Are you tired of lugging your heavy kayak from your vehicle to the water’s edge?
A kayak cart can make transportation a breeze, allowing you to easily move your kayak from one location to another. But with so many different types of kayak carts on the market, it can be challenging to choose the right one for your needs.
In this guide, we’ve rounded up the best kayak carts available to help you make an informed decision. From inflatable kayak carts to heavy-duty models, we’ve got you covered.
So whether you’re a seasoned paddler or just starting out, read on to discover the best kayak carts for your kayak…
Why Would I Want A Kayak Cart?
Kayaking is a form of exercise and can be a great way to get physical activity. Do you want to be exhausted before you even have the chance to experience kayaking? A kayak cart or canoe cart can be used to prevent the strain of carrying kayaks, most especially when there are tandem kayaks or vast kayaks. You would rather not expend effort trying to move it to the liquid.
A kayak cart can be a great help when kayaking with family because the kids can manage to move their own kayaks without causing any harm to themselves or pushing themselves too hard. Maintaining the kayak’s safety throughout longer trips is particularly important.
Transporting kayaks can be done simply and conveniently so it is easy to get your kayak and its contents to the intended destination without much sweat.
The ultimate result is that kayak carts will make portaging between your vehicle and the kayak instantly easier and swifter, allowing for more time to be spent enjoying the time spent in and around the water.
What Features Should I Be Looking Out For?
When deciding on a kayak cart or kayak carrier, it is essential to think about several factors. When choosing kayaking equipment, it is important to think about the environment in which you will be using the kayak cart or kayak dolly.
Attachment Method
What approach are you taking to connect the kayak cart to your yak?
If you own a sit-in kayak or canoe and it doesn’t have a drain plug, you will need to get a kayak carrier that has cinch straps or some other way to secure it.
If you possess a kayak that you sit on top of, then ratchet straps or any other attachment technique would probably function well. Nevertheless, you could also take into account buying a plug-in trolley or wheeled cart.
The most suitable kayak cart for you will be the one that is tailored to your kayak and canoe, and that can effectively preserve the security of your kayak when transporting it.
Wheels
The size and quality of the wheels will have an affect on the ease and success of your kayak trailer or trolley in transporting the kayak. When picking out a kayak cart, you should think about the kind of terrain you will be utilizing it on (such as tarmac, sand, grass, or rocky trails).
This will help you to determine which type of cart is best suited for the conditions you will be operating it in, permitting you to easily maneuver your kayak where you want to go.
The two primary wheel types one might encounter are those made of plastic and those that are balloon/inflatable. It is generally advisable to use inflatable or balloon tires since they are more durable.
They are capable of excelling on various ground types due to their broad structure, which allows them to pass over irregularities more smoothly and traverse soft surfaces like sand more effectively than skinnier, plastic wheels that may not have superior quality.
A blow-up tire may be a more suitable type for off-road use in general.
Using a plastic wheeled kayak cart is adequate if you are mostly rolling it over even, solid surfaces, such as asphalt in a parking lot. These types of tires are called airless, meaning they are immune to punctures and you don’t need an air pump.
The Frame
It is clearly understood that your structure needs to be strong. Think about what kind of material you will use for the structure depending on the purpose it will serve.
If you plan on having to move a kayak that is carrying a particularly hefty amount, then you should opt for a stainless steel or aluminum kayak cart. The materials used for this cart are able to withstand corrosion, which is incredibly important since you’ll likely need to use the cart in rain or shine.
It is important to take into account that your kayak cart will likely come into contact with saltwater or ocean air and so it is critical that the material is corrosion resistant. If you own multiple versions or types of kayak, you should consider buying a cart with a customizable width.
If you only intend on hauling a single kayak (yours), you should make sure that the kayak carrier is wide enough for it.
Kayak & Cart Width
Naturally, you have no idea what is going to happen with regards to you or your cherished kayak, so selecting a kayak cart with an adjustable width would be a safer option just in case you purchase or need to take a unique kayak at some point in the future.
Storage & Transportability
Some kayak carts can be collapsed or folded up and stored away while the others cannot. Taking into consideration the size of your car and home, you may want to focus on how easy it would be to store items.
Weight Capacity
You must also remember to consider the amount of weight in your kayak and all the gear you’ll be carrying. When selecting a kayak cart, it is essential to keep in mind that certain models have higher carrying capacities than others.
What About Cost?
Price is always a factor to take into account when buying any type of equipment. If you are not an experienced kayaker, you may opt to buy a less expensive kayak carrier instead of buying one of the more expensive higher-end models.
The old adage “you get what you pay for” is what should be kept in mind when thinking about this variable. You don’t want to be stuck carrying a cumbersome kayak in the event that your cart stops working.
Despite the cost, you can find a reliable, rust-proof, and operational product without breaking the bank. If you look at all the other elements discussed, you should be able to get a kayak dolly in your budget.
The 5 Best Kayak Carts
You can count on the kayak cart to provide support with heavy items. The cart you select should be based on the kayak you possess as well as any other considerations.
#1 RAILBLAZA C-Tug Kayak Cart – Top Pick
| Capacity: | 260 Pounds |
| Tires: | Puncture-free with rubber tread |
| Frame: | Hard plastic with stainless steel axles |
| Weight: | 10 Pounds |
The C-Tug kayak cart is a great addition to any kayaker’s gear. C-Tug, manufactured in New Zealand, is an incredibly adaptable kayak cart. You don’t have to be concerned about a flat tire due to the rubber tread found on tires that are incapable of being punctured. The cart is ideal for navigating through gravel, firmly packed sand, and concrete roads.
The hull pads on this cart are made of rubber and can rotate to suit numerous hulls, making it a highly versatile choice. This cart is outstanding for both a canoe and a kayak. You can set your kayak, which is packed with all your items, on top of the cart.
This kayak cart folds up quickly in under 20 seconds, and it’s small enough to store in a kayak’s hatch. This cart is simple, sleek, and lightweight. Don’t let the lightweight nature fool you. This cart holds up to 260 pounds.
Summary
If you are looking for a highly adaptable and strong kayak trolley, then C-Tug is definitely worth considering. The cart can be assembled without difficulty, collapses rapidly, and may be placed inside a kayak hatch.
This cart is suitable for use on a variety of surfaces including gravel, sand, and pavements. C-Tug stands out among the many heavy-duty kayak carts available on the market.
#2 Bonnlo Kayak Cart
| Capacity: | 165 Pounds |
| Tires: | Solid Polyurethane (PU) |
| Frame: | Aluminum |
Are you a dedicated kayaker who needs a dependable way to transport your kayak? Look no further than the Bonnlo Kayak Cart! No matter how far you have to take your kayak, this general purpose kayak cart offers you the reliability and reinforcement you require.
Start with the wheels. Airless tires that don’t need to be inflated are beneficial for a couple of reasons. There’s no need to fret about them collapsing or becoming punctured. Furthermore, these tires are efficient on a wide range of grounds and landscapes. They roll well across gravel, sand, and pavement.
The aluminum frame is sturdy and holds up well. The cart has a spring in the stand to keep it upright for fast and effortless loading and unloading.
This implies that the kayak cart will remain upright when placing loads onto it. The Bonnlo Kayak Cart folds up for easy storage.
Summary
If you are in search of a portable, foldable kayak cart, take a look at Bonnlo. This pushcart is a breeze to put together, it can handle up to 165 pounds of weight, and you won’t be stranded with a flat tire. This highly-rated cart folds up for easy storage too. This cart works well for kayaks or canoes.
#3 TMS Kayak Cart
| Capacity: | 150 Pounds |
| Tires: | 9.5” x 3.5” Pneumatic tires |
| Frame: | Aluminum |
Paddlers who are looking to reduce strain on the day will find the TMS kayak cart to be just what they need. This cart has gigantic air-filled tires that glide effortlessly over varied terrains, such as sand and stones.
The tires give steadiness on bumpy surfaces, which is of great assistance on coastlines or regions with stones and pebbles.
The construction of the frame is composed of an aluminum pipe combined with anodized stainless steel for increased protection from rust. This kayak cart has a spring-loaded support, making it stable when loading and unloading the kayak. A 150-pound capacity is perfect for most recreational kayaks.
It’s easy to set up this kayak cart. Once the handcart has been put in place, place the kayak on the deck of the handcart, and secure it with the straps. You are ready to go.
You will have to discover the most suitable approach to attach your kayak to the structure, as kayaks can vary. The collapsible kayak trolley can be stowed away in certain hatches or attached to the back of a kayak.
If you plan to traverse an uneven or soft surface, you may benefit from the use of adjustable bungee cords.
Summary
This is a lightweight, easy-to-use kayak cart. It won’t take more than a couple of minutes to get ready and the cart can be quickly collapsed for space-saving whilst in your automobile and in your residence. This cart is ideal for transporting kayaks or canoes and is suitable for a variety of terrain.
#4 Malone Nomad Standard Universal Kayak Cart
| Capacity: | 150 pounds |
| Tires: | Airless no-flat |
| Frame: | Aluminum |
| Weight: | 7.9 pounds |
Say goodbye to lugging your heavy kayak around. This kayak cart is especially made for more minimal storage needs. This kayak cart has the strength to handle kayaks up to a maximum weight of 150 pounds. The stand helps your cart remain stable while you are putting items in it.
This cart is built with a frame that is made out of anodized aluminum, which has been treated to prevent corrosion, thus ensuring its longevity. The Nomad is furnished with foam cushioning and cam buckle straps that can be used to secure your kayak.
The size of the kayak cart makes it easy to store in a variety of kayak compartments.
Tires that are 10 inches in diameter and are specially built to resist punctures perform successfully on a variety of surfaces, for example gravel, sand, and tarmac. No need to fret if your car’s tire goes flat while you are moving your kayak.
Summary
Utilize your kayak to access remote areas that are inaccessible to most. The Nomad has been designed to be robust and simple to use, with tires that won’t go flat. This cart performs efficiently on rough ground, but make certain the kayak is securely fastened.
#5 Bonnlo Kayak Cart 12” Wheels
| Capacity: | 150 Pounds |
| Tires: | 12″ low-pressure balloon tires |
| Frame: | Aluminum |
This kayak beach trolley features impressive big balloon tires which will take you to your chosen destination. The Bonnlo twelve-inch balloon tires are exceptional for soft, sandy surfaces.
These tires work great on sandy ground, yet there are other selections available for tougher surfaces. Ensure you pump up the tires to the advised psi for optimal performance.
This frame is strong enough to hold up to 165 lbs. This cart has a spring-loaded support which holds the dolly upright when you are loading items onto it. The frame made of aluminum is lightweight yet strong, and it contains foam bumpers to defend your vessel.
This cart is supplied with two ratchet straps, ideal for fastening your kayak or canoe.
Summary
Bonnlo beach trolley offers a robust kayak cart that works well on sand and other surfaces. It is a breeze to assemble and operate the cart, and it can be quickly collapsed for storage.
It could be difficult to get the wheels into a kayak hatch due to their size, which could be an inconvenience. This is a great kayak cart for the price.
Final Thoughts about the best carts for your kayak
We hope this guide has helped you find the perfect kayak cart to make transporting your kayak a breeze. Whether you’re a solo paddler or traveling with a group, investing in a high-quality kayak cart can save you time and energy on your next adventure.
From the lightweight and portable models to the heavy-duty carts, there’s a cart out there for every type of kayaker.
Remember to consider the weight and size of your kayak, as well as the terrain you’ll be traveling over, when selecting a cart. With the right kayak cart, you’ll be able to enjoy your time on the water without the hassle of carrying your kayak to and from your vehicle.
Happy paddling!
