For water lovers, combining a motorhome with kayaking or paddleboarding is a brilliant plan: you wake up by a lake, a river or the sea, launch your board or kayak straight onto the water with no queues or transport needed, and once you're done, your home is right there to dry off and recharge. Here are the tips for carrying your kayak and where to enjoy it.
How to carry the kayak
- Inflatable or folding kayaks: the star solution for campers. They take up very little space when stored (fitting in a garage locker or a cupboard) and set up in minutes. They've improved a lot and perform more than well enough for recreational use.
- A rigid kayak on roof bars: better performance, but it takes up space, adds height (watch out for height barriers) and creates wind resistance. Secure it very well.
- Inflatable paddleboard: even more compact; a great option for beginners.
Where to paddle
- Lakes and reservoirs: calm waters, ideal for beginners and families.
- Rivers: depending on the stretch, anywhere from calm to whitewater (the latter only with experience).
- Coasts and coves: the sea opens up spots only reachable by paddling (with care and good weather).
Always follow local regulations (some waters are protected or have navigation restrictions).
Safety on the water
- Always wear a life jacket, even if you can swim.
- Check the weather, wind and currents; at sea, an offshore wind can carry you further out than planned.
- Don't go alone in waters you don't know, and let someone know your plan.
- Know your limits and those of your gear.
Getting the camper ready for afterwards
After being on the water, it's a real treat to dry off with hot water, charge your action camera and have a cold drink waiting. All of that means energy and water, so arrive at your water spot with your set-up ready to go (use the calculator). Pair it with lake destinations such as the Pyrenees routes.
In summary
Campers and kayaking are a perfect match: you wake up by the water and launch straight in, with inflatable and folding kayaks as the ideal space-saving solution. The step to take today: if you're tempted, get an inflatable kayak or paddleboard (it barely takes up any space), check the regulations for the waters you'll visit, and always go out wearing a life jacket in good weather; you'll discover spots only reachable by paddling. Pair it with the best coastal spots.