Finding the best kayak cart can make your paddling experiences much more enjoyable. Dragging a heavy kayak across sand, rocks, or grass is hard work and can hurt your back.
A good cart rolls your kayak smoothly from your car to the water while carrying all your gear too. With so many options available, picking the right one feels overwhelming.
Some carts work better on beaches, others handle rocky shores, and some fold up small for easy storage. The key is matching the cart to your kayak type and where you paddle most often for the best results.
Why You Need a Kayak Cart?
Carrying a heavy kayak from your car to the water can be tough on your back and shoulders. A good kayak cart makes this job much easier and safer.
These helpful tools roll smoothly over sand, gravel, and grass, so you don’t have to drag your kayak across rough ground. You can also load your paddles, life jacket, and other gear on the cart at the same time.
Kayak carts work great with all types of kayaks, from lightweight recreational models to heavy fishing kayaks.
If you’re heading to a sandy beach, rocky shore, or grassy riverbank, a quality cart will save your energy for the fun part, actually paddling on the water.
Things to Consider Before Buying a Kayak Cart
Choosing the right kayak cart depends on your specific needs and where you paddle. Consider your kayak’s weight, the locations from which you launch, and how you plan to store the cart when it’s not in use.
- Weight Capacity: Choose a cart that can hold your kayak and gear, with extra room for safety.
- Wheel Type: Balloon tires for sand, solid wheels for rocks and pavement, air tires for smooth rides.
- Frame Material: Aluminum resists rust and weighs less; steel is stronger but heavier.
- Support Style: Bunk-style cradles your kayak, bar-style uses straps to hold it.
- Storage Features: Select carts that fold compactly or fit within your kayak’s storage area.
Taking time to match these features to your paddling style will help you find a cart that makes every trip to the water much easier. The right cart will last for years and make paddling more fun.
Best Kayak Carts
If you’re tired of dragging your kayak from the car to the water, a kayak cart can make a huge difference. These small carts help you move your kayak easily, even if it’s heavy or you’re on rough ground.
1. Wilderness Systems Heavy Duty Kayak Cart
The Wilderness Systems Heavy Duty Kayak Cart is designed to carry large kayaks with ease. It can hold up to 450 pounds, making it ideal for heavy fishing kayaks or those with extensive gear.
The wheels are airless, so they won’t go flat, and the frame folds up for easy storage. It’s strong, dependable, and made for tough conditions.
Key Features and Specifications
- Weight Capacity: Up to 450 lbs (204 kg)
- Flat-Free Airless Wheels: Won’t puncture or deflate, even on rough surfaces
- Adjustable Bunker Bars: Cradle a wide range of kayak hull shapes
- Collapsible Frame: Easy to break down and store in your car or shed
- Anodized Aluminum Frame: Lightweight and corrosion-resistant
Things We Like: High weight capacity, flat-free wheels, easy to fold and store.
2. RAILBLAZA C-Tug Kayak Cart with SandTrakz Wheels
The RAILBLAZA C-Tug with SandTrakz Wheels is great for people who paddle near the beach or over soft ground. Its special wheels roll smoothly over sand without sinking.
The cart is made from sturdy plastic, and it’s easy to disassemble and pack into your kayak. It works with most kayak shapes and is a top choice for various terrains.
Key Features and Specifications
- Weight Capacity: Up to 300 lbs (136 kg)
- Reinforced Composite Frame: Rust-proof and strong
- Tool-Free Assembly: Disassembles in seconds, no tools required
- Fully Collapsible: Fits into most kayak hatches
- Adjustable Hull Pads: Helps grip and protect your kayak’s hull during transport
Things We Like: Works well on sand, simple to assemble, fits most kayaks.
3. Suspenz Smart Airless DLX Cart
The Suspenz Smart Airless DLX Cart is a good all-around option. It features a lightweight yet sturdy aluminum frame and wheels that require no air.
That means no flat tires! It also folds down, so you can pack it in your car or kayak. The rubber padding helps keep your kayak safe from scratches while you move it.
Key Features and Specifications
- Weight Capacity: Approximately 150 lbs (68 kg)
- Airless, No-Flat Tires: Smooth rolling with zero maintenance
- Lightweight Aluminum Frame: Durable yet easy to lift and carry
- Rubber Padding: Cushions kayak to prevent scratches or damage
- Foldable Design: Collapses easily for compact storage
Things We Like: Lightweight frame, folds easily, smooth, no-flat wheels.
4. RAD Sportz Kayak Trolley Pro
The RAD Sportz Kayak Trolley Pro is a strong and portable cart that makes moving your kayak much easier. It has airless tires, so you don’t have to worry about flat tires.
The frame is both lightweight and sturdy, and it folds up for easy storage. This cart is a great choice if you want something that’s both budget-friendly and reliable for everyday use.
Key Features and Specifications
- Weight Capacity: Up to 150 lbs (68 kg)
- Solid Airless Tires: Resistant to flats and suitable for various surfaces
- Aluminum Frame: Rust-resistant, strong yet lightweight
- Folds Compactly: Easy to store in vehicles or at home
- Integrated Tie-Down Straps: Keep your kayak secure during transport
Things We Like: Solid build, no-flat tires, easy to carry and store.
5. Bonnlo Kayak Cart Canoe Carrier
The Bonnlo Kayak Cart is simple to set up and great for new paddlers. It can hold up to 165 pounds, which is enough for most regular kayaks.
The wheels are solid and work well on different surfaces. It also comes with straps to keep your kayak in place. This cart is a great pick for weekend paddlers or casual users.
Key Features and Specifications
- Weight Capacity: Up to 165 lbs (75 kg)
- Solid PU Tires: Maintenance-free and roll well on various surfaces
- Foam Bumpers on Frame: Help prevent scratching or denting your kayak
- Quick Setup: No tools needed for assembly
- Tie-Down Straps Included: Keeps your kayak stable while moving
Things We Like: Budget-friendly, easy to use, includes tie-down straps.
6. ABN Universal Kayak Carrier
The ABN Universal Kayak Carrier is a best-seller for a reason. It’s easy to strap your kayak on and start moving. The tires don’t need air, so you won’t get stuck with a flat.
It works well on grass, sand, and gravel. The frame is lightweight and folds up when not in use. It’s ideal for paddlers seeking a straightforward and effective solution.
Key Features and Specifications
- Weight Capacity: Around 200 lbs (91 kg)
- Flat-Free Solid Rubber Tires: Perform well on gravel, sand, and grass
- Anodized Aluminum Frame: Corrosion-resistant and lightweight
- Adjustable Support Arms: Fit a wide variety of kayak shapes and sizes
- Tie-Down Straps Included: Secure your boat during transport
Things We Like: Great price, easy to use, flat-free wheels.
7. TOURFUN Heavy‑Duty Kayak
The TOURFUN Heavy‑Duty Cart is built for paddlers who carry serious gear. It has large airless tires that won’t go flat and a strong, adjustable frame that fits many kayak widths.
This cart can take up the weight easily, so you don’t strain on long stretches. It also folds down, making storage or transport in your vehicle much simpler.
Key Features and Specifications
- Weight Capacity: Up to 165 lbs (75 kg)
- Large Airless Tires: Durable and suitable for grass, gravel, dirt, or pavement
- Adjustable Width Frame: Accommodates different kayak sizes and hull shapes
- Foam-Padded Support Bars: Protect your kayak during transit
- No-Tool Assembly: Quick to set up and break down
Things We Like: Big airless tires, sturdy build, folds for storage.
8. YakAttack TowNStow Bunk-Style Cart
The YakAttack TowNStow Cart is made for serious kayak users. It uses a bunk-style frame to give better support and balance, especially for heavy fishing kayaks.
It also folds down to fit inside your kayak hatch, saving space when you’re on the water. This cart is strong, stable, and perfect for carrying loaded kayaks to and from the water.
Key Features and Specifications
- Weight Capacity: Up to 450 lbs (204 kg)
- Solid, No-Flat Tires: Designed for durability and consistent traction
- Bunk-Style Support System: Ideal for wide, flat-bottomed kayaks
- Stowable Design: Fits inside many kayak hatches and tank wells
- Tool-Free Breakdown: Quickly disassembles without tools
Things We Like: Super stable, compact storage, perfect for heavy kayaks.
9. Suspenz All-Terrain Super Duty Cart
This cart is built to handle tough trails and heavy loads. The Suspenz All-Terrain Super Duty Cart has large, wide wheels that work well on dirt, gravel, or sand.
It can carry bigger kayaks or gear-filled boats without a problem. The frame is strong and made for long-lasting use. It’s perfect if you paddle in rough areas or carry a lot of gear.
Key Features and Specifications
- Weight Capacity: Up to 300 lbs (136 kg)
- Powder-Coated Steel Frame: Rust-resistant and extra durable
- Padded Bunk-Style Supports: Cradle your kayak securely and prevent scratches
- Spring-Loaded Kickstand: Makes loading easier when solo
- Folds for Transport: Can be broken down quickly when not in use
Things We Like: Heavy-duty build, large wheels for all-terrain use, great for large kayaks.
10. Seattle Sports PaddleBoy ATC All-Terrain Cart
The Seattle Sports PaddleBoy ATC is built to handle tough trails. It comes with large, rugged wheels that work well on rocky or uneven ground.
The steel frame is strong, and the cart folds for easy storage. It’s a great choice for paddlers who go off the beaten path and need a cart that can keep up on all types of terrain.
Key Features and Specifications:
- Weight Capacity: Up to 300 lbs (136 kg)
- Large 16″ Pneumatic Tires: Ideal for rocky, uneven, or muddy trails
- Folding Design: Collapses for convenient storage and transport
- Tie-Down Strap System: Helps secure your kayak or canoe tightly
- Wide Wheel Base: Improves balance and stability on rough ground
Things We Like: Tough wheels, strong frame, great for rough trails.
11. Perception Kayak Cart with Foam Bumpers
The Perception Kayak Cart is a simple, no-fuss option designed for sit-on-top kayaks. It has soft foam bumpers to protect your kayak and solid wheels that won’t go flat.
The cart is easy to set up and take down, and it’s light enough to carry with one hand. Perfect for casual paddlers seeking an easy and reliable option.
Key Features and Specifications
- Weight Capacity: Around 165 lbs (75 kg)
- Solid, No-Flat Wheels: Maintenance-free and ideal for firm ground
- Aluminum and Plastic Construction: Lightweight and rust-resistant
- Quick Assembly: No tools required to set up or break down
- Compact & Lightweight: Easy to lift and transport
Things We Like: Foam padding, compact design, perfect for beginners.
Which Type of Kayak Cart Do You Need?
Different kayak carts work better for different situations. The type you choose depends on your kayak style, where you paddle, and the amount of storage space you have available.
- Plug-in Scupper Carts: Insert into sit-on-top drain holes. Stable but limited to certain kayaks.
- Strap-Style Carts: Universal fit with straps. Affordable but slower to set up.
- Beach Carts: Big balloon tires for sand. Great on beaches but bulky.
- Foldable Carts: Collapse for storage. Compact but more expensive.
- Heavy-Duty Carts: For kayaks over 80 pounds. Strong but heavier and pricier.
Match the cart type to your kayak and the places you paddle most often for the best results. Getting the right match will save you time and hassle every time you head out on the water.
Tips for Using Your Kayak Cart the Right Way
Always strap your kayak down tight using the bow and stern tie-down points to prevent it from sliding off. When rolling over soft sand, move slowly and let the big tires do the work.
For rocky areas, watch for sharp stones that might damage your wheels. After each trip, rinse salt water off your cart and check that all bolts are tight. Store your cart in a dry place to prevent rust.
Don’t overload your cart beyond its weight limit, as this can cause the frame to break or the axles to bend. Choose the right tire type for where you paddle most often to avoid getting stuck or having a hard time rolling your kayak.
That’s a Wrap
Selecting the ideal kayak cart for your specific needs will significantly improve your water access experience. No more sore backs or scratched kayaks from dragging them across rough ground.
A quality cart saves your energy for the fun part, actually paddling and exploring new places. Remember to consider your kayak’s weight, the terrain you cross most often, and how much storage space you have.
The right cart will serve you well for many years of paddling experiences. What type of kayak cart works best for your paddling style? Share your experiences and questions in the comments below!
