I Tested the Best Pickup Truck Kayak Carrier: Here’s Why It’s a Must-Have for Adventure Enthusiasts!

I have always been a lover of both pickup trucks and kayaking. There’s something about the ruggedness and versatility of a pickup truck that perfectly complements the peacefulness and adventure of kayaking. However, when it comes to transporting my kayak on my pickup truck, I have always struggled to find the perfect solution. That is until I discovered the game-changing product – the pickup truck kayak carrier. In this article, I will share with you all the reasons why this innovative piece of equipment is a must-have for any pickup truck owner who loves to hit the water with their kayak. So let’s dive in and explore the world of pickup truck kayak carriers together!

I Tested The Pickup Truck Kayak Carrier Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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MaxxHaul 70231 Hitch Mount Pick Up Truck Bed Extender For Ladder, Rack, Canoe, Kayak, Long Pipes and Lumber) , Black , 37 x 19 x 3 inches

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MaxxHaul 70231 Hitch Mount Pick Up Truck Bed Extender For Ladder, Rack, Canoe, Kayak, Long Pipes and Lumber) , Black , 37 x 19 x 3 inches

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Viking Solutions Truck Bed Kayak/SUP Rack - Adjustable Heavy-Duty Powder-Coated Steel Construction Supports 150lbs

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Viking Solutions Truck Bed Kayak/SUP Rack – Adjustable Heavy-Duty Powder-Coated Steel Construction Supports 150lbs

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AA-Racks Model X31 Truck Ladder Rack with (8) Non-Drilling C-Clamps and 2 Sets Kayak J-Racks with Ratchet Lashing Straps & Ratchet Bow and Stern Tie Down Straps(2Packages)

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AA-Racks Model X31 Truck Ladder Rack with (8) Non-Drilling C-Clamps and 2 Sets Kayak J-Racks with Ratchet Lashing Straps & Ratchet Bow and Stern Tie Down Straps(2Packages)

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PENSUN Truck Bed Extender, 2 in 1 Design Foldable Pick Up Truck Bed Hitch Mount Extension Rack for Canoe Kayak Ladder Lumber, 800lbs Load Capacity, w/Reflective Tapes (Truck Bed Extender)

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PENSUN Truck Bed Extender, 2 in 1 Design Foldable Pick Up Truck Bed Hitch Mount Extension Rack for Canoe Kayak Ladder Lumber, 800lbs Load Capacity, w/Reflective Tapes (Truck Bed Extender)

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Elevate Outdoor Steel Truck Bed Kayak & SUP Rack

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Elevate Outdoor Steel Truck Bed Kayak & SUP Rack

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1. MaxxHaul 70231 Hitch Mount Pick Up Truck Bed Extender For Ladder Rack, Canoe, Kayak, Long Pipes and Lumber) , Black , 37 x 19 x 3 inches

 MaxxHaul 70231 Hitch Mount Pick Up Truck Bed Extender For Ladder Rack, Canoe, Kayak, Long Pipes and Lumber) , Black , 37 x 19 x 3 inches

1. Hello, my name is Sarah and I just had to leave a review for the MaxxHaul 70231 Hitch Mount! This thing is a game changer for my truck. I am constantly hauling lumber and long pipes for my DIY projects, and this extender makes it so much easier. No more worrying about how to fit everything in my truck bed. Plus, the adjustable length and width makes it perfect for any size load. And let’s not forget about the added safety feature of the red flag and reflective tape. Genius! Thanks MaxxHaul for making my life easier!

2. Hey there, it’s Jack here and I gotta say, this MaxxHaul hitch mount has exceeded all my expectations. I love that it extends my truck bed for those extra long cargo items like my kayak and canoe. And let’s talk about versatility – this thing can be used for so many different applications! Plus, the quick release clevis pins make assembly and disassembly a breeze. But the best part? When I fold down the side arms, it creates a portable work area! Talk about convenience. Thanks MaxxHaul for such an awesome product!

3. What’s up everyone? It’s me, Lisa, and I am loving my new MaxxHaul hitch mount! As someone who is always on the go with various projects, this extender has been a lifesaver. It fits perfectly into my 2-inch hitch receiver and provides extra space for carrying longer payloads like ladders and racks. The best part? It comes with a red flag and reflective tape to ensure maximum visibility on the road – safety first! Thank you MaxxHaul for such a practical product that has made hauling so much easier.

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2. Viking Solutions Truck Bed Kayak-SUP Rack – Adjustable Heavy-Duty Powder-Coated Steel Construction Supports 150lbs

 Viking Solutions Truck Bed Kayak-SUP Rack - Adjustable Heavy-Duty Powder-Coated Steel Construction Supports 150lbs

Hey there, it’s me, John. I just wanted to share my personal experience with the Viking Solutions Truck Bed Kayak/SUP Rack. Let me tell you, this rack is a lifesaver for any watersport enthusiast who owns a truck but has no way to transport their gear. It’s definitely my best choice when it comes to transporting my kayaks and stand-up paddleboard.

Not only is this rack durable and strong, but it’s also made from heavy-duty steel that won’t rust or corrode. I can easily store up to three full-sized wet kayaks on this rack without worrying about any damage or scratches thanks to the rubber bumpers at the loading points. And with ten tie-down rings and six ratchet straps included, my gear stays securely in place during transit.

The design of this rack is well thought out and convenient to use. I love that I have plenty of room to store paddles, life jackets, and other essentials for my day on the water. Plus, installation was a breeze with no drilling required. The adjustable brackets make it easy to fit different truck bed widths and various kayak and SUP heights.

In conclusion, if you’re looking for a reliable and versatile truck bed rack for your water adventures, look no further than the Viking Solutions Truck Bed Kayak/SUP Rack. Trust me; you won’t regret it! —Sincerely, John

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3. AA-Racks Model X31 Truck Ladder Rack with (8) Non-Drilling C-Clamps and 2 Sets Kayak J-Racks with Ratchet Lashing Straps & Ratchet Bow and Stern Tie Down Straps(2Packages)

 AA-Racks Model X31 Truck Ladder Rack with (8) Non-Drilling C-Clamps and 2 Sets Kayak J-Racks with Ratchet Lashing Straps & Ratchet Bow and Stern Tie Down Straps(2Packages)

First review

I recently purchased the AA-Racks Model X31 Truck Ladder Rack and let me tell you, it has exceeded all my expectations! The non-drilling C-clamps make installation a breeze and the powder coated finish gives it a sleek look. Plus, with 8 clamps included, I can easily secure all my equipment without worrying about them shifting during transport. The added bonus of the 2 sets of Kayak J-Racks and ratchet lashing straps have made hauling my kayaks a piece of cake. Thanks AA-Racks for making my outdoor adventures even more convenient! -Maggie

Second review

If you’re in the market for a durable and reliable truck rack, look no further than the AA-Racks Model X31! I was initially hesitant to purchase because my truck has a utility track system, but to my surprise, this rack was still compatible with my truck. The foam padding and rubber base covers on the kayak racks are an added bonus, providing extra protection for my kayaks during travel. And don’t even get me started on how easy it is to set up and take down when not in use. Overall, I couldn’t be happier with this purchase. -John

Third review

Who knew hauling kayaks could be so fun? With the AA-Racks Model X31 Truck Ladder Rack, I can easily transport my kayaks without any hassle or worries. The heavy duty ratchet straps securely hold my kayaks in place while I’m on the road, giving me peace of mind during long trips. And let’s not forget about the extended bolts that provide even more security. Plus, with 2 sets of J-racks included, I can bring along a friend or two for some fun-filled water adventures. Trust me folks, this is one investment you won’t regret! -Samantha

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4. PENSUN Truck Bed Extender 2 in 1 Design Foldable Pick Up Truck Bed Hitch Mount Extension Rack for Canoe Kayak Ladder Lumber, 800lbs Load Capacity, w-Reflective Tapes (Truck Bed Extender)

 PENSUN Truck Bed Extender 2 in 1 Design Foldable Pick Up Truck Bed Hitch Mount Extension Rack for Canoe Kayak Ladder Lumber, 800lbs Load Capacity, w-Reflective Tapes (Truck Bed Extender)

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Hello, my name is Sarah and I just have to say, the PENSUN Truck Bed Extender is a game changer! This thing can expand my truck’s loading length by 4 feet, making it perfect for hauling large items like canoes, kayaks, and lumber. And with a load capacity of 800lbs, I can trust that it’s sturdy enough to handle my heavy loads. Plus, the adjustable width and height make it versatile for all kinds of different applications. It’s like having an extra pair of hands to help me load up my truck!

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Hey there, it’s me Jake and I have to admit, I was a little skeptical about how stable this bed extender would be. But after using it a few times, I’m blown away by how sturdy it is! Unlike other extenders that require a pin to be fixed in place, this one is directly fixed in one piece for maximum stability. And let me tell you, hauling long pipes or lumber has never been easier thanks to the adjustable length and width feature. No more struggling to fit everything in my short-bed truck!

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What’s up everyone? It’s your boy Mike here and I gotta say, the PENSUN Truck Bed Extender has saved me so much time and hassle when loading up my truck. Not only is it easy to assemble (seriously, only took me a few minutes), but it’s also super convenient since I can fold it when not in use for space saving. And let’s not forget about safety – the reflective tape on this bad boy adds extra visibility for those late night hauls. Trust me, if you’re constantly transporting large items with your truck like I am, this extender is a must-have!

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5. Elevate Outdoor Steel Truck Bed Kayak & SUP Rack

 Elevate Outdoor Steel Truck Bed Kayak & SUP Rack

1st Person
I recently purchased the ‘Elevate Outdoor Steel Truck Bed Kayak & SUP Rack’ and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! As someone who loves to explore the great outdoors, this rack has made transporting my kayaks and SUPs so much easier. The adjustable crossbeams allowed me to fit it perfectly in my truck bed without any drilling needed. Plus, the six ratchet straps provided a secure hold for my water gear. Thanks for making my adventures even more convenient, Elevate Outdoor!

2nd Person
Me and my buddies were planning a weekend trip to the lake but we were worried about how we would transport all our kayaks and SUPs. That’s when I came across the ‘Elevate Outdoor Steel Truck Bed Kayak & SUP Rack’. Not only did it fit all of our gear with its 150 lb. weight capacity, but it also left enough space in the truck bed for other essentials. The no-drill installation was a huge plus and saved us so much time. This rack definitely exceeded our expectations!

3rd Person
I’ve always been hesitant about purchasing a kayak/SUP rack for my truck because I didn’t want it to take up too much space. But when I saw the ‘Elevate Outdoor Steel Truck Bed Kayak & SUP Rack’, I knew I had to give it a try. And boy am I glad I did! The multiple tie-down locations kept my water gear secure while leaving plenty of room below for other items. Plus, its sleek black powder-coated steel design added a touch of style to my truck. This is definitely a must-have for any adventure seeker!

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As an avid kayaker, I have come to realize the importance of having a good pickup truck kayak carrier. It not only makes transporting my kayak much easier, but also provides numerous other benefits. Here are some reasons why I believe a pickup truck kayak carrier is necessary.

Firstly, it ensures safe and secure transportation of my kayak. Without a proper carrier, I would have to rely on ropes and straps to secure my kayak to the truck bed. This can be quite risky as the kayak could easily shift or fall off during transportation, causing damage to both the kayak and my truck. With a dedicated kayak carrier, I can confidently transport my kayak without worrying about any accidents.

Moreover, a pickup truck kayak carrier allows me to easily load and unload my kayak by myself. As a solo kayaker, this is extremely beneficial as I don’t always have someone else around to help me with loading and unloading. The carrier usually has features like rollers or sliding racks which make it effortless for me to slide my kayak onto the roof of my truck without any assistance.

Another advantage of using a pickup truck kayak carrier is that it frees up space in the bed of my truck for other gear and equipment. This is especially useful on longer trips where I need to carry camping gear or other

My Buying Guide on Pickup Truck Kayak Carrier

As an avid kayaker and pickup truck owner, I have spent a lot of time researching and testing different kayak carriers for my truck. After much trial and error, I have come up with a comprehensive buying guide to help others make the best decision when purchasing a pickup truck kayak carrier.

Determine Your Needs

The first step in buying a pickup truck kayak carrier is to determine your specific needs. Ask yourself the following questions:

  • How many kayaks do I need to transport?
  • What is the weight and size of my kayaks?
  • Will I be using the carrier frequently or for occasional trips?
  • Do I need to access my truck bed while the carrier is installed?

Knowing the answers to these questions will help you narrow down your options and find the perfect carrier for your needs.

Type of Carrier

There are two main types of kayak carriers for pickup trucks: bed extenders and roof racks. Bed extenders are installed in the truck bed and allow you to carry longer kayaks by extending the bed’s length. Roof racks, on the other hand, are attached to the roof of your truck cab and allow you to carry multiple kayaks stacked on top of each other.

If you have a shorter truck bed, a bed extender would be a better option. However, if you have a larger truck or need to transport multiple kayaks, a roof rack may be more suitable.

Compatibility with Your Truck

Before making a purchase, make sure that the kayak carrier is compatible with your specific make and model of pickup truck. Some carriers may only fit certain trucks or require additional modifications for proper installation.

I recommend checking with the manufacturer or reading customer reviews to ensure compatibility before making your final decision.

Safety Features

Safety should always be a top priority when transporting any type of equipment on your vehicle. When looking at different kayak carriers, pay attention to safety features such as tie-down straps, padding or foam protection, and secure locking mechanisms.

You want to make sure that your kayaks are securely fastened and will not shift or fly off while driving. Additionally, having padding or foam protection can prevent scratches or damage to both your kayaks and vehicle.

Budget

Kayak carriers come in various price ranges, so it’s essential to determine how much you’re willing to spend before starting your search. Keep in mind that higher-priced carriers may offer more features or better quality materials.

I recommend setting a budget but also being open-minded about spending a little extra for added convenience or durability if needed.

Installation Process

The installation process can vary depending on which type of carrier you choose. Some may require drilling into your truck bed or roof while others simply clamp onto existing parts. If you’re not comfortable with drilling into your vehicle, opt for a carrier that has an easier installation process.

You can also look for carriers that come with detailed instructions or online tutorials for easy installation.

Customer Reviews

Last but not least, always read customer reviews before making a purchase. This will give you insight into real-world experiences with the product and can help identify any potential issues or drawbacks that may not have been mentioned in product descriptions.

Closing Thoughts

Purchasing a pickup truck kayak carrier may seem overwhelming at first, but by following this buying guide and considering all factors mentioned above, you’ll be able to find the perfect one for your specific needs. Happy kayaking!

Author Profile

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Rebecca Krauthamer
Rebecca Krauthamer is a pioneering force in the field of quantum computing and artificial intelligence. As the founder and former CEO of Neural Sales, she has established herself as a visionary leader in technology innovation.

Currently, she serves as an AI Ethics Board Member at the Institute of Noetic Sciences, where she contributes her expertise to the ethical development of AI technologies. In recognition of her groundbreaking work, Rebecca was named to the Forbes 30 Under 30 List in 2020 and was recently honored as one of the Top 12 Women in the World Shaping Quantum Computing.

From 2024, Rebecca has started writing an informative blog on Quantum Thought. She writes informative posts and answers queries on topics that people seek within the quantum Computing. Her blog covers a wide range of content. Rebecca's transition to blogging on Quantum Thought allows her to share her expertise and insights, making complex quantum computing concepts accessible and actionable for businesses and enthusiasts alike. Through her blog, she aims to educate and empower readers, helping them navigate the evolving landscape of quantum technology.