The easiest way to carry an inflatable paddle board is rolled up in its wheeled backpack; to carry it inflated, use a padded shoulder sling that wraps the board and frees your hands. Which one you reach for depends on whether the board is still packed or already pumped up.
For the walk from the car to the water, you have two good options. If your board is deflated, a wheeled backpack lets you roll or shoulder the whole kit, board, pump, and paddle, in one trip. Every NIXY G5 board ships with one, so most paddlers already own this.
If your board is inflated, a hard board to balance on one hip across a parking lot, you want a carry sling. A sling loops around the board and rides on a padded shoulder strap, so the weight sits on your shoulder instead of pinching your fingers under the rail. It also holds the paddle, which means one hand stays free for a dog leash, a cooler, or a kid.
The NIXY SUP Carry Sling is built for the inflated carry. It uses a 2 inch neoprene shoulder pad, adjustable board straps to fit any board, and a paddle strap so the whole rig travels as one. At $19 it is the cheapest fix for the most annoying part of any paddle day.
A few tips make either method easier. Carry an inflated board nose-forward so wind does not catch it like a sail. Use the center handle for short hops. And for longer hauls over sand or pavement, the wheeled backpack with the board deflated is almost always the least tiring route. You can see carry options in the NIXY SUP and kayak accessories collection.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the easiest way to carry an inflatable paddle board?
Rolled up in its wheeled backpack. Deflating the board lets you pack the board, pump, and paddle into one bag you can roll or wear on your back, which is the least tiring way to cover sand or pavement. NIXY G5 boards include a wheeled backpack, so this option is built in.
How do you carry an inflated paddle board by yourself?
Use a carry sling or the board's center handle. A sling wraps the board and rides on a padded shoulder strap so the weight is on your shoulder, not your fingers, and it holds your paddle so one hand stays free. Carry the board nose-forward so wind does not push it around, and keep it tucked close to your body for balance.
Can you carry a paddle board and paddle at the same time?
Yes. A carry sling with a paddle strap holds both as one unit, so you make a single trip instead of juggling the board under one arm and the paddle in the other hand. That is the main reason a $19 sling is worth it for paddlers who walk any distance to the water.
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