How To Use A Kayak Cart (Process, Types, And Advantages)

Kayak carts and canoe carts are auxiliary wheeled vehicles that can be pulled behind a kayak or canoe. They have been used in some regions of the world for centuries. In order to carry a kayak with a kayak cart, you have to put the kayak in the center of the cart and secure it.

Key Takeaways

• Canoe carts and kayak carts are often referred to as “junks” because they are typically made from junk materials like old tires, metal, car axles, etc.
• There are quite a few types of kayak carts available: Strap Style Kayak Cart, Plug Style Kayak Cart, Platform Type Kayak Cart, Scupper Hole Type Kayak Cart, etc.
• The platform-style kayak cart allows you to hold the bow of the kayak and direct it to where you want to go
• Scupper Hole Type kayak cart will be the best option for you if you are trying to transport a fishing kayak

Types Of Kayak Carts:

1. Strap Style Kayak Cart This is a type of cart that has a strap attached to the boat and can be used to pull it along. It prevents the boat from being dragged and also helps with steering.

2. Plug Style Kayak Cart Plug Style Kayaks carts are a type of cart that is easy to carry around along with your kayak. They are lightweight, portable, and perfect for transporting kayaks around the lake or beach without any issues. The pneumatic tire-style cart with an adjustable height makes it easy to load up and transport your kayak wherever you need to go.

3. Platform Type Kayak Cart (overview)

4. Scupper Hole Type Kayak Cart

How To Use A Kayak Cart?

There are 10 steps to follow to use a Kayak cart (applies for both Strap and Plug style carts). Here you go:

Step 1: Position your cart next to your kayak so that it is facing the right way.

Step 2: Set up your cart so that the next step is to position your next kayak next to the cart.

Step 3: Set your cart up so that you are facing the correct way so that your next kayak is in the right position.

Step 4: Set the cart up and move it to the right place.

Step 5: Move the cart to the left and the right again.

Step 6: Move your cart from the left to the right and the left-back to the front.

Step 7: Position the cart so it is in place and the front is towards the center.

Step 8: Move it back and the cart will be in the same position as the front of the kayak.

Step 9: Move a kayak into the cart and place it in the correct position.

Step 10: Set it up so the cart is pointing towards the water.

Using a trolley is quite easy and depends on which type you have. Here we explain more types of trolleys and how to use them.

Platform Style

The platform style allows you to hold the bow of the kayak and direct it to where you want to go. You only need to ensure that the kayak is well-balanced. When using this type of cart, you do not have to unload the kayak.

Loading the kayak

Bring the cart to the center of the kayak’s length near it. The cart should rest at a slight angle. Holding the stern of the craft and putting the kayak squarely on the trolley. Now strap the kayak securely on the cart. To do this, bring the strap and wrap it on the cart leg that is attached to the wheel. Next, throw the strap over the craft and wrap it on the other leg attached to the wheel on the other side. Once you are done, tighten the belt securely.  Next, hold the bow and direct the kayak either to the shore or to the vehicle.

Scupper Hole Type

Sit-on-top kayaks are better transported using scupper hole-type carts. The pegs of carts are inserted into the craft’s drain holes which perfectly fit. The position of the drain holes on the kayak determines the weight that the scupper cart can carry. 

Loading the kayak

There are three steps involved when loading a kayak on a scupper hole-type trolley.

First, you need to remove all the equipment and fittings from the kayak. Secondly, put the kayak on its side and bring the cart next to it. Align the pegs to the drain hole of the craft. Adjust the width of the pegs and insert them while ensuring they fit securely. Lastly, turn the craft back up such that it is in the normal position with the cart beneath it. Your kayak is ready, and you can roll it to the water or the vehicle when done. 

Final Take

Why Do You Need A Kayak Cart?

Kayaking is a sport that allows you to enjoy the water by yourself. But how to get the kayak to the shore to paddle? They are heavy and trying to do it on your head or shoulder can be risky if it gets bumped on the ground. Besides, can you be able to do so? You need a cart that makes work more manageable, especially if your kayak is not inflatable. Here is everything you need to know about kayak carts and how to use them.

1. A kayak cart can be an essential piece of equipment in terms of transportation.

2. It can help you move your boat from your car to the water and back again.

3. There are two types of kayak carts to choose from: strap style and plug style.

4. The types of wheels on your cart may impact its performance on certain types of terrain, such as sand or gravel.

There Are More Reasons To Learn About The Advantages Of A Kayak Cart:

1. Cart Distributes The Weight Of The Kayak

The weight of the kayak ranges from 20 to 80 pounds. The design makes even the lightest model challenging to transport to the shore. Since the trolley distributes the weight of the kayak evenly, it becomes easy to carry.

2. Reduces The Risk Of Injuries

When transporting the craft over rough terrain, it can be challenging to maintain balance, especially carrying it on your head or shoulder. A trolley allows you to have stable footing and see where you are going reducing chances of toppling over. The kayak will also last for a long as the trolley lessens the need to drag the kayak when getting it in and out of water.

3. Make It Easy To Carry The Craft From Water To The Vehicle

You might summon the energy to move the kayak to the water.  After kayaking your arms will be strained and the last thing you want to do is to carry the kayak to the vehicle. Trying to move by yourself hurts you more, and there is an increased chance of dropping it before reaching where the car is parked. The trolley comes in to save you energy and make it easier to transport the craft to the vehicle.

Final Takeaway

The cart makes the work of transporting the kayak quite quick and easy. You need to choose between the two types of trolleys and load your kayak accordingly. If you do not have a lot of gear and equipment onboard the crafts, then the scupper hole cart is a perfect choice. It is easy to load your kayak, especially the sit-on-top types. Otherwise, choose the platform style if there is a lot of gear and equipment to carry along. Though it might take time to wrap the strap, all the will be safe as you pull the kayak easily to the shore.

References:

• https://www.angleoar.com/post/do-i-need-a-kayak-cart-and-what-is-the-best-kind
• https://www.canoe-shops.co.uk/blogs/faqs-how-to-guide/different-types-of-trolleys