Best Kayak Crates | Types & Tips For Choosing Perfect Crates

Kayaking is a popular activity that combines the thrill of exploration with the peacefulness of being out on the water. The perfect kayak experience is made up of several components, with kayak crates being one of the most important.

A kayak crate is a waterproof storage container that mounts directly onto the kayak, allowing kayakers to bring their essential items with them on the water. Kayak crates come in a variety of sizes, designs, and materials.

Benefits of Kayak Crates

Kayak crates offer a plethora of benefits, including increased storage capacity, lightweight, and durability, as well as keeping gear dry and secure. Compactly designed, the crates are built with a durable construction that provides ample storage space,

allowing users to transport a wide range of items for their adventures. Furthermore, the lightweight and waterproof materials make them perfect for long trips and ensure that all gear remains dry and secure.

Increase Storage Capacity

Adding a kayak crate to your kayak can drastically increase the amount of storage capacity you have for your gear. The average kayak crate is constructed from tough polyethylene, making it highly resistant to wear and tear. It’s also lightweight and easy to carry, so you don’t have to worry about lugging around a heavy crate.

Not only is the kayak crate lightweight, but it’s also incredibly durable, meaning you won’t have to worry about it cracking or breaking if you accidentally drop it while loading it up.

The kayak crate has plenty of room for all of your gear, from fishing tackle to water bottles. It also comes with a secure lid that keeps all of your gear dry and secure. The lid also features a convenient handle that makes transporting the kayak crate from place to place a breeze. And with durable straps, you can easily attach the kayak crate to the kayak and be on your way.

Lightweight and Durable

The next advantage to consider when looking at kayak crates is their lightweight and durable design. Crafted from high-grade, heavy-duty plastic, these crates are designed to be lightweight yet sturdy enough to withstand any outdoor environment.

The hard sides are designed to protect your gear from the elements, while the lightweight plastic keeps the overall weight of the crate at an absolute minimum.

The crates are also designed with reinforced edges and corners to make them even more durable and resilient to the wear and tear of frequent use. As a result, you can count on your kayak crate to keep your gear safe and secure no matter what adventure you embark on.

Keeps Gear Dry and Secure

Kayak crates offer the perfect solution for keeping your gear dry and secure. Made from waterproof, durable materials, these crates are designed to keep all of your gear safe from the elements.

Their tight-fitting lids and adjustable straps make sure nothing accidentally falls out while in transit, and their waterproof seals guarantee that no water gets inside. Even if you take your kayak out in the rain, your gear will stay dry and secure.

The adjustable straps also make it easy to fit the crate into any size kayak, so you don’t need to worry about having to search for the right size. No matter what kind of kayak you have, you can be sure that your gear is safe and secure with a kayak crate.

Types of Kayak Crates

Kayak crates are the perfect solution for transporting and storing all of your essential kayaking gear. With a variety of shapes, sizes, and materials available, kayak owners can find the perfect solution for their needs. Plastic kayak crates are lightweight and waterproof, making them ideal for on-the-go storage.

Soft-sided kayak crates offer a more flexible carrying solution, while hard-sided kayak crates are heavy-duty and perfect for protecting expensive equipment. No matter what type of kayak crate you choose, you can be sure that your gear will remain secure and safe.

Plastic Kayak Crates

Beyond the benefits of Kayak Crates, there are three distinct types of Crates to choose from. Starting with Plastic Kayak Crates, these are a great choice for a beginner.

Plastic Crates are lightweight and don’t take up too much space, making them ideal for those who are just getting into kayaking and don’t want to invest in something too large. Additionally, they are made of durable plastic that is resistant to water and UV rays, so they are perfect for long-term use in many different climates.

Plastic Kayak Crates come in a variety of sizes, each with different levels of storage capacity. They are also designed to be aerodynamic, reducing drag and increasing speed, and are equipped with adjustable tie-down slots to ensure a secure fit. Furthermore, they are a great way to store your kayak accessories, like life jackets, paddles, and more.

Soft-Sided Kayak Crates

Continuing from the benefits of kayak crates, there are a variety of types of kayak crates available to users, each designed for different purposes.

Soft-sided kayak crates offer a lightweight and waterproof solution that is extremely versatile and easy to use. Perfect for both casual and serious kayakers, these crates provide the perfect amount of storage and protection for various items.

Soft-sided kayak crates are made with durable fabric and foam padding, providing a secure and waterproof option for your belongings. These kayak crates have adjustable straps and pockets, allowing you to customize the storage and organization of your items in the kayak.

The straps and pockets are also perfect for securing items during transport or in rough waters. Additionally, these kayak crates are easy to attach and remove from your kayak, making them convenient for quick trips or long-term storage.

Hard-Sided Kayak Crates

Taking kayak storage to the next level, hard-sided kayak crates offer an additional layer of protection for your gear. These waterproof boxes are constructed with heavy-duty materials that are designed to last for years. Made from thick ABS plastic, they are built to withstand the elements, and the sealing lid ensures that no water seeps in.

The durable construction also means your gear won’t be damaged when you’re on the water. The thick walls and robust lid provide an extra layer of protection for your gear, so you can be sure it will stay safe and dry when you’re out on the water.

The hard-sided kayak crates also come with mounting options, so you can attach them to the deck of your kayak for easy transport and storage. With multiple mounting points, you can attach the crates securely and easily adjust the position to fit your needs.

The removable frame also makes it easy to take the boxes off the kayak when not in use, freeing up space. These crates are perfect for those looking for an extra layer of protection for their gear on the water.

Attaching Kayak Crates to Your Kayak

For attaching kayak crates to your kayak, utilizing straps and bungee cords is essential. These two items offer a secure connection between the crate and the kayak, while attachment points provide a way to connect the straps and cords. Finally, tie-downs guarantee a tight connection that will stay in place while on the water.

Using Straps and Bungee Cords

In addition to the variety of kayak crates, there are also various ways to secure them in your kayak. One popular method is using straps and bungee cords.

When using this method, it’s important to start by threading the straps through the crate from the bottom to the top. This will help to ensure that the straps will be securely fastened.

Next, make sure to secure the straps to the kayak’s attachment points. This will help keep the crate in place and also prevent the straps from slipping away. The straps should be tight enough to keep the crate from moving but not so tight that they cause damage to the kayak.

Finally, use bungee cords to further secure the crate to the kayak. Make sure to hook the bungee cords from the top of the crate to the kayak’s attachment points. This will prevent the crate from sliding off the kayak. With the combination of straps and bungee cords, your kayak crate will be securely attached for your next paddling adventure.

Utilizing Attachment Points

When transitioning from using crates for storage to attaching them to your kayak, it is important to consider how to do this safely and securely. Utilizing attachment points on the kayak is the most secure way to attach your storage crates.

While the kayak may have pre-existing attachment points, you may need to install additional ones. These attachment points should be strategically placed on the kayak for stability and balance.

Installing attachment points is relatively easy and requires only a few tools. First, decide where you would like to attach the crate and mark the spot on the kayak. Using a hole saw, drill a hole into the kayak at the marked spot. Next, use a countersink bit to create a recessed area for the screw head.

Finally, use a stainless steel screw and screw it into the hole you just created. Once installed, use a rope or bungee cord to secure the crate to the attachment point. This will ensure the security of your crate and its contents during your kayak adventure.

Securing Your Crate with Tie-Downs

Having securely attached your crate to your kayak, you can now feel confident that it won’t come loose and drift away. To ensure your cargo is well-secured, you’ll want to use tie-downs. These are adjustable straps that help tie down your gear and keep it in place.

Generally, tie-downs are made of nylon webbing and come with a variety of different buckles, such as ratchets and cam locks. The tie-downs should be long enough for you to wrap them around the back and front of the kayak to keep the crate in place.

Tie-downs come in various sizes and lengths, so it’s important to select the tie-downs that are compatible with your kayak and crate. Additionally, make sure the tie-downs are strong enough to hold the weight of the crate and its contents. Finally, be sure to tie the tie-downs in a secure knot to keep it in place and reduce the chances of it coming loose.

Choosing the Right Kayak Crate

Evaluating storage requirements is a vital step in the process of selecting the right kayak crate. Size and shape are key components to consider when making the final choice; a crate that is too small or too large can compromise the safety of the kayaker. Moreover, the material of the crate should be appropriate for the environment in which the kayaker will be traveling.

Consider Your Storage Needs

Now that you’ve decided to add a kayak crate to your boat, it’s time to consider your storage needs. The primary purpose of a kayak crate is to store items in a convenient and accessible way. Think about what items you may want to store and how you would like to arrange them.

If you plan to use the kayak crate for fishing equipment, you could store tackle in the bottom, lures and hooks in the middle, and tools or a net in the top. If you plan to use the kayak crate for recreational items, you might store snacks, water bottles, and sunscreen in the bottom, books or games in the middle, and clothing in the top.

Whatever you choose to store, make sure that the items will fit securely in the kayak crate. A kayak crate should be designed to keep items safe and stable, so it’s essential to plan ahead when selecting items to store.

Select the Right Size and Shape

Now that you know what to consider when it comes to your storage needs, it’s time to select the right size and shape for your kayak crate. The ideal size and shape of your crate will depend on what you’re planning to carry and how much storage space you need. It’s important to measure your kayak to ensure your crate is the right size.

Longer crates can be used for more extended gear, such as paddles, fishing rods, and camping equipment. If you’re simply storing food and beverages, then smaller crates are ideal. Depending on the kayak model, you may also want to consider the shape of the crate.

Rounded crates can be a better choice for tighter storage spaces, while narrower crates can fit into longer, narrower kayak compartments. Ultimately, the size and shape of your crate should fit your kayak and the items you’re storing.

Choose an Appropriate Material

Now that you’ve determined your storage needs and selected the right size and shape of kayak crate, the next step is to select the most appropriate material. The type of material will depend on the purpose of your kayak crate. If you plan to use it for fishing or other activities that involve wet environments, it’s best to choose a waterproof material like plastic or vinyl.

These materials are durable and will not be affected by moisture. Alternatively, if you plan to transport lighter materials or other items that don’t need water protection, canvas or nylon are recommended. Both are lightweight and easy to store, and they come in a variety of colors to match the look of your kayak.

Finally, if you intend to use the kayak crate for more rugged activities, such as paddling through rapids or whitewater, consider investing in a heavy-duty aluminum or plastic crate. These materials are more durable and can stand up to the rigors of the outdoors.

Overall, the type of material will depend on the purpose of your kayak crate, so choose wisely to ensure a safe and enjoyable kayaking experience.

Packing Your Kayak Crate

Securely storing items in your kayak crate is essential for safe travels. Arrange items strategically, keeping heavier items on the bottom and leaving space for water drainage. To maximize the storage potential, utilize all available space and stack items in an organized fashion.

Arrange Items Securely

It is essential to arrange items securely in the kayak crate. To ensure this, start by creating a flat surface with the items that have a large footprint. For example, if packing a cooler, place it in the center of the kayak crate and then build around it.

Additionally, make sure to stack items neatly and closely together to prevent them from moving around. To keep the items from sliding, secure them with straps or cords. Additionally, make sure to place items according to their size, with the largest items on the bottom and the smallest items on the top.

Finally, to ensure that items are evenly distributed throughout the kayak crate, place heavier items in the center and lighter items near the edges. With these tips, the kayak crate can be arranged securely for paddling exploration.

Leave Room for Water Drainage

Now that you’ve chosen the perfect kayak crate, it’s time to start packing it with your gear! Remember to leave room for water drainage so you don’t end up with wet items. As you begin to load the items, make sure to leave enough room in between them for air and water to escape.

Create pathways between items so the water can flow freely and reach the holes in the bottom of the crate. If the pathway is blocked, the water will just sit inside the crate and cause your items to become soggy. Plus, leaving enough space between items will also help maintain the balance of the crate while you’re paddling.

Keep Heavier Items on the Bottom

Packing your kayak crate correctly means that your items will remain securely in place no matter how choppy the waters get. One important step in the packing process is to keep all of the heavier items at the bottom of the crate. This will help keep the center of gravity low in your kayak and prevent it from tipping over.

When packing heavier items, it’s important to secure them tightly with straps or with bungees so they don’t move around. You should also ensure that you don’t overload the kayak with too many heavy items, as this can make it difficult to maneuver in the water. Make sure you check the weight limit of your kayak before loading it up with items. It’s also a good idea to spread the weight evenly throughout the crate to ensure that your kayak remains balanced.

Tips for Safe Kayaking with a Crate

Carefully considering the weight capacity of the kayak before attaching the crate is essential. Ensuring the crate is fastened securely and properly balanced is also essential for a safe kayaking trip. Finally, monitoring the stability of the kayak during the entire kayaking trip is necessary to maintain safety.

Consider the Weight Capacity

When transitioning from packing the kayak crate to actually taking it out on the water, it is essential to consider the weight capacity when loading the crate. The kayak, along with all of its contents, should not exceed the maximum capacity of the kayak. Not only could this lead to the kayak becoming less stable, but it could also cause it to become dangerous and potentially capsize.

It is important that you take the time to calculate the exact weight of the kayak and all of its contents so that you can ensure that the kayak is not overloaded. Depending on the type of kayak, its size, and the material it is made of, its weight capacity can be anywhere from 300-500 lbs.

Knowing the weight capacity of the kayak will help you determine how much additional weight you can add to the kayak, such as the weight of the kayak crate, your supplies, and any passengers.

When kayaking, it is always important to be aware of the weight limit of the kayak, as exceeding the weight limit can lead to dangerous situations. This is why it is essential to take the time to calculate the exact weight of the kayak and all of its contents and ensure that the kayak is not overloaded when taken out on the water with a crate.

Securely Attach the Crate

Making sure the crate is properly secured is crucial for safe kayaking. To ensure a secure hold, start by attaching the straps that come with the crate. These straps are designed to firmly hold the crate in place, so use them to secure the crate to the kayak.

Use a few of the straps to wrap around the kayak and the crate, and then make sure they are tightly secured. Once that’s done, add the bungee cords. These are the extra added layer of security and are necessary for keeping the crate safe and secure in place.

Attach them to the kayak and the crate and make sure they are firmly tightened. After everything is secured, it’s time to take the kayak out on the water.

It’s also important to inspect the straps and bungee cords regularly to make sure there’s no wear and tear. Check for any loose straps or cords, and make sure they’re properly tightened.

This will ensure the crate stays in place and prevent any unnecessary accidents. With these precautions in place, you can enjoy kayaking with a crate and be assured of a safe and secure journey.

Monitor Balance and Stability

Now that your kayak crate is securely packed, it’s time to consider the weight capacity of the kayak. To ensure stability and safety, it’s important to monitor the balance and stability of the kayak while kayaking.

As you add items to the kayak, be sure to distribute the weight evenly to avoid any imbalance. Additionally, be sure to check the weight of the kayak before you set off – you don’t want to exceed its capacity and cause an accident!

It is also important to check the balance and stability of the kayak while you are on the water. If you find the kayak is becoming too top-heavy, consider removing some weight from the kayak and redistributing it. When the kayak is balanced, you will have an easier time navigating in the water and will be able to enjoy your kayaking experience much more.

Maintaining Your Kayak Crate

Regular maintenance of your kayak crate is essential to ensuring a safe and reliable storage unit. To keep it in top condition, the first step is to ensure that the crate is clean and dry before storing it. It is also important to inspect the crate regularly for any signs of damage or wear and tear. Finally, proper storage of the crate is key to maintaining its integrity.

Clean and Dry the Crate

Nothing ruins a great kayaking trip like a broken, dirty kayak crate. Keeping your crate clean and dry is key to its long-term maintenance and to your safety on the water. To get the most out of your crate, use a damp cloth to wipe off any dirt, salt, or other debris that may have collected on the surface.

If the crate has been exposed to saltwater, be sure to rinse off the entire crate with fresh water and then let it air dry in the sun. You can also use a mild detergent and a brush to scrub off any stubborn dirt and grime.

Finish the cleaning process by applying a coat of marine-grade wax to protect the crate from the elements. With proper maintenance, your kayak crate will stay in great condition and provide years of use.

Inspect the Crate Regularly

In order to ensure a safe and enjoyable kayaking experience with your crate, regular inspection of the crate is a must. After each use, it is important to check for signs of wear and tear, as well as any damage that may be caused by the elements. Look closely for any cracks, rust, or corrosion on the frame or any of the components.

Make sure all the hardware is still intact and secure. If you notice any potential problems, take the necessary steps to repair or replace the damaged parts.

Inspecting the crate regularly also helps to ensure that the kayak remains secure during transport and storage. Make sure that all the straps and buckles are properly adjusted to the correct size and that they are securely fastened. Check the condition of the foam padding to make sure it is still in good shape and not showing any signs of deterioration.

Finally, inspect the bottom of the crate to make sure it is still properly sealed and watertight. If any of these components are damaged, it is important to replace them as soon as possible in order to maintain the safety of the kayak and the integrity of the crate.

Store the Crate Properly

Now that you’ve cleaned and dried your crate and inspected it regularly, the next step to ensuring safe kayaking is to store it properly. It’s important to store your kayak crate in an area away from direct sunlight, as it can cause damage to the material over time.

You should also make sure that the surface of the area you choose to store the crate is level and dry – any kind of moisture or debris can cause problems for the crate material, or even corrosion.

When you’re ready to store your kayak, place it on a flat surface and cover it with a waterproof material. This will help to protect it from any kind of inclement weather and keep it clean.

You should also store your kayak crate in a secure place, as it can be a tempting target for thieves. Make sure to use a strong lock and secure it to a permanent structure for maximum protection.

Alternatives to Kayak Crates

For those looking for an alternative to kayak crates, dry bags, kayak coolers, and deck bags are all excellent options. Waterproof dry bags are a great way to store and protect items from the elements, while kayak coolers keep food and beverages cold. Finally, deck bags offer convenient storage that is easily accessible from the kayak deck.

Dry Bags

As an alternative to kayak crates, dry bags offer an efficient and lightweight storage solution for your boat. Dry bags are designed to keep your gear dry and safe, no matter where you are on the water. They come in a variety of sizes, ranging from small to extra-large, making them a great option for any kayaker.

Dry bags are constructed from waterproof materials, such as tarpaulin, vinyl, or nylon, and feature a simple roll-top closure that helps ensure a secure seal. Many of them come with a detachable shoulder strap, making them easy to carry around.

Depending on the size of the bag, you can store items like snacks, clothing, maps, sunblock, and other small items. Some models even feature external pockets for easy access to items like sunscreen or sunglasses. With a dry bag, you can easily access your belongings without having to unload your kayak.

Dry bags are a great option for any kayaker looking for a lightweight and efficient storage solution. Whether you’re headed out for a day full of paddling or a camping trip, your gear will stay safe and dry no matter where you are.

Kayak Coolers

While kayak crates have been the traditional way to store items while out on the water, kayak coolers offer an alternative that many find appealing for their trips. Kayak coolers are insulated, waterproof containers that provide the same secure storage as kayak crates, but have the added benefit of being able to keep food and drinks cold.

Made up of durable plastic, they are designed to fit securely in a kayak and can be tied down with bungee cords, while the tight-fitting lid helps to keep waves and spray out.

What makes them especially attractive to kayakers is the fact that they are insulated. This allows them to store food and drinks and keep them cool for the duration of the trip, an attractive prospect for those who plan to spend extended periods of time out on the water.

They come in a range of sizes, from small, single-person models to larger ones that can hold up to a gallon of food or drink. Some models even come with built-in cup holders and a waterproof phone pouch for extra convenience.

Deck Bags

Beyond kayak crates, there are a variety of other storage solutions available to kayakers. Perhaps the most versatile of these are deck bags. Deck bags are designed to fit securely on the deck of a kayak, between the seating area and the bow. They are constructed from waterproof material, making them an ideal choice for storing extra gear on the water.

The size and shape of deck bags can vary, but they typically have enough space to store some smaller items, such as a first aid kit, a few energy snacks, or extra sunscreen. Some models even come with pockets and zippers, making it easy to keep track of small items. Deck bags also come in a variety of colors and patterns, so you can find one that matches your kayak’s style.

Conclusion

Kayak crates are an invaluable tool for any kayaker, providing extra storage and convenience on the water. With a variety of shapes, sizes, and attachment methods, there’s a kayak crate to suit every kayaker’s needs.

From packing your crate with the right items to attaching it securely to your kayak, to keeping it in good condition for years of use, kayak crates are a must-have for any kayaker. With proper use, these helpful crates can make your time out on the water even more enjoyable.

EASY Kayak Crate – DIY Step-By-Step Build