Here in Juneau, Alaska, many a vehicle all summer long is adorned atop with kayaks. There are many island destination, some not too far offshore, and some people just go out for the day. Some go out for several weeks.

At my back door right now are two kayaks (one a double) and one canoe. I suspect that many Alaskans, faced with the decision of having offstreet vehicle parking or room for storing their kayaks would opt for the water gear.