Covering your kayak the right way—and when it matters most
Whether you’re hauling your kayak to a mountain lake or strapping it down for a weekend on the coast, one thing is certain: travel takes a toll on your boat. UV rays, road grime, and even your tie-downs can all lead to wear and tear over time.
The good news? A few proactive steps can go a long way in preserving your kayak’s finish, shape, and performance. Here’s how to travel smarter and extend the life of your boat.
UV Exposure: A Silent Kayak Killer
Just like your skin, your kayak doesn’t love prolonged sun exposure. Over time, UV rays break down plastic, fade colors, and can even weaken the material. This is especially true for polyethylene kayaks, which are common for recreational and fishing use.
If you’re driving long distances or parking in full sun for extended periods, it’s worth taking UV protection seriously.
Great Kayak Cover Deals:
How to minimize UV damage:
- Use a fitted kayak cover. These are designed to wrap snugly around your boat and shield it from direct sunlight while still allowing for air flow.
- Park in the shade when possible. Even partial shade helps reduce overall UV exposure.
- Apply UV protectant spray. Products like 303 Aerospace Protectant add a layer of defense and can be reapplied throughout the season.
Leaving your kayak uncovered on a roof rack in peak summer is like baking it in a slow oven. A simple cover can make a massive difference.
Tie-Down Straps: Friend and Foe
Tie-down straps are essential for safe transport, but they’re also one of the most common causes of kayak damage during travel. Over-tightening, misaligned straps, or prolonged pressure can leave dents in plastic hulls—especially in hot weather when the material softens slightly.
A few small adjustments can reduce that risk:
- Use wide cam straps rather than rope or ratchet straps. Cam straps provide even pressure and are less likely to gouge or crush the kayak.
- Avoid overtightening. Secure the kayak so it’s snug, but not compressed. You should be able to nudge it slightly without shifting the whole vehicle.
- Pad the contact points. Foam blocks or strap sleeves where the straps touch the hull help distribute pressure and prevent abrasion.
Don’t forget to check your straps after the first few minutes of driving—vibration and airflow can cause them to loosen or shift.
Is a Kayak Cover Always Necessary?
Not every trip requires a full-on kayak cover. Short drives, early morning launches, or cloudy weather might not justify the added hassle. But for longer journeys, highway speeds, or sunny days, covering your kayak is often worth the effort.
Covers do more than block UV—they also protect against bugs, dust, gravel spray, and even curious hands if you’re parked overnight.
Look for covers made from breathable, UV-resistant material with a secure fit. Loose covers flap in the wind and can cause more harm than good.
Other Travel Damage to Watch For
Sun and straps aren’t the only threats. Here are a few other sources of travel damage and how to avoid them:
- Road debris: Rocks and grit kicked up from the road can pit your kayak’s surface. A cover, again, offers the best protection.
- Wind lift: An uncovered kayak can act like a wing. Make sure your bow and stern lines are properly secured to reduce stress on your main tie-downs.
- Mold and mildew: If your kayak is wet and covered for hours in hot weather, it can start to smell like a science experiment. Ventilation matters.
Use breathable covers or open your cover briefly when parked to let air circulate. Dry your kayak thoroughly before covering it for long stretches.
Final Thoughts
Kayaks are built for the elements, but not all kinds of abuse. The same boat that can survive a rocky riverbed may slowly deteriorate under UV rays or buckle under the pressure of an overzealous tie-down.
If you’re putting in the effort to travel with your kayak, go the extra mile to protect it along the way. That means using a proper cover when needed, padding your straps, and thinking about how sun, pressure, and debris interact with your setup.
A little bit of prep doesn’t just preserve your kayak—it protects your investment and keeps you paddling longer, with fewer surprises waiting when you hit the water.
Willem is an avid mountain biker and outdoor sports enthusiast. For years, he has been riding mountain bike stage races, including the grueling Cape Epic. As a father of three adventurous kids, he knows about packing a vehicle to haul his gear safely and responsibly from home to any exciting weekend or holiday destination.
