Best Kayak Carrier for Fishing Kayaks on 2013 Subaru Outback With Factory Crossbars

Question:

We have a 2013 Outback with the factory swing out crossbars. We just purchased 2 - 12’ Fishing kayaks about 34” wide each. Which roof rack setup will work? We thought about a roof basket and laying them flat and side by side on top of the basket. Not sure if that will work. Thanks in advance!!

asked by: Paul C

Expert Reply:

We have a great option to carry a pair of 34" wide fishing kayaks on the factory roof rack of your 2013 Subaru Outback. To do this you will need to use a post- or J-style carrier to carry the kayaks on their sides because there won't be enough room to lay the kayaks flat on your roof.

I strongly recommend the Thule Compass Kayak and SUP Carrier # TH890000 because it is a 2-in-1 carrier that has the necessary size enough to carry a pair of kayaks that are 34" wide (it fits hull widths of up to 36"). It even comes with the needed tie-downs to secure your kayaks, saving you any extra expense. I have added a link to a video review as well as a photo showing the Compass in use

The Thule Compass has a 130 lb weight capacity which is hefty enough that it should work for most fishing kayaks, but if yours are heavier you will need to go with a pair of J-style carriers that can carry more weight, two of he etrailer.com J-Style Kayak Carrier # E98878, which has a 150 lb capacity per carrier. This is our most popular kayak carrier because it offers a combination of quality and price point that is hard to overlook. This carrier also comes with the needed straps to secure your kayaks. I've added links to reviews of this carrier for you as well.

expert reply by: Kyle S