Master the Art of Securing Your Stand Up Paddle Board

Carla Ortiz
Written by Carla Ortiz on
Master the Art of Securing Your Stand Up Paddle Board

Summary

Intro: How To Strap Your Stand Up Paddle Board To Your Car

Alrighty, let’s dive right in – strapping a stand-up paddleboard to your car doesn’t have to be a puzzle that makes you scratch your head in frustration. I mean, who wants to arrive at the water only to find their trusty board took a detour because it wasn’t secured properly? Not me, and I’m guessing not you either.

First off, let’s chat about car racks. If your car already has a rack, you’re halfway there to be honest. Most of the time, these racks are sturdy enough to support your paddleboard. Just make sure they’re tightly secured to your vehicle – nobody likes a wobbly rack situation, right? Also, double-check the weight limit, you don’t want to overload the poor thing. Remember, safety first! Then, you’re gonna need the right straps – cam straps are the bee’s knees for this job. They let you tighten down your board without turning it into a banana – and who needs a curved paddleboard?

Now, the placement of the board. Always place it deck down, fins up – unless you’ve got a super fancy car rack designed specifically for paddleboards. Think of the fins like a shark’s fin slicing through the air; you want them cutting through those wind currents gracefully as you cruise down the highway.

When it comes to securing the board, I can’t emphasize enough – don’t go overboard with the tightness. You wanna hug your board, not squeeze the life out of it. Crank those straps snugly, but let your board breathe, okay? And while we’re at it, throw a twist or two in the straps as they go over the board. This little trick – and trust me it’s magic – stops that annoying buzzing sound when you’re zooming along.

Don’t forget the bow and stern. Tying down the front and back of your board to your car’s bumpers can give you that extra peace of mind. We’re talking about a simple loop through the handle or leash plug, nothing fancy, but oh so important.

And there you have it. Strap it right, and you’ll be hitting those waves (or the serene lake) before you know it, with your stand-up paddleboard right where it should be. Keep calm and paddle on, my friends!

How Do You Strap A Paddleboard To A Car?

Ah, the open road and the promise of tranquil waters—there’s nothin’ quite like it. Now, when you’re raring to slap that stand-up paddle board on your car and bolt to the nearest body of water, you gotta do it right, or you’re asking for a headache. Let me walk you through the steps, it’s pretty straightforward once you get the hang of it.

Firstly, you’ll want some soft racks, especially if you’re not driving an SUV with built-in racks. These are straps with padded sections that’ll sit pretty on your car roof, cushioning your board. Grab your paddleboard and lay it deck down on the racks—yep, fins up. It feels a bit counterintuitive, but trust me, it’s the way to go. This way, you’re getting the flattest part of the board against the rack, which makes for a more stable journey.

Now, take those cam straps—make sure you’ve got the strong, durable kind—and loop ‘em over the board. You’ll throw the straps over the board, then loop around the car’s roof, through the doors or windows, depending on your setup. The trick here is to not cinch ‘em down too hard. I mean, you’re not trying to squeeze the life outta your board, right? You want it snug as a bug in a rug—secure, but not so tight it dents your car or board.

Last tip, and this one’s a doozy, give your board a gentle wiggle before hittin’ the road. If she sways like a palm tree in the breeze, tighten those straps a smidge more. Remember, the goal is to get to the water with the board still on your car, not trailing behind like a lost puppy. Don’t fret; after a few tries, it’ll be like second nature, and you’ll be ready to catch those waves or glide serenely down a river before you know it.

How To Strap Your Stand Up Paddle Board To Your Car Youtube

Oh boy, I gotta tell ya, strapping your stand up paddle board to your car can be a bit of an art form – it’s a balancing act between secure transport and not going overboard. Pun intended! Anyway, let me walk you through some tips and tricks that’ll help you hit the road without a hitch.

  • Start by finding the right size straps: Before you begin, you gotta make sure you’ve got straps that are long enough to wrap around both your paddle board and the roof of your car. I mean, there’s no point in going through this whole rigmarole if you’re all strapped up with nowhere to go, right?
  • Positioning the board correctly: Your board should be placed upside down on the roof racks to protect the fin – keep the deck facing the roof and the fin in the air, like it’s reaching for the stars or something. Feels counterintuitive, but trust me on this.
  • Padding between your car and board: Don’t let your precious board rub directly against the car roof; grab some padding. You could use rack pads or even some rolled up towels if you’re in a pinch. This way, you’re not scraping up your ride or your board – because nobody wants that kind of heartache.
  • Threading the straps through the racks: You’ve got to thread the straps over the board and under the roof racks in a figure eight pattern. And, hey, make sure there’s no twists in those straps – it’s like making sure your shoelaces are straight before you tie them, just more important because, you know, highway speeds.
  • Securing the straps: After looping the straps around, you’re gonna want to buckle them down. Not too loose that it’ll fly off, but not so tight that you warp the board. It’s like a Goldilocks situation – you want it juuust right.
  • Double-checking your work: Because you can never be too sure, give those straps another tug, why don’t you? The last thing you want is to see your board in someone’s rearview because it made a great escape off your roof. It’s better to be safe than sorry, or however that saying goes.
  • Extra securement for long trips: If you’re heading out on a long voyage, consider using nose and tail tie-downs for that added security. It’s like giving your board a safety net, and who wouldn’t want that?
  • Final walk around: Do a little dance, make a little love – just kidding. But seriously, walk around your car to inspect the setup from every angle. Make sure there’s no part of the board that’s playing peek-a-boo with potential disaster.

How Do You Put A Paddle Board On A Car Without A Roof Rack?

Ah, the age-old conundrum for paddle board enthusiasts without the luxury of a roof rack! Let me tell you, it’s not as complicated as one might think; there’s a straightforward solution that’ll have you jetting off to the water in no time. Here goes.

First things first, it’s essential — and I can’t stress this enough — to get those foam pads or a soft rack system. You’ll place these on your car’s roof to act as a temporary buffer between your car and the board. These pads are like little pillows, offering a cozy ride for your paddle board. Once these are aligned and in place, go ahead and plop your board on top, with the fin side up, so it doesn’t go playin’ spoilsport with your car’s roof.

Now here comes the thrilling part—strapping it down. Grab a pair of cam straps, and toss ‘em over the board’s center, threading them through the car doors or windows. Make sure not to get them twisted; no one’s got time for that kind of mess. You’ll have to thread those straps through the inside of your car, mind you, and buckle them tight. But watch out! If you pull ‘em too tight, you might dent your board or car. And who wants that kind of drama?

Loop the straps a couple of times and secure them; you want that board nice and snug without it doing a wiggle dance on the roof. And just a little tip – throw a twist or two in the straps as they stretch across your board. It’s a nifty little trick that helps avoid that annoying humming sound when you hit higher speeds. There you go! Your paddle board is now ready to hitch a ride without making you wish you had a roof rack.

How To Strap Your Stand Up Paddle Board To Your Car Without

Alrighty, strapping a stand-up paddle board to your car can seem a bit tricky, but trust me, it’s a piece of cake once you get the hang of it. Keeping that board secure during transit is key – you don’t want your precious cargo taking a nosedive off the roof on your way to the water.

  • Start with the right equipment: You’ll need a set of car racks and some sturdy straps. Don’t skimp on these; a secure fit is non-negotiable.
  • Position your paddle board: Lay the board flat on the racks, fin up or down depending on clearance. Make sure it’s centered for stability. Who wants a lopsided board?
  • Loop the straps over the board: Throw the straps over the middle of the board and under the roof racks on both sides. Ensure you’ve got an even distribution of strap on both sides – symmetry is your friend.
  • Buckle and tighten: Fasten the buckle and pull the ends to tighten. You’re aiming for snug, not stranglehold. Remember, too tight might damage your board.
  • Twist the straps to prevent buzzing: This might seem odd, but giving the straps a little twist prevents them from vibrating like a bumblebee on the freeway. Noise can drive you bonkers, so let’s nip that in the bud.
  • Double-check for movement: Give your board a gentle shake to test the setup. If it feels like it’s going to take flight, tighten those straps a tad more.
  • Secure the ends of the straps: Don’t let those straps flap in the wind. Tuck away the excess or tie them off to stay aerodynamic and, well, less annoying.
  • Repeat if necessary: Got more than one board? Stack ‘em with care and repeat the process. Space is a luxury, but safety is the priority.

Strapping down your paddle board isn’t rocket science, but it sure is important. With a bit of practice, you’ll be a pro in no time, and your board will arrive as stoked for the adventure as you are.

How Do You Travel With A Stand Up Paddle Board?

Getting set for the day’s adventures, toting your stand up paddle board to the car sure is a task, right? Now, I always get a chuckle thinking about the first time I tried to wrangle that board onto my ride - let’s just say it was more slapstick than skill. But hey, I’ve picked up a few tricks to share!

So, the nitty-gritty of getting your board strapped down begins with ensuring you’ve got a good roof rack or foam pads in place. Trust me, you don’t want to skimp on these – they’re the only things between your board and the great unknown of highway speeds. Position your paddle board on the rack or pads deck-side down to keep aerodynamics on your side. It definitely feels like giving your board a piggyback the right way around.

Next up, it’s all about those straps. I prefer using cam straps because they’re like magic – easy to tighten, yet they hold your board like they’ve got something to prove. Loop them over your board and under the crossbars of the roof rack, then back over again. Ensure that you’re threading the strap through the buckle correctly – it’s the cornerstone of this whole rigmarole. You want ‘em snug but not so tight that your board’s getting the life squeezed out of it. Remember, that board has to be your zen place, not something you’re wrestling with before you’ve even hit the water.

Now for a pro tip – give a tug on those straps every so often on your drive, just to soothe your mind that everything’s secure. Wouldn’t want your precious cargo to go on an unexpected solo flight, ya know? And there you have it, strap it down right, and the only thing you’ll need to worry about is where to paddle first.

Can A Stand Up Paddle Board Fit In A Car?

Well, I gotta say, I’ve been there, trying to shove my stand-up paddle board into the back of my ride. It’s kinda like a puzzle, isn’t it? A game of Tetris, where the paddle board is that pesky long block that just won’t fit neatly anywhere. But hey, I’m all about solutions, not problems. So, it turns out that most of the time, unless you’re driving a clown car, stand up paddle boards won’t slip in so easily. They’re long and awkward, and let’s be real, the inside of a car isn’t exactly built like a garage.

Now, if you’ve got a larger vehicle, like an SUV or a van, you might be able to slide it inside – if you’re okay with playing footsie with your board or if you don’t mind it acting as a makeshift headrest. But for the average joe with a regular sedan, strapping that board to the roof is the way to go. It’s not rocket science, but there’s a knack to it. You’ll need some roof racks and straps – and please, make sure those straps can handle the drama. Because the last thing you want is to watch your beloved paddle board playing hopscotch on the highway behind you. And trust me, it ain’t a good look to be chasing after your board in flip-flops when it’s holding up rush hour traffic.

Final Verdict

So, you’re out there, ready to hit the waves with your stand up paddle board, but first things first – you’ve gotta get that beast strapped to your car without it taking off like a rogue kite. I get it, this isn’t the most exhilarating part of your adventure, but trust me, doing it right can save you a whole world of hassle. Let’s dive in – safely and securely.

First off, you’re gonna need some good ol’ cam straps – those are your bread and butter. Avoid ropes like a tourist avoids tap water in a country they’ve been warned about, got it? They can stretch and slip and before you know it, your paddle board is playing hopscotch on the freeway. Nah, we want none of that. Lay your board on top of the car with the fin up front and keep it centered. Oh, and the fins should be up in the air like it’s the last board at a clearance sale! This is where you throw those straps over the board and through the doors or, if you’ve got a fancy rack, around it. Now, cinch it down snug but don’t go Hulk on it – you crush your board, you’re gonna have a bad day on the water, my friend.

And hey, remember, this isn’t a set it and forget it kinda deal. I’ll admit, it’s easy to think you’re good to go and just roll out. But take a sec to double-check those straps are gripping like a toddler to a leg when they don’t wanna go to daycare. Give your board a little wiggle – it shouldn’t feel like it’s doing the cha-cha slide up there. Once everything’s solid, you’re all set. The verdict is clear: safety first, and then you’re free to chase those waves with the confidence of a knight heading into battle, knowing his armor is on point. Strap it right, and you won’t have to think twice when you’re shredding those waves – the only thing slipping should be you into that zen state of mind. See you out there on the big blue, amigo.

Frequently Asked Questions

How on earth do I get my SUP to stay put on my car?

Oh, don’t you worry! It’s easier than it looks. First up, you gotta have a roof rack or foam blocks for your car. Lay your paddle board flat on the rack or blocks, fin up or down depending on what feels stable. Then, grab a couple of cam straps. Throw ‘em over your board, loop ‘em under the rack bars and tighten ‘em down. Just make sure it’s snug but not so tight that it’s crushing your board. A good shake test — give your board a little wiggle — if the car moves with the board, you’re all set!

Do I need special gear to strap my SUP to my car?

Not necessarily special, but you’ll need the right stuff. If your car has a roof rack, you’re halfway there. Cam straps are a must — they’re the heroes of this operation. Avoid using bungee cords, though; they’re not reliable for this job. Optionally, consider getting some padding or foam blocks to protect your SUP and your car’s roof.

Can I just tie my SUP to my car with rope?

Hmm, I wouldn’t recommend it. Rope can be tough to get tight enough, and it can damage your board or car if you’re not careful. Stick with cam straps. They’re easy to use and you can get the right amount of tension without being a Boy Scout expert in knot-tying.

Is it possible to transport multiple SUPs at once?

Absolutely, it’s like a paddle board party on your roof! You can totally stack a couple of boards on top of each other. Just remember to put the heaviest one on the bottom and throw an extra strap on there for good measure. And hey, don’t forget to check the weight limit on your roof rack — safety first!

What’s the deal with the fin, does it go up or down when strapping?

Ah, the great fin debate! So, you can do either, but most folks prefer fin up so it doesn’t get squished. Plus, it tends to be a bit more aerodynamic that way. If your fin is removable, you might just want to take it off — problem solved!

How fast can I drive with my SUP strapped on?

Alright, speed demon, slow it down just a tad. You can drive at highway speeds, but just be mindful. The faster you go, the more wind resistance you’ll have. It’s all about being steady and keeping an eye on your board. If you see it wobbling or hear odd noises, take a pit stop and double-check your straps.

What should I do if it starts raining while I’m driving?

No sweat! Your SUP is built for water, remember? But, give those straps an extra check to make sure they’re not loosening up with the wetness. And when you get to your spot, wipe down your board so it doesn’t stay soaked.

How do I make sure my SUP doesn’t get stolen off my car?

Oh, that’s a bummer of a thought, isn’t it? A simple solution is a lockable strap or a cable lock. Thread it through the board’s leash plug and attach it to your roof rack. It’s no Fort Knox, but it’ll make thieves think twice.

Do I need to take any precautions for long road trips with my SUP?

For sure! For those epic road trips, it’s all about checking and re-checking. Every stop you make, give those straps a tug to ensure everything’s tight. And maybe add some protective padding to prevent scuffs during the long haul. A bit of TLC goes a long way here.

What’s the best way to protect my SUP from scratches while strapping it?

Oh, you’ll want to keep that baby pristine! Padding is your friend here — either purpose-made rack pads or even some DIY foam noodles split down the middle. And always lift your board onto the car — sliding it can cause some gnarly scratches. Keep it cushy, and you’ll keep it scratch-free.

Carla Ortiz

Carla Ortiz

Carla Ortiz, an ardent fly fisher, revels in the tranquil streams of Colorado. Her weekends are spent wading through crystal waters, casting flies with precision and grace. A skilled angler, Carla possesses a deep understanding of the local trout species, their habitats, and behaviors. In quieter moments, she meticulously crafts her own flies, drawing inspiration from the natural surroundings. Her connection to the river is not just a hobby but a profound bond with nature, reflected in her gentle approach and respect for the aquatic environment.

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