Mobile kayak hire from a trailer

Locals, holidaymakers, families, small groups and visitors at caravan parks or camping spots.

Hourly or half-day hire fees per kayak, with extra income from group bookings, tandem hire and add-ons like dry bags.

• Confident paddler with water safety knowledge
• Friendly customer service
• Towing and loading a trailer

• Permission to operate: commercial use of launch sites usually needs a permit or approval, so check with the local council, state parks agency or waterway manager before trading, as rules differ by location
• Public liability insurance that specifically covers watersports hire
• Lifejacket and safety equipment requirements, which vary by state, so check with your state's marine safety authority
• Weather, tides and water conditions: set clear rules for when you will not hire
• A towing vehicle that is rated for the trailer weight

Startup costs are typically around $6,000 to $25,000, depending on the number of kayaks, trailer, lifejackets and paddles. These are estimates only. Check your towing vehicle is rated for the trailer weight.

Commercial use of launch sites usually needs a permit or approval, so check with the local council, state parks agency or waterway manager before trading, as rules differ by location. Also check lifejacket requirements with your state's marine safety authority.

Monthly revenue is typically around $1,000 to $5,000, depending on location, season and weather. That is revenue, not profit. You could start with around 10 hours a week. Public liability insurance covering watersports hire is something to check.