Hauling Kayaks with a Fifth Wheel Camper: Your Guide

Last Updated on July 18, 2026 by Jaxon Mike

Yes, you can haul kayaks with a fifth-wheel camper, and many RVers find it a practical way to bring their favorite watercraft along. The key is choosing the right rack system that safely secures your kayaks without interfering with your camper’s operation or your towing setup. We found that proper weight distribution and sturdy construction are essential for a safe journey.

Transporting kayaks alongside your fifth wheel opens up a world of paddling adventures at every destination. You’ll want to consider options like rooftop carriers or specialized racks designed for RVs. Ensuring your kayaks are firmly attached is vital to prevent shifting or damage during travel. Many owners also look for racks that allow easy loading and unloading of their boats.

• Choose racks designed for fifth-wheel campers.
• Ensure kayaks are securely fastened.
• Distribute weight evenly to maintain towing stability.
• Check local regulations for kayak transport.

Let’s dive into the different methods and considerations for safely hauling your kayaks with your fifth-wheel camper.

Transporting Your Kayaks with a Fifth Wheel Camper

Bringing your kayaks along on your RV adventures is a fantastic idea. You can paddle beautiful lakes and rivers wherever you roam. Hauling them with your fifth wheel requires careful planning. You need the right equipment to keep your boats safe. This also ensures your RV remains stable and legal on the road. Let’s look at how you can achieve this.

Understanding Your Fifth Wheel’s Carrying Capacity

Before you even think about kayaks, let’s talk weight. Your fifth wheel has a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). This is the maximum weight your RV can safely handle. This includes everything inside, on top, and attached to it. You also have a tongue weight or pin weight. This is the downward force your trailer puts on the hitch. Adding racks and kayaks will add to this. You must stay within these limits.

Calculating Your Available Weight Capacity

You can find your RV’s GVWR on a sticker, usually inside the driver’s door jamb or on a specification plate. Also, check your owner’s manual. To figure out how much weight you can add, you’ll need your RV’s Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW). This is its current loaded weight. Subtract the GVW from the GVWR. The result is your available cargo carrying capacity.

For example, if your GVWR is 15,000 lbs and your loaded RV weighs 13,000 lbs, you have 2,000 lbs of wiggle room. Remember, this capacity is for everything you add: water, gear, passengers, and your kayak setup. Always err on the side of caution. We found that underestimating weight is a common RV mistake.

Pin Weight Considerations

Your hitch weight is also critical. Racks and kayaks mounted on the rear of your fifth wheel can significantly affect your pin weight. Some racks add weight directly over the rear axle. Others might extend behind the camper. This can shift the balance. You want to avoid making the pin weight too light or too heavy. Check your truck’s towing capacity and payload limits too. These are often overlooked but vital.

Choosing the Right Kayak Rack System

The type of rack you choose is perhaps the most important decision. Not all racks are created equal, especially for larger RVs like fifth wheels. We’ve seen several popular options that work well.

Rear-Mounted Rack Systems

These racks attach to the back of your fifth wheel. They are often designed to carry bikes or cargo boxes. Some can be modified or are specifically built to hold kayaks. A common style uses a ladder-like frame that secures to the RV’s rear wall. You then attach kayak cradles or straps to this frame.

• Pros: Relatively easy to load and unload compared to roof racks. Keeps kayaks away from the roof, which can be high on fifth wheels.
• Cons: Adds significant weight to the rear of the RV, potentially affecting pin weight. Can make the RV longer, impacting maneuverability. Some rear walls may not be strong enough for heavy loads without reinforcement.

Ladder-Style Racks

Some fifth wheels come with a built-in ladder. You might be able to adapt this for kayak transport. This usually involves securing kayak cradles or a flat platform to the ladder rungs. You then strap your kayaks down tightly.

• Pros: Utilizes existing structure, potentially saving cost.
• Cons: Ladders are not always designed for heavy, dynamic loads. Kayaks can obstruct ladder access. Secure attachment can be tricky.

Custom or DIY Solutions

Many RVers get creative. Some build their own racks. Others have them custom-made by welding shops or RV accessory specialists. This allows you to tailor the rack precisely to your fifth wheel and kayak size.

• Pros: Can be built to perfectly fit your needs and RV.
• Cons: Requires significant DIY skill or expense for professional fabrication. Ensuring structural integrity is paramount.

Under-Camper Storage (Less Common)

While not a traditional “rack,” some people have found ways to store kayaks underneath their fifth wheel. This often involves custom-built cradles or mounts that attach to the frame. These are typically for lighter, shorter kayaks.

• Pros: Frees up other storage areas. Keeps kayaks out of sight.
• Cons: Limited by ground clearance. Can be difficult to load/unload. May obstruct access to RV underbelly components.

Securing Your Kayaks Safely

Once you have a rack system, securing the kayaks is next. This is where safety really comes into play. Loose kayaks are a serious hazard.

Using the Right Straps and Tie-Downs

Cam straps are generally preferred over bungee cords. Bungees can stretch and lose tension, especially with temperature changes. Cam straps offer a firm, consistent hold. You’ll want at least two straps per kayak, ideally three. One near the front, one near the rear, and one in the middle.

Ensure the straps are rated for outdoor use and have a sufficient weight capacity. Always thread straps through designated attachment points on the rack and around the kayak’s hull or grab loops. Make sure they are snug. We found that overtightening can damage the kayak hull, so firm is the goal, not crushing.

Kayak Position and Stability

When placing kayaks on a rack, consider their weight distribution. If you have multiple kayaks, try to balance them. Place heavier ones lower if possible. Ensure they sit snugly in their cradles or on the platform. They should not shift fore, aft, or side-to-side. If you have a V-hull kayak, it may need specific cradles or padding to sit securely.

Protecting Your Kayaks

Consider using padding where the kayak rests on the rack. This prevents scratches and dings. It also helps the kayak sit more securely. If you’re using straps, slide a piece of cloth or foam under the strap where it crosses the kayak. This prevents chafing.

Checklist for Hauling Your Kayaks

Here’s a quick checklist to run through before you hit the road:

• Have you calculated your RV’s weight limits and confirmed you are within them?
• Is your chosen rack system securely bolted to a strong point on your fifth wheel?
• Are your kayaks firmly secured with multiple, high-quality straps?
• Have you checked that nothing is hanging loose or could snag on passing objects?
• Did you test a short drive and re-check all straps and connections?

Important Considerations for the Road

Driving a fifth wheel with kayaks attached presents unique challenges. Awareness and preparation are key to a safe and enjoyable trip.

Maneuverability and Clearance

Your overall length and rear overhang will increase. This makes turns, especially wide turns and backing up, more challenging. Be extra mindful of your turning radius. Kayaks on the back can swing out much wider than your RV’s rear bumper. Always check your clearance when backing into campsites or navigating tight areas. The added height might also be an issue in areas with low bridges or overpasses. Always observe posted height limits.

Driving Performance

The added weight and potential shift in weight distribution can affect your RV’s handling. Drive more conservatively. Avoid sudden braking or sharp turns. If you notice any swaying or instability, pull over immediately. Check your kayak tie-downs and the rack’s security.

Local Regulations

While less common for kayaks than other items, it’s wise to be aware of any local laws regarding oversized loads or items carried on RVs. Most states are fine with kayaks secured properly, but it’s always good practice to check. Some areas might have specific requirements for flagging or marking extended loads, though this is rare for kayaks.

Conclusion

Hauling your kayaks with your fifth-wheel camper is absolutely doable with the right preparation. You’ve learned how vital it is to understand your RV’s weight limits and choose a sturdy rack system. Securing your kayaks properly with quality straps is key to a safe journey. Always remember to account for the added length and clearance challenges on the road. Planning ahead ensures you can focus on paddling adventures at your next destination. Your next step? Double-check your fifth wheel’s weight capacity and start researching rack options that fit your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I put kayak racks on the back of my fifth wheel?

Yes, rear-mounted racks are a common option for fifth wheels. Just be sure the rack is designed for RV use and securely attached to a strong point on your camper. We found that it’s essential to consider how this rear weight impacts your pin weight and overall towing stability.

What’s the best way to secure kayaks to an RV rack?

You should use cam straps rather than bungee cords for a secure hold. We recommend at least two straps per kayak, positioned at the front, middle, and rear. Ensure they are snug but not so tight they damage the kayak hull.

Will hauling kayaks affect my fifth wheel’s driving performance?

The added weight and potential shift in weight distribution can affect handling. Drive more conservatively and avoid sudden movements. If you notice any swaying, pull over immediately to check your kayak security.

How do I know if my fifth wheel can handle the weight of kayaks and a rack?

You need to know your fifth wheel’s Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) and its current loaded weight. Subtract the current weight from the GVWR to find your available cargo capacity. Factor in the weight of the rack and your kayaks to ensure you stay within limits.

What are the risks of not securing my kayaks properly?

Improperly secured kayaks can shift or detach while driving, posing a serious hazard to you and other motorists. They can also be damaged by road vibrations or wind resistance. We’ve seen firsthand how crucial solid tie-downs are for preventing accidents.