the middle of the kayak is centered over the trailer’s axle.

Tongue length will give you an idea of how large of a kayak you can transport on your trailer. Generally speaking, the longer the tongue, the larger kayak you can haul.

If you have doubts about a trailer being a good fit for your kayak, you might want to contact the manufacturer to verify.

Trailer Weight and Capacity

The trailer is an important piece of equipment in your kayaking arsenal. It can make or break a trip. But how do you know if a particular model will work for you?

First, consider your kayak’s weight and length. A heavier boat means a stronger trailer with more capacity to haul it. If you have multiple boats, it’s essential to find a trailer with sufficient capacity for all of them at once – otherwise, you’ll need two trailers!

Fishing kayaks and tandem kayaks tend to weigh a lot, so look at your kayak inventory to determine how much capacity you need.

Next, consider where and how often you plan to use the trailer: Will it be stored indoors or out? What kind of terrain will it regularly encounter? How much does each boat weigh when fully loaded with gear? Once again, these are things to consider before you buy.

You don’t need to know all the answers, but it does help if you think about what type of kayaking trip you will be taking and how often that will happen so that you can find a trailer with the right weight capacity and storage options for your needs.

What Is the Kayak Trailer Made Of?

A kayak trailer can be made of lightweight material like aluminum or more heavy-duty like galvanized steel. When investing in a kayak trailer, it’s important to consider your specific needs to get the best bang for your buck.

Kayak trailer - Kayaks loaded on a trailerPin
Photo by Nareeta Martin on Unsplash

If you are an avid kayaker who spends a lot of time on the water or transporting your kayak over long distances, choosing a more durable and heavier-duty option will be your best bet.

If you are not planning on doing too much with your kayak, it’s okay to save money by buying an inexpensive, lightweight option.

Kayaks are often quite heavy, like fishing kayaks, weighing well over 100 pounds. A cheap light-duty trailer might not be able to handle the weight, particularly if you regularly haul multiple kayaks at once.

Suspension

Suspension is another important part of a kayak trailer that will affect its ability to carry loads and maintain stability.

Suspension helps absorb bumps in the road by absorbing some of the shocks from hitting potholes or uneven surfaces, so it’s essential to have a sound suspension system on your boat trailer for safety and stability.

Some trailers come with springs that are lighter weight than shocks because they don’t do any work other than providing support for the axle, but if you plan on hauling heavier boats, you might want to invest in a more expensive axle with shocks.

Also, some kayak trailers have no suspension at all. It depends on what you are hauling, how far you are going, and your needs.

Wheel Size

Another important consideration for a kayak trailer is wheel size. Wheels make transporting your kayaks possible, so it’s important to get the right ones for your needs.

Much of this depends on your towing needs. Smaller wheels are generally not as durable as larger, more robust wheels. You also might not be able to drive at highway speeds with some smaller wheels.

Sure, smaller wheels put the trailer lower to the ground for loading, but this might not be the best overall choice for your needs. You will need wheels up to the task if you haul heavy kayaks or multiple kayaks that make a heavy load.

Smaller wheels may cost you more in the long run because they might wear out quicker. But much of this depends on what you are hauling.

How Big Are Your Kayaks?

Many types of trailers are available, but you must find one built for your needs. You should consider the type of kayak you have to determine what size trailer will suit your needs best.

Consider the length and weight of your kayak when choosing a kayak trailer. We discussed tongue length earlier, which influences how large of a kayak you can transport.

If you have a lightweight kayak, there are many options for kayak trailers. However, if you have a huge and heavy boat, you will need a trailer with the necessary weight capacity.

How Many Kayaks Are You Transporting?

Some kayak trailers, like the Krypt Towers model, are only designed to haul one kayak. So, if you are hauling more than one kayak, you will need a trailer to handle it.

Some trailers listed will carry up to four kayaks or a combination of kayaks, canoes, SUPs, etc.

The Malone MicroSport SeaWing Kayak Carrier is an excellent option for carrying two heavy-duty kayaks. The bottom-down design of the carrier makes it easy to load and unload your boats.

You also want to ensure you don’t push the limits and load more kayaks than the trailer can safely transport.

What Else Do You Want to Carry?

Remember what other gear you will haul when searching for the best kayak trailer. For instance, do you need extra space for a cooler or other watercraft like a SUP?

If you want a trailer that can haul a lot of extra gear, the Ultra-tow 4×8 foot trailer is an excellent option.

Some of the trailers in this article are only designed to carry one or two kayaks and nothing else. So figure out what your needs are and go from there.

What Is Your Vehicle Towing Capacity?

Before buying a kayak trailer, you should know how much your vehicle can tow. There is no point in buying a heavy-duty trailer and loading it up with kayaks only to discover your Nissan Sentra isn’t up to the task.

You must also ensure your vehicle has a hitch and a tow bar. If your car doesn’t have the necessary equipment to haul a trailer, you might want to consider a roof rack carrier or visit a store like U-haul that can install the needed equipment.

Types of Kayak Trailers

As you have seen, there are different types of kayak trailers available. Let’s discuss these options in more detail.

Single Kayak Trailer

Pretty self-explanatory here. A great example of a single kayak trailer is the Krypt Towers model or the Rambo bikes trailer. These trailers are designed with one purpose, to haul a single kayak.

Multiple Kayak Trailer

A multi-kayak carrier is designed to carry more than one kayak. Many trailers listed in this post allow you to haul more than one kayak or a combination of kayaks and other watersports toys.

You can often carry up to 12 kayaks stacked four rows high with a multi-kayak carrier. Many commercial outfitters (like rental companies) use these types of trailers.

Stacked trailer

Yellow kayaks loaded on a kayak trailerPin

Generally, a stacked trailer can handle up to four kayaks, two rows of two high. These are great for families or friends who want to paddle together.

Stacked trailers allow you to haul multiple boats without increasing the overall width of your vehicle.

Trailer Top Kayak Carrier

Think of a trailer top kayak carrier like a roof rack on your car. With this type of kayak trailer, the kayaks sit on top of the rack, leaving plenty of room for other gear.

This type of trailer is more difficult to load because you have to lift the kayaks overhead, compared to other models where the kayaks ride much lower to the ground.

Side-By-Side Kayak Trailer

Yep, just like it sounds, a side-by-side trailer lets you load the kayaks beside each other. The kayaks can be carried in a J-style cradle, vertical stackers, or V-style, like SeaWings.

These trailers are easy to load since there isn’t much lifting required, at least no overhead lifting.

Multipurpose Sports Trailer

With a multipurpose trailer, you can haul kayaks and other things, like bikes, camping gear, etc.

A multipurpose trailer is a great way to go if you are headed out on a long road trip. An option like the Ultra-Tow is excellent because you can lay down a piece of plywood as a floor and add side rails.

Other Things to Consider When Buying a Kayak Trailer

Kayak Trailers and the Law

You must check with your local authorities to determine any regulations you must follow when pulling a kayak trailer behind your vehicle. Consider things like licensing and registration, limits on the load you can carry, etc.

Visit the Department of Transportation website for your state or areas you will be traveling to see what is required.

How to Secure a Kayak to a Kayak Trailer?

The last thing you want is to speed down the highway or any road and have your kayaks fly off your trailer.

You should always ensure that your kayaks are adequately secured to the kayak trailer. Make sure the straps are tightened snugly but not so tight that you damage your kayak.

Don’t assume everything is okay just because you checked it last week. Always double-check before you head out on the road.

If you travel a long distance and need to stop along the way or overnight, you want to make sure your kayaks are locked up. You don’t want a thief to steal your fun in the middle of the night.

Can You Lift the Kayak by Yourself?

One of the great things about a kayak trailer is that, for the most part, you don’t have to lift the kayaks overhead to load them onto the trailer, except in the case of a trailer top rack.

Otherwise, you will be loading the kayaks much closer to the ground.

That said, you still need to be able to lift the kayak onto the carrier. If you have a helper, that’s great, but it’s not always the case.

Balance the Load

Whenever you are hauling something behind a vehicle, it’s important to have the load balanced. If transporting multiple boats, try to even out the load as much as possible.

An even load will tow better and help wind resistance, saving you money on gas throughout your journey.

Conclusion

Kayak trailers are a great way to haul your kayaks, but you need the right one for the type of kayak (or kayaks) you have. We’ve discussed various types of trailers and their benefits throughout this article, so take some time before making any purchases.

You’ll also want to check with local authorities about what is required when hauling kayaks with a trailer regarding licensing and registration – it’s essential not to get caught up in anything that could cause an issue on your trip.

Whether you’re looking for something easy or more heavy-duty, we hope this guide has helped point out some options. Let us know if there is anything else we can help with while planning your next adventure.

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About the author
Steve Morrow
Steve Morrow owns Paddle About, an outdoor recreation and travel blog. Steve loves to travel, kayak, paddle board, camp, hike, and spend time outdoors with his wife and two kids. When he's not exploring the great outdoors, Steve enjoys writing about his adventures and sharing tips for getting the most out of your outdoor experiences. He has a lot of interesting stories to share, and he's always happy to help others get more out of life.