Attwood Kayak Car Top Carrier Kit Review: Best Affordable Kayak Transport Solution
Introduction
Transporting a kayak can be a challenge, especially if you don’t have a permanent roof rack installed on your vehicle. The Attwood Kayak Car Top Carrier Kit offers a simple, budget-friendly solution for safely securing your kayak to your car’s roof. Whether you're heading to the lake for a weekend adventure or taking a long road trip to your favorite paddling destination, this kit ensures a hassle-free transportation experience.
In this Attwood Kayak Car Top Carrier Kit review, we’ll cover its features, benefits, installation process, pros and cons, and whether it’s the right choice for your kayaking needs.
What is the Attwood Kayak Car Top Carrier Kit?
The Attwood Kayak Car Top Carrier Kit is a universal, temporary kayak mounting system designed for cars without built-in roof racks. It consists of foam blocks, straps, and tie-downs that securely hold your kayak in place while preventing damage to your vehicle.
Unlike expensive roof racks, this kit offers an affordable and portable kayak transport solution that works on most vehicle types, including sedans, SUVs, and trucks.
Key Features of the Attwood Kayak Carrier Kit
✅ Universal Fit for Most Vehicles
This kayak car mount system works on virtually any car, whether or not it has existing roof rails. The adjustable straps ensure a secure fit on different roof shapes.
✅ Foam Blocks for Vehicle Protection
The included soft foam blocks cushion your kayak and prevent scratches or dents on your car’s roof. They also help distribute weight evenly for a stable load.
✅ Heavy-Duty Straps & Tie-Downs
The durable nylon straps and adjustable buckles keep your kayak firmly secured, preventing any shifting during transportation. The bow and stern tie-downs add extra stability, even at highway speeds.
✅ Lightweight & Portable
Unlike bulky, permanent roof racks, this kayak transport kit is lightweight and easy to store when not in use. It can fit in your trunk or kayak storage bag.
✅ Easy Installation – No Tools Required
Setting up the Attwood Kayak Roof Carrier Kit is straightforward and requires no drilling or modifications to your vehicle.
How to Install the Attwood Kayak Car Top Carrier Kit
Installing the Attwood Kayak Carrier is a simple 5-step process:
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Position the Foam Blocks – Place the foam blocks on your vehicle’s roof where the kayak will rest.
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Load the Kayak – Carefully place your kayak on top of the foam blocks, ensuring even weight distribution.
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Secure with Straps – Wrap the heavy-duty straps over the kayak and through the car doors (or roof rails, if available).
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Attach Bow & Stern Tie-Downs – Fasten the front and rear tie-downs to your car’s bumper or tow hooks for added security.
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Check for Stability – Tighten all straps and test the kayak’s stability before hitting the road.
Pros and Cons of the Attwood Kayak Carrier Kit
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Affordable alternative to roof racks | Not ideal for long-term use |
| Universal fit – works with most vehicles | Foam blocks may wear over time |
| Lightweight and portable design | May not support very large kayaks |
| Quick and tool-free installation | Requires re-tightening for long trips |
| Protects car roof from scratches | Straps may loosen in heavy wind |
Customer Reviews and Ratings
The Attwood Kayak Car Top Carrier Kit has received positive feedback from users, especially for its affordability and ease of use. Here are some real customer highlights:
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⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Perfect for my weekend kayaking trips! Super easy to set up and keeps my kayak secure.”
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⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Great budget-friendly option, but I recommend checking the straps frequently on long drives.”
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⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Works as advertised! No need for an expensive roof rack.”
Many customers praise it as the best kayak car top carrier for casual paddlers who don’t want to invest in a permanent roof rack.
Final Verdict: Is the Attwood Kayak Car Top Carrier Kit Worth It?
If you're looking for an affordable, easy-to-use kayak transport solution, the Attwood Kayak Car Top Carrier Kit is an excellent choice. It’s perfect for occasional kayakers, weekend adventurers, and anyone who wants a hassle-free way to transport a kayak without a roof rack.
While it may not offer the same durability as high-end roof rack systems, it’s one of the best budget-friendly kayak carrier kits available today.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.8/5) – Highly Recommended for Budget-Conscious Kayakers!
Where to Buy the Attwood Kayak Car Top Carrier Kit