Toyota RAV4 Forums banner
1 - 2 of 11 Posts
All in all the height makes it 'not easy' but not difficult. It just takes some planning. You can put a blanket on the top of the tailgate and slide a kayak on/off at the back. Depending on your height you might get a folding step stool for tying down, but be ready for the step stool feet to sink into the dirt at launch sites (which can have uneven terrain,creating new problems). Opening the door and standing on the sill is another way. Watch for tie-down straps causing scratches if you throw them over, etc. And scratches bringing the kayak down. Take half an hour in the driveway and try things. And ask people at launch sites how they handle it.
 
Yep, more challenge, but you aren't the first to face the problem. There are lift systems like-


If you go into the reviews of the second link you'll see someone using it on a Rav4.

I strongly encourage using tie-down ropes at front and back, not just in the middle at the rack bars. And be sure not to forget you have the kayak up there. Drive-throughs and garages can do a number on a boat, or vice versa.
 
1 - 2 of 11 Posts