SUP Everyone: How To Transport a Stand Up Paddle Board

Key Points

• An inflatable paddle board offers an alternative for transportation that’s both convenient and easy to use. 

• Purchasing a paddle board from Costco offers a variety of options at competitive prices.

• Different methods to transport a stand-up paddle board (SUP) on a vehicle include placing it on a roof rack, in the bed of a truck, or using an inflatable board. 

• For those without a roof rack, options to transport a stand-up paddle board include using a car-top carrier or a hitch-mounted rack. 

Riding the waves of adventure on a stand-up paddle board (SUP) is like navigating a ship on the open seas, but before setting sail, one must first navigate the choppy waters of transportation. From roof racks to truck beds, inflatable boards to hitch-mounted racks, the options to transport a stand-up paddle board are as diverse as the sea itself. With the added convenience of inflating and deflating for easy storage and with retailers like Costco offering competitive prices, the journey to your next paddle boarding excursion is smooth sailing.

Transporting a Stand-Up Paddle Board

Transporting a SUP on your vehicle is a bit of a challenge, depending on the type of vehicle you have. If you're lucky enough to have a truck, it's relatively simple to place the board deck-side down in the bed with the nose supported by the tailgate. However, for many people with sedans, station wagons, and vans, the only option is to put the board on the roof.

The Roof Rack

To safely and securely transport your SUP on the roof of your vehicle, a few essential items are needed. First, the vehicle needs to have crossbars running across the roof. Most crossbars attach to factory-installed bars that run front to back on your car, but this varies depending on the type of vehicle you have. There are even crossbar systems that go in the bed of a truck. Check your vehicle owner's manual or consult with a professional to determine if your vehicle is compatible with a roof rack, and to determine the right type of rack and crossbars for your vehicle.

Next, you need a rack or padding to hold your board securely in place. There are specific SUP rack systems that attach to the crossbars and make transporting a board very simple and secure. These racks often include padding to protect your board from scratches and dings. Alternatively, use basic foam blocks or padding to protect your board.

The Tie Down

Use cam straps to keep your board from sliding around while you're driving. Use two straps that are about 12' long or longer. Make sure to check the straps every time you transport your board to ensure they are tight and secure.

Finally, use a bow and stern line to keep your board from shifting while you're driving. Use either a non-stretch, water-resistant rope or special ratcheting lines to make the job quick and easy. One line for the bow and one for the stern works great. These lines keep your board in place – even on windy days or on the highway.

Loading Your SUP

Once you have your crossbars and rack/padding installed and your straps and lines are nearby, you're ready to place your SUP on top of your vehicle. With two people, lifting a SUP is simple. You each grab an end, lift the board overhead, and place it deck-down on the rack with the fins toward the front of the car. If you're by yourself, it is a bit trickier.

To load a SUP onto your vehicle by yourself, place the board on the ground next to your vehicle. Next, lift one end of the board onto the roof. Then use a rocking motion to slide the board onto the rack or padding. Once the board is in place, use the cam straps and bow and stern lines to secure it in place. Make sure to double-check the straps and lines to ensure the board is securely fastened before starting your journey.

It may take a bit of practice to get the hang of loading your board onto your vehicle by yourself, but with a bit of patience and persistence, it is achievable.

How To Tie the Paddle Board Down

When transporting your stand-up paddle board, proper tie-down techniques are crucial to ensure your board arrives at its destination safely and without damage. To begin, place your board on the rack of your vehicle, making sure it is parallel to the car and the widest point of the board is between the crossbars of the rack. This prevents the board from sliding forward or backward during transport.

Take a cam strap and position the buckle on top of the board, near the edge and close to one of the crossbars. Toss the other end of the strap over your board and walk around to the other side of your vehicle. Loop the strap underneath the crossbar, then toss it back over your board. Make sure the strap is to the inside of where the crossbar attaches to the vehicle. This prevents the strap from slipping off the end of the crossbar.

Walk back around your vehicle and loop the strap underneath the crossbar, then up into the cam buckle and cinch it down. Repeat this process with the other strap on the other crossbar, making sure they are snug but not overtightened. Tie off the loose ends of the straps just below the cam buckles, and tie any remaining slack to the crossbars. Shake your board from side to side to ensure it is secure.

If you have a long board or are driving in high winds, it's recommended to use a bow and stern line in addition to the cam straps. To install these, hook the end of the line with the ratchet to a secure point on the tail of the board and attach the other end to a secure point on your vehicle. Be careful not to overtighten and tie off the loose end just below the ratchet.

Tips for Tying Down a SUP

When it comes to securing a stand-up paddle board to your vehicle, it’s tempting to use fancy knots and wrapping straps in different ways to make it look cool. However, it's often best to keep things simple. This is usually the fastest and most secure way to go. If you're shorter or have a tall vehicle, it may be helpful to keep a small stepladder in the back of your car. This makes it easier to reach the straps and secure the board to the roof of your vehicle. 

When placing the board on the roof, it's important to position the widest point of the board between the two cam straps. This keeps the board stable and prevents it from shifting during transport.

Alternatives to Roof Rack Transport

Transporting a SUP without a roof rack is a bit of a challenge, but there are still several options available.

Car-Top Carrier

One option is to use a car-top carrier. A car-top carrier is a type of carrier that attaches to the roof of a vehicle and holds a paddle board. These carriers come in a variety of sizes and styles and are a great option for those without a roof rack. They are easy to install, and the carrier is easily removed when not in use. However, it's important to note that car-top carriers may not be suitable for larger paddle boards, and it's important to check the dimensions of the carrier against the dimensions of your board to ensure a proper fit

Hitch-Mounted Rack

Another option for transporting a paddle board without a roof rack is to use a hitch-mounted rack. This type of rack attaches to the hitch of a vehicle to hold the paddle board. Hitch-mounted racks are also easy to install when needed and removed when not in use. They’re a great option for those who have a vehicle with a hitch, but no roof rack. However, like car-top carriers, hitch-mounted racks may not be suitable for larger paddle boards, and it's important to check the dimensions of the rack against the dimensions of your board to ensure a proper fit.

Make sure that the rack is compatible with your board's size and weight, and that it has a secure strap system to prevent the board from moving while you drive.

Packing an Inflatable Board

For those with inflatable paddle boards, you have the added advantage of being able to deflate and stow them in a compact area, making them perfect for those with limited storage space or who want to travel with their board. Make sure your inflatable paddle board is fully deflated before packing it away in a trunk or back seat to ensure that it doesn't take up too much space.

There are several transport options available for those without a roof rack. It's important to consider the size of your board and the dimensions of the carrier or rack before making a purchase. Car-top carriers, hitch-mounted racks, and trailer hitch racks are all viable options, but it's important to ensure that they’re compatible with your board's size and weight and that they have a secure strap system. An inflatable paddle board is a great option for transportation due to its portability and ease of storage.

Advantages of Using an Inflatable Paddle Board

Not all vehicles come equipped with a roof rack, and not all paddle boards fit on a roof rack, anyhow. There are several advantages of using an inflatable paddle board for transportation in addition to the convenience of using a roof rack.

Portability

One of the biggest advantages of using an inflatable paddle board for transportation is its portability. Inflatable paddle boards are lightweight and easy to deflate and roll up, making them easy to transport on a roof rack or in the back of a vehicle. They are also a great option for those who have limited storage space at home, as they’re easily deflated and stored in a closet or under a bed. Inflatable paddle boards are also a great option for those who want to travel with their board, as they are easily packed in a suitcase or backpack.

Durability

Another advantage of using an inflatable paddle board for transportation is its durability. Inflatable boards are made of durable PVC material that withstands punctures and abrasions. They are also less likely to be damaged in transport compared to traditional hard-shell boards. This means that you won't have to worry about scratches or dings on your board during transport.

Affordability

Inflatable paddle boards are also more affordable than their hard-shell counterparts. Because they’re made from less expensive materials and don’t require as much labor to produce, they can be purchased at a lower cost.

Usability

An inflatable paddle board is a great option for transportation due to its usability. By using a roof rack, there’s the convenience of securely and safely transporting your board to the water. Enjoy your paddling adventures without worrying about the logistics of transportation.

Purchase a Paddle Board From Costco

Get ready to hit the water this summer with the perfect paddle board from Costco! With a wide variety of inflatable and hard boards to choose from, the perfect fit for your paddling needs is sure to be found. Costco, a leading retailer, offers a wide variety of paddle boards in its outdoor gear section, both in-store and online.

Types of Costco Paddle Boards

Costco offers a variety of paddle boards that vary in price from $300 to $800. Inflatable paddle boards tend to be more affordable than non-inflatable styles such as foam or composite boards. Prices also vary by brand, with Body Glove boards being generally more affordable than brands like Scott Burke and ULI. More expensive paddle boards are likely made with more durable materials, while cheaper boards are made with cheaper, less durable materials.

Inflating your paddle board is not as complicated as it might sound, most boards come with a pump if you buy an inflatable board. Electric pumps are generally the fastest and easiest to use, requiring less effort on your part. Other pumps such as bike pumps and tire pumps may also be used, but an adapter may be required to fit the valve of your board.

Inflatable Versus Hard Paddle Board

When it comes to choosing between an inflatable or hard paddle board, it comes down to personal preference. Inflatable boards are more portable and easy to store, while hard boards are more durable and provide better stability. Consider your needs and preferences when making a decision.

Size

Costco offers a wide variety of paddle boards at different prices and styles. Consider the size, weight, and durability of the board, as well as your personal needs and preferences when making a purchase. Whether you choose an inflatable or hard paddle board, enjoy your paddling adventure without worrying about the logistics of transportation. When choosing a paddle board, think about the size and shape of the board based on your weight, skill level, and intended use. 

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Here are some guidelines to help you choose the perfect paddle board size for you:

Stability

Stability is a crucial aspect of stand-up paddle boarding for several reasons. It offers more assurance to beginner paddlers and those who practice SUP yoga in challenging weather and ocean conditions. Stability is essential for recreational paddlers who want to take someone along for a ride. If stability is your top priority, consider a board that is between 10-1’ long and 33-34” wide. Keep in mind that the wider the board, the slower it is. 

If maneuverability is your top priority, consider a board that is under 10’ long and 30-32” wide. This is also a good option if you weigh less than 150 lbs. If capacity is your top priority, consider a board that is six inches thick. Standard paddle boards are generally five inches thick, but heavier paddlers might want to consider a slightly thicker board.

Speed

When looking for a paddle board with more speed, a narrow shape is the most important factor to consider. A sharp nose and narrow outline create less friction, allowing the board to cut through the water easily. Speed templates often feature a tapered tail, which is narrower at the end than the center of the board. The goal is to create a shape with excellent floating characteristics and high-speed capabilities. 

These shapes are mostly found in tour/race-specific paddle boards, which are longer to compensate for the narrow shape. However, note that these shapes provide less stability, making them more suitable for advanced paddlers with extensive experience on the water.

If speed and straight tracking are your top priority, consider a board that is over 12’ long, 26-32” wide, and specifically marketed as a racing board. Keep in mind that the narrower the board, the faster it is, but stability is lost.

Costco is known for stocking high-quality paddle boards that cater to a wide range of skill levels and preferences. They offer a wide range of boards from entry-level boards to boards designed for more experienced paddlers, ensuring that there's something for everyone.

Inflatable Paddle Boards

Are you in the market for a new paddle board from Costco? Here are a few that are offered online currently through Costco. Please note that supplies may vary by location and the stores often offer more options than online.

Hyperlite Elevation

The Hyperlite Elevation 10'2" Inflatable Stand-Up Paddle Board Package is an excellent choice for those who want a lightweight and comfortable paddle boarding experience. The package includes a 12V electric pump and features a dual-layer EVA pad for added comfort, a wide-glide profile for a wider platform, and a truly toolless deep touring fin. 

This package is priced at $399.99 and comes with free shipping.

Body Glove Performer

The Body Glove Performer 11' Inflatable Stand-Up Paddle Board Package is a versatile option for those looking for a high-quality paddle boarding experience. The package includes the Performer Board, a storage backpack, an electric and hand pump, a three-piece paddle, a repair kit, and a cell phone dry bag. The board is made with lightweight drop-stitch material and features premium Airframe XT construction, a wide stable shape, and a patented multi-functional carry handle. 

This package is priced at $399.99 and comes with free shipping.

Non-Inflatable Paddle Boards (Foam)

Non-inflatable paddle boards, also known as foam paddle boards, offer several benefits over inflatable paddle boards. They are more durable and withstand more wear and tear. Foam boards are made of solid materials, such as polystyrene or polyurethane, which do not puncture or deflate like inflatable boards.  

Foam boards are generally more stable than inflatable boards. They have a thicker and more rigid structure, which makes them less likely to tip over. This makes them more suitable for beginners and for those who want more stability while paddling. Non-inflatable paddle boards offer increased durability and stability, making them a great choice for anyone looking to get into paddle boarding.

Scott Burke 10’ Pioneer Foam

The Scott Burke 10’ Pioneer Foam SUP is a versatile board that features a custom-molded extra wide shape and EPS foam waterproof core for easy gliding on both flat water and surf conditions. It has three wood stringers that provide added stability and control. The deck comes equipped with bungee straps for storing personal flotation devices or water bottles and a camera mount to record your adventure (camera not included). 

The board also has a built-in traction pad for better grip and a molded-in center carrying handle for ease of transport. The Pioneer SUP is available exclusively at Costco and comes with a package that includes a fin, leash, and an adjustable floating paddle, everything needed to hit the water right away! 

This package is priced at $569.99.

Will the Real Paddle Board Enthusiast Please Stand Up?

Paddle boarding is a fun and exciting water sport enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels. There are many different types of paddle boards available, including inflatable, hard shell, and two-person boards. 

Costco is a great place to find a wide variety of paddle boards at affordable prices. When choosing a paddle board, it is important to consider factors such as weight, intended use, and personal preference. Additionally, proper tie-down techniques need to be used when transporting a paddle board on a vehicle to ensure safety and security. With the right equipment and knowledge, paddle boarding is a great way to explore the water and have fun.