5 Affordable Ways For Storing Your Kayak: Storage Tips

Kayaks are more likely to be found in storage than on the water. Furthermore, because they are made of thin materials for maximum performance, they can easily warp if not properly stored. You should keep the vessel away from harsh weather and stressful situations. To do so, you must devise a proper method of storing your vessel that is space-saving, convenient, and cost-effective. This way you are able to enjoy kayaking with the same kayak for an extend period of time. 

In what follows are five low-cost options to consider when it comes to kayak storage:

5 Cheap Ways To Store Your Kayak 

1. Mounting on the wall using a kayak rack 

Mounting your kayak on the wall is one of the easiest and most efficient ways to store your kayak, especially in a garage. You will need a mounting storage rack designed for kayaks and plenty of wall space. It is easy to install the mount given that you follow the manufacturer’s guide as each is installed somewhat differently. 

Before you install the mounting rack, ensure your space meets the following criteria:

• No direct sunlight
• There are studs to drill into
• The garage door won’t knock the kayak when opened
• Water/moisture won’t drip down the mounting wall

Once you ensure the space meets the criteria above, install the rack while ensuring its arms are well-padded. This will protect your kayak’s integrity over a longer period of time. 

Some of the kayak storage racks are able to store more than one kayak, but most if not all of them will only require one-time installation. Therefore, you get a reliable and robust storage solution to keep your kayak after every trip. 

Alternatively, you can make a kayak rack if you are a DIY enthusiast to save some bucks! 

2. Using portable stands

Portable stands are the flexible and easiest way to store your kayak if you have enough floor space. They take up more space based on your kayak’s width and length, but they are one of the best options for storing your kayak outside. 

As the name suggests, you can move your stands around whenever you need to use the floor space in the garage. You can also consider setting up a tent outside and using the stand to keep the yak underneath the tent and off the floor.

On top of that, you do not have to drill any holes, meaning no refilling them whenever you move out or redesign. In most cases, this shouldn’t be a problem, but just to be clear, make sure your kayak weight is less than the kayak storage stand. A good tip for this is making sure that the kayak is completely empty and clean before storage. 

3. Storing it over the garage door

Your garage door might take up much of your room, making it challenging to hang the kayak on the ceiling. That said, if there’s still a bit of space between the ceiling and the garage door when open, then you are still able to store the kayak in that minimal space that you have to work with. 

For this solution, you will need to be a bit handy as this is a DIY thing. In any case, you will need the following tools:

• Tape measure
• Screwdriver 
• Four nylon ties straps
• Four eyebolts 
• A drill

Once you have all the tools, start by measuring around 20-inch wide space to install the eyebolts needed to hang the boat. 

Check the proper position for the kayak’s front and mark it using a pencil. Now, drill the spots you have marked based on bolts size. 

Use the screwdriver to screw the eyebolts in drilled holes.

Follow the same steps for the kayak’s rear, ensuring you measure accurately how far back it should be. 

Once you securely screw all the eyebolts in the ceiling, connect all the four nylon hooks straps to them. 

Now slide your kayak through the secured straps with a bit of assistance in order to prevent it from falling back. Tighten the straps until the kayak sits close to the ceiling. Now, your kayak is securely stored without getting in your way or that of other items. 

4. Storing the kayak upright (Vertically along the wall) 

If you do not have enough space width-wise in your garage, then you may want to consider upright storage of your kayak. Though it is one of the least recommended storage solutions, it is the cheapest and easiest DIY-wise. 

All you need is secure kayak wall mounts, a couple of straps, and a piece of foam to pad the stern. Also, ensure the height of your garage is high enough to stand your kayak. 

Once you have the necessary equipment, attach the wall mount to the studs to prevent your kayak from falling. Put the foam on the floor, place your kayak upwards and strap it on the mount. No need to worry about setting the mount on the studs as the kayak won’t put much weight on it, but it is good to do it right. 

5. Hanging kayak from the ceiling using an overhead suspension system

If you have limited space in your garage, then hanging your kayak on the ceiling is probably the best and most affordable solution to consider.

The system is somewhat complex, so buying an overhead suspension system with all the necessary parts for secure installation is best. It comes with a detailed installation guide to help you install it properly. 

However, before installing, look for ceiling studs where the mounting hardware can sit. Also, ensure you buy a system that can support the weight of your kayak. The weight capacity is indicated in the user manual, but make sure you check the product description before you place an order.

Some systems are expensive, so be sure to do your research in order to find an option that fits your budget. You can consider those that come in a pack of two or more if you have multiple kayaks.

The benefit of this storage solution is that it raises the kayak out of the way in your garage. But, it takes time and effort to install.

Summary

Storing your kayak inside doesn’t have to be expensive. I have highlighted a few proven and cheapest ways to keep your kayak properly. For most of them, there is a DIY solution but if you know upfront that you aren’t that handy then we’ve also got you covered. So if you want to go on more kayak fishing trips with the same kayak then be sure to follow these tips to the letter.