Kayaking could be enjoyable, but hauling that kayak through the forest till you reach the lake is most definitely not. Get the best kayak cart to aid you so you don’t have to struggle with the weight of your kayak. Take a look at some of the reviews we examined for the best kayak carts.
Quick Comparison Of The Best Kayak Carts
| Product image | Product name | Editor's rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
  | TMS Tote | 4.9 | See pricing details |
  | ABN Universal | 4.8 | See pricing details |
  | Bonnlo Kickstands | 4.8 | See pricing details |
  | RAILBLAZA C-Tug | 4.7 | See pricing details |
  | Suspenz DLX | 4.7 | See pricing details |
  | TMS Dolly | 4.7 | See pricing details |
  | Malone Clipper | 4.6 | See pricing details |
  | Seattle Sports | 4.6 | See pricing details |
  | Bonnlo 12” Wheels | 4.5 | See pricing details |
  | Bonnlo Upgrade | 4.5 | See pricing details |
Review Top 10 Best Kayak Carts
1. TMS Kayak Cart
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The kayak frame is comprised of anodized stainless steel and aluminum tubes to promote corrosion resistance. When you are loading and unloading, the cart’s spring-loaded stand helps maintain it upright.
Setting up this kayak cart is easy. Put the kayak on the cart platform and secure it with the straps once you’ve set the cart up.
You’re all set to go. Since all kayaks are not created equal, you will need to choose the best approach to secure your kayak to the frame. The collapsible kayak cart may be fastened across the kayak’s stern or stored in various hatches.
If you’re walking on soft or uneven terrain, you may want to utilize bungee straps that are adjustable.
This kayak cart is lightweight and easy to use. The cart folds up for easy storage in your vehicle and at home, and you can set it up in just a few minutes. This cart handles diverse terrain effectively and works well with kayaks or canoes.
Large inflated tires go smoothly over many ground types, including sand and gravel. On beaches or other rocky or uneven terrain, the tires’ ability to maintain stability is quite helpful.
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Functions effectively on easy terrain and are easily folded for storage
- Easy to set up
- Include a strap
Cons:
- The provided strap isn’t the best, according to some customers.
- If you are traversing uneven ground, you may need to utilize bungees.
2. ABN Universal Kayak Carrier
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Use this cart for any kayak weighing up to 200 pounds. High-strength anodized steel is used to guarantee durability while keeping the cart itself light and easy.
You can go easily through sand, gravel, and wooded regions with 9.5-inch tires that are easy to inflate. Your kayak is protected from dents and scrapes by those huge foam bumpers, and a 12-foot strap holds it in place. When you’re through, just fold it for easy transport and place it in a big bag!
Pros:
- Spring-loaded Kickstand Easily Stores
- Stiff frame
Cons:
- Stability
3. Bonnlo Kayak Cart
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The aluminum frame is reliable and strong. The cart includes a spring-loaded platform that keeps it raised so that loading and unloading are fast and easy. As a result, while you are loading, the kayak cart won’t collapse. Folding makes storage of the Bonnlo Kayak Cart easy.
Check out Bonnlo if you’re looking for a portable, lightweight kayak cart. This cart won’t leave you stuck due to a flat tire, is easy to set up, and can carry up to 165 pounds. This well-regarded cart folds up for easy storage as well. Canoes or kayaks fit nicely on this cart.
There are a few reasons why airless tires with no flats are great. You don’t have to worry about them deflating or being punctured, to start. Second, these tires perform well on a range of surfaces and terrains. They move well on tarmac, sand, and gravel.
Pros:
- Includes straps to secure your boat.
- Portable kayak cart
- No tires are flat
- Lightweight kayak cart
- Sturdy
- Easy to build
Cons:
- The straps have proven challenging for several clients.
- A little heavier than other kayak carts
4. C-Tug Kayak Trolley Cart
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This cart’s great feature is that it’s easy to set together and can even be done without any equipment. The high grip rubber tread on the puncture-proof wheels allows them to function on any surface.
Even though the kayak cart from C-Tug weighs just 10 pounds, you can easily lift it to transport it and store it. Despite its small weight, this cart can carry up to 300 pounds, making it the ideal choice for even the heaviest kayaks.
Pros:
- Strong, light, and easy to store
Cons:
- The strap is less reliable than others and might be hard to adjust.
5. Suspenz Smart Airless DLX Cart
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Because of the airless 10-inch tires on this cart from Suspenz, they won’t ever flatten, no matter how long or how often you use it. The powder-coated aluminum frame is made to endure for a long period as well, particularly considering the stainless steel components.
Simply place your kayak on the 125-pound-capable, tough rubber pads. When you’re through, this cart collapses into a simple mesh bag that you can carry.
Pros:
- Strong double straps
Cons:
- Rubber cushions seem to be little.
- Cannot be carried in a kayak
6. TMS Cart Carrier Trolley
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While the whole structure disassembles fully for transport and storage, the enormous 9 and 12-inch pneumatic tires ride effortlessly over sand and gravel. The metals aluminum and steel are unquestionably great choices if you want something robust.
This kayak cart has a 12-foot tie-down strap for added stability and can support up to 150 pounds. Although the frame is composed entirely of metal and may not be great for use in saltwater, it has foam bumpers on each arm to totally protect your kayak.
Pros:
- Easy to assemble and disassemble
Cons:
- Tires could smell.
- The strap is not very robust.
7. Malone Clipper Deluxe Universal Cart
Review:
Given that the Malone Clipper Deluxe has tie-down straps to hold your kayak in place, the universal frame is designed to accommodate any kayak. No matter how hard the terrain is, your kayak will be safe thanks to the large, cushioned frame.
The 10-inch, airless, “never-go-flat,” detachable tires are designed to operate on any surface and can carry up to 200 pounds. When you load or unload, it will remain upright thanks to the stabilizing kickstand.
Pros:
- Strong and stable, excellent on any surface
Cons:
- As unlike most carts
8. Seattle Sports Paddleboy Cart
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This cart is particularly durable because of its 300-pound capacity and heavy-duty powder-coated frame. Kayaks and bigger boats may be moved about with ease as well. In order to assist keep the cart steady while you load it, the Paddleboy kayak cart also incorporates a spring-loaded stand.
The kayak trolley is equipped with foam padding to safeguard your boat and cinch straps to firmly fasten it to the base. For kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, and other watercraft, Paddleboy works great.
It is easy to stow away the Paddleboy folding kayak cart in your vehicle, at home, or on your kayak.
This kayak cart is a great choice if you want a multipurpose one. A boat of any size may be hauled thanks to the 300-pound capacity. The huge bike tires assist with ruts and another rough terrain. The wheels are reported of poorer quality, according to some users.
The Paddleboy kayak cart is highly distinctive because of its sixteen-inch bike tire wheels. This cart is great for navigating rough terrain, such as ruts, because of its large tires.
The height of the cart makes it simpler to push and pull for many individuals. On paved and flat areas, the wheels perform well as well.
Pros:
- Adjustable top bars and large wheels are great for difficult terrain
- Includes straps and folds for easy storage
- Durable steel frame with powder coating
Cons:
- The wheels won’t fit in the hatch of your kayak.
- Compared to other kayak carts, it weighs more.
9. Bonnlo Kayak Cart 12” Wheels
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The strong frame can hold up to 165 pounds. To keep the dolly supported as you load, the cart has a spring-loaded stand. The lightweight, strong aluminum frame is equipped with foam bumpers to protect your boat.
You may get a great kayak cart from the Bonnlo beach trolley that works well on sand and other surfaces. The cart is easy to assemble, operate, and disassemble for storage. One disadvantage is that the wheels can be too large to fit in a kayak hatch. For the price, this kayak cart is great.
The amazing tires on this kayak beach trolley will get you where you need to go. For soft, sandy terrain, the Bonnlo twelve-inch balloon tires are fantastic.
Although there are alternative choices for more difficult terrain, these tires perform exceptionally well in sand. For the best performance, make sure the tires are inflated to the recommended pressure.
Two ratchet straps that are ideal for securing your kayak or canoe to the cart are included.
Pros:
- The kickstand is quite useful.
- Great for sand
- Easy to use
Cons:
- To secure your kayak, bungee straps may be required.
- Not very good on rough terrain
10. Bonnlo Upgrade Scupper Cart
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Utilize the cart by altering the upright spacing to correspond to the kayak’s scupper holes. You may remove the wheels and fold the frame for storage once you are on the water.
The Bonnlo Scupper Kayak Cart is a great alternative if you’re searching for a sit-on-top kayak cart. A variety of kayaks may use the axle with changeable width. The frame is strong and lightweight. The cart may be stored aboard your boat by disassembling it.
Specially made for sit-on-top kayaks is this cart. This is one of the best sit-on-top kayak carts available, and it has an adjustable-width axle. Your boat is easy to load since the uprights are covered and cushioned.
While navigating with your kayak, the sturdy, flat-free tires won’t abandon you. With these robust wheels, you can transport the kayak across a range of diverse surfaces.
Pros:
- Variable width
- No-flat, airless tires
- Lightweight sit-on-top kayak cart
Cons:
- Not great for deep sand
- Some users might want extra padding
What Types Of Kayak Carts Are There?
Fold Cart (AKA Taildraggers)
The name is another hint. These kayak carts may be folded, packed down, or disassembled for easy transport and storage at home. They are often placed on the bow or stern of the kayak (or even in the kayak as you paddle.)
Due to how easy they are to pack, they may be quite popular among families and campers (which can be a real challenge with all the other equipment required for a weekend trip or multiple types of outdoor recreation.)
Carts with tail-draggers
It’s up to you whether the load is supported by a bow- or stern-dragger cart at one end of the kayak. When using a tail-dragger cart, you just put the end of your kayak onto it, secure it with straps (straps aren’t usually included), and move the kayak about with ease. They are better suited to short distances since they can hold less weight than platform carts. They work with almost every model of kayak, however, and are often the least expensive alternative.
Trolleys with seats inside or on top
Kayak carts are available in two main varieties: sit-in and sit-on-top, much like kayaks themselves.
As you may have imagined, a sit-in kayak trolley or cart is designed particularly for sit-in kayaks, as well as sea kayaks and canoes, which lack built-in scupper or self-draining holes. However, they may also be used with sit-on-top kayaks.
The majority of carts often have a strap that you may connect to your kayak. This is useful if you want to transport numerous goods at once since you can make sure that your cargo is buckled up and safe for the trip.
The rods of a sit-on-top (SOT) kayak trolley, sometimes referred to as a plug-in kayak cart or kayak dolly, fit perfectly in the scupper holes of the kayak. Due to its stability and fixed wheels, this kind of kayak cart is often considered the most practical.
Although most recreational sit-on-top kayaks may be accommodated by SOT trolleys or plug-in kayak carts, not all scuppers are the same size, thus this must be considered when choosing a sit-on-top trolley or kayak cart. The disadvantage of these kayak carts is that any gear carried on the kayak will fall off when you remove them since you have to flip the kayak on its side.
Platform Carts
The fundamental design of a platform cart is a raised cradle affixed to a frame with an axle and two wheels. The kayak is placed on top of the cradle, fastened with straps (usually included), and the pulling process is started by picking up the other end. Platform carts are adaptable, work with most kayak types (fishing and recreational, sit-on and sit-in), are generally affordable, and are compatible with a sit-in and sit-on kayaks.
Scumper Carts
Scupper carts are a very creative concept. In essence, the cart features two upright support beams that slot into the sit-on-top kayaks’ scupper holes. However, for sit-on-top kayaks, the beams placed into the scupper holes are sufficient to hold the kayak firmly on the cart while you wheel it about. They may be used for kayaks without scupper holes (you’ll have to flip the kayak sideways and tie it down).
The size, location, and quantity of scupper holes will vary from kayak to kayak, so keep that in mind. The best scupper carts are usually adjustable, allowing you to vary their width in accordance with the width of your kayak and where you want the holes to be.
How To Choose The Best Cart For Kayaks? Buying Guide
The Best Kayak Carts’ Benefits
How easy it is to construct and dismantle a kayak cart is the single most crucial factor to take into account before purchasing one. You probably won’t want to leave your kayak cart behind on the beach.
Instead, invest in a kayak cart that you can simply transport with your kayak. Unsurprisingly, the best kayak carts are often easy to assemble and disassemble. When you go on the water, you may store them in your kayak.
If you need to portage from one body of water to another and remain on land for great lengths of time, keep this aspect in mind. Instead, you may cart your kayak by land from one place to another. That makes it so much simpler. Your arms will appreciate it.
What kind of material is suitable for a kayak cart?
Steel is a tried-and-true weight that won’t shatter easily, even when a heavy kayak is placed on it. Steel does rust, so to extend its longevity, finish it with a rust-resistant paint or powder coating. A great alternative to think about is stainless steel. Steel carts will be more expensive and heavy than other options.
Aluminum is great enough to withstand the weight of your kayaks while yet being lightweight, rust-resistant, and tensile. In general, it is less expensive than steel. The welded joints are often where aluminum frames have the most flaws, but all of the aluminum-frame kayak carts we suggest have a reputation for being manufactured from strong metal that is welded tightly together.
Although some kayaks have parts made of plastic or carbon composite, the frame itself is always composed of metal (at least on the dependable models we suggest here).
The Reasons I Would Want A Cart For Kayak
Kayaking is an athletic sport that may be beneficial for exercise. However, who wants to feel like they’ve worked out before getting in the kayak? If you have tandem kayaks or bigger kayaks, a kayak cart or canoe cart may help you avoid hard lifting while transporting kayaks. Spending time battling to get it to the water is definitely not what you want to be doing.
If you’re kayaking with your family, a kayak cart may also be useful since it teaches the kids how to transport their own kayaks without getting hurt or overworked. Most significantly, they can keep the kayak secure over extended journeys.
This way of transporting kayaks is practical and easy, allowing you to transport your kayak and the rest of your gear with the least amount of hassle (or sweat loss).
The bottom line is that kayak carts provide a speedier and smoother transfer from vehicle to kayak, allowing you to spend more time on the water and less time lugging about your gear.
In the quest to enhance your kayaking experience, identifying the ideal cart for your kayak is paramount, but let’s not overlook the role of a good kayak anchor. Imagine finding yourself in a breezy lake or a stream with a strong current; an anchor becomes an essential companion, holding you firmly in place.
Just as choosing the best cart requires thoughtful consideration of various factors, so does picking the best anchor for kayak. Having taken a closer look at the leading kayak carts, we’re now prepared to explore the diverse options in carts, equipping you with the knowledge to find the one that caters to your unique requirements.
Consideration Factors When Choosing Kayak Cart
Wheels
This cart is designed to make carrying your kayak a breeze. You won’t be able to transport the kayak if you choose a cart with the incorrect wheels! Look at the size of the wheels.
Taller wheels provide you with greater stability and let you move the trolley closer to the kayak. Larger and wider wheels perform particularly well on sand.
It’s important to consider the wheels’ material as well. Some of these tires are inflatable and suitable for any surface, while others are made of molded plastic or foam. If you want to transport your kayak through more difficult terrain, you should certainly look for an all-terrain tire that is puncture-proof.
Cart Types
There are three distinct kinds of carts available, and each of them has some unique qualities that may assist you in various ways.
Plug-in cart: This model is lightweight and has fixed wheels. Because of how sturdy it is, it is very practical.
Folding carts are convenient to transport since they are small in size. As a result, the majority of kayakers find it to be ideal.
As its name implies, a strap on this cart protects the kayak as you move it from one place to another.
Depending on your requirements, any one of these may be used, however, you might choose one over the others if it’s more sturdy, easier to store, or keeps your kayak safe. The stability of the plug-in can be more useful if you’re traveling through difficult terrain. On the other hand, the foldable cart is unrivaled for storage needs.
Tire Types
Here, there are two possible routes. You may use plastic tires to save money. Alternatively, you might go all out and get a model with large inflated tires. Although the price is a little different, there is a significant performance difference.
Plastic wheels often have thin, small-diameter wheels. They are similar to the little bothersome garbage can wheels that often get caught on something. Unless you plan to use the cart mostly on hard surfaces, stay away from them.
Inflatable wheels that are thicker and bigger will be beneficial in many ways. The wheels’ wider diameter makes it easier for them to roll over obstacles and bumps without becoming trapped.
The wheels float better on soft ground like sand thanks to the broader profile. In sand, thin wheels will just sink and get stuck.
Attachment technique
Depending on the sort of kayak you possess, there are many types of carts available. Most likely, the sit-on-top kayak you possess has to scupper holes.
If you take on water, scupper holes allow water to escape from your kayak. Some carts have scupper holes that are meant to be lined up with them. Scupper holes may come in a variety of sizes and locations on the kayak. Make sure your kayak will fit on the cart.
The drawback of carts that make use of scupper holes is that they might cause your kayak’s scupper holes to fracture. If the uprights don’t fit properly or are in an uncomfortable position, your kayak might end damage.
There are two components that are molded together in a rotomolded kayak. There is a seam where the two parts fit together. On occasion, the seam on the kayak’s outside is visible.
The inside of the scupper holes also has these seams. Therefore, it might harm your scupper holes if the uprights on the cart don’t fit properly.
Your kayak’s end may be carried by another kind of cart. These make navigating the cart and kayak easy and simple. The cart only supports a portion of the weight of the kayak, which is a drawback. You are now left to carry the bulk of the burden. You must make sure that these kayak carts fit your equipment since they are not usually adjustable.
A cradle type is another option, and it’s definitely the best and safest method to transport your kayak. Since the weight is uniformly divided, transport is made simpler for you. The kayak is easily strapped down after being loaded into the cradle. Ratchet straps may be used to provide a tight fit.
Bump Stops
This is a highly practical aspect to take into account for a kayak cart! Your kayak has to be cushioned and subjected to less impact during transit in order to avoid scratches, dents, and hull damage. Rubber or foam cushions may do this.
Frame
You need something constructed of corrosion-resistant materials, especially if you want to venture out on saltwater. Since steel may rust if exposed to salt water or ocean air in this situation, plastic or composite materials may be preferable. Aluminum will also function, particularly if it has been powder-coated. Both steel and aluminum are ideal for bearing big weights for really heavy kayaks.
Storage
Try to choose a kayak cart that you can easily stow while it’s not in use to save a little room. Some types allow for total disassembly for easy vehicle transport and storage when you need to leave it behind to go out on the water. You don’t want to risk having your item stolen before you return from the ocean! Because of this, you need to give a folding cart serious consideration.
Adjustable Width
If you want to transport several kinds of kayaks, you’ll need something with an adjustable width since different brands of kayaks have varying widths. To fit whatever kayak you need to place in it, some carts may be adjusted by up to 10 inches. Some of these carts may be modified to transport stand-up paddle boards that have a flexible saddle as well.
Weight
Before choosing a cart, consider where you will use your kayak the most. Consider the combined weight of your cart and kayak while moving them since improved strength and durability may make transporting your cart more challenging. A plug-in cart can be the best choice if you want the lightest alternative.
Also, take into account the cart’s own weight capacity. You’ll have the most adaptability if you have something that can sustain kayaks that weigh more than 150 pounds.
If all you have is an inflatable kayak, you may not need anything so sturdy, but larger kayaks like tandems or stand-up paddle boards would benefit from a higher weight capacity.
Price
You may not have much money left over after buying a great kayak, but that doesn’t mean your next vehicle has to be of poor quality. Don’t quit if you’re on a tight budget since there are many opportunities to buy a great cart at a reasonable price.
Resilience
The best kayak cart for your kayak will be sturdy and able to withstand the environment. We have spoken about the frame, wheels, weight capacity, and other elements that affect durability. The frame and tires of a sturdy kayak cart are made of high-quality materials.
Additionally, your kayak cart ought to be resistant to the sun, rain, and even saltwater. The kayak cart ought to endure for many years.
Kayak Cart Straps
Several distinct considerations will determine the straps you need for your kayak cart. Make sure your kayaks are really secure if you want to cart them a long distance or carry them over uneven terrain.
You may wish to purchase some ratchet straps in this situation. You may choose how tight the straps are, and they will provide you with a really secure fit. You’ll save some hassles by properly securing your kayak. Because they didn’t secure their kayak properly, I’ve seen folks lose it from their cart.
There may not be a need for straps if you are only carrying your kayak down a boat launch. You can get away with rapid straps when the distance is small and the surface is smooth.
If you plan to travel across uneven ground, you may wish to get some bungee straps. Bungees will provide a tight fit with some additional flexibility.
FAQs About Kayak Carts
When kayaking, what do you do with a kayak cart?
You have three fundamental choices: You may either 1) store it in your car, 2) use a bungee cord (included or bought separately) to fasten it to the back of your kayak, or 3) if it folds up or disassembles small enough, slips it inside the hatch of your sit-in kayak.
Can a kayak be moved by one person from a cart to a roof rack?
Absolutely! It’s much simpler to transfer the kayak onto your roof rack when utilizing a kayak cart rather than setting it down on pavement, dirt, or grass. To put the kayak on the rack, just wheel it up behind the vehicle, raise the end you’re holding, and place it there. The kayak may then be removed from the cart’s straps and slipped into position.
Is a cart for kayaks cost-effective?
It all depends on how close to the water you park your car. You wouldn’t need a kayak cart, for instance, if you could drive up to the boat launch or dock and drop your kayaks into the sea without stopping. However, purchasing a kayak cart is probably worthwhile if the parking area is several hundred yards (or more!) from the water’s edge. It merely makes hauling the boat directly to the water with half the effort so much simpler.
Who needs to use a cart for a kayak?
Whoever doesn’t want to lift the kayak above their head! If you’re pulling a smaller, lighter kayak, solo carrying isn’t too challenging, but you can still have trouble with the weight and balance. A single person may not be able to carry a heavier, larger kayak to the water by themselves—that is, without a cart. Investing in a kayak cart might be worthwhile if you’re the one performing most of the heavy lifting just to facilitate loading and unloading.
How Should I Operate Kayak Carts?
Set your kayak next to the cart. After that, place the watercraft’s seat in the cart. After that, go to the front of the vessel to align the bow with the stern. Ensure that the kayak is stable. The 2/3 position to the stern is your best option. To the cart, fasten your craft. Additionally, tighten the pegs where there are scupper holes.
The procedure for dealing with taildraggers is simple: lay it below the tail of your vessel, fasten it, and roll.
When using the scupper carts, you have to tip your yak to the side to load and unload it (which is a little awkward if you’re hauling gear). Then, you just push the yak through the holes. Voila, flip it back.
The platform carts should be first placed wherever you’d want, and then you should fasten it with straps. I’ve previously explained why this is much better, even if it takes a little bit longer than with the first two.
How Can A Kayak Be Fastened To A Cart?
All you have to do to attach a kayak to a strap-on-type cart is to position it in the center of the hull. For kayak carts with plugs, fit the kayak by inserting the plugs into the cart.
When Kayaking, What Should I Do With My Kayak Carts?
Sincerity dictates that I made a few terrible purchases, but I’ll share them with you so you don’t do the same ones.
I’ve sometimes purchased large, uncomfortable carts that take up a lot of room and are difficult to transport.
Additionally, I did not want to haul carts back to my vehicle or leave them someplace on the beach (leaving the kayak on the coast is even worse).
Because of this, every item on my list that I like is foldable and easy to store. As a result, it won’t be difficult for you to transport them in the kayak itself!
Conclusion
Your day on the water will be more enjoyable if you find the best kayak cart. The trouble of lugging your kayak from your car to the water may be greatly reduced. Depending on the kind and size of kayak you possess, there are numerous designs of kayak carts. Check to see whether your kayak and cart work together. I would be pleased to answer any queries you may have.
