How To Store A Kayak Properly – Indoor & Outdoor Storage Ideas

Kayaks are delicate and need to be handled with care. Dragging straight from the water and leaving in the garage is the worst you can do to them.

This is a bad idea for many reasons, the most notable being that it can cause hull damage, warping, infestation, theft and the list goes on.

Kayak storage can be an issue for kayak owners. It’s important to know how to store a kayak so that when the time comes and you need them again they will still be there in the perfect condition and shape.

I’ll show you how to properly store your kayak so that it lasts for years. I’ll discuss some common mistakes and point out wherein the house or garage is best, too.

Why Should I Store My Kayak? Kayak Storage Reasons

It’s no secret that owning a kayak is expensive. You might be thinking to yourself, “How can I keep this investment for years of adventures?” The best way? Have it stored properly with proper care and maintenance.

Protection From Environmental Conditions

If a kayak is not stored correctly with uneven weight distribution not, it will crumble under pressure. Dents, distortion, and deformation can be hard to identify immediately. That being said over time these can lead to performance issues when used in a variety of conditions.

One way to prevent damage from occurring is by avoiding uneven weight distribution and storing the kayak on its side, rather than flat.

Protection & Safety From Thieves

Never take your investments for granted. Kayak theft can be an issue – so precautions are key. t’s always important to keep your kayak safe and secure when not in use.

The best place to store your kayak is in a garage, house, or any locked area. If it’s not possible, make sure it’s difficult to setal.

Lock up your kayak securely with a solid structure and hide it from anyone who might want to take it. Use a chain or security cable with a padlock.

Read: How To Lock A Kayak

Where To Store A Kayak ( Indoors or Outdoors)

Determining where to store your kayak is a crucial decision. To store your kayak, you’ll need to know its dimensions. This will determine whether or not this is an inside storage option for those with minimal space available and outdoor storage if there’s ample room in their yard.

It’s important to measure both the yak and your available space before buying. There are many different sizes of kayaks, so it may take some research on what you can manage in terms of width-length measurements for each kayak that is within budget constraints as well.

How To Store A Kayak Indoors – I’d Personally Prefer It

The best way to protect your kayak is by storing it inside and away from the elements. Keeping them dry will help ensure that they stay in good shape, so you can enjoy their use as much as possible.

You could use a garage or basement to store your kayak. It’s a great option if you have the space, otherwise consider using an outside shed for storage.

How To Store A Kayak In Garage

The best way to store your kayak is in the garage. Follow these golden rules and you’ll be on track for years of use.

• Kayaks aren’t supposed to sit directly on the hull for extended periods. As a result, having them laid out with no weight will warp your kayak in just six months. The reason why is because ABS and rotomolded plastic are poor materials when it comes down broadsides against hard surfaces.
• To reduce the pressure on your kayak, you should keep it upright and against a wall. To do this most effectively use some padding under the stern for protection of kayak’s finishing.
• It’s important to keep your vessel high enough so it doesn’t Touch The Ground. Storage systems are an easy way to do this, as well as web slings and overhead pulley systems that allow you to hang your boat from anywhere in a yard or garage space. With all these different options available there really isn’t much deciding what kind of mounting system would work best on any given situation
• Make sure you distribute the weight of your kayak evenly and avoid pressure points. Whether it is stored on a storage rack or ceiling suspension hoist system, position it hull-side up with support along its length. Wide nylon straps and padded cradles that match the hull’s curve are a great option for catching your kayak. They keep it on its side, protecting it from any pressure damage inside.
• Avoid storing your kayak near heat sources such as furnaces or heaters since this could cause ithe hull to warp and deform. Try picking out a room in the house that stays relatively cool throughout summer months with an average humidity level for storage too.

How To Store A Kayak Outside

You’ve been looking for a place to store your yak, but you don’t have an indoor space? Well, that’s unfortunate because the only other option is storing it outdoors. 

If you want a good outcome, then it’s important to consider the weather conditions. You should check and see what kind of shelter your kayak will get before going any further with this project.

You may want to consider using a protective cover, especially if you don’t have shade available. A specially designed waterproof and UV resistant cover can protect your kayak from water damage as well as other elements.

It can be a good idea to cover your kayak regardless of whether the spot is in the shade or not as this will keep it safe from rain, sand storms, and even bugs.

It’s tempting to store your kayak outside, but you will need extra precautions in order for it to not get moldy.  A tarp is very helpful for this because it can shield any rain or snow coming and skid it off.

What About Storing Them At Marinas Or Kayak Outfitters

If you don’t have space to store your yak both indoors and outdoors then consider storing it in some other place. A paddling center, marina, or kayak outfitters are great options.

Livery places often have kayak and canoe storage. It’s a good idea to use these if you are also short on transportation, or need your yak at the water ready for a launch every time.

For all of your water sports gear needs, the store has what you need. They even have canoes and kayaks for rent and multiple storage solutions to protect them from harsh weather in any season.

Storing your vessel at a marina or paddling center means that you can rest assured knowing there will be professionals on hand to help with launching and preparing your vessel for storage.

Storing Kayak During Winters

Winter brings about many changes, including shorter daylight hours and lower temperatures which can damage or ruin your kayak if not stored correctly.

It is important to find shelter for your boat so that it does not get damaged by the elements. I would recommend storing a kayak indoors during wintertime if you live where temperatures drop below freezing points. Outdoor storage is possible as long as you keep in mind certain precautions, like keeping it off the ground and using a kayak cover when needed during wintertime months.

How To Hang A Kayak

Hanging a kayak has been known to be one of the best ways for people who like to store their vessels in tight spaces. Hanging them on either an interior or exterior wall, you can free up floor space and have peace of mind knowing that your boat won’t get damaged by anything else sitting below it.

Secure your kayaks in a wall-mounted storage system with ropes or brackets. The rope and hook design makes it easy for you to store the boat upside down, giving maximum floor space when not in use.

Bracket storage is a great way to store your kayak. The attached brackets on the wall allow you to keep the kayak safely, and they fold up when not in use.

If you want to save money, make your own storage system.  make sure that when hanging up the kayak it’s equally balanced and centered between each bracket or strap. Purchasing a ready-made one will be much easier than DIYing something from scratch.

Remember that it’s important not to hang your yak from the grab loops, as this can be dangerous and may cause hull warping.

Hanging your vessel from the ceiling can be dangerous and less secure because this puts too much pressure on its hulls. One of the most effective ways to store your boat is in a rack as you have easy access to take it off or put it back up again.

Best Ways To Store A Kayak – A Step By Step Guide

Before you put your kayak away for the winter, make sure to take care of any necessary precautions.

Remove The Seats & All Other Gear

While it might seem unnecessary, prepping your kayaking accessories for storage will ensure they stay in pristine condition.

Start by clearing out all the extra gear and storing it away from where you’ll be working. You might want to consider putting your paddle, spray skirt or life jacket in a separate place too- just for safety’s sake.

Make sure to give all of these gear a thorough rinse before storing. Let them dry thoroughly and find the perfect place that will not only keep out bugs but also pests like mold or mice.

This is a great time to take inventory and see if anything needs to be replaced. This will allow you plenty of opportunities to purchase new equipment, so don’t forget.

Clean The Kayak Before Storing

When it comes to preparing for storage, make sure your yak is clean and dry.

To clean your kayak, you will need soap and water. Start by cleaning the outside of both the hull as well as inside of every nook or crevice in order to remove any dirt or residue from the previous usage.

When you are done washing the yak, make sure to rinse it well and allow it to dry completely. If there is any moisture left on your craft when storing them for an extended period of time (more than a few days), the fungus can grow which will ruin their quality. so be mindful about cleaning off all excess water before putting it away.

I always use a dry towel. It’s great for speeding up the drying process and making sure that you have emptied all the water content inside the hatches.

Read: How To Wax A Kayak

Use A Kayak Storage Cover 

Kayak covers are mandatory for kayak storage, regardless if they’re stored inside or out. They work as an added layer of protection against the elements that might harm your precious boat’s hull.

After closing up the hatches and watertight compartments, wrap your kayak with a protective cover. If you have an inside sit-in kayak like me then I recommend using this same type of cockpit cover when hauling it.

Check: Best Kayak cockpit covers

Lock It Up

It’s important to store your kayak in a safe place, but it’s also crucial that you keep them secure. If not stored properly they could be damaged or lost forever.

If you’re storing your kayak outdoors, be sure to secure it with a lock.

There are locks you can get for your kayak that will allow it to stay secure. You could lock up multiple boats or attach them to a tree, post with confidence knowing everything is safe until next time.

Read: Best Kayak Locks

Final Verdict (How To Store Kayaks)

I hope now you know the best ways to store your kayaks. It will hopefully be easier for getting more life and enjoyment out of this great outdoor activity.

With so many options, you can find the right storage for your craft. Make sure that it isn’t stored flat on any surface, not exposed to extreme temperatures or direct sunlight for an extended period of time, and always locked up before leaving.