How to transport your paddleboard in a car?
Transporting your inflatable SUP by car can be a practical and efficient way to access the water, especially if you can't walk or don't want to deflate and reinflate your board. While inflatable paddleboards are easier to transport by car than rigid ones, it's essential to take precautions to maximize safety during transport, protecting your equipment from damage and preventing accidents on the road. Discover all our tips for transporting your SUP safely and efficiently here.
Step 1: Choose the right transport equipment
Transporting your inflatable paddleboard by car requires appropriate transport equipment to ensure its safety. Here are some factors to consider when choosing the right equipment to transport your board.
First, it's important to choose a roof rack that's suitable for your vehicle. Make sure it can support the weight of your board and that it's compatible with the mounting hardware you use.
Roof bars are also a great choice for transporting your board . They are easy to install and can be adjusted to fit different sizes.
Choose the right straps to hold your board in place. Straps are the most common type and are usually included with roof racks and roof bars. They should be strong enough to support the weight of your board and securely fastened.
There are also board carriers specifically designed for inflatable paddleboards. These carriers are usually equipped with protective foam to shield your board from damage during transport. Some carriers can also be used inside your vehicle, a convenient option if you prefer not to leave your board outside.
Remember to consider the dimensions of your board when choosing your transport equipment. It's also important to ensure that the chosen carrier is perfectly suited to the size of your board.
Step 2: Attach the inflatable paddleboard to the roof of the car
To transport your board without deflating it, you can either slide your SUP inside the passenger compartment, by lowering the rear seats, if your vehicle allows it, or onto the roof of the vehicle.
The most practical method is roof mounting. Simply install the rigid roof racks or bars on your vehicle's roof, then place the protective foam pads on top to cushion impacts. Next, position your surfboard on the rack, with the fins facing upwards, then loop the straps around the board and securely attach them to the roof bars. Tighten the straps lightly to hold your board in place without damaging it. Double-check that your board is properly secured before driving.
Step 3: Check the stability of the load during transport
Transporting your inflatable paddleboard by car requires regular checks to ensure the load is secure and prevent accidents on the road. Once your board is set up and secured, test it in a safe location to ensure it doesn't move . If the board moves or you hear a rattling noise, it may indicate that it's not properly secured. In this case, tighten the straps.
For long distances, it's recommended to take a break every two hours to check your equipment. Also, be mindful of the weather conditions: strong crosswinds can cause excessive movement and vibration on your paddleboard, compromising its stability. If this happens, reduce your speed and remain cautious.
In summary
To ensure optimal and secure transport of your paddleboard, here are our tips:
- Make sure your paddleboard is properly inflated , otherwise you risk damaging the frame or fins of your board.
- Your tow bar must be proportionate to the size of your vehicle . A tow bar that is too long can compromise your car's stability.
- It is important to distribute the weight of your load evenly . Avoid placing other heavy objects on the roof of the car, especially on the side opposite the roof rack, to prevent imbalances while driving.
- Use a cover to protect your board from scratches or bad weather.
- Pay close attention to road obstacles (low bridges, tunnels, covered car parks, sharp turns, etc.)
- To protect your board from theft , you can put a third strap around the board or use a suitable lock.