5 Best Kayak Carts of 2025

Transporting your kayak doesn’t have to be a strenuous task. With the best kayak carts, you can easily move your kayak across different terrains, saving both time and energy.

Whether you’re heading to the beach, navigating rugged trails, or simply moving your kayak from your car to the water, selecting the right kayak cart can make all the difference.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about choosing the best kayak carts based on your needs, including key features, different types, and expert recommendations.

What are the Best Kayak Carts?

Here are the top picks of the best kayak carts you can purchase to bring with your next kayaking adventure.

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Best Kayak Carts

Transporting your kayak to and from the water shouldn’t be a hassle. With the best kayak carts, you can save time, energy, and even your back!

Whether you’re a seasoned kayaker or just starting out, a reliable kayak cart can make all the difference in your kayaking experience.

Carrying a heavy kayak by hand or dragging it across rough terrain can be exhausting and can even damage your equipment. That’s where the right kayak cart comes in.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about selecting the best kayak cart for your needs.

We’ll cover key factors to consider, such as weight capacity, wheel type, frame material, and ease of use, so you can make an informed decision.

Whether you’re looking for a lightweight cart for easy portability, a sturdy model for rough terrain, or a beach-ready cart for sandy shores, this guide will help you find the perfect match.

The goal is simple: to help you choose a kayak cart that not only fits your specific kayak and terrain requirements but also makes your kayaking trips smoother and more enjoyable.

By the end of this guide, you’ll have all the information you need to make the right choice and ensure hassle-free transport to and from the water every time.

Let’s dive into the key features to consider when shopping for the best kayak carts that will suit your unique needs.

Why Choosing the Best Kayak Carts is Important

Effortless Transportation

One of the main reasons to invest in the best kayak carts is the ease of transportation they offer.

Hauling a heavy kayak by hand, especially over long distances or rough terrain, can be physically demanding and time-consuming.

With a reliable kayak cart, you can easily roll your kayak from your car to the water, reducing the strain on your back and arms.

This effortless transportation not only saves you energy but also ensures that you can enjoy your kayaking experience without the physical fatigue that comes from carrying your kayak.

Protect Your Kayak

Another critical reason to use a kayak cart is to protect your equipment. Dragging your kayak over rocks, gravel, or rough surfaces can lead to scratches, dents, and other types of damage.

Over time, this wear and tear can significantly affect the appearance and performance of your kayak. With a high-quality kayak cart, you can avoid the damaging effects of dragging, ensuring that your kayak stays in great condition for longer.

Whether you’re navigating rocky shores or muddy paths, a kayak cart provides a safe and gentle solution for moving your kayak.

Time-Saving

Kayak carts are designed to streamline the process of getting your kayak to and from the water, reducing setup and breakdown times.

Instead of spending extra minutes or even hours maneuvering your kayak over challenging terrain, you can quickly and efficiently load your kayak onto the cart and roll it to your destination.

This time-saving benefit is particularly valuable for kayakers with tight schedules or those who enjoy maximizing their time on the water.

With a best kayak cart in tow, you can spend less time worrying about transport and more time enjoying your adventure.

Essential for Long-Distance Portages

For kayakers venturing on long-distance trips or navigating rugged terrain, a kayak cart becomes an essential piece of gear.

Portaging—carrying your kayak overland to a new body of water—can be physically demanding, especially if you’re going solo or covering uneven ground.

A kayak cart makes long-distance portages much more manageable, allowing you to transport your kayak with ease over both short and long distances.

Whether you’re crossing a rocky riverbed or walking through a forest trail, the best kayak carts can help you navigate challenging environments without overexerting yourself.

This feature is particularly useful for kayak anglers, wilderness explorers, or anyone who enjoys kayaking in remote areas far from the water.

Key Features to Consider When Buying Kayak Carts

When shopping for the best kayak carts, it’s crucial to evaluate several features to ensure you’re selecting the right cart for your specific needs.

The right kayak cart can make transporting your kayak easier, safer, and more efficient, whether you’re maneuvering through a beach, rocky shore, or forested path.

Here are the key features to consider:

Weight Capacity

One of the most important factors when choosing a kayak cart is its weight capacity. You want to make sure that the cart can easily handle the weight of your kayak along with any additional gear or accessories.

A cart that’s too small for your kayak’s weight can become unstable, making transportation more difficult and potentially damaging your equipment.

Let’s take the below example:

Most standard kayak carts can support up to 150 lbs, which is typically sufficient for smaller, lightweight kayaks.

However, for larger, more robust kayaks or kayaks loaded with gear, you’ll want to look for a heavy-duty kayak cart that can exceed 250 lbs or more.

By ensuring the weight capacity is properly matched to your kayak’s size, you’ll avoid any concerns about the cart buckling under pressure.

Frame Material

The material of the kayak cart’s frame significantly impacts its durability, weight, and resistance to the elements.

You have several options when it comes to frame materials, each with its own set of advantages:

Aluminum: Lightweight yet strong, aluminum kayak carts are resistant to rust and corrosion, making them ideal for use in saltwater environments. They’re also easy to carry and store, making them a great option for portable kayak carts.
Stainless Steel: Known for its strength and resilience, stainless steel offers excellent durability and support for heavier kayaks. However, it can be a bit heavier than aluminum.
Plastic: While lightweight kayak carts with plastic frames are generally less durable than metal alternatives, they can be a cost-effective choice for lighter kayaks or infrequent use.

Choosing the right frame material depends on your specific needs. If you need a durable kayak cart that will last for years and endure various outdoor conditions, an aluminum or stainless steel frame is a solid choice.

For those prioritizing portability, plastic frames may be a suitable option.

Wheel Type

The type of wheels on your kayak cart plays a crucial role in how well it performs across different terrains.

The two main types of wheels are air-filled and solid rubber, and each is suited for different environments:

Air-Filled Wheels

These wheels provide excellent shock absorption, making them ideal for rough or uneven terrain like gravel, sand, or rocky shores.

Kayak carts with air-filled wheels are easier to maneuver over soft surfaces like sand and will reduce the jarring impact that you may feel when transporting your kayak.

Solid Rubber Wheels

While solid rubber wheels are more durable and maintenance-free (no need to worry about punctures), they are better suited for smoother surfaces like asphalt or concrete.

They provide less cushion, making them less effective on softer or more rugged terrain.

When selecting a kayak cart, consider where you typically kayak. If you’re regularly kayaking in sandy areas, you’ll likely need a cart with larger, wider balloon wheels.

On the other hand, for primarily paved or rocky surfaces, a solid rubber wheel cart may suffice.

Portability & Storage

Portability is a key consideration when choosing a kayak cart, especially for kayakers who need to carry the cart with them to the water.

Some kayak carts come with foldable frames, while others are designed to be fixed.

Foldable Models

Folding kayak carts are great for kayakers who value compactness and easy storage. When not in use, a folding cart can be collapsed into a small, lightweight unit that’s easy to store in your car trunk or garage.

This makes them ideal for those with limited space or who need to transport the cart along with their kayak.

Non-Foldable Models

These carts tend to offer more durability and sturdiness but can be bulkier to store. If portability is less of an issue and you need a cart that can handle more weight, a non-foldable model might be the right fit.

No matter which option you choose, look for a compact kayak cart that offers convenient storage and easy transport, especially if you’re heading out on longer trips.

Straps & Security Mechanisms

Securing your kayak to the cart is just as important as the cart’s weight capacity or frame material.

To prevent your kayak from slipping off or shifting during transport, make sure the kayak cart comes with reliable securing straps or other security mechanisms:

Securing Straps

Most best kayak carts come with adjustable straps that help you firmly attach the kayak to the frame.

Look for carts that offer padded straps to protect the surface of your kayak from damage.

Kickstands or Stands

Some kayak carts feature built-in kickstands that help stabilize the kayak when loading or unloading it from the cart.

This feature is particularly useful when you’re working alone and need to balance the kayak while securing it to the cart.

By choosing a kayak cart with effective straps or security features, you ensure the safety and stability of your kayak during transport, preventing any unnecessary accidents or damage.

By carefully considering these key features—weight capacity, frame material, wheel type, portability, and security mechanisms—you’ll be better equipped to select the best kayak cart that fits your kayaking style and specific needs.

Each factor plays a role in ensuring a smooth, efficient, and safe experience when transporting your kayak from your car to the water.

Different Types of Kayak Carts

When selecting the best kayak cart, it’s important to understand the different types available to ensure you choose the one that best suits your kayak, terrain, and storage needs.

Kayak carts come in various designs, each optimized for specific conditions or uses. Below are the main types of kayak carts, each with its unique features and advantages:

Plug-In Kayak Carts

Plug-in kayak carts are designed specifically for kayaks with scupper holes—small drainage holes typically found in sit-on-top kayaks. These carts feature two posts that plug directly into the scupper holes, offering a stable and secure way to transport your kayak.

These carts are perfect for sit-on-top kayaks or other models with scupper holes, as they utilize the built-in holes to provide a stable connection.

This makes loading and unloading the kayak easier and more secure.

Plug-in carts are ideal for kayakers who use sit-on-top kayaks or those who prefer a cart that doesn’t require additional straps to secure the kayak.

With no need for straps, these carts are often quicker and more convenient to use.

Folding Frame Carts

If portability and compact storage are essential for you, a folding frame kayak cart may be the best option.

These carts are designed with a foldable frame that can be collapsed into a small, manageable size when not in use.

Compact kayak carts that are easy to store in tight spaces, such as car trunks, garages, or small storage units.

They’re especially useful for kayakers who need a lightweight and convenient solution for transport.

The foldable design makes it easy to pack and store the cart without taking up much space. If you’re short on storage room or need to transport the cart alongside your kayak, a folding frame cart provides an efficient and space-saving solution.

Beach/Sand Kayak Carts

When you’re kayaking in sandy environments, whether at the beach or across dunes, a beach kayak cart with large, balloon tires is a game-changer.

These carts are specifically designed to handle soft and sandy terrain, where standard wheels would struggle.

Kayak carts for sand or beach kayak carts are ideal for coastal or beach kayaking. Their large, wide tires provide excellent flotation, making it easy to move your kayak over soft sand without sinking or getting stuck.

If you frequently kayak on beaches or through sandy terrain, this type of cart is essential. The balloon tires are specifically designed to distribute the kayak’s weight over a larger surface area, preventing the cart from bogging down in the sand and making transportation effortless on soft surfaces.

Heavy-Duty Kayak Carts

For larger, fully-loaded kayaks, a heavy-duty kayak cart is the best option. These carts are built to handle substantial weight, making them ideal for large kayaks, tandem models, or kayaks loaded with gear.

They typically feature more robust frames and stronger wheels, offering enhanced stability and support.

Large, heavy kayaks or kayaks with additional gear such as fishing equipment, camping gear, or coolers.

A heavy-duty cart can support kayaks weighing up to 300 lbs or more, making them perfect for more demanding kayak transportation needs.

If you have a larger kayak or need to transport multiple pieces of equipment at once, heavy-duty kayak carts ensure that your cart can withstand the weight without bending or breaking.

These carts provide the stability and strength needed for larger kayaks, ensuring a smooth and secure ride over various terrains.

By choosing the right type of kayak cart for your specific needs, you’ll be able to enhance your kayaking experience, making transport easier and more efficient.

Whether you need a cart for quick beach access, portability, or heavy-duty use, understanding the differences between these kayak cart types will help you select the most suitable one for your adventures.

How to Use and Maintain Your Kayak Cart

A kayak cart is a fantastic tool that makes transporting your kayak from your vehicle to the water a breeze.

However, to ensure your cart works efficiently and lasts for years, it’s important to understand how to use it properly and maintain it regularly.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use your kayak cart, along with some essential maintenance tips to keep it in top condition.

Positioning the Cart

Start by placing the cart near the center of your kayak’s hull. If your cart has scupper holes, align the posts with the scupper holes to secure the kayak.

For carts without scupper holes, position the kayak so that it is evenly balanced on the cart to avoid tipping or instability.

Make sure the kayak’s weight is distributed as evenly as possible across the cart’s wheels.

Attaching the Straps

Most kayak carts come with adjustable securing straps. Loop these straps around the kayak’s hull and fasten them tightly, but not too tight.

This ensures the kayak is held securely without risking damage to the boat.

For kayaks without built-in scupper holes, ensure the straps cross over the kayak in a way that keeps it centered on the cart and prevents it from shifting during transport.

Lifting the Kayak

Gently lift the kayak by its handles or sides and carefully place it on the cart. Be cautious to avoid placing the kayak in an awkward or unstable position, which could cause it to tip over.

If your kayak is heavy, consider asking a friend for help or use a heavy-duty kayak cart designed to support larger loads.

Transporting the Kayak

Once the kayak is secured, slowly push or pull the cart toward the water. Make sure you keep an eye on the cart and kayak to ensure everything is stable and properly aligned during the journey.

If you’re navigating rough terrain or sand, consider inflating your kayak cart’s air-filled tires to the appropriate pressure for smoother movement.

On solid ground, solid rubber tires offer more stability and control.

By following these steps, you ensure that your kayak is transported safely and without unnecessary strain on your body or equipment.

Maintenance Tips for Kayak Carts

To ensure your kayak cart performs optimally and lasts a long time, proper maintenance is crucial. Regular care will help prevent damage, rust, and wear, making sure your cart is always ready for your next adventure.

Here are some maintenance tips:

Clean After Each Use

After each use, especially after being exposed to saltwater, it’s important to clean your kayak cart. Saltwater can cause corrosion and wear on both the frame and wheels.

Use fresh water to rinse off the cart, paying close attention to the frame, wheels, and any moving parts.

Pro Tip: After rinsing, wipe down the cart with a clean towel to remove excess water and prevent rust.

Check for Rust or Wear

Over time, metal parts of your kayak cart can be affected by rust, especially when exposed to water and moisture.

Regularly inspect your cart, especially the frame and wheel axles, for signs of rust or damage.

If you notice any corrosion, clean the area and apply a rust-resistant treatment or lubricant.

For stainless steel or aluminum kayak carts, rust is generally less of a concern, but regular checks can still prevent long-term damage.

If you have a plastic kayak cart, ensure the plastic frame is free of cracks or wear.

Inflate Tires Periodically

For air-filled kayak carts, keeping the tires properly inflated is key to smooth transportation. Over time, the air pressure in the tires can decrease, affecting their performance.

Regularly check the tire pressure and inflate them to the manufacturer’s recommended level.

Low tire pressure can lead to difficulty navigating rough terrain or sand, while overinflating can cause the tires to wear out prematurely.

Inspect Straps and Security Mechanisms:

The straps and security mechanisms on your cart are essential for keeping your kayak secure during transport.

Check them regularly for any signs of wear, fraying, or damage. If the straps seem loose or damaged, replace them with new, durable straps designed for kayak carts.

Storage

When not in use, store your kayak cart in a dry, cool place to prevent damage from environmental elements such as UV rays, humidity, or extreme temperatures.

If you have a folding kayak cart, collapse it for compact storage. This helps prevent any strain on the cart’s components and ensures it’s ready for use the next time you head to the water.

By following these simple maintenance practices, your kayak cart will remain in great shape, allowing you to continue enjoying hassle-free transport for many years to come.

Properly using and maintaining your kayak cart is essential for ensuring that it serves you well over time.

Whether you have a folding kayak cart, a heavy-duty kayak cart, or a sand-specific kayak cart, understanding how to use it correctly and keeping it in good condition will allow you to enjoy stress-free transportation of your kayak, making your kayaking experience more enjoyable and efficient.

Frequently Asked Questions about Kayak Carts

What is the weight limit of most kayak carts?

Most kayak carts are designed to handle a weight range of 150 to 200 lbs, which is typically sufficient for average kayaks.

However, heavy-duty kayak carts can support much larger loads, with some models capable of carrying 250 lbs or more.

If you have a larger or fully-loaded kayak, it’s crucial to select a cart that is rated for higher weight capacities to ensure safe and stable transport.

Can kayak carts be used on all terrains?

Not all kayak carts are suitable for every terrain. While some carts feature all-terrain wheels that can handle various surfaces, the most common wheel types are air-filled tires and solid rubber tires, each offering specific benefits.

1. Balloon tires are best for sandy terrain, as their larger surface area helps distribute the kayak’s weight across the sand, making transportation easier.
2. Solid rubber wheels, on the other hand, are ideal for rough surfaces like gravel or asphalt. These wheels provide more durability and are less prone to puncturing, though they may be less effective in sandy conditions.

If you’re planning on using your kayak cart in diverse environments, look for an all-terrain kayak cart or a cart with interchangeable wheels that suit your needs.

Do I need a special cart for a sit-on-top kayak?

Yes, a sit-on-top kayak typically requires a plug-in kayak cart that is designed to fit the scupper holes in the hull.

These carts are ideal for sit-on-top models as they offer stability and ease of use.

If your kayak does not have scupper holes, you may need a cart with adjustable straps or cradles to secure the kayak.

For other kayak types, such as sit-inside kayaks, you may not need a plug-in cart, as many carts offer universal designs that work well with a variety of hull shapes.

Are folding kayak carts durable?

Yes, high-quality folding kayak carts are designed to be both portable and durable.

Materials such as aluminum or stainless steel are commonly used in folding carts, offering a lightweight yet strong frame.

These materials provide excellent corrosion resistance, making them ideal for both saltwater and freshwater environments.

Folding carts are especially popular among kayakers who prioritize easy storage and portability, as they can be collapsed into compact sizes without sacrificing durability.

However, always check the weight capacity and construction materials to ensure that the cart meets your needs and can handle your kayak safely.

How do I prevent rust on my kayak cart?

Rust is a common issue with metal kayak carts, especially when exposed to saltwater or humid environments.

To prevent rust and ensure the longevity of your cart, follow these maintenance steps:

1. Rinse with fresh water after each use, especially if you’ve been in saltwater. This helps to remove salt and debris that can cause corrosion over time.
2. Dry thoroughly before storing your cart. Excess moisture can accelerate rusting, so always wipe down metal parts after rinsing.
3. Lubricate moving parts such as axles and wheels with rust-resistant oil or spray to protect against moisture buildup.

If your cart is stored outdoors or in a wet environment, consider using a cover to keep it dry. Regular care will keep your kayak cart in excellent condition, ensuring it’s ready for your next trip.