Can you fit a kayak in an Equinox?
As an auto service expert with years of experience, I often get asked about the practicality of transporting various items in different vehicles. One common question is whether a kayak can fit in a Chevrolet Equinox. In this article, we will explore the dimensions of the Equinox, the size of typical kayaks, and some tips for safely transporting your kayak.
Understanding the Chevrolet Equinox
The Chevrolet Equinox is a compact SUV known for its spacious interior and versatility. It offers ample cargo space, making it a popular choice for outdoor enthusiasts. The rear seats can be folded down to create a larger cargo area, which is essential when considering transporting larger items like kayaks.
Kayak Dimensions
Kayaks come in various sizes, but most recreational kayaks range from 10 to 14 feet in length and about 24 to 30 inches in width. It's important to measure your specific kayak to ensure it will fit in your vehicle.
Can You Fit a Kayak in an Equinox?
Yes, you can fit a kayak in a Chevrolet Equinox, but there are a few considerations:
- Length: The cargo area of the Equinox, with the rear seats folded down, typically measures around 63 inches in length. This means that shorter kayaks (up to about 10 feet) can fit inside, while longer kayaks may need to be transported on a roof rack.
- Width: The width of the cargo area is generally sufficient for most kayaks, but you should ensure that the kayak can be securely positioned without obstructing the driver's view.
- Securing the Kayak: If you choose to transport the kayak inside the vehicle, make sure to secure it properly to prevent movement during transit. Use straps or bungee cords to keep it in place.
Alternative Transportation Methods
If your kayak is too long to fit inside the Equinox, consider these alternatives:
- Roof Rack: Installing a roof rack is a great option for transporting longer kayaks. Ensure that the kayak is securely strapped down and that you follow all safety guidelines.
- Trailer: For multiple kayaks or larger models, a small trailer may be the best solution. This allows for easy transport without compromising the interior space of your vehicle.
Conclusion
In summary, while you can fit a kayak in a Chevrolet Equinox, it largely depends on the size of the kayak and how you choose to transport it. Always prioritize safety and ensure that your kayak is secured properly, whether inside the vehicle or on a roof rack. Happy paddling!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most stable kayak design?
Generally speaking, the wider a kayak is, the more stable it will be. A wide kayak is far harder to capsize because there's more volume either side of you. This means that you'll need to lean far more to one side in order to capsize the vessel.
Do you need a license for a 10 ft kayak?
You can paddle your canoe or kayak in California without the burden of licensing or registration, as long as it's not motorized.
Can I transport a kayak without a kayak rack?
Our favorite solution for if you don't have a roof rack, cross bars, or anything of the sort on your car, is to secure your kayaks by running the ratchet straps through the inside of your car.
Can you put a kayak on any car?
Yes. I've carried kayaks and canoes on cars and trucks for many years. Mostly used Yakima racks. You can also buy Thule racks. The way most of these racks are made is to use clips that fit different vehicles so you can use the same racks, just buy different clips for the racks to fit you particular vehicle.
How to transport a 10 ft kayak?
Put a kayak on a vehicle: The easiest way is with the help of a friend. You'll pick the boat up by each end and place it on the rack. If you're solo, there are a couple of options depending on your rack system. Tie down a kayak: Using cam straps is the simplest and fastest way to secure the boat.
How far can a kayak stick out of a car?
How Much Can a Kayak Overhang? The general rule to remember is the federal '3-4-4 rule'. This stipulates that a kayak can protrude 3 feet in front of the vehicle, 4 inches on either side, and 4 feet behind.
What happened to Equinox kayaks?
KLO and GSC Technologies merged in April 2017 after both companies were purchased by Boca Raton-based New Water Capital, a private equity firm. GSC Technologies had manufactured Future Beach, Patriot, Swiss Cargo, Viper, Heritage Kayak and Equinox kayaks, the production of which switched to Muskegon with the merger.
Why are kayaks unstable?
What Makes a Kayak More or Less Tippy? Kayak stability is driven by several factors. The design of the kayak, the skill level of the paddler, environmental conditions, and even the distribution of weight all contribute to a kayak's tippiness.
Can you put a kayak inside an SUV?
Simply position the front of the kayak on the rear of the vehicle; move to the rear of the kayak and push it up to load. To better protect the vehicle and kayak, the optional MPG350 Stinger Kayak Load Assist is available separately.
Is it better to transport a kayak up or down?
If you're transporting a sit-in kayak, you can easily do so upside down. That way, it will provide a smooth and more aerodynamic profile as you drive!
