Idiotic newbie question about racks/baskets

[BobWheelerJr]

I've got beefed up crossbars for my roof rails, but I really want a basket. We go to our place in the Ozarks frequently and since my dog weighs 125 pounds and rides in the rear cargo area, it'd be nice to put packs, etc., on the roof.

My question is, if I get a basket type deal on the roof, how the hell would I transport kayaks back and forth from my place to the river? Would I have to remove the basket and mount the kayaks, or is there some sort of system that would allow me to have a basket for cargo and attach something for kayaks?

Thanks for any advice y'all can give me. Also, thanks for the mod advice so far. I've basically taken all y'all's suggestions and we're digging the results.

 

[John in NC]

Aluminum hitch carrier has been very useful for me and frees up the roof for kayaks. And no added noise and no noticeable loss of mpgs.

 

[aelfkins]

There are a ton of roof rack/basket options. And many of them have different specialized holders that you can use.

You might do well with a 3/4 or full length basket, that will give your packs some support, but be long enough that you can just throw your kayaks in and strap them down.

Here's some links that I used to help pick out my roof rack.
5th Gen 4Runner Roof Racks - Full-Length, 3/4 Length & Basket Racks
The Best 4Runner Roof Rack of 2020 (and how to choose)

 

[fkheath]

Both Thule and Yakima make kayak systems that clamp to the cross bars for Toyota baskets/roof racks.