#10 Best Kayak Roof Racks for Cars Without Rails 2023

It's summertime! Spending your summer kayaking in the ocean is the best. But, having a car without rail may destroy the vacation you wish for. Don't despair! We have the best kayak roof racks for cars without rails that you can try!

👤 Written by: L. W. R. Ulla
⏳ Updated on:
📋 List: 10 items
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Discover the best kayak roof racks for cars without rails by reading the article below! If you have a car without roof rails, you don’t have to worry. But, it’s not the end of the world. There are several solutions for those of you who have cars without roof rails. You can use kayak carriers for those who don’t want additional hardware. Besides kayak carriers, you can also use a universal car rack system. Even better, a roof rack system can be your vehicle’s durable permanent cheat code.

In the end, many life hacks exist to overcome a car without rails. However, roof rack kayaks are the best! Here we include products and a buying guide to get the best kayak roof racks for cars without rails at the best price and quality. Keep reading!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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How can I carry my kayak when the car doesn't have a rail?

There are two ways you can still carry your kayak on top of your car, even without a rail.

  1. One is to attach it to the roof. Using straps or ropes, you can carry the kayak on the car without a rail. This is based on the size and weight of the kayak.
  2. And another way is to put it in the car, either in the trunk or on the floor.
  3. Or, if you have a hatchback, you don’t need to remove anything from the car to carry the kayak.

How to know the best kayak roof racks for my car?

Before buying the best kayak roof racks for cars without rails, you need to consider: the kayak, the vehicle, and the roof rack.

  • Kayak
  •  Consider the weight and the size kayak you are about to carry. Make sure you know exactly the kayak measurement because there are different sizes of roof racks for different kayak sizes.
  • Vehicle
  •  Next, after knowing the kayak, you need to know the vehicle you are using. Ensure your vehicle type so you can move on to the next step.
  • Roof rack
  •  After knowing the kayak dan the vehicle type, it will be easier for you to choose the best kayak roof rack for a car without rails. You can easily find the compatible type with the kayak size and the vehicle type.

What types of kayak roof racks are available for cars without rails?

  1. Strap-on Roof Rack
    This type of kayak is the easiest to install and use. Straps will attach to the car’s roof bar to secure the kayak.
  2. Tower-Mounted Roof Rack
    It is the best choice for taller and wider kayaks. It has a pair of spires that affix to the car’s roof bars and make the kayak securely fit.
  3. Clamps-On Roof Rack
    This is the most popular type among all. It has a pair of clamps to attach to the door frames of the car, and it helps to secure the kayak in place.

What are some things to consider to get the best kayak roof rack for cars without rail?

  • Type: You can choose between a rope, tower-mount, or clamps-on roof racks.
  • Length and durability: know the length and material to know its compatibility and durability.
  • Weight load capacity: up to how many lbs the rack can hold.
  • Ease of installation: including duration of installation, loading, and removal.

Another thing to note in considering the best kayak roof rack for cars without rails is to know whether or not the rack will leave marks on your car’s roof and the wind noise it makes when driven.

*Disclaimer. We can not guarantee that the information on this page is 100% correct. Read more
Name Rank Check Prices
Universal Roof Rack Cross-Bars 2 PC.  SEAH HARDWARE
SEAH HARDWARE
Universal Roof Rack Cross-Bars 2 PC.
#1 Amazon Shopabunda.com eBay
Universal Inflatable Soft Roof Rack Bars  HandiRack
HandiRack
Universal Inflatable Soft Roof Rack Bars
#2 Amazon Handiworld.com eBay
JayLow Rooftop Mounted Kayak Rack Yakima
Yakima
JayLow Rooftop Mounted Kayak Rack
#3 Amazon Rackattack.com eBay
RCB-3745-U Universal Strap-Attached Roof Crossbar Apex Legends
Apex Legends
RCB-3745-U Universal Strap-Attached Roof Crossbar
#4 Amazon Walmart.ca eBay
Downloader Folding J-Style Universal Car Rack Malone
Malone
Downloader Folding J-Style Universal Car Rack
#5 Amazon Cabelas.com eBay
VersaRail Universal Cross Bars  Malone
Malone
VersaRail Universal Cross Bars
#6 Amazon Basspro.com eBay
Roof Rack Pads. 38
Best Marine and Outdoor
Roof Rack Pads. 38" Universal Roof Rack
#7 Amazon Anglingsailor.com eBay
Nautic 570 Series Kayak Rhino Rack
Rhino Rack
Nautic 570 Series Kayak
#8 Amazon Rhinorack.com eBay
Universal Car Roof Rack Stanley
Stanley
Universal Car Roof Rack
#9 Amazon Tractorsupply.com eBay
Wrap-Rax Soft Surfboard Roof Rack DORSAL
DORSAL
Wrap-Rax Soft Surfboard Roof Rack
#10 Amazon Walmart.com eBay

10 List of Best Kayak Roof Racks for Cars Without Rails

  • SEAH HARDWARE Universal Roof Rack Cross-Bars 2 PC.
    Have a problem
    with this product?
    #1

    SEAH HARDWARE Universal Roof Rack Cross-Bars 2 PC.

    Best kayak roof rack from heavy-duty steel material

    1  experts agree 1  experts disagree
    WHY WE LIKE IT:

    On the first list, we have the Universal Roof Rack Cross-Bars for your car that does not have a rail. Cross bars are the perfect option for almost every vehicle without rails. The cross bars can easily attach to your car roof if you have a car with no rail.

    Likewise, for any cross bars, this type of roof rack is easy to install and take off since it is adjustable too. Even better, the cross bars from SEAH HARDWARE use heavy-duty steel tubing as their material construction, so they are safe and robust. All in all, the cross bars will easily fit and secure your kayak.

    Pros (reasons to buy)

    Durable material construction
    Universally fit any car
    Installation is easy

    Cons (reasons to avoid)

    Wind noise when riding

    What other experts liked

    Very easy to use. We have a Ford transit connect with no roof rails. It worked perfectly.
    Jonathan

    What other experts didn't like

    They make a lot of wind noise when driving. The bottom of these will cause cosmetic damage to your roof
    Amazon Customer
  • HandiRack Universal Inflatable Soft Roof Rack Bars
    Have a problem
    with this product?
    #2

    HandiRack Universal Inflatable Soft Roof Rack Bars

    Best kayak roof rack with minimal wind noise

    1  experts agree 1  experts disagree
    WHY WE LIKE IT:

    There are many things you will love about owning the Soft Roof Rack Bar from HandiRack. Yes, as the name suggests, it is an inflatable roof rack bar that will not leave scratches on the roof of your vehicle. In addition, this is a kayak roof rack without rail that will not produce much wind noise. This foam block reduces vibration and sound evenly. In addition, this soft roof rack bar is also easy to use for any model year vehicle. You will get tie-down straps, bow, and stern lines in one purchase of this product.

    Pros (reasons to buy)

    Padded foam blocks
    Universally fit any car
    Complete set all you need

    Cons (reasons to avoid)

    Make your car a little bit wet when raining

    What other experts liked

    The rings on top are sturdy and spaced out well enough that we were able to securely carry both kayaks on top of my Toyota C-HR.
    MsMirDir

    What other experts didn't like

    I read the reviews about the seal of the cars being affected when the weather is raining.
    Jessica
  • Yakima JayLow Rooftop Mounted Kayak Rack
    Have a problem
    with this product?
    #3

    Yakima JayLow Rooftop Mounted Kayak Rack

    Best kayak roof rack for two

    1  experts agree 1  experts disagree
    WHY WE LIKE IT:

    If you want to go on vacation with your kayak with your partner or friends, you can use the JayLow J-Cradle Kayak Roof Rack from Yakima because this is the type of roof rack that can fit two kayaks at once. With a load capacity of up to 110 pounds, two average-sized kayaks can be loaded easily.

    This Jaylow Kayak Roof Rack also has a minimum crossbar spread up to 24 inches. Only for $240, you can get your car SKS (same key system), heavy-duty straps, and bow stern tie-downs. Moreover, you do not have to worry about scratching since each contact point of this roof rack has an extra pad. You can fold it flat when you are not using this roof rack to carry your kayak.

    Pros (reasons to buy)

    Easily adjustable
    Foldable roof rack
    Two kayak load capacity

    Cons (reasons to avoid)

    Exorbitant price

    What other experts liked

    Loading up was easy with the built-in ramps and the straps were of good quality which made securing the yak an easy process.
    Sterling Smith

    What other experts didn't like

    My only complaint about this kit is regarding the included straps. I don't think they are sufficient.
    Spencer
  • Apex Legends RCB-3745-U Universal Strap-Attached Roof Crossbar
    Have a problem
    with this product?
    #4

    Apex Legends RCB-3745-U Universal Strap-Attached Roof Crossbar

    Best kayak roof rack with a 150-pound weight load

    1  experts agree 1  experts disagree
    WHY WE LIKE IT:

    47.75 inches long and 4.875 inches wide is the measure of the Universal Crossbars from APEX LEGENDS. This sturdy kayak roof rack without rail will help you carry your kayak to where you want to go. Even better, it has a powder coat to make it resist rust and corrosion more durably.

    Moreover, since this roof rack uses steel, it can hold kayaks up to 150-pounds. Using straps, you need to wrap them over the roof and under the car’s roof so that this rack can firmly and sturdily support your kayak load.

    Pros (reasons to buy)

    Durable steel material
    150-pound load capacity
    Strap and gator clips are included

    Cons (reasons to avoid)

    Short strap length

    What other experts liked

    The strap-through-cabin design seems stronger than the clip style and at 6' tall I have enough headroom for the straps that go through the cabin.
    Jarrett

    What other experts didn't like

    They are just a bit too small, so they will never be a problem to keep attached.
    SHEILA
  • Malone Downloader Folding J-Style Universal Car Rack
    Have a problem
    with this product?
    #5

    Malone Downloader Folding J-Style Universal Car Rack

    Best kayak roof rack to protect your car roof

    1  experts agree 1  experts disagree
    WHY WE LIKE IT:

    If you need a kayak carrier that works well, is easy, and doesn’t leave scratches on your roof, then this J-Style Roof Rack from Malone is an option not to be missed! As a kayak roof rack without rails, this product has everything for your without rails car.

    First, it is a universal type roof rack. Any vehicle model can use this roof rack to transport kayaks. Secondly, its installation is very easy, and its use makes it easy for you to raise or lower the kayak. This is because it uses loading ramps. Next, it has oversized padding that will protect the silky texture of your car.

    Pros (reasons to buy)

    Oversized padding
    Universal mounting design
    Easy loading and unloading

    Cons (reasons to avoid)

    Limited to small kayak

    What other experts liked

    The attachment of these racks to the bar is really nice. It's a single HEAVY steel strap, contoured to hold round, square, or elongated factory bars.
    Jenifyyr A.

    What other experts didn't like

    The plastic piece at the top to hold the strap up sometimes will pop off.
    J. Nick
  • Malone VersaRail Universal Cross Bars
    Have a problem
    with this product?
    #6

    Malone VersaRail Universal Cross Bars

    Best installation among kayak roof racks without rail

    1  experts agree 1  experts disagree
    WHY WE LIKE IT:

    Experience the ease of transporting and unloading your kayak without hassle using the VersaRail Roof Rack by Malone. This type of kayak roof rack without rail uses a bare rail system. So, the installation does not require the help of other tools.

    Moreover, to hold the kayak, it has 75 lb pull strength vacuum tower bases with 135 lb load capacity. So, it can easily lift kayaks or any load securely. Plus, it will load everything stably and safely because of its 1.5″ wide safety attachment. Overall, it has a quick-easy installation process among the best kayak roof racks for cars without rails.

    Pros (reasons to buy)

    Strong buckle and strap
    Installation is fairly easy
    Corrosion-resistant

    Cons (reasons to avoid)

    Limited vehicle fit

    What other experts liked

    The straps and metal buckles are very strong. The straps do not vibrate or cause noise as you speed along the road.

    What other experts didn't like

    Later I discovered that apparently in the instructions it says it was not suitable for 2 door cars.
    David J. Sylvia
  • Best Marine and Outdoor Roof Rack Pads. 38
    Have a problem
    with this product?
    #7

    Best Marine and Outdoor Roof Rack Pads. 38" Universal Roof Rack

    Best kayak roof rack without rail for XL kayak

    1  experts agree 1  experts disagree
    WHY WE LIKE IT:

    A good quality rack system is a must for any avid kayaker. It should deliver proper strength to carry the kayak without hurting the vehicle. Right now, the Best Marine and Outdoor has the Roof Rack Pads with all the features that an avid kayaker needs.

    Moreover, if you own any car with 48 inches roof like SUV or van, this is the rack system you need. Eventually, the long strap of up to 15 feet will prevent you from hearing any terrifying wind noise when riding the car. Even an extra large kayak will be carried securely. A soft and durable foam cushion will also protect your car from getting any scratches. It uses 600D polyester fabric and shock-resistant EPE foam as the main material.

    Pros (reasons to buy)

    Fairly easy installation
    Long strap for wide roof
    Protect the car from scratch

    Cons (reasons to avoid)

    The anchor point is not included

    What other experts liked

    The padded foam is great to prevent scratches on the roof and especially on the sides of the roof. It is a pretty solid soft rack at a great price.
    hydrocynus

    What other experts didn't like

    It doesn't come with anchor points for the vehicle to tie down to the hood and trunk.
    Gregory Koster
  • Rhino Rack Nautic 570 Series Kayak
    Have a problem
    with this product?
    #8

    Rhino Rack Nautic 570 Series Kayak

    Best kayak roof rack to carry your kayak in two ways

    1  experts agree 1  experts disagree
    WHY WE LIKE IT:

    Load your kayak differently with the Nautic 570 Series Kayak/Canoe Carrier, as it offers two ways to carry a kayak; making it side loading or rear loading. This is the versatile, railless kayak roof rack for you. All thanks to its front and rear mounts that can easily fit various hull widths and shapes.

    In addition, this rack has materials resistant to all damage causes such as UV, water, and rust. This kayak is also very durable and sturdy. You can easily carry touring kayaks, inflatable kayaks, fishing kayaks, sit-on-top kayaks, fiberglass, and even canoes. Make it a side load or rear load, and even if your car doesn’t have rails, you can carry all your kayaks safely with this kayak carrier from Rhino Rack.

    Pros (reasons to buy)

    3-year warranty
    Keep the kayak secure
    Durable

    Cons (reasons to avoid)

    Unfit to aero-style crossbars

    What other experts liked

    These cradles work fantastic easy to install and remove highly suggest that you do not want to damage your kayak.

    What other experts didn't like

    Loading kayak turned out to be nowhere near as clean as they make it, but sloppy-as-it-may-be.
  • Stanley Universal Car Roof Rack
    Have a problem
    with this product?
    #9

    Stanley Universal Car Roof Rack

    Best lightweight kayak roof rack for cars without rail

    1  experts agree 1  experts disagree
    WHY WE LIKE IT:

    For loading your heavy kayak, you can trust the Stanley Universal Roof Rack Pad + Luggage Carrier System. This item has two portable cargo pads that will hold your fishing kayak, touring kayak, or inflatable kayak securely without leaving any damage on your car roof. Moreover, it can haul the kayak with a weight of up to 110 lb.

    Not only does it come with a portable roof pad, but it also has two heavy-duty safety straps with extra length. The 19.6 ft strap will be more than enough to wrap around the cargo pad, your car roof, and the kayak securely. Most importantly, it has a metal cam-buckle with neoprene padding as well as 2 tie-downs with durable webbing to give you safe riding while carrying the kayak.

    Pros (reasons to buy)

    Resistant to weather
    Portable cargo pad
    Lengthy strap and durable buckle

    Cons (reasons to avoid)

    Plastic-encased buckle

    What other experts liked

    I used this system to transport my 9-foot, 39-pound kayak, I love that it's simple, light, and really secure.
    Sue of Sherrill

    What other experts didn't like

    When raining, the straps are wicked causing the rain to be absorbed and soak into the straps inside the car.
    Ken Fogelberg
  • DORSAL Wrap-Rax Soft Surfboard Roof Rack
    Have a problem
    with this product?
    #10

    DORSAL Wrap-Rax Soft Surfboard Roof Rack

    Best universal fit kayak roof rack for car without rails

    1  experts agree 1  experts disagree
    WHY WE LIKE IT:

    Just like vacations never last forever, you might want a car rack system that can adapt to lift your kayak. That’s right, this Wrap-Rax Soft Roof Rack from DORSAL does just that for you and your rail-less car. Moreover, it can also accommodate 1-3 shortboards, 2 longboards, or 1 stand-up paddle board.

    How is that possible? The answer is using a 20-28 inch soft rack with quality EPE foam. This foam is wrapped in heat-resistant nylon material, making it weatherproof. Removing and installing this car rack system is very easy, just by using straps and buckles, you can install and lift the kayak as you wish.

    Pros (reasons to buy)

    Easy to install and remove
    Strong, soft pad
    Universal fit

    Cons (reasons to avoid)

    Need extra strap to secure

    What other experts liked

    It’s super easy to install! And super easy to use! it’s held up amazingly to 55 miles an hour drive!
    M. Morgan

    What other experts didn't like

    The straps are not sunproof. The straps will deteriorate and will rip off if you leave them out in the sunlight.
    Micah Alofaituli

Conclusion: Best Kayak Roof Racks for Cars Without Rails

Carrying various kayak hulls, including sit-on-top kayaks, fishing kayaks, touring kayaks, inflatable kayaks & canoes, is possible even if you have a car without rails. Instead, you can use a strap-on, tower-mount, or clamp-on car racks to carry kayaks.

However, you need to consider the kayak’s size, weight, and durability. They are just some of the tip of the iceberg that you must contemplate to get the best kayak roof rack for cars without rails. Hopefully, you’ll be kayaking your rail-less vehicle soon!

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