Carrying kayaks in a pickup bed can work—until it doesn’t. A homemade kayak trailer can be a smarter (and more comfortable) way to transport your boats—especially if you build it to fit your exact setup. As my boys get older I find myself spending more and more time outdoors-and carrying more gear with me when I go. I grew tired of trying to fit all of my kayaks into a truck bed, so I recently converted an old jon boat trailer into a kayak trailer. Using some ladder racks and scrap PVC pipe I was able to complete the conversion relatively effortlessly.
Just a few of the reasons I debated when I decided to make the switch:
1) More Secure, Less Worry
A kayak trailer lets you build in dedicated supports—like:
- padded bunks or rollers
- tie-down points at the right angles
- a stable frame to prevent rocking
That means fewer chances of your kayaks moving around on the road.
2) Easier Loading and Unloading
With a trailer, you can design the height and track for smoother loading. Instead of lifting a kayak up into a high pickup bed every time, you can:
- roll or slide kayaks into place
- use ramps or a winch (if you choose)
- load more comfortably, especially solo
3) Less Damage to Your Kayaks
Pickup beds often mean kayaks rub against metal, straps slip, or gear shifts during travel. A homemade trailer can include protective materials like:
- foam padding
- carpet or marine-grade mats
- edge guides to reduce contact
Result: less scuffing and fewer “road-wear” repairs.
4) Better Fit for Your Kayaks
The biggest advantage of homemade is customization. I purpose built a trailer to fit my exact needs. It’s basically built around your paddling routine.
5) Smoother Trips (Especially to Launch Ramps)
Going to different lakes and ramps becomes less stressful when transporting is consistent. A trailer can make your drive more predictable and reduce the “will this hold?” feeling. Check out this loading video:
A homemade kayak trailer isn’t just a DIY project—it’s a practical upgrade that can make hauling easier, safer, and gentler on your boats. If you paddle regularly, it’s a change you’ll feel every single trip. I am incredibly happy with how this turned out. Give it a try, I don’t think you will regret it!
Watch the full build here: https://youtu.be/AqiBsHV8jWw
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