====== Transportation, Storage & Care ====== . . . {{randominc>equipment:car_racks&max-height:600px&title&nodate&noeditbtn}} **Car Top Rack Examples **photos: mostly Michael Lampi ---- ===== Car Top Boat Carriers ===== Surfskis and Outrigger Canoes are relatively long boats to transport with car roof boat racks and carriers. If you haul such long boats on a sedan or other short roofed vehicle, there will be a lot of boat not supported or controlled by anything longitudinally unless you [[:boat_transport_and_storage#longitudinally_stretched_racks|add longer supports]] to your roof racks. Such racks can be home made with a little ingenuity or purchased from several manufacturers. Longitudinal support can also be increased for some cars via a [[:boat_transport_and_storage#trailer_hitch_rack_mount|trailer hitch mount]]. ==== Safety/Maintenance ==== * **Safety** * **Consequences** - [[:roofrackfatality_2022|kayak rack related fatality 2022]] * **Maintenance** * **Regularly Check Connections **and tighten or replace when needed - roof to roof mount, roof mount to cross bars, cross bars to longitudinal bars or load assist setups. * Some longitudinal bars use some sort of locking nut (aircraft nuts) that will not unscrew due to vibration, etc. But cross bar connections and roof mount connections often have adjustable bolts and nuts that can and do loosen from vibration - **regularly check and tighten them**** if needed**. Rack manufacturers now typically provide torque wrenches for achieving the proper tightness and avoiding over tightening. * [[https://www.facebook.com/groups/HoodRiverOutrigger/permalink/2844631002338038/|Gorge - August 17 2022 Roof Rack Failure]] (facebook) * [[https://www.facebook.com/groups/HoodRiverOutrigger/permalink/2866582930142845/|Gorge - September 11, 2022 Roof Rack Failure]] (facebook) * [[:roofrackfail7_16_2023|Roof Rack Fail 7/16/2023]] (Prius owners carrying roof top boats may want to pay attention to this) * **Precautions to Consider** * A strap over your whole setup and going inside your car, snug but not super tight (close your back doors on the strap) can provide a critical safeguard in case of roof rack failures. It may provide that extra bit of time that allows you to slow down and pull over before any part of your rack detaches - before something actually falls off and is destroyed or endangers other travelers. * Don't rely solely on a single bungee strap with V-racks or rely on old bungees - replace old bungee regularly and double-up for highway driving. Add non-stretch tie downs on boats in addition to or instead of bungee. * While it is problematic to tie straps on the ends of your boats, you can add straps fore and aft to your rack bars for additional security. * Some folks have bolted their cross bars through their car roofs - maybe something you are okay doing with older, less valuable cars? * For racks that have clamps that hook into the door wells some folks have drilled through such clamps and screwed the clamps to their door wells. If you do this, don't do it in a way that would substantially weaken those clamps (too many or too large holes) - the idea is to reduce the likelihood of the clamp slipping out and off of the door well - make sure you check clamp tightness regularly. You might also want to use rubber gaskets or silicone caulk to prevent water penetration around the screws. ==== Discussion ==== * [[:equipment:cartop_loads_2008|Car Top Loads]] 2008 * [[:rack_span_11_28_2018|Rack Span]] 2018 * [[:frozen_racks_2022|V Racks in Freezing Weather]] 2022 * [[https://www.instagram.com/surfskiracks/|Instagram Dedicated to Photos of Racks]] * … ---- ==== Longitudinally Stretched Racks ==== several of these have the option of removable V ends which can be quite valuable if you anticipate needing to park in parking garages or anywhere else with low overhead clearance. **Some rack makers** sometimes do **custom work** or offer extension options that are not necessarily obvious or even shown on their websites. If you are thinking about a change/improvement/variation or something you do not see in one of these base designs **- ask** if they can help you get what you are looking for. **Carrying Suggestions:** * **Carrying your boats at an angle** ([[http://youtu.be/ASEG-giVXz4|video link]]) note that this may decrease the stress from cross wind but it can also increase lift making the strapping suggestions even more critical. One of the ultra light surfski manufacturers, Nordic Kayak, recommends the angled approach for their surfskis in V racks. Owners of other very light boats, including most OCs of recent vintage, may also want to seriously consider this carrying position with V racks. * **Surfski Upside Down** [[https://youtu.be/1pn4grVE7OI|video]] advantage of strap following contour of boat bottom spreading load? Is spreading the vertical load actually that large/critical? Maybe only if you tend to over tighten? You can also spread load by using [[:boat_transport_and_storage#tie_downs|wider straps]]. If your ski has a flat rear deck this suggestion may only work well with a **flat rack end like Llama rack or Goodboy offers**. **DIY** * [[https://youtu.be/nVxll5Aq_Ls|Adjustable machined cradles]] * [[https://www.facebook.com/share/p/15Npuyq65f/|Kan Waranon's DIY Rack]] (facebook) * [[:diy_long_rack|DIY Long Rack]] 2020 * [[:surfski_racks_2022|Surfski Racks]] 2022 **Commercial Brands** * [[https://burnhamboatslings.com/v-bar-rack-system/|Burnham Vbars]] USA * [[https://www.celoracks.com/|Celo Vbar Racks]] Guelph, Canada * [[https://epic-kayaks.co.uk/pages/farley-sport-v-bars|Farley Sport V-Bars]] UK (Farley only advertises Vs that attach directly to roof racks. [[http://epic-kayaks.co.uk/pages/farley-sport-v-bars|Epic Kayak UK]] adds the long aluminum bar (2m, 2.5m, 3m) for more lengthwise support on shorter cars) * [[http://www.fitnesslifestyle.com.au/roof-racks/surfski-carriers.html|Fitness Lifestyle]] Australia * [[https://www.goodboypaddlesports.com/home/|GoodBoy Kayak Vbars]] USA * [[https://www.calipaddler.com/blogs/paddle-articles/cp-review-goodboy-paddlesports-vbar-rack|Cali Paddler Review]] 2020 * [[http://www.kayakpro.com/kayakandrowingracks/kayakracks.php|KayakPro EZ-Vee]] USA * [[http://www.llamaracks.com|Llama Racks]] USA * [[https://www.marsport.co.uk/roofrack-trailer-accessories|Marsport]] UK * [[https://portagelogisticsllc.com/|Portage Logistics]] USA * [[https://www.ruksport.com/product/v-bar-full-length-roof-cradle-for-surfskis-kayaks/|RUK Sports]] UK (also has attachment for use as ground stand) * We believe these are all the same rack * [[https://www.norfolk-canoes.co.uk/thule/v-bars-racing-kayak-carrier.htm|At Norfolk Canoes]] UK * [[https://shop.kirtonkayaks.co.uk/collections/sea-kayaks/products/v-bar-aero-kit|At Kirton]] UK * [[http://therack.biz/|the Rack1701]] Vancouver, Canada * [[https://www.washrider.com/collections/storage-and-transport/products/y-rack-mach-ii|Washrider Y Rack Mach II]] Australia * [[https://expeditionkayaks.blogspot.com/2017/01/review-long-span-y-racks.html|Expedition Kayaks Review]] 2017 * [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q10ZlvZDM_k|Robert Norman Review]] 2023 * …. ---- ==== Kayak Saddles & Carriers ==== * [[https://www.farleysport.com/|Farley Sport]] UK (V saddles but no longitudinal addition - see [[https://epic-kayaks.co.uk/pages/farley-sport-v-bars|Epic Kayak UK version]]) * [[https://lockrackus.com/|Lockrack]] * [[:lockrack_11_25_2018|Discussion 11/25/2018]] * [[:lock_rack_review_2020|Review 2020]] * [[https://www.ruksport.com/productlist.asp?st=3&mcatID=1&scatID=13&s2catID=1|RUK Sports]] UK * [[https://www.thule.com/en-us/sport-rack/kayak-roof-racks|Thule]] * [[https://www.yakima.com/collection/boat|Yakima]] * … ---- ==== Upright Roof Bars ==== Probably designed for stacking kayaks, SUPs, etc. on their sides - so maybe most appropriate for plastic boats and their like intended for rugged handling? * [[https://www.prorack.co.nz/upright-kayak-carrier|Prorack]] NZ * [[https://palmequipmenteurope.com/gb/roof-rack-accessories/246-upright-bars|Palm Upright Bars]] EU * [[https://www.watersportsoutlet.com/2023-palm-roof-rack-upright-bars-50cm-pair-10528-p-1125.html|Watersports Outlet]] USA * … ---- ==== Trailer Hitch Rack Mount ==== * [[https://www.reesetowpower.com/Product/7018100_canoe-loader-trailer-hitch-mount|Reese Canoe Loader]] * [[http://www.rhinorack.com/en-us/products/sport-leisure/water/kayak-loaders/t-load-hitch-mount_rtl002|Rhino T-Load Hitch Mount]] * [[https://www.dickssportinggoods.com/p/thule-goal-post-rooftop-carrier-17thuuglpstxxxxxxpsr/17thuuglpstxxxxxxpsr?sku=10433328&srsltid=AfmBOoo7KKlM6UnNyIBf7hzjVggKBYLZqgf9WL6LwbgbUiSdLkxxDnaC6Vs|Thule Goal Post]] (no longer manufactured, but dealers still have some in 2024) * [[https://yakima.com/products/longarm|Yakima Long Arm]] * … ---- ==== Extended Rack with Custom Attachments ==== * [[https://www.frontrunneroutfitters.com/en/us/pro-canoe-kayak-sup-carrier.html|Frontrunner]] * **Yakima** * [[https://yakima.com/products/locknload-system|LockNLoad]] * [[https://yakima.com/products/ruggedline-system|Rugged Line System]] (mounting system for LockNLoad racks) ---- ==== Load Assistance ==== {{:equipment:car_racks:roofrackassist.jpg?direct&500x386|roofrackassist.jpg}} photo from [[https://youtu.be/6SoccLMhCBA|Escape Outdoors video]] (looks like a [[https://www.teal-es.co.uk/kari-tek-products/|Keri-Tek]] UK rack) **Rollers/Sliders** * [[https://usa.innoracks.com/product/ina453/|Inno Kayak Lifter]] (bare metal bars to slide on - you probably want to add some padding - and if it doesn't slide well something like Teflon tape on top of the padding. * **KaHa **Australia * [[https://kahapaddletrainer.com/en-us/collections/all-products/products/kaha-easy-loader|KaHa Easy Loader ]] simple extending bar for sliding from side really more for plastic boats. You will want to add padding/rotation to slide non-plastic boats * **Malone** * [[https://maloneautoracks.com/Stinger-TM-Load-Assist-Module.html|Stinger]] (used with Sea Winger Carrier) * [[https://maloneautoracks.com/Channel-Loader-TM-Load-Assist-Module-MPG367.html|Channel Loader]] (suction cups for rear window attachment) * [[https://www.rhinorack.com/en-au/products/sport-leisure/water-sports/kayak-loaders/rhino-rack-universal-side-loader_rusl|Rhino-Rack Universal Side Loader]] ([[https://youtu.be/-NE_lWaCSDQ|demo video]]) * [[https://www.thule.com/en-us/winter-and-water-sports-carriers/kayak-roof-rack-accessories/thule-waterslide-_-13700|Thule WaterSlide]] (mat to slide boat on roof with, really only works if there is roof space after end of your rack) * **Yakima ** * [[https://yakima.com/products/boatloader-evo|Yakima Boatloader EVO]] (discontinued (find used?) rack end extension for some Yakima racks, not padded so probably not great for non plastic boats) * [[https://yakima.com/products/handroll|Hand Roll]] * [[https://yakima.com/products/showboat-67|Showboat]] (discontinued - find used?) [[https://youtu.be/ehgYZHSQe7Q|demo]][[https://youtu.be/ehgYZHSQe7Q| video]] * … **Lift Assist** * [[https://www.dropracks.com/products/dropracks-sp|DropRacks]] Norway - nice looking product, expensive, double check whether it will mount on your car and work with your rack accessories. Comes in two sizes and may only accommodate 2 skis unless you can mount them tilted on their sides? ([[https://youtu.be/7XifZtC0_uo|demo video]]) * **KaHa **Australia * [[https://kahapaddletrainer.com/en-us/products/kaha-loader-2-0-australia-only|KaHa Loader 2.0]] side loading system for surfskis/outriggers (website in 2025 says the XL version for multiple skis is only available in Australia) * [[https://www.teal-es.co.uk/kari-tek-products/|Kari-Tek Easy Load]] UK ([[https://youtu.be/R2x_V2j4vFw|demo video]]) * [[https://maloneautoracks.com/Telos-XL-Load-Assist-Module-MPG3511.html|Malone Telus XL Load Assist]] designed to work specifically with a couple of Malone Boat Carrier Racks ([[https://youtu.be/JXKVPrgzptI|demo video]]) * [[https://portagelogisticsllc.com/product/quickstep-express/|Portage Logistics QuickStep Express]] ([[https://youtu.be/PWGf02DQzek|demo video]]) * **Rhino Rack** * [[https://www.rhinorack.com/en-au/products/sport-leisure/water-sports/kayak-loaders/nautic-kayak-lifter_nkl|Nautic Kayak Lifter]] ([[https://youtu.be/X5VQhk0gQnk|demo video]]) * [[https://www.rhinorack.com/en-au/products/sport-leisure/water-sports/kayak-loaders/t-load-hitch-mount-kayak-loader_rtl002|Rhino-Rack TLoad Hitch Mount]] ([[https://youtu.be/8M_DYLTNUhA|demo video]]) * [[https://www.thule.com/en-us/winter-and-water-sports-carriers/kayak-roof-racks/thule-hullavator-pro-_-1685448|Thule HULLavator Pro]] (non "Pro" older model no longer available on website but retailers may still have some stock) ([[https://youtu.be/HC3ZLDDIB8o|demo video]]) * [[https://yakima.com/products/showdown|Yakima Showdown]] ([[https://youtu.be/x_fqq4w9HBg|demo video]]) * **Modified Lift Assistance Using Non-Boat Racks ** (if you can add reliable boat saddles you may like customizing one from a load assist rack not made specifically for boats) * [[https://www.flligentili.com/en/roof-mounted-equipment/g2000-harrier-ladder-rack/|Gentili Ladder Rack for Vans]] * [[https://www.holman.com/equipment/4095l|Holman/Kargo Master Drop Down Ladder Rack]] * [[https://youtu.be/pBdN9f-Q9gc|Video of Modification for Surfskis ]] * … ---- ===== Carrying Surfskis On Crossbars ===== * **Pad the crossbars** and make sure there is no direct contact between crossbar metal and surfski * **If carrying surfski upside down on crossbars**, some paddlers like to add some stick-on traction material to add more friction where their surfski rests on the crossbars as well as protecting their surfski finish where there is contact. * [[https://northshoreinc.com/shop/rspro/rspro-hexatraction-basic-board-grip/|Northshore Hextraction]] * … ---- ===== Tie Downs ===== The 3 R's - **Repair**, **Replace**, or **Regret. **Wider straps better disperse the force on the surface of boats. Surfskis and Outrigger Canoes can be damaged by straps that are excessively tightened. Some kind of soft guard under cam strap buckles is very helpful. Wider straps help spread the load, but some straps when sized up to 2" have to have fairly massive cam buckles that may not be as easy to use as somewhat smaller size ones //(One user was perfectly happy with the Strapworks 1.5" straps but found the buckles for their 2" straps super heavy and not nearly as easy to thread)//. * How to Roll up and store cam straps [[https://youtu.be/f8MagIlY-hU|video]] * [[:tie_down_deterioration_2018|Tie-Down Options and Decay 2018]] * [[:more_strap_options_2018|More Tie-Down Strap Options 2018]] * [[https://mile22.bigcartel.com/product/monster-straps|Monster Straps]] 2 inch wide, 14 ft long * [[https://www.nrs.com/nrs-straps/c4342|NRS Cam Straps]] (1, 1.5 inch widths) * [[https://www.rhinorack.com/en-au/products/sport-leisure/water-sports/accessories/kayak-ski-bow-strap-bonnet-tie-down_rbas1|Rhino-Rack Boat End Strap]] for Boats without end tie-off points * [[https://www.ruksport.com/products.asp?mcatID=2&scatID=14&s2catID=1&prodID=2|RUK Sports]] 25mm x 3.5m * [[https://salamanderpaddlegear.com/product/grab-bag-cam-straps|Salamandar Paddle Gear Cam Straps]] (1, 1.5 inch widths) * [[https://www.strapworks.com/Straps_Tie_Downs_s/19.htm|Strapworks]] (.75, 1, 1.5, 2 inch widths) * [[https://www.vaikobi.com/products/tie-down-strap-set-3-5mm|Vaikobi Tie Downs]] * … ---- ===== Security Locks ===== Most commonly imagined is a set of loops/yokes to fit over each end with some kind of cable connecting both loops tightly enough so that the loops cannot be slide off of the ends of your boat. If you are looking for a ready made one, you might ask [[https://lassosecuritycables.com/|Lasso Security]] if one of theirs will fit your surfski. If you have a hole (drain hole?) in your surfski that is 3/4 inch (1.91 cm) diameter or larger this lock can work: [[https://www.lassosecuritycables.com/lock-all_master-cable-lock.php|Lasso Master LockAll]] ---- ===== Shipping ===== Commercial Transport Services and Personal Message Boards ==== International Shipping ==== * [[https://coloradokayak.com/blogs/cks-blog/have-you-ever-wondered-what-it-costs-to-ship-a-kayaks-internationally|Colorado Kayaks description of international shipping]]**​​​​​​** ​ * [[https://www.eurosender.com/en/pack-ship/kayak|Eurosender]] * [[https://www.transglobalexpress.co.uk/|Transglobal Express]] shipping from the UK ==== National Shipping ==== Some of these can also do international shipping * **Australia** * [[:australia#newused_gear|Boat Transport Services]] * **South Africa** * [[https://freightfactory.co.za/boat-shipping/|Freight Factory]] * [[https://www.facebook.com/groups/721053487985986/|South African Kayak Shipments]] (facebook) * [[https://trianglecouriers.co.za/|Triangle Couriers]] * **United Kingdom** * **Private Setup/Connection** * [[https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100066909169093&__cft__[0]=AZWc7PhM4RrD2xTgYbg57jCRts1R_Zd5nPftxUSrtBPWIbqsbR4KHs5I3j33qslcjcDb54Qzc75k9b1_84klCg0d_JUepqs5H59eB6jAG_uvLfgjgF6ZMKqLZepfjBAdlxmzsY5BLGvCZLYYPlE_iLLVO_ASF5FEdDyrz3pkQ-gieogESt2dpxdOBT9x7XyAb7U&__tn__=-UC,P-R|Kayak Canoe & Surfboard Transport Page]] (facebook) * **Commercial Service** * [[https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064160437751|The Happy Movers kayak/canoe transport]] (facebook) * [[https://www.pickfords.co.uk/international-shipping|Pickfords]] shipping within UK and from UK to foreign countries * **USA** * **Personal Setup/Connections** * **Facebook** * [[https://www.facebook.com/groups/1007184526005996|Kayak Shipping Made Easy ]] this is for connecting people traveling with people wanting boat transport * **Commercial Services** * [[https://shipyourkayak.com/|KAS Transport]] * [[http://www.uship.com/ship/vehicles|UShip]] broker for various transport options * [[https://www.janetteboatworks.com/copy-of-transportation|Janette Boatworks]] (human powered boat) shipper in USA * … ---- ===== Recreational Boat Transportation Laws ===== (This is a new addition to this page in 2024 and we could definitely use some contributions of information on specific requirements and regulations in different countries) * [[https://www.sestaro.com.br/transportar-um-caiaque-ou-canoa-no-carro-dentro-da-lei/|Brazil]] * **USA** * __//**Check you local state regulations** //__ . The over all distance that a boat/load can extend beyond car length is typically quite generous. But the requirements for markings and lighting are more strict. * Example: In **Washington state**, loads that extend more than four feet from the rear of a vehicle must have an end flag during daylight and a red light or lantern at night (not sure how stringently this is enforced but it is not a bad idea). Loads that extend beyond the sides of the vehicle must have amber lights on the front and sides. * **Visibility**: Warning lights should be visible for up to 500 feet. * **Flashing lights**: Some states require flashing or strobe lights. * **Oversize load signs**: (not typical for surfskis or outriggers) An "Oversize Load" sign is required on the front of the vehicle and on the rear of the load. * **Flags:** Flags must be displayed on all four corners of overwidth loads and at the extreme ends of overhangs. * … ---- ===== Boat Stands ===== Retail stands that are strong enough to support surfskis are relatively inexpensive. Stands that can support the weight of a boat and a paddler tend to be significantly more expensive. * **DIY/Inexpensive** * [[:pvc_stands|9/2021 Discussion - PVC...]] * [[https://www.facebook.com/share/v/17BSJR9z8n/|Kam Waranon's DIY Stands]] (facebook with photos) * [[https://www.epickayaks.com/product-page/boat-stands|Epic Boat Stands]] * [[https://www.farleysport.com/regatta-racks/|Farley Regatta Stands]] UK * [[https://www.huberfabrication.com/product-page/huber-fabrication-low-boys|Huber Fabrication Lowboys]] USA heavy duty stands also used for rowing shells * [[https://www.janetteboatworks.com/product-page/lowboys-by-huberfabrications|Janette Boatworks]] * [[https://www.ruksport.com/productlist.asp?st=3&mcatID=2&scatID=17&s2catID=1|Ruk Sports Stands]] UK * [[https://suspenz.com/collections/portable-stands|Suspenz ]]USA * … {{youtube>j3Ro60_1cWY}} **Homemade Boat Stands - Paddle Channel** ---- ===== Boat Trailers ===== ==== Cars ==== There are many different styles and load capacities in boat trailers. If/when we get experience with or recommendations for specific trailers we will include that information here. In the meantime you will have to do your own research. Among other things to pay attention to, you have to get a trailer tongue that is long enough for surfskis (& doubles?) - can you easily add a tongue extension??. Also, you may want to think about how much exposure your skis on a trailer will have to airborne road debris (smaller trailers without trailer beds may particularly expose lower level boats to this risk). Here are a few places that you might start looking… * [[https://www.amazon.com/kayak-and-canoe-car-trailers/b?ie=UTF8&node=10208180011#:~:text=YAKIMA, LongArm Truck Bed Extension for Hauling,· Malone Auto Racks MicroSport 4-Boat FoldAway|Amazon kayak/canoe trailers]] * [[https://www.gilisports.com/blogs/kayaking/best-kayak-trailers|Gilisports Guide to Trailers]] * [[https://www.teal-es.co.uk/kari-tek-products/|Kari-Tek Custom Boat Trailers]] UK * [[https://paddleabout.com/best-kayak-trailer/|PaddleAbout Kayak Trailer Reviews]] includes advice for trailer shoppers * [[https://paddling.com/gear/trailers/kayak-trailers?page=1&configure[hitsPerPage]=24&configure[filters]=productCategories.id:515340|PaddlingDotCom Trailer List & Reviews]] includes advice for trailer shoppers * [[https://www.remackeltrailers.com/product/4-place-canoe-or-kayak-trailer-cart/|Remackel trailers]] * [[https://www.trailex.com/products/pc/Canoe-Kayak-Trailers-c9.htm|Trailex]] * … ==== Bikes ==== * **DIY** * [[https://surfski.info/forum/17-equipment/20196-surfski-bicycle-trailer.html|Surfski.info discussion DIY Bike Kayak Trailer]]… * [[https://youtu.be/HOBgCQqjcsk|DIY Trailer Construction Video]] * [[https://reacha.de/en/products/bike-trailer-reacha-xxl?variant=|Reacha Trailers]] * … ==== Walking ==== * [[https://suspenz.com/collections/all-carts|Suspenz]] USA * … ---- ===== Home Storage ===== ==== Overhead Lifts ==== * [[https://www.thule.com/en-us/cargo-carrier/car-top-carrier-accessories/thule-multilift-_-572004|Thule MultiLift]] * [[https://youtu.be/pYdfwROH5vk|Video Hanging From Garage Ceiling Setup]] * [[https://tieboss.com/|Tie Boss]] pulleys, jam cleats for hoisting and tieing off. ==== Discussion ==== * [[:indoor_storage_racks_2020|Discussion of Options 1/08/2020]] * [[:surfski_garage_design_7_6_2020|Surfski Garage Design 7/6/2020]] ==== Storage Racks,Supplies, etc. ==== * [[https://storeyourboard.com/|Store Your Board]] * [[https://www.billboardvinyls.com/|Durable Tarps]] for outside storage - tarps made from billboard material * [[https://suspenz.com/collections/boat-storage|Suspenz]] * … ---- ===== Paddle Travel ===== * See [[:paddles#travel_with_paddles|Traveling with Paddles]] * … ---- ===== Car Camping/Gear Storage during Travel ===== * [[https://bearfoottheory.com/car-camping-essentials-packing-checklist/|Camping Gear Packing Checklist]] * [[https://racknroad.com/category/adventure-camping/car-camping-accessories/|RacknRoad]] * [[https://www.theinertia.com/gear/best-car-camping-gear/|The Inertia Accessory List]] * **In Car Accessories** * [[https://lunolife.com/collections/car-suv-camping|Luno]] pads, etc. * [[https://presale.getpackproducts.com/|Pack Rack]] * … ---- ===== Boat Care ===== ==== Rinsing, Drying, Surface Care ==== You want to keep your boat and equipment clean and dry. Rinsing with fresh water is particularly important after each outing in salt water. * **Rinse** * [[:car_top_washer|DIY Car Top Washer]] this can be used to rinse your boat as well as the top of your car (particularly helpful with salt water) if you do not have boat rinse stations handy where you paddle. * **Portable Rinsers** * [[https://rinsekit.com/|RinseKit]] * Water Sprayers - 2,3 gallon pump and spray - inexpensive - easy to find at hardward stores. * **Drying Inside of Hull** * See [[:repair#drying_interior|Drying Boat Interior]] and [[:modifications#drainage|Drainage]] * **Surface Care** * See [[:repair#wash_polish|Wax & Polish]] ==== Boat Covers ==== Boat covers can protect boats from UV during outside storage (the cover itself will decay instead - how fast depends on the materials in the cover) and they can prevent dings from flying rocks, etc. while traveling. But JD Davies in the Gorge reports that covers with any slack in fit will flap against boats while driving on highways and dull boat finishes (the material composition of the cover may make a difference, others using bags with soft inner linings have reported driving many miles with no ill effects). Some of the following companies make covers that are more robust and more expensive than surfski brand covers and other less expensive options. Be aware that if you use a cheaper canvas cover for outside storage that the cover will probably deteriorate quite rapidly. * **Discussion** * [[:boat_covers|Discussion Surfski Kayak Facebook Group 2/1/2023]] * [[:boat_covers2|Discussion on Facebook September 2024]] * **Brands** * [[https://www.adventurecanvas.net/|Adventure Canvas]], New Zealand * [[https://alohadesigns.net/products/canoe-covers.html|Aloha Designs]] USA * [[https://burnhamboatslings.com/surf-ski-outrigger-covers/|Burnham Boat Covers]] USA * [[https://danuu.com/kayak-covers/|Danuu Paddle Gear]] USA * [[https://durbansurfski.com/product/surfski-covers/|Durban Surfski Padded Covers]] South Africa * [[https://hawaiiancanvas.myshopify.com/products/surf-ski?variant=39515178532947|Hawaiian Canvas]] Hawaii, USA * [[https://www.kayakideal.com/product/boat-cover/?lang=en|Kayak Ideal]] Canada * [[https://redleafdesigns.com/products/the-ultimate-cover-kayak-surf-ski-and-outrigger-canoes|Red Leaf Designs]] USA * [[https://www.tenttown.co.nz/manufacturing-and-repairs/Repairs|Tent Town]], Mt. Wellington, New Zealand \\ [[https://riverbearracing.com/2016/09/11/protecting-your-investment-2/|River Bear Racing]] on covers: "Undoubtedly the best way to guard against handling rash and sun faded gelcoat is to store your boat inside, typically in a garage, and inside a boat cover (keeping it in the cover helps protect against those little bumps against all that stuff you have stored in your garage…) And keep your boat inside the cover whenever you’re carrying it somewhere, especially if it will be sitting outside in the sun for long periods of time. It protects your boat against bugs and road debris while traveling, as well as against UV. A boat cover is a cheap investment in protecting your kayak or surf ski; it will absorb the wear and tear that would otherwise be absorbed by your boat. Simply replace it when it wears out. I believe in covers enough that I automatically include a cover with every boat I sell at no extra cost. For even more protection, Stellar offers padded covers. Or for a little more style, bright neon colors (helps to ensure your boat is seen on top of your vehicle as well). But the basic gray nylon cover does a dandy job of protecting your boat, with the added bonus of a flag on the back so you don’t have to attach a separate flag when transporting your boat. If your boat gets rain-soaked while in the cover, be sure to remove the cover and air it out when you get home so you don’t build up mold." \\