The ABCs of How to Store a Kayak

As you finish up your adventures on the water or are the proud owner of a new kayak, you may be left wondering how to store a kayak properly.

2023-05-23

As you finish up your adventures on the water or are the proud owner of a new kayak, you may be left wondering how to store a kayak properly. Storing your kayak properly helps you prevent damage, warping, fading, and a host of other issues that the elements can cause. While the elements can damage your kayak, the way you store it can, too. Read about how to store a kayak to ensure that you can enjoy your boat for many seasons to come.

PREPARING YOUR KAYAK FOR STORAGE

After a season out on the water, your kayak will likely have its fair share of dirt and grime that should be cleaned off before putting it into storage. Preparing your kayak for storage can be completed in four easy steps:

  1. Scrub your kayak with a mild detergent, water, and plenty of hard work.
  2. Thoroughly rinse off the kayak with water.
  3. Open the drainage plug and empty all water from your boat, wiping any excess.
  4. Place your kayak in a sunny location and allow the boat to dry completely.

Now you’re ready to learn how to store a kayak!

WHERE TO STORE YOUR KAYAK

Storing your kayak indoors

If you have the room to do so, keeping your kayak indoors is the preferred option because of the protection it offers from the elements. Whether you are storing it in your home or garage, storing your boat indoors ensures that it will remain dry and protected from harsh and inclement weather. Direct sunlight, moisture, and both extreme heat and extreme cold can compromise the integrity of your kayak. Storing your boat away from windows, or better yet covered, and in a temperate environment offers an added layer of protection.

Green Pelican Basscreek 100XP Angler fishing kayak

Pelican's Wall Mount For Kayak Storage

You will want to keep your kayak elevated off the ground. Not only does this help save space, but it further protects your boat from damage. You can accomplish this with either a specialized kayak hoist or alternatively a kayak rack. Pelican’s wall mount for kayaks is equipped with a swivel system that allows the bracket to be folded back onto the wall. This way, the wall rack won't be in your way when not in use. The solid steel structure features rubber padding to protect your kayak during storage. A powder coating finish gives you the option to either install this rack either indoors or outdoors. Pelican’s wall mount is also equipped with additional arms that allow you to conveniently store your paddles underneath your kayak.

Pelican kayak and SUP storage straps

Pelican also has a handy kit designed for kayaks and paddleboards that allows you to easily hang your boats up so that they are out of the way and off the ground. Added velcro loops securely hold your paddles too! The kit contains 2 modular systems that can be used for 1 or 2 watercraft.

STORING A KAYAK OUTDOORS

For those who live in smaller spaces like an apartment or a condo where indoor storage just isn’t feasible, then the outdoors would be the best storage alternative. As you search for the right outdoor spot, you will want to make sure that this spot is shaded and that you can protect your kayak from moisture. A shaded spot will protect your kayak from both the harmful effects of the sun’s ultraviolet rays and heat. A weather-resistant tarp is a great option to ensure your kayak remains shaded, but you will want to suspend the tarp away from the kayak as direct contact can promote the development of mold and fungal growth. Other options on how to store a kayak for long-term outdoor storage include placing your kayak under a deck, roof, or covered porch.

The Wilderness Systems Heavy Duty Cover for sit-on-top kayaks is a great cover for both storage and transit protection needs. You don’t want to keep your kayak in the water during the season, so storing kayaks outdoors on mounting racks is practical during the summer. This gives you quicker access to your boat compared to indoor storage options.

To further shield your kayak from the elements, opt for Pelican’s Catch kayak cover! Designed to wrap around your boat easily, this cover provides complete protection with straps and hooks that can be used to find the perfect adjustment. With its heavy-duty waterproof construction, this cover will help keep your kayak in top condition between trips.

Green Pelican Catch Mode 110 fishing kayak

HOW TO STORE A KAYAK: WHAT NOT TO DO

The way you position your kayak for storage is critical; poor storage can cause irreparable damage. This said, you will want to avoid the following:

  1. Prolonged storage with tight straps creates pressure points that can deform your kayak.
  2. Placing your kayak on storage bars right-side-up can create dents on the bottom and deform the boat.
  3. Placing your kayak on its side on storage bars you risk denting the side that’s laying on the bars.
  4. Hanging your kayak by the handles may deform and bend it at the ends.

You are now ready to learn how to store a kayak!