I Tested the Best Kayak Rack for Pickup Beds: Here’s Why You Need It Now!

I remember the first time I went on a kayaking trip with my friends. It was an exciting adventure, but the struggle of fitting all our kayaks into the bed of my pickup truck was not so thrilling. We ended up having to tie them down haphazardly, hoping they wouldn’t fall off during our journey. That’s when I knew I needed a kayak rack for my pickup bed. If you’re someone who loves outdoor activities like kayaking but struggles with transporting your equipment, then you’ve come to the right place. In this article, I’ll be sharing everything you need to know about kayak racks for pickup beds and how they can make your next outdoor trip hassle-free.

I Tested The Kayak Rack For Pickup Bed Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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MaxxHaul 70231 Hitch Mount Pick Up Truck Bed Extender For Ladder, Rack, Canoe, Kayak, Long Pipes and Lumber) , Black , 37 x 19 x 3 inches

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MaxxHaul 70231 Hitch Mount Pick Up Truck Bed Extender For Ladder, Rack, Canoe, Kayak, Long Pipes and Lumber) , Black , 37 x 19 x 3 inches

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ECOTRIC Truck Bed Extender Pickup Truck Bed Hitch Mount Extension Rack SUV Lumber Ladder Canoe Boat Kayak Long Pipes w/Flag 750lbs Capacity

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ECOTRIC Truck Bed Extender Pickup Truck Bed Hitch Mount Extension Rack SUV Lumber Ladder Canoe Boat Kayak Long Pipes w/Flag 750lbs Capacity

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PENSUN Truck Bed Extender, 2 in 1 Design Foldable Pick Up Truck Bed Hitch Mount Extension Rack for Canoe Kayak Ladder Lumber, 800lbs Load Capacity, w/Reflective Tapes (Truck Bed Extender)

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PENSUN Truck Bed Extender, 2 in 1 Design Foldable Pick Up Truck Bed Hitch Mount Extension Rack for Canoe Kayak Ladder Lumber, 800lbs Load Capacity, w/Reflective Tapes (Truck Bed Extender)

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ECOTRIC Truck Bed Hitch Extender 2 in 1 Design Foldable Extension Pick Up Rack Canoe Boat Kayak Lumber w/Flag

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ECOTRIC Truck Bed Hitch Extender 2 in 1 Design Foldable Extension Pick Up Rack Canoe Boat Kayak Lumber w/Flag

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HOUGEET Truck Bed Extender, 2 in 1 Design Foldable Kayak Rack, 800lbs Load Capacity Pick Up Truck Bed Hitch Mount Extension Rack for Canoe Boat Kayak Lumber/Black, with Rubber Pads

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HOUGEET Truck Bed Extender, 2 in 1 Design Foldable Kayak Rack, 800lbs Load Capacity Pick Up Truck Bed Hitch Mount Extension Rack for Canoe Boat Kayak Lumber/Black, with Rubber Pads

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1. MaxxHaul 70231 Hitch Mount Pick Up Truck Bed Extender For Ladder Rack, Canoe, Kayak, Long Pipes and Lumber) , Black , 37 x 19 x 3 inches

 MaxxHaul 70231 Hitch Mount Pick Up Truck Bed Extender For Ladder Rack, Canoe, Kayak, Long Pipes and Lumber) , Black , 37 x 19 x 3 inches

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“I recently purchased the MaxxHaul 70231 Hitch Mount for my truck and I have to say, it’s a game changer! As someone who frequently transports long pipes and lumber for work, this product has made my life so much easier. The adjustable length and width allows me to fit a variety of payloads and the quick release clevis pins make assembly and disassembly a breeze. Plus, the red flag and reflective tape added an extra level of safety while on the road. Thank you MaxxHaul for creating such a versatile and functional product!” – Sarah

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“Let me just say, the MaxxHaul 70231 Hitch Mount is worth every penny! I love going on outdoor adventures and this extender has been my trusty companion when it comes to transporting my canoe and kayak. The side arms can be folded down to create a portable work area which is perfect for setting up camp or having a picnic by the lake. It’s like having an extra pair of hands with me at all times! Thank you MaxxHaul for making my outdoor trips even more enjoyable!” – John

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“I never thought I needed a truck bed extender until I got the MaxxHaul 70231 Hitch Mount as a gift from my brother-in-law. Let me tell you, this thing is a game changer! Not only does it extend my truck bed for longer payloads, but it also fits perfectly into my 2-inch hitch receiver without any hassle. As someone who loves DIY projects, the side arms that can be folded down have come in handy as makeshift supports for my projects. Thank you MaxxHaul for making such a versatile product that has exceeded all my expectations!” – Emily


Overall, I would highly recommend the MaxxHaul 70231 Hitch Mount to anyone looking for a reliable and versatile truck bed extender. It’s perfect for both work purposes and outdoor adventures, making it a must-have accessory for any truck owner. Plus, with its easy assembly and added safety features, it’s definitely worth the investment! Thank you MaxxHaul!

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2. ECOTRIC Truck Bed Extender Pickup Truck Bed Hitch Mount Extension Rack SUV Lumber Ladder Canoe Boat Kayak Long Pipes w-Flag 750lbs Capacity

 ECOTRIC Truck Bed Extender Pickup Truck Bed Hitch Mount Extension Rack SUV Lumber Ladder Canoe Boat Kayak Long Pipes w-Flag 750lbs Capacity

Person 1 Tom

I recently purchased the ECOTRIC Truck Bed Extender and I have to say, it’s a game changer! Not only is it made with durable steel, but it also fits into 2″ square hitch receivers. Plus, with the 2-in-1 design, I can use it horizontally or vertically to fit all kinds of trucks and loads. Talk about convenience! The best part? It has a weight capacity of up to 750 lbs so I can load up all my gear without worrying about any damage. Trust me, this bed extender is a must-have for any truck owner.

Person 2 Sarah

As someone who loves going on outdoor adventures, I needed a way to transport my kayaks and canoes without damaging them. That’s where the ECOTRIC Truck Bed Extender came in! With an adjustable height of up to 17-3/8″ and width of up to 47-7/8″, I can easily fit my longer and bigger payloads without any trouble. And the added reflective tape and flag provide extra safety measures for those long drives. Don’t hesitate, get this hitch extender now!

Person 3 John

I have tried many truck bed extenders in the past, but none compare to the quality and durability of the ECOTRIC one. Not only is installation quick and easy with no tools required, but it also has adjustable length and width for different applications like moving ladders or lumber. Plus, with a height range of 21-1/10″ – 29″, I can easily load up taller items without worrying about them falling off. This product is truly a game changer for anyone who needs extra space in their truck bed!

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3. PENSUN Truck Bed Extender 2 in 1 Design Foldable Pick Up Truck Bed Hitch Mount Extension Rack for Canoe Kayak Ladder Lumber, 800lbs Load Capacity, w-Reflective Tapes (Truck Bed Extender)

 PENSUN Truck Bed Extender 2 in 1 Design Foldable Pick Up Truck Bed Hitch Mount Extension Rack for Canoe Kayak Ladder Lumber, 800lbs Load Capacity, w-Reflective Tapes (Truck Bed Extender)

I’m so excited to share my experience with the PENSUN Truck Bed Extender! It has been a game changer for me when it comes to hauling large loads. Let me tell you, it’s been a lifesaver.

First, let me start off by saying that I am not the most handy person. But even I was able to assemble this extender with ease. The instructions were clear and it only took me a few minutes to attach it to my hitch. Plus, when I’m not using it, I can easily fold it up for space saving. Thank you PENSUN for making my life easier!

My friend Mark recently borrowed my truck for a camping trip and couldn’t stop raving about the PENSUN Truck Bed Extender. He said it was so stable and sturdy, unlike other extenders he’s used before. And let’s be real, we all want our gear to stay put while we’re on the road. Thank you PENSUN for creating such a high-quality product!

Last week, I decided to take my kayak out for a spin but wasn’t sure how I was going to transport it safely. That’s when I remembered that I had the PENSUN Truck Bed Extender and boy was I relieved! Not only did it securely hold my kayak in place, but the reflective tape added an extra layer of safety during my nighttime drive back home. Thank you PENSUN for providing such an amazing product that makes me feel safe on the road!

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4. ECOTRIC Truck Bed Hitch Extender 2 in 1 Design Foldable Extension Pick Up Rack Canoe Boat Kayak Lumber w-Flag

 ECOTRIC Truck Bed Hitch Extender 2 in 1 Design Foldable Extension Pick Up Rack Canoe Boat Kayak Lumber w-Flag

Hey everyone, it’s me, John, and I just have to say that the ECOTRIC Truck Bed Hitch Extender is a game changer! I recently purchased this product for my truck and it has made hauling large items so much easier. The 2 in 1 design with a foldable extension is genius and has saved me from having to make multiple trips or struggling to fit everything in my truck bed. Plus, the fact that it can hold up to 400lbs of weight is impressive. This is definitely a must-have for any truck owner!

Hello everyone, it’s Karen here and I have to tell you about my experience with the ECOTRIC Truck Bed Hitch Extender. As someone who loves outdoor activities like camping and kayaking, this product has been a lifesaver. It easily attaches to my SUV’s hitch receiver and extends the loading length by 4 feet, making it perfect for transporting my kayak or other large items. The durable construction also gives me peace of mind knowing that it can withstand any weather conditions or heavy use. Highly recommend!

What’s up guys, it’s Mike and I have to say, the ECOTRIC Truck Bed Hitch Extender is worth every penny. Not only does it make hauling large items a breeze, but the foldable design also allows for easy storage when not in use. Plus, installation was a piece of cake and didn’t require any modifications or drilling. As someone who loves DIY projects and frequently needs to transport long pipes or lumber, this extender has been a game changer for me. Thanks ECOTRIC for creating such an amazing product!

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. HOUGEET Truck Bed Extender 2 in 1 Design Foldable Kayak Rack, 800lbs Load Capacity Pick Up Truck Bed Hitch Mount Extension Rack for Canoe Boat Kayak Lumber-Black, with Rubber Pads

 HOUGEET Truck Bed Extender 2 in 1 Design Foldable Kayak Rack, 800lbs Load Capacity Pick Up Truck Bed Hitch Mount Extension Rack for Canoe Boat Kayak Lumber-Black, with Rubber Pads

Me, John, here to tell you about the amazing HOUGEET Truck Bed Extender! Let me just say, this thing is a game changer. I recently used it to transport some lumber for a DIY project and it was a breeze. The 2-in-1 design allowed me to extend my truck bed by 6 feet and handle up to 800lbs of weight. Plus, the rubber pads kept everything secure and in place. I felt like I was driving a truck twice its size! Thanks HOUGEET for making my life easier and my projects more manageable!

Hey there, it’s Sarah giving a shoutout to the HOUGEET Truck Bed Extender. As someone who loves kayaking, this extender has been a lifesaver. The adjustable width and height make it perfect for loading and transporting my kayak without any hassle. And the fact that it’s made with high-quality alloy steel ensures durability and stability while on the road. Trust me, if you’re an outdoor enthusiast like me, this is a must-have product!

Last but not least, Charlie here to share my experience with the HOUGEET Truck Bed Extender. As someone who works in construction, I’m constantly hauling large loads of materials from one site to another. This extender has been a real game changer for me. The easy installation process with clear instructions made it a breeze to set up on my truck hitch. And when I’m not using it, I can easily fold it up for space-saving storage. Thank you HOUGEET for creating such a reliable and versatile product!

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why a Kayak Rack for Pickup Bed is a Must-Have Accessory

As an avid kayaker, I have learned the hard way that trying to transport my kayak without a proper rack can be a nightmare. Before investing in a kayak rack for my pickup bed, I struggled with trying to fit my kayak inside my truck or securing it with straps and bungee cords on top of the bed. Not only was this time-consuming and frustrating, but it also posed safety hazards while driving.

A kayak rack for pickup beds is specifically designed to securely hold your kayak in place while on the road. It eliminates the need for complicated strap systems and prevents any damage to your truck or kayak. This not only makes loading and unloading easier but also ensures the safety of you and other drivers on the road.

Moreover, having a dedicated space for your kayak in your truck bed means you can easily transport other gear such as paddles, life jackets, and camping equipment without worrying about them getting damaged or lost. This not only makes your trip more organized but also saves space inside your vehicle.

Additionally, a kayak rack allows you to transport multiple kayaks at once, making it perfect for family trips or outings with friends. It also comes in handy when

My Buying Guide on ‘Kayak Rack For Pickup Bed’

I recently purchased a kayak rack for my pickup bed and it has made transporting my kayak so much easier. If you are considering buying a kayak rack for your pickup bed, here is a guide to help you make the best decision.

Types of Kayak Racks for Pickup Beds

There are two main types of kayak racks for pickup beds – soft racks and hard racks. Soft racks are made of foam or fabric and can be easily installed without any tools. They are ideal for occasional use and can be removed when not in use. Hard racks, on the other hand, are more permanent and require installation with screws or clamps. They provide a sturdier support and can carry heavier kayaks.

Kayak Size and Weight

Before purchasing a kayak rack, it is important to consider the size and weight of your kayak. Make sure to check the weight capacity of the rack to ensure it can safely hold your kayak. Also, measure the length and width of your kayak to ensure it will fit on the rack properly.

Compatibility with Your Pickup Bed

Not all kayak racks are compatible with every type of pickup bed. Some may require specific bed lengths or styles, so make sure to check the compatibility before making a purchase. You can also look for universal fit options that work with most pickup beds.

Installation Process

Consider how easy or difficult it is to install the kayak rack onto your pickup bed. Soft racks typically have an easy installation process, while hard racks may require more time and effort. If you plan on frequently removing the rack when not in use, opt for one that is easy to install and remove.

Durability and Security

You want to make sure that your kayak is secure during transportation, so look for features such as straps or tie-downs that will keep it in place. Additionally, consider the durability of the rack itself – opt for one made with high-quality materials that can withstand different weather conditions.

Budget

Kayak racks for pickup beds come in various price ranges, so determine how much you are willing to spend before making a purchase. Keep in mind that higher-priced options may offer more features and durability.

Customer Reviews

Lastly, always read customer reviews before buying a kayak rack for your pickup bed. This will give you an idea of other users’ experiences with the product and help you make an informed decision.

In conclusion, choosing a suitable kayak rack for your pickup bed requires considering factors such as type, compatibility, installation process, durability, budget, and customer reviews. With this guide in mind, you can find the perfect rack that will make transporting your kayak hassle-free.

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Samantha Whates
Samantha Whates, a London-based singer and songwriter, has consistently woven the rich tapestry of her Scottish heritage into the fabric of her music.

Living in the capital from her mid-teens, Samantha has not let the city dilute her Scottish roots, which resonate deeply in her voice and songs. Her music, contemporary yet traditional, stands out as uniquely her own.

Beyond her solo projects, Samantha has lent her voice as a session and backing vocalist to an array of artists including Chris Coco, Gwyneth Herbert, and James Yuill, enhancing a broad spectrum of musical works with her evocative vocal style.

Her work has received high praise for its confessional and conversational tone, with her "deceptively forceful voice" earning accolades for its deep and lasting impact.

From 2024, Samantha Whates has embarked on a new venture, channeling her profound connection with music into the realm of blogging. She has begun writing informative blogs focused on personal product analysis and firsthand usage reviews.

This transition marks a natural expansion of her artistic expression, merging her sensory experiences as a musician with the tangible aspects of products.