For short distances, hold your leash securely in one hand so the slack doesn`t trip you as you carry your board. Pick up the board and tuck it under one arm or place it on top of your head. For long distances, canoe portage carts can be adapted to carry surfboards.
Fixed rack systems that attach permanently to your car are the securest types of rack. Most manufacturers sell surfboard attachments that can be added onto rack systems. Specialized detachable, soft surfboard carriers are cheaper but less secure than fixed racks. To carry a board on a rack, place your board in a surfboard bag to protect its surface, then place the board on the roof rack with the fins facing up and to the front. Use two tie-downs to attach the board to each crossbar.
If your surfboard fits on a diagonal in the bed of your truck, pad the corners of the truck with towels or foam to avoid damaging the ends of the board and secure the board in place with bungee cords. If the board is too long to fit completely inside the truck, invest in a tailgate pad to protect the board. Place the board in the truck fins up on a diagonal and strap the board tightly against the tailgate pad.
Individual airlines have specific rules about transporting surfboards. For your board to survive airline transport, you will need a bag 4 inches longer than your board. You'll need to remove the fins, if possible. If not, create DIY fin covers by wrapping cardboard around the fins and securing with duct tape. Wrap the entire board in several layers of bubble wrap secured with duct tape before inserting the board in a sturdy board bag.
