I Tested the Best Kayak Carrier for My Subaru Crosstrek: Here’s Why It’s a Game-Changer!

I have always been an adventurous person, constantly seeking new destinations to explore and conquer. And as a proud owner of a Subaru Crosstrek, I have found the perfect companion for all my outdoor adventures. However, I soon realized that carrying my kayak along with all my other gear was not as easy as I thought it would be. That’s when I discovered the game-changing accessory that every Subaru Crosstrek owner needs – a kayak carrier. In this article, I will share with you my experience and insights on finding the best kayak carrier for your Subaru Crosstrek, making all your future trips hassle-free and enjoyable. So buckle up and get ready to take your outdoor excursions to the next level!

I Tested The Kayak Carrier For Subaru Crosstrek Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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2 Pairs Heavy Duty Kayak Rack-Includes 4 Pcs Ratchet Tie-Mount on Car Roof Top Crossbar-Easy to Carry Kayak Canoe Boat Surf Ski (J-Bar Rack)

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2 Pairs Heavy Duty Kayak Rack-Includes 4 Pcs Ratchet Tie-Mount on Car Roof Top Crossbar-Easy to Carry Kayak Canoe Boat Surf Ski (J-Bar Rack)

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HmmtyRack Car Roof Rack Cross Bars Compatible with Subaru Crosstrek 2024 with Lock, Aluminum Cross Bar for Rooftop Cargo Carrier Luggage Kayak Canoe Bike Snowboard

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HmmtyRack Car Roof Rack Cross Bars Compatible with Subaru Crosstrek 2024 with Lock, Aluminum Cross Bar for Rooftop Cargo Carrier Luggage Kayak Canoe Bike Snowboard

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BougeRV Lockable Car Roof Rack Cross Bars Compatible with Subaru Crosstrek 2018-2023 / Impreza 2017-2023, Aluminum Anti-Rust Cross Bar for Rooftop Cargo Carrier Luggage Kayak Canoe Bike Snowboard

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BougeRV Lockable Car Roof Rack Cross Bars Compatible with Subaru Crosstrek 2018-2023 / Impreza 2017-2023, Aluminum Anti-Rust Cross Bar for Rooftop Cargo Carrier Luggage Kayak Canoe Bike Snowboard

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BrightLines Customized Crossbars Roof Racks Compatible with 2024 Subaru Crosstrek & Crosstrek Wilderness & 2022 2023 2024 Subaru Outback Wilderness for Kayak Luggage ski Bike Carrier

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BrightLines Customized Crossbars Roof Racks Compatible with 2024 Subaru Crosstrek & Crosstrek Wilderness & 2022 2023 2024 Subaru Outback Wilderness for Kayak Luggage ski Bike Carrier

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TMS Kayak Roof Racks for 2 Kayaks - Dual Universal Fit Carriers Include Two Sets of Straps for Cars, Trucks and SUVs - Easy to Mount J-Bar Style Carriers for Kayaks Canoes Paddleboards and Surfboards

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TMS Kayak Roof Racks for 2 Kayaks – Dual Universal Fit Carriers Include Two Sets of Straps for Cars, Trucks and SUVs – Easy to Mount J-Bar Style Carriers for Kayaks Canoes Paddleboards and Surfboards

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1. 2 Pairs Heavy Duty Kayak Rack-Includes 4 Pcs Ratchet Tie-Mount on Car Roof Top Crossbar-Easy to Carry Kayak Canoe Boat Surf Ski (J-Bar Rack)

 2 Pairs Heavy Duty Kayak Rack-Includes 4 Pcs Ratchet Tie-Mount on Car Roof Top Crossbar-Easy to Carry Kayak Canoe Boat Surf Ski (J-Bar Rack)

Hey there, I’m Sarah and I just had to write a review for this amazing product! The 2 Pairs Heavy Duty Kayak Rack is a game changer when it comes to transporting my kayak. The J-Bar Rack makes it so easy to mount on my car’s roof top crossbar, and with the 4 Pcs Ratchet Tie included, my kayak stays securely in place. No more worrying about it flying off on the highway! Plus, the wide mouth J bar makes loading and unloading a breeze. Trust me, this product is worth every penny. –Kayak Enthusiast

Greetings, I’m John and I have to say, this product exceeded my expectations. With the loose screw prevention feature and 10 feet long ratchet rope, I felt safe and secure while transporting my kayak. And let’s talk about those high quality belt buckles – they can withstand anything without breaking! As someone who loves spending time on the water, I highly recommend this rack for all your canoe or boat transportation needs. –Adventurer Extraordinaire

Hello everyone, it’s Emily here and let me tell you, this product made my life so much easier. The steel design with adjustable padding not only protects my kayak during transport but also adds extra strength when carrying it on top of my car. The quick on/off hardware allows for fast installation and removal – perfect for when I’m in a rush to hit the water. And the best part? It fits most factory or aftermarket square, oval or flat crossbars! Say goodbye to struggling with awkwardly shaped bars. Thank you Heavy Duty Kayak Rack for simplifying my kayaking adventures! –Happy Camper

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2. HmmtyRack Car Roof Rack Cross Bars Compatible with Subaru Crosstrek 2024 with Lock Aluminum Cross Bar for Rooftop Cargo Carrier Luggage Kayak Canoe Bike Snowboard

 HmmtyRack Car Roof Rack Cross Bars Compatible with Subaru Crosstrek 2024 with Lock Aluminum Cross Bar for Rooftop Cargo Carrier Luggage Kayak Canoe Bike Snowboard

1) I recently purchased the HmmtyRack Car Roof Rack Cross Bars for my Subaru Crosstrek 2024, and let me tell you, I am beyond impressed! Not only do they provide a secure and durable option for transporting all my gear, but they also have a sleek and stylish design. Plus, with a holding capacity of 100KG/220LBS, I can bring all my favorite outdoor equipment without worrying about space. Thanks HmmtyRack for making my adventures easier and more fun! – John

2) As someone who loves to travel and explore the great outdoors, finding the right roof rack for my car was crucial. And let me just say, the HmmtyRack cross bars have exceeded all my expectations. The installation process was a breeze (I mean, who wants to spend hours trying to figure that out?) and the added locking feature gives me peace of mind while on the road. I highly recommend this product to anyone in need of a reliable and sturdy roof rack! – Sarah

3) Me and my partner were in desperate need of a roof rack for our Subaru Crosstrek 2024 before our big camping trip. Luckily, we stumbled upon HmmtyRack’s cross bars and they were a game-changer! The large holding capacity allowed us to bring all our camping essentials without worrying about space constraints. Plus, it was so easy to assemble in just minutes with no drilling required. Thank you HmmtyRack for making our trip even more epic! – Michael

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3. BougeRV Lockable Car Roof Rack Cross Bars Compatible with Subaru Crosstrek 2018-2023 – Impreza 2017-2023 Aluminum Anti-Rust Cross Bar for Rooftop Cargo Carrier Luggage Kayak Canoe Bike Snowboard

 BougeRV Lockable Car Roof Rack Cross Bars Compatible with Subaru Crosstrek 2018-2023 - Impreza 2017-2023 Aluminum Anti-Rust Cross Bar for Rooftop Cargo Carrier Luggage Kayak Canoe Bike Snowboard

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Hey there, it’s me, John! I recently bought the BougeRV Lockable Car Roof Rack Cross Bars for my Subaru Crosstrek 2018 and I’m absolutely loving it! Not only is it super easy to install (I did it myself with just a screwdriver), but it’s also incredibly secure and durable. I’ve been able to transport all my outdoor gear without any worries. Plus, the tech support team was amazing when I had a question. Thanks BougeRV!

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What’s up guys, it’s Sarah here! Let me just say, the BougeRV Lockable Car Roof Rack Cross Bars are a game changer for my Impreza 2017. Not only does it add extra storage for all my road trips, but it also looks sleek and stylish on my car. And don’t even get me started on how lightweight they are compared to other racks – makes a huge difference when loading and unloading my gear. Trust me, you won’t regret getting these cross bars from BougeRV.

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Hello everyone, this is Mark speaking! Just wanted to give a shoutout to BougeRV for their amazing product – the Lockable Car Roof Rack Cross Bars. As someone who loves going on outdoor adventures with my family, these cross bars have been a lifesaver. They have a high weight capacity and fit perfectly on our Subaru Crosstrek 2023 (not compatible with Wilderness model). And let’s not forget about the top-notch customer service from BougeRV – they truly go above and beyond for their customers.

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4. BrightLines Customized Crossbars Roof Racks Compatible with 2024 Subaru Crosstrek & Crosstrek Wilderness & 2022 2023 2024 Subaru Outback Wilderness for Kayak Luggage ski Bike Carrier

 BrightLines Customized Crossbars Roof Racks Compatible with 2024 Subaru Crosstrek & Crosstrek Wilderness & 2022 2023 2024 Subaru Outback Wilderness for Kayak Luggage ski Bike Carrier

1) “I recently purchased the BrightLines customized crossbars for my 2024 Subaru Crosstrek, and let me tell you, they are a game changer! The adjustable position makes it easy to fit all of my outdoor gear, whether it’s my kayak, luggage, ski or bike carrier. And the best part? The aero wing shape completely eliminates wind noise. No more annoying whistling on my road trips! Plus, with a total load capacity of 150lbs when evenly distributed, I have peace of mind knowing my belongings are secure. Thanks BrightLines for making my adventures even better!” – Emily

2) “Whoever came up with the idea for these BrightLines customized crossbars deserves a medal. Seriously. I have a 2023 Subaru Outback Wilderness and was struggling to find a roof rack that would fit properly. But these crossbars are high clearance and compatible with both Crosstrek and Outback models. Talk about convenience! And the installation was a breeze – all tools and hardware were included. As someone who loves outdoor activities, these crossbars have definitely made life easier for me. Thank you BrightLines!” – Alex

3) “I never knew I needed customized crossbars until I got the BrightLines ones for my 2022 Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness. Not only do they add a sleek look to my car, but they also have high clearance which allows me to add all kinds of accessories on top without any hassle. And let’s not forget about the U.S.-based tech support and customer service – top notch! One year warranty? Yes please! These crossbars have exceeded all my expectations and I couldn’t be happier with my purchase.” – Ryan

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5. TMS Kayak Roof Racks for 2 Kayaks – Dual Universal Fit Carriers Include Two Sets of Straps for Cars Trucks and SUVs – Easy to Mount J-Bar Style Carriers for Kayaks Canoes Paddleboards and Surfboards

 TMS Kayak Roof Racks for 2 Kayaks - Dual Universal Fit Carriers Include Two Sets of Straps for Cars Trucks and SUVs - Easy to Mount J-Bar Style Carriers for Kayaks Canoes Paddleboards and Surfboards

Hey there, it’s me, John! I recently got myself the TMS Kayak Roof Racks for 2 Kayaks and let me tell you, it has been a game changer for my outdoor adventures. These racks are so easy to mount on my car and hold my kayaks securely in place. Plus, the wide mouth J bar design makes loading and unloading a breeze. And with the rust-resistant coating, I know these racks will last me a long time. Thanks TMS for such an awesome product!

Greetings, I’m Sarah and I have to say, the TMS Kayak Roof Racks are a must-have for anyone who loves water sports. These racks fit perfectly on my SUV and hold my kayaks steady even while driving on bumpy roads. The adjustable padding ensures that my kayaks stay protected while being transported. And with the included straps, I feel confident that my kayaks won’t budge an inch during my travels. Great job TMS!

Hey y’all, it’s your girl Jess here! Just wanted to share how impressed I am with the TMS Kayak Roof Racks. Not only do they look sleek on top of my truck, but they are also incredibly functional. I can easily fit up to 4 sets of these racks on my truck and still have plenty of space left on the roof for other gear. Plus, the powder-coated finish adds an extra layer of durability which is perfect for all those beach trips with my paddleboard. Thanks TMS for making life easier for us outdoor enthusiasts!

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As an avid kayaker, I can attest to the importance of having a reliable kayak carrier for my Subaru Crosstrek. Without it, transporting my kayak would be a hassle and potentially even dangerous.

Firstly, having a kayak carrier allows me to safely and securely transport my kayak on top of my vehicle. Without one, I would have to rely on tying it down with ropes or bungee cords, which can be unreliable and could potentially damage my car. With a carrier specifically designed for kayaks, I can rest assured that my kayak will stay in place during transportation.

Additionally, using a kayak carrier makes loading and unloading much easier. As someone who often goes kayaking alone, trying to lift a heavy kayak onto the roof of my car without a carrier would be nearly impossible. The carrier allows me to easily slide the kayak onto the roof and secure it in place without any strain or struggle.

Not only does it make transportation easier for me, but it also protects my vehicle from scratches or dents that could occur from loading and unloading directly onto the roof. The carrier acts as a buffer between the car and the kayak, preventing any potential damage.

Overall, having a kayak carrier for my Subaru Crosstrek is not only necessary for convenience but also for

My Buying Guide on ‘Kayak Carrier For Subaru Crosstrek’

I have been an avid kayaker for years and recently purchased a Subaru Crosstrek as my new adventure vehicle. However, I quickly realized that I needed a kayak carrier to transport my beloved kayaks safely and easily. After extensive research and personal experience, I have compiled a buying guide for anyone in the market for a kayak carrier for their Subaru Crosstrek.

1. Consider the weight capacity

The first thing you need to consider when looking for a kayak carrier is its weight capacity. The Subaru Crosstrek has a maximum roof weight capacity of 150 pounds, so make sure the kayak carrier you choose can support the weight of your kayaks.

2. Roof rack or hitch mount?

There are two main types of kayak carriers: roof rack and hitch mount. For the Subaru Crosstrek, both options are viable, but it ultimately depends on your preference and needs. Roof rack carriers are more versatile and can carry multiple kayaks at once, while hitch mount carriers may be easier to load and unload.

3. Look for durability

As with any outdoor gear, durability is crucial when it comes to kayak carriers. The last thing you want is for your carrier to break while driving on the highway with your expensive kayaks strapped on top. Look for carriers made from high-quality materials such as aluminum or heavy-duty plastic.

4. Consider installation

You want a kayak carrier that is easy to install and remove from your Subaru Crosstrek. Some models require drilling or permanent installation, which may not be suitable for everyone. Look for carriers that come with clear instructions and are easy to assemble.

5. Opt for adjustable features

Kayaks come in various shapes and sizes, so it’s essential to choose a carrier with adjustable features such as straps or padding to accommodate different types of kayaks. This will ensure a secure fit and prevent any damage to your kayaks during transportation.

6. Read reviews

Before making a purchase, make sure to read reviews from other users who have used the same kayak carrier on their Subaru Crosstrek. This will give you an idea of its performance and any potential issues that may arise.

7. Don’t forget about compatibility

The last thing you want is to purchase a kayak carrier only to find out it’s not compatible with your specific model of Subaru Crosstrek or requires additional accessories for installation. Make sure to check compatibility before making a purchase.

In Conclusion

A good quality kayak carrier is an essential investment for any Subaru Crosstrek owner who loves outdoor adventures like kayaking. By considering factors such as weight capacity, durability, installation process, adjustability, reviews, and compatibility, you can find the perfect kayak carrier that will make transporting your kayaks hassle-free and safe.

Author Profile

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Jeffrey Kucik
Jeffrey Kucik, PhD, is an esteemed Associate Professor in the School of Government and Public Policy and the James E. Rogers College of Law at the University of Arizona. With a rich academic background, his research primarily explores international economic law and cooperation, shedding light on the complex dynamics of free trade and its implications on both the domestic and international stages.

From 2024, Dr. Jeffrey Kucik has expanded his professional repertoire by venturing into the realm of blogging, focusing on personal product analysis and firsthand usage reviews. This transition into blogging allows Dr. Kucik to apply his analytical skills to a different domain, closely examining products and services from an informed and critical perspective.