If you’re planning on hitting the open road with your kayak in tow, you might wonder how fast you can actually go.
It’s a critical question “how fast can you drive with a kayak trailer?”
It’s important to know how fast you can drive without putting your safety or the safety of others at risk.
This blog post will discuss tips for safe travels when hauling your kayaks. We’ll also provide a few resources for folks looking to buy a kayak trailer of their own.
So, whether you’re a first-time kayaker or an experienced paddler, read on for information that will help make your next road trip a success.
How Fast Can You Drive With A Kayak Trailer?
Many kayak trailers, including Malone’s EcoLight, MicroSport, and MegaSport, have a speed rating of 70 MPH. How fast you can drive with a kayak trailer depends on many factors, including the speed rating of your kayak trailer, the type of vehicle you’re using, road conditions, and the load. Check the kayak trailer, tire specs, and your local laws and regulations before hitting the road.
Why Choose A Kayak Trailer
Kayak trailers are an excellent option for transporting your kayaks, whether you’re going on a long road trip or just down to the local lake.
Unlike a roof rack, a trailer is much lower to the ground, making loading and unloading your kayaks easier.
Because you don’t have to lift them overhead, there’s less risk of dropping and damaging your kayaks or injuring yourself.
Plus, with a trailer, you can easily carry multiple kayaks to take friends or family along for the ride.
In addition, a kayak trailer might be your best friend if you are a kayak angler. Fishing kayaks are heavy, and a kayak trailer is a great way to get your boat to the water.
So if you’re looking for a convenient and safe way to transport your kayaks, consider investing in a kayak trailer.
How To Use A Kayak Trailer
Kayak trailers are great for transporting your kayak to the water, but they can also be tricky if you have never done it before.
If you’re planning on hitting the water in a kayak, you’ll need to know how to use a kayak trailer.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use a kayak trailer:
1. You’ll need to attach the safety chain to your vehicle. This will ensure that the kayak trailer is securely attached to your car.
2. You’ll need to connect the wiring harness to your vehicle’s electrical system. This will power the lights on the kayak trailer.
3. Once the wiring harness is connected, you can start loading your kayak onto the trailer. Ensure the kayak (or kayaks) is securely fastened down before continuing.
4. Once your kayak is loaded, you can check the lights on the trailer to ensure they’re working correctly.
5. Finally, you’re ready to hit the road. Always drive carefully and observe all traffic laws when towing a kayak trailer.
Driving Safely With A Kayak Trailer
Driving with a kayak trailer can be daunting at first. But, follow these simple tips, and you’ll be safe on the road.
First, make sure to watch your mirrors. You’ll need to see the traffic behind you and the trailer itself.
Second, keep an eye on your kayaks (with your mirrors). Make sure they’re securely fastened and not wobbling around.
Finally, take turns carefully and slowly. Kayak trailers are long and narrow, so giving yourself plenty of room to maneuver is essential.
These simple tips will help you safely transport your kayaks to and from the water.
Different Kinds Of Kayak Trailers
Kayak trailers come in various styles, each designed to accommodate a certain number of kayaks and/or other sports equipment.
For example, a single kayak trailer is typically designed to hold one kayak, while a multiple kayak trailer can usually accommodate two or more kayaks.
If you’re looking for a versatile option that can be used for carrying multiple types of sports equipment, then a multipurpose sports trailer might be the way to go.
Stackable kayak trailers are another popular option and are great for those who want to be able to easily transport multiple kayaks at once.
Whatever your specific needs, there’s sure to be a kayak trailer perfect for you.
You will need to check the speed rating for the kayak trailer you choose since it will vary.
Use Caution
When driving a kayak trailer, it’s important to use caution and common sense.
Always obey the posted speed limit and pay close attention to road conditions.
Just because the trailer can reach freeway speeds doesn’t mean it’s always safe.
Strong winds can easily blow kayak trailers off course with their lightweight, narrow width and length.
There are many factors to consider before hitting the open road.
Is the trailer properly secured? Are the kayaks properly secured? Is the weather appropriate for high-speed driving?
If all of these factors check out, you can proceed confidently.
However, if even one of them is off, it’s best to slow down and take things easy.
Storing A Kayak Trailer
Something people often overlook when they buy a kayak is how to store the kayak. Unfortunately, the same thing holds for a kayak trailer.
Kayak trailers are long and narrow; finding a good spot to store one can be challenging.
Here are a few tips for storing your kayak trailer:
- If possible, store the kayak trailer indoors, in your garage or a shed. This will protect it from the elements and extend its life.
- If you must store the kayak trailer outdoors, cover it with a tarp or other protective covering.
- Make sure the trailer is on level ground and the tongue rests on a jack stand.
- Inspect the trailer regularly for any rust or damage.
Some kayak trailers are collapsible, which is very handy for storage. Unfortunately, others are quite large and cumbersome.
Before you head out and buy a kayak trailer, you need to have a place to store it when you are not using it.
Where To Buy A Kayak Trailer
You can buy a kayak trailer from many online retailers or sporting goods stores.
Some retail stores will have them pre-built, or you can pay the store to assemble them.
If you order a kayak trailer online, you will have the pleasure of assembling it yourself.
If you are interested in more information about kayak trailers, check out our article for the best kayak trailers.
Other Ways To Transport Kayaks
There are various ways to transport kayaks, depending on the type of kayak and the vehicle being used.
Roof racks are popular for transporting kayaks, as they allow the kayak to securely attach to the vehicle’s roof. However, roof racks can be impractical for some vehicles.
You can tie the kayaks in the truck’s bed if you have a pick-up truck. This is an excellent option if you’re transporting multiple kayaks.
You can use a utility trailer if you don’t have a truck. Utility trailers come in different sizes, so you can choose one large enough to accommodate your kayaks.
The main advantage of using a utility trailer is that it allows multiple kayaks to be transported at once.
Whichever method you choose, be sure to secure the kayaks properly to avoid damage during transit.
Final Thoughts
Driving with a kayak trailer can be a safe and easy way to transport your kayaks to and from the water.
Many kayak trailers have a speed rating of 70 MPH; however, it’s important to use caution and common sense when driving.
Ensure the trailer is secured correctly, the kayaks are properly secured, and the weather conditions are appropriate for high-speed driving.
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.
