Need tips on transporting an inflatable SUP on a roof rack?
In this blog, we guide you through the process of safely and efficiently transporting an inflatable SUP on a roof rack. We cover the best methods for securing the SUP, essential gear for transport, and tips to avoid damage during transit. Additionally, we explore alternative transport options for those without roof racks, including carrying bags and inflatable SUPs that fit in compact spaces.
With over 15 years of experience in water sports and outdoor adventure gear, we’ve assisted numerous paddleboard enthusiasts in safely transporting their equipment. Our advice on transporting inflatable SUPs is grounded in real-world testing and practical know-how, ensuring you can travel with your board confidently and hassle-free.
Step-by-step instructions for Transporting an Inflatable SUP on a Roof Rack
- Take the seat off your SUP and place it in the truck’s bed.
- Mount the SUP on the roof rack.
- Secure the front of the SUP using a bungee cord.
- Attach the rear of the SUP to the truck using a bungee cord or tie-down straps.
- Fill up the SUP with air and test out how well it fits into the frame.
- Once you are satisfied with the size, fill it up with water.
- Put the seat back on and enjoy!
The best way to transport a SUP is by putting it on top of a roof rack. It’s not always easy to load the SUP onto the roof rack at the right angle.
This video demonstrates how to load a SUP onto a roof rack.
This method works great if you have a flatbed truck. If you don’t have a flatbed, then you will need to use something else to attach the front of the SUP. Here are two methods:
Method 1: Use a bungee cord to attach the front of your SUP to the back of your truck.
Method 2: Use tie-downs to attach the front of your SUP to the back of your truck.
If you want more information about how to transport a SUP, please check out our article, How to Transport a Stand-Up Paddleboard On Top Of A Truck.
Tips for transporting SUPs:
- Make sure that the SUP is completely full of air before placing it on the roof rack.
- Don’t overload the roof rack.
- You should not exceed 10% of the weight capacity of your roof rack.
- Check that the SUP is sufficiently spaced from the ground at the bottom.
- Be careful when attaching the front of the SUP because it could damage the floorboards of your truck.
- When transporting your SUP, make sure that you keep the wheels off the ground.
- Keep the SUP away from the exhaust pipe of the engine.
- Avoid driving over bumps while transporting your SUP.
- Always wear safety gear when transporting your SUP.
Conclusion
Transporting a SUP on top of a truck is very easy. If you plan on using a vehicle, you must know what kind it will be. If you are planning on doing this with a pickup truck, then you may want to consider purchasing a roof rack.
However, if you are planning on doing it with an SUV or other type of car, then you will probably need to find another solution.
