How to Organize Your Kayaks, Canoes, and Pool Equipment

Summer fun often brings with it a flood of outdoor gear—kayaks, canoes, pool floats, paddles, life vests, and more. If your garage or backyard is starting to look more like a rental shack than a relaxing retreat, it’s time for a change. The good news? There are plenty of clever, outside-the-box ways to organize your kayaks, canoes, and pool equipment so they stay safe, dry, and ready for your next adventure. From DIY builds to smart storage hacks, we’re sharing practical solutions to keep your seasonal gear under control.

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Why Proper Storage Matters

This first thing to think about when you organize your kayaks, canoes, and pool equipment is how you should be properly storing them and why it's important to do so. Firstly, water is involved which means the possibility of mold, water damage, and warping. It's also important because you want to help keep animals and insects from nesting inside and ruining your items.

Not only does proper storage prevent damage, but it will also, in-turn, extend the lifespan of your gear. Not only that, but proper storage will also save you time when you're ready to head out and use your gear. All in all, proper storage is going to save you money and time!

Kayak and Canoe Storage Solutions

1. DIY 2x4 Storage Rack - One of the simplest and most cost-effective ways to organize your kayaks and canoes is by building a custom rack using 2x4s. Create a box-like frame with space on both the top and bottom for kayak placement. Add hooks on the sides for accessories like paddles and life jackets—it’s sturdy, budget-friendly, and customizable to your space.

2. Ceiling Pulley System - Short on floor space? Look up! Pulley systems allow you to lift kayaks or canoes to the ceiling of your garage, freeing up room below. This is a great way to utilize vertical space and keep gear off the ground.

3. Wall-Mounted Straps - Amanda’s personal go-to: repurpose vehicle mounting straps and attach them to a 2x4 on the garage wall. She recommends storing kayaks with the opening facing the wall to keep animals from sneaking inside. This method is simple, secure, and makes use of otherwise unused wall space.

4. Commercial Wall Racks - If you prefer a polished, high-end look, you can invest in a wall rack system. Tractor Supply and other retailers offer durable wall-mounted storage units that hold multiple kayaks or canoes—perfect for serious paddlers or families with several watercraft.

5. Multi-Tier Racks - Need to store more than one kayak or canoe? Stackable racks allow you to store 3–4 boats in one spot. These are ideal for large families or water sport enthusiasts.

6. Ceiling-Hanging Racks - An alternative to pulleys, ceiling racks suspend your gear overhead. Just make sure they’re installed securely and can bear the weight of your equipment.

7. Outdoor Storage Tips - While storing kayaks or canoes outside is an option, it comes with risks. Always use a waterproof cover and elevate your boats off the ground to prevent mold and pest damage. Never store them vertically for long periods—this can warp the shape and damage the integrity of the vessel.

Organizing Kayak & Canoe Accessories

Don't forget the gear that goes with your boats! A well-organized system makes every outing smoother. Here’s what you’ll want to organize:

• Oars and paddles

• Life jackets

• Bilge pumps (to remove water from inside the kayak)

• Waterproof bags and phone cases

Use wall hooks, labeled bins, and hanging baskets to keep everything in its place. Group items by category so they’re easy to find when it’s time to hit the water.

Pool Equipment Storage Tips

Once the pool season wraps up, it’s time to tackle the mess of floats, noodles, and gear. Here are a few organizing ideas:

• Mesh bins or deck boxes to store wet or bulky items

• Wall hooks for goggles, towels, and pool skimmers

• Clear bins with labels for small toys or sunscreen

• Vertical racks for noodles and floaties

  
  

Ready to Organize Your Kayaks, Canoes, and Pool Equipment?

When it comes to outdoor fun, the last thing you want is to waste time digging through cluttered gear. By taking the time to organize your kayaks, canoes, and pool equipment, you’ll protect your investment, save valuable space, and make summer prep a breeze. Whether you opt for a custom DIY rack, clever ceiling storage, or just a more strategic bin system, the key is finding what works for your space and lifestyle. A little planning now means more paddling, less panicking later!