If you’re an avid kayaker and you own a truck with a tonneau cover, you might be wondering how to transport your kayaks without compromising the security and convenience of your tonneau cover. Fortunately, there are several kayak rack options available that can accommodate your needs. If you don’t have a tonneau cover you might look into getting just a kayak rack for a truck or a package deal!
Firstly, it’s important to note that there are two main types of tonneau covers – hard covers and soft covers. Hard covers are typically made of fiberglass or aluminum and are more secure and durable, while soft covers are made of vinyl or canvas and are more affordable and easy to install. The type of tonneau cover you have will impact which kayak rack options are available to you.
If you have a hard tonneau cover, you may want to consider a kayak rack system that mounts directly to the cover. Thule, Yakima, and Rhino-Rack all make kayak racks that can be mounted to hard tonneau covers, providing a secure and convenient way to transport your kayaks. These racks typically use clamps or bolts to attach to the tonneau cover and have adjustable supports that can accommodate different kayak sizes and styles.
If you have a soft tonneau cover, your options are a bit more limited. However, there are still kayak rack systems available that can work with a soft tonneau cover. One option is to use a J-style kayak rack that mounts to the bed rails of your truck. This type of rack holds the kayak on its side, which can be more aerodynamic and space-efficient than other options. Another option is to use a vertical kayak rack that mounts to the hitch receiver of your truck. This type of rack can hold multiple kayaks and can be easily removed when not in use.
No matter which type of tonneau cover you have, it’s important to choose a kayak rack that is compatible with your truck’s make and model. Most kayak rack manufacturers provide compatibility charts on their websites or in their product manuals, so be sure to consult these resources before making a purchase.
In addition to choosing the right kayak rack, it’s also important to properly secure your kayaks to the rack to ensure safe and hassle-free transport. Be sure to use tie-down straps or bungee cords to secure your kayaks to the rack, and use bow and stern lines to prevent side-to-side movement.
Overall, a kayak rack for a truck with a tonneau cover can provide a convenient and secure way to transport your kayaks without sacrificing the functionality of your tonneau cover. By choosing the right kayak rack and properly securing your kayaks, you can hit the road with peace of mind and enjoy your kayaking adventures to the fullest.
The best kayak racks for a truck with a tonneau cover – the bestsellers
- Universal Compatibility: Our truck racks are compatible with various of full-size pickup trucks thanks to the adjustable width that extends between 46″ to 71″. Note: Not fit trucks with toolbox, utility track, and tonneau cover.
- Built Tough and Steady: The support you deserve is here! Our ladder rack for trucks is constructed from outstanding alloy steel material, making it durable and sturdy. It features a triangular gusset to provide enhanced stability. Two ratchet straps can be attached to the rope hooks on the side of racks to tie up your bulky items.
- Gain More Space: With our truck bed rack, you will never bother by the lack of extra large storage space in your truck any more. The max load reaches up to a heavy 800 lbs/363 kg and features reinforced crossbars, making it great for transporting kayaks, surfboards, ladders, lumbers and tents, etc.
- Start Loading in No Time: Stop to waste time in installation! Our racks for trucks feature a quick J-bolt(4 pcs) mounting system that requires no drilling. All necessary mounting accessories are also provided. The choice has never been easier. It won’t cause damage to your truck side beam, and it can be removed quickly.
- Keep It Rust-proof: Our pick-up truck rack is powder coated in the color of black, making it both durable and exquisite. The end caps keep water and debris from entering tubes, effectively making the inside rust-proof and corrosion-proof. Get ready for years of use!
- ADJUSTABLE AND REMOVABLE: Available in two length options to fit most truck beds. If you need to remove the crossbars, they can be taken off completely in minutes, leaving the brackets securely in place on your truck bed.
- IMPRESSIVE LOAD CAPACITY: Designed with high-strength brackets and aluminum crossbars, it supports a static load of up to 900 lbs and a dynamic load of 450 lbs (evenly distributed). Perfect for hauling bikes, surfboards, skis, snowboards, or even rooftop tents—ideal for beach vacations with the family or cross-country hunting trips with friends.
- TONNEAU COVER COMPATIBLE: Features a wide design to work seamlessly with most tonneau covers, including soft roll-up, hard rolling, tri-fold, and retractable hard covers.
- QUICK AND EASY INSTALLATION: The bed-mounted brackets offer multiple no-drill installation options (pre-drilled holes are also available for extra stability if needed). The aluminum crossbars slide into the brackets and are secured with bolts—no drilling required.
- COMPATIBLE: OTHOWE ladder rack compatible with 2004-2025 Ford F-150/ 2007-2021 Toyota Tundra/ 2002-2025 Dodge Ram 1500 2500 3500/ 2007-2025 Chevy Silverado 1500/ GMC Sierra 1500/ 1999-2025 Ford F-250 F-350 Super Duty/ 2004-2025 Nissan Titan/2016-2025 Titan XD.
- NOTE: Truck bed racks are not compatible with trucks that have tonneau covers and bed rails. Please check for model match before purchasing.
- CUSTOMIZABLE SIZE: The universal ladder rack adjusts in length from 31.8 to 35.4 inches and in width from 57.4 to 64.4 inches, accommodating various sizes of rear cabs. Its height can be freely adjusted to match the height of the pickup truck cab. This customized size perfectly fits the truck, meeting more needs and providing more space.
- CONVENIENCE: Simple design with slotted holes in the bed frame for adding accessories to the top of the bed rack for hanging items and securing top luggage. It supports the installation of lifts, fire extinguishers, carabiners, canopies, bike racks, and a variety of other accessories for various outdoor off-road activities, and facilitates the transportation of skis, kayaks, tents, surfboards, bikes, and other equipment, making every adventure more relaxing and enjoyable.
- ILLUMINATE; The end of the overland rack is equipped with two bright LED lights (featuring six bulbs) to facilitate nighttime visibility and ease of handling items. These lights serve as warning lights to help prevent vehicle collisions and ensure safe operation, especially in driving contexts.
- FITMENT | Make sure you’re getting the full Elevate Rack system that’s right for your truck by following the steps in the images!
- UNIQUE CUSTOMIZATION | The Elevate Rack creates more storage options and overall cargo space for your truck. The rack includes telescoping uprights (18″ or 28″ in height) and crossbars to bring your cargo anywhere. TruXedo TS Rails are sold separately
- TONNEAU COMPATIBLE | Both FS and CS Elevate Racks are designed to be compatible with, and allow for, full function of most inside mount truck bed covers. Whether rolling or folding, you can still use your truck bed cover to its fullest capabilities
- TOUGH CONSTRUCTION | This storage system boasts a durable, powder-coated, textured aluminum construction. Capable of carrying 500 lbs. on road and 250 lbs. off road. Strong enough for work or play; carry bikes, kayaks, baskets, ladders and more
- LIFETIME GUARANTEE | The Elevate Rack is backed by a Limited Lifetime Warranty. We are committed to providing you the best service at all times. Simply call our team. All our products are proudly made in the USA with globally sourced materials
- Adjustable and Removable: Available in two length options to fit most truck beds. The crossbars can be easily removed in minutes when not needed, leaving your truck bed ready for other uses.
- Strong Load Capacity: Built with high-strength brackets and aluminum crossbars, it offers a static load capacity of 900 lbs and a dynamic load capacity of 450 lbs (evenly distributed). Perfect for transporting bikes, surfboards, skis, snowboards, or rooftop tents—whether you’re heading to the beach with family or embarking on a hunting trip with friends.
- Tonneau Cover Compatibility: Specifically designed for hard tonneau covers with T-slots. Comes with two types of T-slot nuts or bolts for installation. Please confirm your tonneau cover’s compatibility before purchasing.
- Quick and Easy Installation: No drilling is required for installation (pre-drilled holes are available if extra stability is desired). The aluminum crossbars slide into the brackets and are secured with bolts, ensuring a secure fit without any drilling.
Buying guide for a kayak rack for a truck with a tonneau cover
If you’re in the market for a kayak rack for your truck with a tonneau cover, there are several factors to consider to ensure that you choose a rack that meets your needs. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind when shopping for a kayak rack:
Type of tonneau cover: As mentioned before, there are two main types of tonneau covers – hard covers and soft covers. The type of tonneau cover you have will impact which kayak rack options are available to you. Make sure to choose a rack that is compatible with your specific tonneau cover.
Truck make and model: Not all kayak racks are compatible with all truck makes and models. Before purchasing a rack, check the manufacturer’s compatibility chart to ensure that it will work with your truck.
Kayak size and weight: Consider the size and weight of your kayaks when choosing a rack. Make sure that the rack you choose can safely support the weight of your kayaks and is adjustable to accommodate their size.
Rack capacity: How many kayaks do you need to transport? Some racks can hold one kayak, while others can hold multiple kayaks. Make sure to choose a rack that has the capacity you need.
Ease of installation: Consider how easy the rack is to install and remove. Some racks require drilling or permanent installation, while others are designed to be easily installed and removed without leaving any permanent marks on your truck.
Security: Make sure that the rack you choose securely holds your kayaks in place while in transit. You don’t want your kayaks to come loose or be at risk of theft.
Price: Kayak racks for trucks with tonneau covers can vary in price. Determine your budget and choose a rack that fits within it while also meeting your needs.
Buying a tonneau cover and roof rack package
Some popular kayak rack brands for trucks with tonneau covers include Thule, Yakima, Rhino-Rack, and TracRac. These brands offer a variety of options that can accommodate different types of tonneau covers and truck models.
it can be a good idea to buy a tonneau cover and rack together if you’re in the market for both. By purchasing a tonneau cover and rack as a package, you can ensure that the two are compatible with each other and that the installation process will be as easy and seamless as possible.
Many manufacturers offer tonneau covers and racks as part of a package deal, which can also save you money compared to purchasing the two separately. These packages are often designed to work seamlessly together, so you can be confident that you’re getting a high-quality, reliable setup that will securely transport your kayaks while also protecting your truck bed.
That being said, if you already have a tonneau cover and are only in need of a kayak rack, you can still find a rack that will work with your existing cover. Just make sure to choose a rack that is compatible with the type of tonneau cover you have and that it is adjustable to accommodate your kayaks.
Ultimately, the decision to buy a tonneau cover and rack together will depend on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re in the market for both and want to ensure a seamless installation process, purchasing them as a package deal may be the best option for you.