7 Best Inflatable Kayak For Camping (2023) | CampingWorld

I’m looking for the best inflatable kayak for camping and I have no idea where to start.

It can be tough to figure out which inflatable kayak is right for you, especially if you’re new to the sport. There are so many different brands, models, and features to choose from.

Not to worry, I’ve done the hard work for you. After hours of research and testing, we’ve found a few best inflatable kayaks for camping.

So, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced camper, we’ve got you covered.

Best Inflatable Kayak For Camping – Top 7

We’ll take a closer look at some of the quality inflatable kayaks and also discuss the pros and cons of each one.

1. Intex Challenger – Cheap Inflatable Kayak for Camping

Intex Challenger K1 Kayak, 1-Person Inflatable Kayak Set with Aluminum Oars and High Output Air Pump

The Intex Challenger Kayak is a great choice for beginners and experienced campers alike. It’s made of durable welded materials and has an eye-catching design that will help you stay safe on the lake or slow-moving river.

The cockpit is designed for comfort and maximized space, and the inflatable I-beam floors add stability. The removable skeg provides exceptional directional movement, and the cargo net lets you store extra gear.

Beam Floors

The I-beam floors of this kayak add both comfort and stability. They’re also inflatable, so you can easily adjust the level of firmness to suit your needs. From this feature, campers can also add an extra layer of protection against punctures.

Inflatable Skeg

The inflatable skeg is a great feature that helps with directional stability, especially in windy conditions. It’s also removable, so you can easily take it out if you’re not using it.

Cargo Net With Grab Line

The cargo net is a great way to store extra gear, and it’s also convenient for accessing items you need while you’re on the water. The grab line on both ends of this kayak is a great safety feature, and it also makes it easy to transport when you’re not using it.

Maximum Capacity

This Kayak has a maximum capacity of 220 pounds, making it great for two people. From this type of feature, campers can bring enough gear for an overnight trip or a longer excursion.

Why Do I recommend This Kayak?

As an experienced camper, It’s one of the best inflatable kayaks for me. And I would definitely recommend this.

This is an excellent kayak for camping. It’s stable, has plenty of room for gear, and is easy to set up and takedown. The included skeg makes it easy to stay on course, and the cargo net is a great way to store extra gear.

Pros
  • It’s also incredibly straightforward to repair a spot.
  • The collapsible oars are fantastic, but I’m more than happy with them.
  • After the first time, pumping and assembling the kayak was a snap and quick.
Cons
  • The supplied carrying bag isn’t particularly nice.

2. Explorer K2 Kayak

Intex Explorer K2 Kayak, 2-Person Inflatable Kayak Set with Aluminum Oars and High Output Air Pump

The Explorer K2 Kayak is a great option for anyone looking for a comfortable and stable inflatable kayak.

The cockpit is designed for comfort and space, and the kayak includes an adjustable inflatable seat with a backrest. The removable skeg provides directional stability, and the bright yellow colour helps increase visibility in case of an emergency.

Dimensions

This kayak is 10 feet 3 x 3 feet x 1 foot 8 inches when inflated and can hold a maximum weight capacity of 400 pounds. With this much space, you can bring along a friend or family member to enjoy the ride.

Quality Materials with Accessories

It’s made of high-quality, durable materials that are built to last. The PVC construction is tough and can withstand years of use.

Which can help you enjoy your kayak for years to come. This comes with everything you need to get started. It includes two inflatable seats, paddles, a foot pump, and a repair kit.

Comfortable

This Kayak is designed for comfort. The adjustable inflatable seat with a backrest will keep you comfortable during your entire journey.

Every camper focuses on their comfort level so, this kayak comes with an inflatable seat that will give you full support to your back.

Directional Stability

The Explorer K2 Kayak is stable and easy to control. The removable skeg provides directional stability, and the bright yellow color helps increase visibility in case of an emergency.

Pros
  • It’s easily transportable in any vehicle.
  • It’s simple to set up, taking me anywhere from 10-15 minutes
  • Moves well in the water
  • The twin valves are highly dependable.
Cons
  • The paddle is rather flimsy.

3. Sea Eagle Inflatable Kayak

Sea Eagle 370 Pro 3 Person Inflatable Portable Sport Kayak Canoe Boat w/ Paddles

If you’re looking for a top-quality inflatable kayak for camping, the Sea Eagle 3-Person Inflatable Portable Sport Kayak Canoe is a great choice.

It has a capacity of 650 lbs and can accommodate up to three people. It’s made of durable materials and comes with two paddles, a foot pump, and a carry bag.

Durability

The kayak is made of heavy-duty puncture-resistant PVC material and has a 650-pound capacity. From beginning campers to experienced kayakers, this kayak will provide a great experience.

Inflatable And Portable

This kayak is inflatable and can be easily transported from one campsite to another. It only weighs 32 pounds and can be deflated and stored in the included carry bag. Transporting is easy with the included foot pump.

Tracking And Speed

The kayak has two skegs on the bottom that improve tracking and speed. It’s also equipped with five deluxe one-way inflation/deflation valves. With this feature, you can quickly and easily inflate or deflate the kayak.

Capacity

The kayak has a capacity of 650 pounds, which means it can accommodate up to three people. So this kayak can be enjoyed by the whole family.

Pros
  • The seats and deck of the kayak are spacious.
  • Adjustments on the seats are adequate.
  • For pleasure kayaking, it’s fantastic and relaxing.
Cons
  • Very poor construction.

4. Advanced Elements – Convertible Inflatable Kayak for Camping

ADVANCED ELEMENTS AE1007-R AdvancedFrame Convertible Inflatable Kayak, 15', Red

The Advanced Elements Inflatable Kayak is one of the best camping kayaks on the market. Its aluminum ribs and three layers of material make it extremely durable and resistant to punctures. It’s also pre-assembled at the factory, so all you have to do is unfold, inflate, and attach the seats.

Pre-Assembled

It is one of the few that come pre-assembled from the factory. All you have to do is unfold it, inflate it, and attach the seats. This is a huge time saver and makes set-up a breeze.

Extreme Puncture Resistance

This kayak has three layers of material and aluminum ribs in the bow and stern. This makes it much more resistant to punctures than other kayaks on the market.

High Support With Adjustable Seats

The seats in this kayak are high support and adjustable. This means you’ll be comfortable for hours of paddling. You can also paddle solo or tandem with this kayak, thanks to its three-seat location.

Optional Deck

This kayak comes with the option to add a deck. The deck is made of honeycomb ripstop fabric and attaches easily to the kayak. This is a great feature if you want to use your kayak for fishing or other activities.

Why Do I Like This Kayak?

I really like this kayak because it is extremely stable and durable. I also like that it is pre-assembled and easy to transport. The optional deck is a great feature for fishing or other activities. Overall, I think this is one of the best camping kayaks on the market.

Pros
  • It’s quite appealing.
  • It’s simple to get started.
  • Easy to transport.
  • Really great quality.
  • Extremely stable.
Cons
  • The kayak feels a teeny bit tippy.

5. Driftsun Rover – Best Inflatable Kayak For Camping

Driftsun Rover 220 Inflatable Tandem Kayak Inflatable White-Water Kayak with High Pressure Floor and EVA Padded Seats, High Back Support, Action Cam Mount, Aluminum Paddles, and Pump

The Driftsun Rover is one of the best inflatable kayaks for camping. It’s a great choice for both beginners and experienced campers alike. It’s easy to set up and takedown, and it’s extremely stable and manoeuvrable on the water.

Plus, it comes with all the essential accessories you need to get out on the water and start exploring.

Durable & Lightweight

The Driftsun Rover is made from durable 1000D reinforced layered PVC side tubes and a heavy-duty PVC tarpaulin bottom. It’s also lightweight, weighing in at just 28 pounds.

Stable & Maneuverable

It is extremely stable and maneuverable on the water. It has a rigid high-pressure drop stitch floor and removable flatwater tracking fin. Plus, it has an ample rocker profile to deliver unmatched stability and control in rough and flatwater conditions.

Adventure-Ready

It’s adventure-ready. It has a whitewater rating of up to class III and IV rapids. Plus, it has 8 self-bailing ports and plenty of tie-down points for gear. And, it even comes with a front action camera mount so you can capture all your adventures on film.

Package Includes

This comes with everything you need to get out on the water and start exploring. It includes two adjustable EVA padded seats with high back support, two adjustable aluminum kayak paddles, a deluxe double-action hand pump, a rear tracking fin, and a travel bag.

Kayak Specifications (Dimension)

The Driftsun Rover has the following dimensions: 12.5’(L) x 38”(W) x 13”(H). It has a weight capacity of 600 pounds and can accommodate two adults and one child or furry friend. And, it inflates in just 9 minutes.

Pros
  • It’s constructed of a very robust material.
  • The bottom is so solid you can stand up in it.
  • The seats may be quickly altered.
  • It’s simple to transform one into a two-seater.
Cons
  • There’s a leak in the cylinder.

6. Driftsun Voyager Inflatable Kayak

Driftsun Voyager Inflatable Kayak - 2 Person Tandem Kayak, Includes Aluminum Paddles, Padded Seats, Double Action Pump

When you’re out camping, the last thing you want to worry about is your kayak. You want something that is durable, easy to maneuver, and comfortable. The Driftsun Voyager Inflatable Kayak is all of those things and more.

It inflates quickly and easily, so you can get from the garage to the water in no time. And when you’re done, it deflates and packs up nicely into the included carry bag. It’s also lightweight and easy to handle by one person.

Durable Design

The Driftsun Voyager Inflatable Kayak is made with a heavy-duty PVC tarpaulin bottom that is puncture-resistant.

The double-threaded Boston valves are guaranteed not to leak, and the tough 840D coated nylon oxford fabric top cover is ripped and tear-resistant.

Superior Performance

The kayak’s rocker profile and pointed nose entry (bow) deliver excellent performance in both calm and choppy water.

The removable deep fin provides responsive tracking, and the rear drain plug makes for easy draining and cleaning. The high-quality EVA padded seats offer high-back support for hours of comfortable cruising.

Everything Included

This kayak comes with everything you need for a great day on the water. It includes the Driftsun Voyager Inflatable Kayak, (2) adjustable EVA padded seats, (2) aluminum kayak paddles with ergonomic grip handles, a deluxe double action hand pump, rear tracking fin, and travel bag.

Compact and Maneuverable

When deflated for transport, this inflatable kayak measures only 26”(L) x 16”(W) x 8”(H) and fits nicely into the included carry bag. Its lightweight design makes it easy to handle by one person, weighing in at only 27 lbs.

Pros
  • The exceptional quality and comfort.
  • Easy to put together and easily glides across the water.
  • It’s robust enough to last a long time with a little bit of TLC.
  • The seats are fantastic, once you’ve fiddled with them.
Cons
  • The instructional booklet contains incorrect information.

7. Elkton Outdoors Steelhead Fishing Kayak

Elkton Outdoors Steelhead Inflatable Fishing Kayak - One-Person Angler Blow Up Kayak, Includes Paddle, Seat, Hard Mounting Points, Bungee Storage, Rigid Dropstitch Floor and Spray Guard

Elkton Outdoors kayak is one of the best choices for every camper who is in search inflatable kayak.

It has a solid drop stitch floor that allows anglers to steadily stand and position themselves for better bait-casting. It also has a padded seat to keep you comfortable while waiting for your catch.

Unique Design

The Elkton Outdoors kayak has a solid drop stitch floor that allows anglers to steadily stand and position themselves for better bait-casting.

Inflatable Kayak

It is made of 1000D Reinforced Layered PVC, so it safely bounces off against obstacles like rocks and logs. For inflating the kayak quickly it comes with a dual-action hand pump. And for easy storage, it has an inclusive travel bag.

Dimensions with Weight

The dimensions of the kayak are 10 feet long and 30 inches wide. It weighs around 32.6 pounds. Plus, it has a weight capacity of 400 pounds.

Pros
  • It’s really simple to put up and take down.
  • Quality materials
  • Sturdiness is such that you could stand inside of it while fishing.
  • For someone who is taller, this chair is quite comfy.
Cons
  • It appears that properly storing food is a pain.

Things To Consider While Buying A Inflatable Kayak for Camping

Now that we’ve gone over a few of the best inflatable kayaks for camping, let’s talk about what you should look for when choosing one. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

Kayak Weight And Capacity

The weight of the kayak is important for two reasons. First, you’ll need to be able to carry it to the water. And second, the weight capacity will determine how much gear you can bring with you.

For example, the Driftsun Voyager Inflatable Kayak has a weight capacity of 400 pounds, so you can bring along plenty of gear for a weekend camping trip.

Portability

When choosing an inflatable kayak, portability is an important factor to consider. After all, you’ll need to be able to transport it to and from the campsite. Some kayaks are easier to transport than others.

For example, the Driftsun Voyager Inflatable Kayak comes with a carry bag and can be easily transported by one person.

Durability

Another important factor to consider is durability. You’ll want a kayak that can withstand being bounced around on rocks and logs. The Driftsun Voyager Inflatable Kayak is made of durable PVC and can safely bounce off of obstacles.

Ease Of Use

When choosing an inflatable kayak, you’ll also want to consider ease of use. Some kayaks are easier to set up and take down than others.

For example, the Driftsun Voyager Inflatable Kayak can be easily assembled by one person in just a few minutes.

Price

Of course, you’ll also want to consider the price when choosing an inflatable kayak. Some kayaks are more expensive than others, but you’ll usually get what you pay for in terms of quality and features.

Conclusion

Finally, we’ve discussed a few of the best inflatable kayaks for camping. We’ve also talked about what you should look for when choosing one.

So, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced camper, we hope you’ve found this guide helpful.