Guide to Safely Transporting Surfboards on Any Vehicle
Transporting a surfboard safely on your vehicle requires proper equipment, technique, and understanding of legal requirements. Whether you're heading to your local beach or embarking on a coastal road trip, securing your surfboard correctly protects both your board and other drivers on the road. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about transporting surfboards on different vehicle types, using various rack systems, and ensuring your board arrives safely at your destination.
Choosing the Right Surfboard Rack System
The foundation of safe surfboard transportation starts with selecting the appropriate rack system for your vehicle. The right choice depends on your car type, the number of boards you need to transport, and your budget.
Soft racks offer an affordable and versatile solution for occasional surfers. These portable systems use padded bars with straps that secure around your vehicle's roof. They work well for most car types and can be easily removed when not in use. However, they may not provide the same security as permanent systems at highway speeds.
Hard rack systems like those manufactured by Thule and Yakima provide greater stability and security. These permanent installations include a base rack (crossbars) and specialized surfboard attachments. While more expensive than soft racks, they offer superior wind resistance and security during long journeys or high-speed travel.
Tailgate pads serve as an excellent option for pickup truck owners. These padded covers protect both your truck and board while the surfboard extends over the tailgate. They accommodate multiple boards and provide quick loading and unloading.
Proper Techniques for Securing Your Surfboard
Once you've chosen an appropriate rack system, proper securing techniques ensure your surfboard stays in place throughout your journey.
Position your surfboard with the fins facing up and removed or protected if detachable. This orientation minimizes wind resistance and prevents potential damage to the board or your vehicle. For multiple boards, stack them largest to smallest with foam or towels between each board.
Use high-quality surfboard straps designed specifically for board transportation. These straps should be tight enough to prevent movement but not so tight that they damage the board. The front and rear straps should connect diagonally across the board for maximum security.
After initial tightening, drive for approximately five minutes, then stop to check and readjust the straps as necessary. Straps often loosen slightly after initial driving due to vibration and settling.
Vehicle-Specific Considerations
Different vehicles present unique challenges and opportunities for surfboard transportation.
Sedans and hatchbacks typically require roof rack systems. Without factory roof rails, soft racks may be your only option. When using these vehicles, be mindful of the board's overhang beyond your vehicle's front and rear.
SUVs and wagons often come with factory roof rails, making hard rack installation straightforward. Their height provides advantages for longer boards but requires more effort during loading and unloading.
Pickup trucks offer versatility with options including tailgate pads, bed racks, or even diagonal positioning within the bed using proper padding and securing.
Convertibles and vehicles without roof capacity present special challenges. Interior transportation with seats folded down may be possible for shorter boards. For longer boards, specialized side racks or trailer options might be necessary.
Legal Requirements and Safety Considerations
Understanding surfboard transportation laws helps avoid tickets and ensures safety for everyone on the road.
Most jurisdictions restrict how far items can extend beyond your vehicle—typically 3 feet from the front bumper and 4 feet from the rear. However, regulations vary by location, so research specific rules for areas you'll be traveling through.
Brightly colored flags attached to any overhang increase visibility and are legally required in many areas. These simple markers significantly reduce accident risk by alerting other drivers to your extended load.
For night transportation, reflective materials or small battery-powered lights on board extensions provide crucial visibility. Never transport boards in a manner that obscures your license plate or taillights.
Protecting Your Surfboard During Transit
During transportation, your surfboard faces threats from road vibration, wind forces, and sun exposure.
Use a surfboard bag or at minimum a board sock to protect against UV damage, road debris, and minor impacts. These protective covers also reduce wind noise significantly.
Position padding at all contact points between your board and rack system. Specialized rack pads work best, but towels or foam can serve as alternatives when needed.
For lengthy journeys, occasionally stop to check strap tension and board positioning. Temperature changes and road vibration can affect how secure your setup remains over time.
Tips for Long-Distance Surfboard Transportation
When traveling long distances with your surfboard, additional considerations help ensure safe arrival.
Plan for surfboard security during overnight stops by using locking straps or cables that secure the board to permanent vehicle fixtures. Standard rack locks provide adequate deterrence in most situations.
Consider removing boards during extreme weather conditions including high winds, hailstorms, or heavy snow. Temporary indoor storage during overnight stops protects your equipment from harsh elements.
For air temperature fluctuations, slightly loosening straps when moving between significantly different climates prevents warping from expansion and contraction of materials.
Conclusion
Properly transporting your surfboard on your car doesn't just protect your valuable equipment—it ensures safety for you and others on the road. By selecting the appropriate rack system for your vehicle type, securing your board correctly, understanding legal requirements, and taking protective measures, you can transport your surfboard confidently to any destination. Remember that a few extra minutes spent properly securing your board can save hours of frustration and potentially hundreds of dollars in damage.