I have an '08 F250 CrewCab. I have a 17ft canoe and maybe a kayak (not purchased yet) that would like to haul around when we go camping. Whats the best option for this? I also could be towing either a boat or travel trailer.

From what I have seen there are a few different options. There can be racks for the cab roof top. I have also seen something that is similar to ladder racks. Or a combination of the two? I don't want anything permanently installed since I won't be using it often.

 

You can get ladder racks that clamp to the bed rails. Lightweight and easy to install and remove.

 

Look into a Yakima rack made for your truck. They are first class, and have specific mounting brackets for canoes, bikes, skis, etc. I even use mine to haul ladders and lumber. My rack is used on a SUV (Toyota Landcruiser) but if I wanted to haul a canoe or two on my F 350, I would get the appropriate rack for that. This would allow the bed to remain open and would not affect a trailer. Yakima's website will tell you what specific parts you will need for your model truck. Too bad new vehicles don't have rain gutters any more as the mounting brackets for gutters were rather universal and simpler.

 

I have a 16 foot canoe - due to the design of the front it has to be angled just right at the front, to high at the back and the front will rub the roof. I tie it down to the back ontop of the tailgate and strap it to the hitch you can strap it to a hook in the box but I need the space and I don't tow. I use a back rack and straps, all you need.

This is the only pic I have: