How to Deal with Kayak Rack Failure

You've traveled hundreds of miles to kayak a wilderness lake when suddenly there's a loud thump on your car roof. Egad! It's a catastrophic kayak rack failure! What's a paddler to do?

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Igenuity

1. Make do. You're just miles from your wilderness destination, and probably have a back country permit for the following day. Assess your situation, is there some way you can make it to your put-in point? Find a quick fix - pad, prop, duck tape, Mickey Mouse is the way to go at this point.

2. Find a short term solution. After you return from paddling you will need to find a short term solution to your quandary. One solution, if you are traveling with a buddy, is to leave someone with the kayaks while the other drives to a location with phone service and local businesses. Conversely, if you are alone, you should be able to strap that kayak to the car in some fashion.

3. Contact your rack dealer. After finding telephone service contact your rack dealer. Explain your situation. Most dealers will be happy to assist you. You'll want to order the part that failed, and if necessary, other parts of the same type which may fail on drive home. Inquire about returning the parts you don't use.

4. Arrange delivery. In this situation, almost any small town will have some type of wilderness, kayak, or outdoor outfitter. Inquire if they will accept delivery of your package from the dealer. Most will be happy to help. If they do not charge you for this service, you should spend some dollars in their store to thank them for the assistance.

5. Continue having fun! It will be a few days, at least, before your package arrives. Scout the area, and find other adventures to occupy your time while you wait. Remember, it's all an adventure.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't stress out. Keeping a positive attitude is important.