Kayaks and class C....

Our kayaks are touring models that are 17 ft long. RV rooftop also not an option, so for us the only options are on the Toad or we also have a custom rack on our car hauler for when we haul one of our non-4 wheel down vehicles. In a recent Popular Mechanics, I was reading about a collapsible folding kayak that looks interesting called "Oru".

Oru Kayaks

I hear a small kayak rides nicely on the cab over bed.

The sea eagle sure looks good!

We have that platform also and a 9.5 foot kayak, good enough for me, hardside. The rack would be great.

Deb and Ed. I was looking at doing something similar with our utility trailer. Where did you get the rack?

Just some random thoughts from someone who pulls a trailer for her kayaks (or puts them on the roof of the toad)

Vertically behind a Class C limits you to some fairly short kayaks. Unless you use a livery service for spotting - you're probably paddling on a lake or big water - the longer the kayak, the better.

Inflatables like the Sea Eagles can get unruly if a sudden storm comes up - you may not be able to overcome the effect of a strong wind on something that "high profile". Watch the weather closely.

Skin-on-frame kayaks closely duplicate a hardshell kayak's paddling ability; but they cost more than a hardside.

Some inflatables come with skegs (fins) for better tracking ability in open water - but these things are stinkers on twisty rivers where you might need to slide over a fallen tree trunk.

Here's my trailer - it cost less than $1000 and hauls everything I can think of. The photo was taken at a U.P. Michigan week of paddling, and I brought 2 boats for myself; plus a couple for friends. I'm just not ready to give up my 16' sea kayak when it comes to big water...

+1 on the inflatables.

I originally balked at the idea because of my own pre-conceived notion of inflatables. However, after considering the type of kayaking we would initially be doing (small lakes and class I or II rivers at most), I decided to go with the Sea Eagle 365 from Costco. I figured for under $250 I could "test the waters" so to speak and not have an arm and a leg invested.

I have to say I am very pleased with my purchase thus far. The Kayak stores under the bed, it takes < 10 minutes to set up/inflate, and it is perfect for what we like to do. We have only had it for a few months, so I can't speak to the durability much. But, so far, so good.

Of course, I agonized over the decision to go with this kayak versus some of the more expensive models. But, I figured for $229 (including shipping,) I could always upgrade later (which I still might do:)

We wrestled with the same problem with our C and finally went with inflatables since we didn't tow. Our 1st was a tandem 12' Sea Eagle that was too cramped and also punctured twice. Next we bought a 16' Trinity II made by Aire. This one lasted about 4 seasons with 1 rip (repaired) and finally a split seam. This season we will be towing and will put our tandem and bikes on the dinghy. Really liked that idea of the inflatables - easier to setup then mount the kayak on roof. So we'll see what happens. Whatever you do good luck.

Not meaning to gang up but we also have an inflatable like this

It fits in a suitcase size bag that weighs about 60 lbs.

Here's the idea I am working on...I'd love to see what you come up with

You can also look for a foldable kayak like folbot or feathercraft. I take mine on a plane like regular luggage.