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September 05, 2023 12 min read

Make life easier with a cart to get you to the water

Old man moving his kayak with a kayak cart

Picture this… You have the perfect weekend planned by the lake or beach with picnics packed and kayaks ready to float. The kids are raring to go and the dog is pulling on the leash to get in the water. One problem. You must carry everything down from the parking lot, juggling paddles and cool box, not to mention the big boat “elephant” in the room.

Heaving everything down to the water is exhausting and a total waste of energy. That’s why we have developed our iconic inflatable paddle board range.

But when inflatable ease is not an option, why not invest in one of the best kayak carts to help you move your gear around? There is no going back once you have brought this wheeled accessory to the party! Join us as we delve into the details of what makes the best kayak cart, listing out the top products available online, and answering any burning questions you may have.

GILI’s TOP Pick

Best Overall
Suspenz Kayak Canoe Transport Trailer
Suspenz Smart Airless DLX Cart

The Suspenz Smart Airless DLX Cart rolls effortlessly when fully loaded with a kayak. There is no "tool" assembly required, just unfold and go with quick-release wheels. A dual-leg kickstand assists for easy loading.

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Best Premium
Wilderness Systems Heavy Duty Kayak Cart
Wilderness Systems Heavy Duty Kayak Cart

The Wilderness Systems Heavy Duty Kayak Cart is the perfect workhorse cart to transport up to 450 pounds with ease. It comes with flat-free wheels and the option to change to balloon wheels to get you over sand. This is simply the best of the best! 

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Best Budget
RAD Sportz Kayak Trolley Kayak Cart with Pneumatic Tires
RAD Sportz Kayak Trolley Pro Premium Kayak Cart

The RAD Sportz Kayak Trolley Pro makes moving your kayak a breeze! The sturdy aluminum frame will hold up to the largest kayaks, and the 10" airless tires will never go flat, and never let you down. 

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How To Use A Kayak Cart

Using a kayak cart can make it much easier to transport your kayak from one place to another, especially over longer distances. There are a few different types of kayak carts available, so make sure to select one that is suitable for your kayak and the terrain you will be coming up against.

Top tip: look for carts with sturdy frames and large wheels for better stability and maneuverability.

Most kayak carts are fitted with adjustable straps so you can secure your kayak in place. Position the cart underneath the kayak's hull, close to the center of gravity, and secure it tightly using the straps provided. This will ensure that the cart stays in place during transport. Make sure the kayak is balanced from the bow and stern; test how stable it is by gently shaking the kayak.

Once you are happy with how the kayak is loaded onto the cart, it is time to get rolling! Grab the cart's handle and begin pulling the kayak along. Be mindful of any obstacles or uneven terrain and make any necessary adjustments while moving.

Taking your kayak off the cart is the same process as loading, just in reverse!

Types of Kayak Carts

Kayak loaded on a kayak cart

Fundamentally, all types of kayak carts perform the same job – transporting your ‘yak with ease! However, over the years these carts have been developed and fine-tuned to meet specific needs and perform certain unique qualities. Here are some of the most popular types of kayak carts you can buy.

Platform Cart

Platform carts are the most standard type of kayak carts. Platform kayak carts positioned anywhere on the kayak, use adjustable straps to secure the boat in place and allow for easy rolling.

If you have a fair journey to the water, a platform cart is a good choice. We are firm believers that you should preserve energy for paddling, not in the getting there! That’s where platform carts come into their own. These carts carry all of the weight (when balanced correctly), leaving you just responsible for pulling and steering.

Taildragger Cart

Taildraggers are aptly named. These carts go on the end of your kayak, supporting just one end with the wheels. This means you still have to take on most of the weight as you lift the front end and roll your way down to the water.

These carts are great for short distances and are often the cheapest option.

Scupper Cart

Scupper carts are only compatible with sit-on-top kayaks. Again, another well-named kayak cart – a scupper cart makes use of the scupper holes to secure the kayak in place. This is an extremely well-thought-out cart design!

Scupper holes are the pre-molded drain holes in sit-on-top kayaks.

The position and width of the holes does vary from kayak to kayak. If you are going for a scupper cart, be sure that it has an adjustable width to ensure it fits.

Kayak Cart Wheels

The options don’t stop there. There are different types of kayak cartwheels to choose from as well. In order to know what type of wheel you need, you first need to have a good idea of what terrain you will be covering.

Wheel Type Perks When to use?
Solid Cannot go flat; robust; less maintenance Tarmac; roads; hard surfaces; when there’s a risk of punctures
Pneumatic Lightweight; filled with air; shock absorbent Tarmac; paved roads
If you are going to be rolling your ocean kayaks over the sand to reach the water, then you will want to opt for a wide wheel. The more surface area will help your kayak cart cover the sand.

8 Best Kayak Carts

Suspenz Smart Airless DLX Cart

The Suspenz Smart Airless DLX Cart rolls effortlessly when fully loaded with a kayak. The sturdy aluminum frame can easily handle all of your gear for the day. It folds down to 27 x 13 x 3" and fits into the included mesh bag for easy storage. 

This carts platform measures 13 x 18" and is fitted with quick-release airless 10" tires to get you over most terrain. Rubber bumpers protect the hull from dings, dents, or scratches when in transport. There is a dual-arm kickstand for extra stability while loading the kayak. What more do you need?

Suspenz Kayak Canoe Transport Trailer

Where to buy:

Features & Specs:

  • Weight- 10 lbs
  • Material - Aluminum
  • Style - Platform cart with no-flat wheels

What we like:

  • 3" Depth prevents the boat from rocking & load shifting like no other cart on the market
  • No "tool" assembly is required, just unfold and go with quick-release wheels - Dual leg kickstand assists for easy loading
  • Adjustable durable rubber bumpers prevent contact with metal frame
  • Twice the straps mean greater support to prevent load shifting

What we don't like:

  • Nothing! There is a reason why this is our best overall…

Wilderness Systems Heavy Duty Kayak Cart

Wilderness Systems’ Heavy Duty Kayak Cart is the perfect solution for getting loaded-up fishing kayaks to the water. This workhorse cart will transport up to 450 pounds with ease and comes with flat-free wheels. Large 12" Diameter airless wheels never go flat and roll over rough terrain smoothly. You can choose to add on large balloon-style beach wheels which can be swapped onto the same frame, allowing you to cover all terrain. 

It is easy to load and unload the kayak, and no kickstands or scupper posts are required. There are two security straps included to prevent the kayak from slipping. The cart is also collapsible for storage with the wheels being stored in large kayak hatches and the frame stored on deck with bungee rigging. Constructed from a marine-grade, high-strength, heat-treated aluminum alloy gives you superior strength and peace of mind.

Wilderness Systems Heavy Duty Kayak Cart

Where to buy:

Features & Specs:

  • Weight- 13 lbs
  • Material - Aluminum
  • Style - Platform cart with no-flat wheels

What we like:

  • Engineered to transport the heaviest kayaks - up to 450 pounds
  • Bunker bar frame - adjustable width prevents the kayak from twisting and slipping sideways
  • Two height options - high for odd-shaped hulls that would usually rub on cartwheels, low for a lower center of gravity to prevent tip-overs
  • Completely collapsible for easy storage in most kayak dry wells and storage areas

What we don't like:

  • Expensive price tag!

RAD Sportz Kayak Trolley Pro Premium Kayak Cart

The RAD Sportz Kayak Trolley Pro makes moving your kayak a breeze! The sturdy aluminum frame will hold up to the largest kayaks, and the 10" airless tires will never go flat, and never let you down. When you finished using it, the Kayak Trolley Pro folds down to a compact 27" x 13" x 3" and stores away in the included mesh bag.

With a 150-pound weight capacity, the RAD Sportz Kayak Trolley Pro is not lightweight. The 10" airless tires can be easily removed so storage is a breeze. The trolley features rubber cushions to protect your kayak or canoe from damage, and the double kickstand offers extra stability when mounting your kayak.

RAD Sportz Kayak Trolley Kayak Cart with Pneumatic Tires

Where to buy:

Features & Specs:

  • Weight- 10 lbs
  • Material - Steel
  • Style - Platform cart with no-flat wheels

What we like:

  • With a 150-pound weight capacity, your Kayak Trolley Pro will haul even the largest kayaks with ease to and from the water
  • Included tie-down straps so you don't need to worry about your kayak falling
  • Compacts down into the included 27" x 13" x 3" mesh bag for easy storage.
  • Affordable price tag

What we don't like:

  • Straps are not the best, so may need to buy some additional ratchet straps

Bonnlo Kayak Beach Cart with Balloon Wheels

Bonnlo’s Kayak Beach Cart with Balloon Wheels takes the hassle out of transporting your kayak. This premium kayak cart is designed with oversized balloon wheels for smooth movement on any terrain. Whether you are navigating sandy beaches, rocky paths, or uneven forest floors, these high-performance wheels ensure a seamless ride without making any noise. 

Lightweight and easy to assemble, this kayak cart is the perfect accessory for any kayak owner who wants to make transporting their boat a breeze. This cart is designed to fit most kayak models. It is important to ensure that the kayak is fully supported by the four foam bumpers and that the kickstand and the bow of the kayak are facing in the same direction to prevent collapsing during transport.

Bonnlo Kayak Beach Cart with Balloon Wheels Canoe Dolly Foldable Paddle Board Boat Cart

Where to buy:

Features & Specs:

  • Weight- 15 lbs
  • Material - Aluminium
  • Style - Platform cart with balloon wheels

What we like:

  • The 12" large low-pressure beach wheels roll your kayak half the effort in the sand, making it a convenient option for soft sand terrain
  • Made with aluminum alloy pipe (22x3mm) and a 300-pound weight limit
  • Comes with two 7.75 Ft (5TF+2.75) ratchet straps. The ratchet straps attach to the tubes on the cart and grip the kayak firmly with minimal slippage
  • Affordable price

What we don't like:

  • Cumbersome design to load a kayak solo

Malone WideTrak ATB Large Kayak Cart

The Malone WideTrak ATB Large Kayak/Canoe Cart with Bunks offers the perfect solution for confident transport in rough all-terrain conditions. The higher load capacity and adjustable bunks allow for the transport of canoes and large fishing kayaks with non-traditional hull configurations.

You can trust the materials will last and keep up with all your great adventures. The design features a folding anodized aluminum frame that breaks down in seconds with corrosion-resistant stainless steel fittings.

Malone WideTrak ATB Large Kayak Cart

Where to buy:

Features & Specs:

  • Weight- 15 lbs
  • Material - Aluminium
  • Style - Platform cart with no-flat wheels

What we like:

  • 24" adjustable padded bunks with mounting hardware for safe transport
  • Corrosion-resistant stainless steel fittings
  • 12" Airless "Never-Go-Flat" all-terrain tires
  • A good mid-range price and product

What we don't like:

  • Heavy cart before adding kayak and gear

RAILBLAZA C-Tug Kayak Trolley Cart

What sets the RAILBLAZA apart from its competition is the simplicity of the StarPort mount, the ease with which people fit it, and the diverse range of situations it is used in. Super strong, all RAILBLAZA parts are made from high quality, UV stabilized, engineering polymers, stainless steel, and anodized aluminum. Where extra strength is required, the polymers used are fiberglass reinforced.

Trek to your next adventure with ease with this universal kayak and canoe cart. Take the hassle out of launching at remote paddling trails or your hard-to-reach fishing spots. The non-puncture wheels can handle just about anything and take you on your next adventure.

RAILBLAZA C-Tug Kayak and Canoe Trolley Cart

Where to buy:

Features & Specs:

  • Weight- 9 lbs
  • Material - Aluminium
  • Style - Platform cart with no-flat wheels

What we like:

  • Puncture-free wheels with high grip rubber tread so you never need to worry about getting a flat tire on your kayak
  • Includes an adjustable kickstand
  • Adjustable platform to fit most kayak hull designs
  • Lightweight construction

What we don't like:

  • Does not have wheel bearings so we worry about the longevity of the cart

Pelican Canoe Kayak and SUP Transport Cart

The Pelican Canoe Kayak and SUP Transport Cart are super universal and will allow you to easily transport all types of boats. Due to the width adjustment option, it can be adapted to a large variety of hull types, including fishing kayaks and all the gear.

This cart is made of a corrosion-resistant aluminum frame with rubber bumpers on each arm to protect your canoe/kayak/paddle board. It also comes with adjustable straps. It comes with a 7.5ft. (2,2m) adjustable strap that will make sure to secure your watercraft on the cart.

Pelican Canoe Kayak and SUP Transport Cart

Where to buy:

Features & Specs:

  • Weight- 9 lbs
  • Material - Aluminium
  • Style - Platform cart with no-flat wheels

What we like:

  • The Kayak Cart Deluxe can carry a craft up to 175lbs (80kg).
  • This cart is very practical and easy to assemble. It is possible to adjust the width from 8 to 13 inches. (20.32 x 33.02 cm) and offers the possibility to use 2 different heights, high or low. (30 x 25.9 x 13.9 in. / 76.5 x 66 x 35.5 cm)
  • Wide airless tires are 10 inches (25.4 cm) wide. They will allow you to come across any type of surface such as grass, gravel, and wooded areas.

What we don't like:

  • Not the most robust cart on the market

Seattle Sports Paddleboy ATC All-Terrain Center Kayak Cart

Seattle Sports’ Paddleboy ATC is a great center cart for loaded kayaks. The heavy-duty powder-coated steel frame breaks down nicely for low-profile storage. With new airless wheels, you can be guaranteed a flat-free and vibration-reducing ride from the solid urethane tires. 

A spring-loaded, extra-stable kickstand, adjustable padded top bars, and included cinch strap complete this super heavy-duty cart. The ATC has a 300-pound capacity, great for adventure-seeking kayakers.

Seattle Sports Paddleboy ATC All-Terrain Center Kayak Cart

Where to buy:

Features & Specs:

  • Weight- 15 lbs
  • Material - Steel 
  • Style - Platform cart with no-flat wheels

What we like:

  • Works with canoes, kayaks, jon boats, lasers, paddle boards, and other large crafts
  • Heavy duty construction with flat-free, vibration reducing, solid urethane tires with a powder coated steel frame and spring loaded kickstand
  • Adjustable padded top bars and cinch strap included to fit your craft

What we don't like:

  • Heavy cart

How To Choose The Best Kayak Cart

When it comes to choosing which is the best kayak cart for you, there is a brief checklist you should keep in mind. Make sure the following is clear in your head to help make an informed decision before purchasing.

  • Budget – sure you can find cheaper options, but will they last out the season? Weigh up if you can add that extra $50 to your budget to ensure you get top-quality materials and design.
  • Width and Style of your kayak – be sure your kayak will fit the cart and check the dimensions. Adjustable straps are also a great way to secure your boat.
  • Weight Capacity – know how heavy your kayak and all your gear are to ensure the cart can perform. Lightweight carts tend to have a lower weight capacity, while the ones with 250+ lbs are heavy and robust.
  • Collapsibility – we love simple and easy storage solutions, so a cart that collapses down and can be stowed onboard the kayak is a great bonus for us!
  • Terrain – this will determine what wheels you need. If any chance of covering sand then you need fat tires for the job. No-flat, solid tires are super common in carts.

Wrapping Up: Best Kayak Carts

So there you have it! All you need to know about kayak carts is to help get you to the water faster, more efficiently, and preserving your paddle strength. 

These accessories are here to help us out. So why not take full advantage of them? See you out on the water!

FAQ’S

🏆 How do I choose a kayak cart?

Carefully consider what you need from a kayak cart, what terrain you will be covering, and your budget. Platform carts with no-flat wheels are the most common design. However, you may benefit from a Scupper Cart if you have a sit-on-top kayak.


👍 Where do I put my kayak on a cart?

Platform carts allow you to secure the kayak right in the middle. This gives you a good weight distribution and makes rolling along a breeze. If you have a taildragger cart design, this cart goes at one end of the kayak and does not help out by carrying the weight. These carts simply just give you wheels to roll on.


🏝️ What do you do with a kayak cart while kayaking?

Some kayak carts are designed to collapse down and be stowed away in the bow or stern of the kayak. You can also use bungee cords to help secure the kayak cart in place while paddling. This is perfect as it means you can then exit the water at a different place.

Jay Regan
Jay Regan


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