A often overlook problem is how to carry your kayak. If you carry your kayak you tend to risk injury to yourself, so make sure you know how to properly carry it.

The most common technique is the Boat Over Shoulder method.

This method is the most common one but it also tends to leave the kayakers muscles and shoulder sore. If possible always try to carry the kayak with a partner.

1. Place your gear on your body or securely inside of the kayak.
2. Stand on one side of your kayak.
3. Bend down at the knees.
4. Grab the far side rim of the kayak with one hand.
5. Use the other hand to balance the kayak as you lift it up.
6. Hold the kayak over your shoulder.
7. Do not let the full weight of the kayak rest on your shoulder.

Boat Over Shoulder Variation
This is similar to the previous method with the exception that you don’t hold the kayak up with your arm. Instead, you place your arm inside of the kayak and rest the kayak along your back. This method offers a good respite from a long carry and a sore arm using the previous method. You can alternate between the two methods as comfort allows.

1. Place your gear on your body or securely inside of the kayak.
2. Stand on one side of your kayak.
3. Bend down at the knees.
4. Grab the far side rim of the kayak with one hand.
5. Use the other hand to balance the kayak as you lift it up.
6. Briefly rest the kayak on your shoulder.
7. Place your arm inside of the cockpit of the kayak.
8. Allow the kayak to be supported along your back.
9. Do not let the full weight of the kayak rest on your shoulder.