As someone who loves paddleboarding, the excitement of hitting the water is often tempered by one significant challenge: getting your paddleboard from your home to your favorite paddle spot. If you’ve ever struggled with the logistics of transporting your board, you’re not alone. Fortunately, there are several solutions to make this process easier, allowing you to focus more on your adventure and less on the hassle of transportation.

1. Car Racks: The Convenient and Secure Option

For many paddleboard enthusiasts, car racks are the go-to solution for transporting their boards. Car racks provide a safe and secure way to carry your paddleboard, especially for those with longer commutes to the water.

• Roof Racks: Roof racks are the most common option. They allow you to strap your paddleboard securely on top of your vehicle. Look for racks specifically designed for paddleboards, which typically feature soft padding to protect your board from scratches and straps to keep it in place. Thule and Yakima are popular brands known for their reliable and durable roof racks. Learn more about the best paddle board car racks.
• Foam Block Roof Carriers: If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, foam block roof carriers are a great alternative. These are easy to install and remove, making them a good choice for those who only paddleboard occasionally. They provide sufficient protection and are compatible with most vehicles.
• Hitch-Mounted Racks: If your car has a hitch, you might consider a hitch-mounted rack. These racks allow you to carry your paddleboard vertically behind your car, freeing up your roof for other gear.

2. Hand Trailers: Ideal for Long Walks to the Water

If you often find yourself parking far from the water, a hand trailer can be a lifesaver. These small, wheeled devices are designed to carry your paddleboard over long distances with minimal effort.

• SUP Hand Trailers: Specifically designed for paddleboards, SUP hand trailers are lightweight and easy to use. They feature a strap system that secures your board to the trailer, allowing you to pull it along behind you as you walk. Some models even have adjustable widths to accommodate different board sizes. Check out these paddle board trailers for more options.
• Wheeled Carts: Wheeled carts, often with larger tires, are excellent for rough terrain. These carts can handle uneven surfaces like sand or gravel, making them perfect for beach access.

3. Carrying Straps and Handles: Simplify the Manual Carry

For shorter distances, carrying your paddleboard manually might be the simplest solution. However, this can be challenging due to the size and weight of the board. That’s where carrying straps and handles come in.

• SUP Carry Straps: These straps allow you to carry your paddleboard over your shoulder, distributing the weight more evenly and freeing up your hands for other gear. Look for padded straps to increase comfort, especially for longer carries. You can find a variety of paddle board accessories to make your life easier.
• Deck Handles: If your paddleboard doesn’t already have handles, consider adding them. Deck handles can be installed on the board’s surface, making it easier to grip and carry. Some boards come with these pre-installed, but they’re also available as aftermarket accessories.

4. Storage Solutions: Keep Your Board Safe at Home

Transporting your board isn’t just about getting it to the water; it’s also about how you store it when it’s not in use. Proper storage is crucial to maintaining your paddleboard’s condition and prolonging its lifespan.

• Wall Racks: Wall-mounted racks are a popular storage solution. They keep your board off the ground and out of harm’s way, freeing up floor space in your garage or home. Some wall racks are even designed to store multiple boards. Take a look at some of the best paddle board storage racks available.
• Ceiling Hoists: If you’re short on space, a ceiling hoist might be the answer. These systems allow you to store your board overhead, utilizing unused ceiling space. They’re easy to install and can support the weight of most paddleboards.
• Board Bags: When storing your paddleboard, especially if it’s in a shared space, a board bag can offer additional protection. These padded bags shield your board from dust, dirt, and accidental dings. Consider using a foldable paddle board for even easier storage and transport.

5. Inflatable Paddleboards: A Space-Saving Alternative

If transporting a traditional hardboard proves too challenging, consider an inflatable paddleboard. These boards offer the same performance as their hard counterparts but have the added benefit of being highly portable. When deflated, they can be rolled up and stored in a backpack-sized bag, making them easy to transport in any car or even on public transportation.

Conclusion

Transporting your paddleboard doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With the right tools and techniques, you can easily get your board to the water, whether you’re driving a short distance or embarking on a longer journey. By investing in a good car rack, hand trailer, or carrying straps, you’ll make the process smoother and more enjoyable. And with proper storage, your paddleboard will be ready for your next adventure, season after season. Be sure to check out our full range of stand-up paddleboards to find the perfect board for your needs.

Happy paddling!