Looking to get on the water this season but don’t have a transport system that can handle a heavy, cumbersome kayak?
Our list of the best portable kayaks has highlighted the lightest and lowest profile boats as well as some inflatable and foldable kayak options so you can get your vessel from A to B regardless of your muscle mass or vehicle design! Don’t let kayak size or weight hold you back with a new, easy to transport and store option from our top list!
Our Review
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Shop now at Oru Kayak From Oru Kayak - 28 pounds
- 12-feet long
- 300-pound weight capacity
- 33 by 12 by 29 inches folded up, backpack carry system available
- Rated for 20,000 fold cycles
How about a kayak so portable that it can be folded up compact enough to be worn as a backpack or checked as regular luggage on a flight?
Oru Kayak is making waves in the portable kayak world with their incredibly innovative foldable kayak designs. This brand builds great quality boats that are impressively seaworthy and comfortable considering their remarkable ability to ‘origami’ into a carry-system the size of a large suitcase.
There are a few brands of foldable kayaks currently on the market, but Oru Kayak seems to be leading the charge in terms of building a portable boat that doesn’t sacrifice the comfort or handling ability of a traditional kayak. They are certainly a bit more expensive than the competition, but for the ultimate folding kayak options, this is the go-to brand.
The unique polypropylene construction of these boats is what allows them to remain so lightweight and durable. These boats are rated for a lifetime of 20,000 folds and are treated for 10 years of UV protection, so this is a portable kayak option you’ll own for years of fun.
The Bay ST is Oru’s original design that’s great for both beginner and advanced paddlers. The hull is great for flat water, but can also handle some decent current and wave action. If you’re interested in a boat that breaks down super compact but still tracks and paddles like a high-quality vessel, this is a great choice.
This kayak is just 28 pounds and features a 300-pound weight capacity. It sets up in just a few minutes with a little practice and offers enough storage capacity for all your essential gear and more. There’s not much this kayak can’t do, but for a higher performance option that’s built to take on more intense waves, current and wind, check out the Coast Xt also listed here!
Don’t forget to consider the Oru Pack for a carry system that allows you to toss this vessel right on your back!
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Shop now at Oru Kayak From Oru Kayak - 26 pounds
- 12 feet long
- 300-pound weight capacity
- 33 by 12 by 29 inches folded up, backpack carry system available
- Rated for 20,000 fold cycles
Here’s another killer portable kayak by Oru Kayak that’s built for more casual paddlers and conditions.
This option is a bit less expensive than the Bay St previously listed, but more or less has the same capabilities if you’re a paddler who typically sticks to kayaking in calm water. This boat sets up even easier than Oru’s other model boats in as little as five minutes and still maintains a 300-pound weight capacity.
Although the hull is not designed for navigating current and wave action, that’s not to say this isn’t a seaworthy vessel that still tracks like a traditional, hard-bodied kayak. The idea here is to offer an easier to assemble, more affordable option for calmer waters – Oru hasn’t sacrificed quality in any way.
The Beach LT is just 26 pounds and also compatible with the Oru Pack backpack carry system for maximum portability.
There’s more passenger space in the ‘cockpit’ of the Beach Lt than Oru’s other boats, so if you like the looks of this brand but don’t have a need for a boat that can handle rough water, this is likely your best option. The price is also right.
At just 33 by 12 by 29 inches broken down, it’s tough to beat the portability and performance of Oru’s unique line of polyethylene boats!
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Shop now at Oru Kayak From Oru Kayak - 34 pounds
- 400-pound weight capacity
- 16-feet long
- 33 by 12 by 29 inches folded up, backpack carry system available
- Rated for 20,000 fold cycles
The Coast XT is Oru Kayak’s performance model of foldable kayak intended for advanced paddlers in essentially any environment.
This is one cool portable kayak that’s been designed to be impressively high-speed, low-drag. This model kayak is crafted with a hull that really slices water and gets up to speed in just a few strokes. Like Oru’s other foldable kayaks, the Coast Xt can be equipped with their specially built float bags and spray skirt, and is, of course, compatible with the innovative Oru pack carry system.
This boat (as well as Oru’s other model single-kayaks) can furthermore be rolled in the event of a capsize.
For the ultimate portable kayak option when it comes to performance handling and comfort, this unit has it going on. The Coast Xt is remarkably streamlined and sleek in the water for a boat of honestly any style – and it can be stashed in your closet, trunk or even under your bed.
This model is a bit heavier than Oru’s other boats at 34 pounds, but in turn has a higher weight capacity at 400, as opposed to 300 pounds. The added weight capacity is relevant here because this is the kind of portable kayak you can really embark on true expeditions with.
Without a doubt one of the most righteous foldable kayak systems that’s well worth the cost if Oru is within your budget!
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Shop now at Oru Kayak From Oru Kayak - 40 pounds
- 16-feet long
- 500-pound weight capacity
- 34 by 16 by 29 inches collapsed
- 10-15 minute setup time
- Can be modified to work as a single and tandem kayak
- Rated for 20,000 fold cycles
The Haven Tandem Foldable Kayak by Oru is perhaps the ultimate portable option for those seeking a high-quality tandem vessel.
Weighing in at just 40 pounds and folding down to a downright impressive 34 by 16 by 29 inches collapsed, the Haven’s on the water performance and capabilities are drastically superior to what you might expect. Featuring a 500-pound max load capacity, you can utilize this innovative option as either a tandem or single kayak depending on how you arrange the seating during assembly – pretty cool right!?
The Haven’s ability to be converted into a one-man kayak makes it a great portable option for gear-intensive fishermen, and sportsmen, in general, seeking an easy to transport boat that still offers a high capacity for storing gear. The cockpit measures 20 by 91 inches, so there’s quite a bit of deck space to lay out coolers, dry bags, fishing gear, and more!
The large open cockpit design also nicely accommodates dogs and small kids, so this is truly an adventure vessel for the whole family!
The Haven is recommended for calm-water applications, so it’s perfect for the lakes, rivers, and streams. Pushing the limits on the open ocean may be possible depending on one’s kayaking experience, but the boat is geared towards recreational paddlers.
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Shop now at Amazon From Amazon - Under 30 pounds
- 10 feet long
- 48 by 15 by 8 inches broken down
- 350-pound weight capacity
- 3-year warranty
Here’s a budget folding kayak option that could work great for you if high-performance tracking and maneuvering are not on the top of your list.
The Tucktec Folding Kayak is less than 30 pounds and just 48 by 15 by 8 inches broken down. Assembly is remarkably easy with this one – simply unfold it and lock down the heavy-duty clamps for a less than two minute set up.
This boat does not have an impressive hull when it comes to maneuverability, but you get what you pay for. For flat-water applications paddling around your local lakes and ponds, this boat will perform just fine. Calmer days out in the ocean are no problem for this vessel either, just be mindful of the wind and wave conditions with this option, it will take on water easily compared to the superior designed foldable kayaks built by Oru Kayak.
While this kayak option doesn’t feature an impressive hull design, keep in mind it’s still super lightweight and will paddle really nicely. It doesn’t take much muscle to transport or paddle this bad boy. The entire boat is built from a single sheet of one-eighth inch thick solid HDPE that has good strength for its weight so you can beat on this option without stressing. Tucktec also offers a three-year warranty with this boat so you can buy in confidence.
This kayak option lacks any real features – it’s a pretty bare-bones option. There are carry handles for easy portaging and a bit of storage space behind the seat, and that’s about it. You can absolutely do things like comfortably take photos, fish or birdwatch in this kayak, but there’s unfortunately not a lot of organization or storage potential for your gear!
Good news is, there’s a nice color selection to choose from. All in all, this is an excellent foldable kayak option for the cost that will get you on the water if your storage needs and budget are low!
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Shop now at Amazon From Amazon - 61 pound inflated – entire kit weighs around 70 pounds
- 12.5-foot length, 35.5-inch width
- 400-pound weight capacity
- 38 by 18 by 12 inches when collapsed into the roller bag
- Operational as both a kayak, and a SUP
The Lono Aero Inflatable Kayak & Stand Up Paddle Board by BOTE is an incredibly innovative, high-performance personal watercraft that’s geared towards adventure anglers in particular.
If you’re a fisherman seeking a versatile and highly capable vessel for targeting fish in difficult to access locations, you need to have this absolutely righteous vessel on your radar. Able to collapse to just 38 by 18 by 12 inches when packed into the roller bag, the Lono is easily packable in a backseat or trunk space and is even suitable for airline travel!
The kayak measures 12.5 feet long once deployed and features a spacious 35.5-inch width. There are tons of attachment points for gear, generous under-seat storage, several bungee tie-downs, and even some integrated rod mounts. This is one seriously equipped vessel for those with a passion for targeting fish.
Best of all, the Lono is wide and stable enough to comfortably stand up – it does double as a SUP after all! You can remove the seat if you choose to for even more deck space, or go ahead and stand while the vessel is in kayak-mode. It’s a pivotal feature for sight fishing applications, casting a fly rod, and just plain old fun!
The stern platform of the Lono is furthermore removable, so you can separate the rear inflatable panel and utilize it as a floating bar, or lounge space to name just a few applications.
Not does the Lono come highly equipped, it’s also remarkably customizable. The brand has engineered this four-chambered kayak to receive rod mounts, cup holders, sand-anchors, coolers or bait buckets, and more! You can really personalize this kayak option to suit your paddling or fishing style precisely the way you want!
If you love the design and concept of this kayak/SUP hybrid but don’t necessarily require all of the integrated customization potential, then be sure to check out the BOTE Deus – it’s a highly comparable vessel with just a few less bells and whistles that’s as a result offered at a lower price point.
Salt and freshwater approved, equipped with a flared bow and robust keel for enhanced stability and abrasion resistance, and featuring three removable fins for improved tracking, this is truly an all-out fishing machine!
Be sure to check out this in-depth video breakdown of the Lono for a closer look at its long list of features and capabilities!
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Shop now at Amazon From Amazon - 42 pounds
- 10 feet long and 29.5 inches wide
- 275-pound maximum weight capacity
The Perception Joyride 10 is a wonderfully affordable, high quality hard-sided kayak option that’s easily loaded into truck beds and onto car tops due to its low, 42-pound weight.
This is a compact and lightweight boat, but it is a traditional style kayak designed for both kids and adults, so you’ll need a place to store this vessel, as well as a vehicle that can transport it.
Equipped with an adjustable seat featuring thick, ventilated padding, customizable footrests, and an integrated drink holder, Perception has designed the Joyride for maximum comfort and convenience. There is even a patent-pending Selfie Slot at the front of the cockpit allowing paddlers to stage electronics for viewing and capturing images.
Perhaps coolest of all, there are two integrated solo mount points included in the design which allow you to add a variety of RAM mount accessories without drilling holes into the vessel. You don’t often see kayaks of this style and price point that feature this level of customization potential, so consider what kind of electronics, fishing rod holders, or other accessories you might outfit this boat with.
Not to be overlooked, the brand has also included a storage hatch with a hinged lid and bulkhead here, so there’s a safe dry space for stashing your water-sensitive gear.
Light and maneuverable, easy to store and transport, and outfitted with a host of cool, practical features, the Joyride 10 is a brilliant option for amateur and expert paddlers alike that will perform with flying colors without breaking the bank!
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Shop now at Amazon From Amazon - 9.5 feet long and 31 inches wide
- 46 pounds
- 300-pound maximum weight capcity
The Perception Tribe 9.5 is an especially compact hard-sided sit-on-top kayak featuring an impressive array of features given its price point. Designed for recreational paddling on lakes, ponds, and slow moving rivers and streams, the Tribe is quite capable in the water, so both kids and adults will find a friend here.
Built with an adjustable framed seatback with a cushy padded seat, molded knee/thigh slots, and integrated footrests for enhanced comfort, Perception has built this boat to be suitable for virtually any sized paddler. Particularly heavy kayakers may want to opt for a slightly larger vessel considering this kayak’s 300-pound weight capacity, but the brand has ensured even taller individuals will have plenty of room in here.
Front and rear tank well storage featuring bungee tie-downs enable you to bring along quite a bit of gear despite this kayak’s compact size, so this is a great option for full-days exploring on the water when you want to pack a lunch, extra layers, and additional gear. A center storage hatch located between the paddler’s legs goes on to provide you with a dry space for stashing keys and other water-sensitive personal items. The brand has even included a molded cup holder at the front of the cockpit, an underrated feature in our opinion.
While this kayak will likely require car-top, or truck bed transport, certain model hatchbacks will also easily be able to fit this vessel once the backseats are folded down. If you drive a station wagon or SUV, chances are you can tie this bad boy right into the back of your vehicle!
With several cool colors to choose from, you can furthermore personalize this kayak’s aesthetic to match your preferred style!
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Shop now at Amazon From Amazon - 41 pounds
- 325-pound weight capacity
- 9.5-feet long
The Flash 9.5 by Perception Kayaks is an excellent value little boat that’s more capable than its price tag might suggest. Equipped with features like built-in rod holders and a 10-inch storage hatch, you can do a lot with this low-weight, compact kayak.
Measuring 28.5 inches wide and designed with dual tracking channels in the hull, the Flash is both exceptionally maneuverable due to its short length, as well as impressively stable. Weighing just 41 pounds, both kids and adults will have no issue getting this boat moving.
The brand has designed this boat for low maintenance, simplicity, and ease of use – so if you’re seeking an entry-level kayak that doesn’t require much taking care of aside from proper storage, this is a great go-to. Perception approves this boat for lakes, calm coastal environments, and slow-moving rivers, so as long as you don’t brave any white water, there’s not much this kayak can’t do.
Outfitted with a high seatback and cushion for ergonomic support, a paddle stay, cup holder, and an easy-access dashboard for small gear storage, Perception has made sure to set this boat up for a comfortable and convenient ride.
In regards to transport and portages, the front and rear handles are ergonomically optimized for easy carrying so getting this kayak down to the water is a breeze.
Available in a few different colors, there’s bound to be a Flash 9.5 that suits you!
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Shop now at Amazon From Amazon - 45 pounds
- 9.5-feet
- 250-pound weight capacity
A bare-bones, simple and straightforward option, the Perception Zip 9.5 is a brilliant sit-on-top boat for leisurely paddles that call for a portable vessel.
Intended for use on lakes, ponds, slow-moving rivers, and calm coastal environments, the Zip 9.5 is great for kids and adults alike. An anatomically molded seat with multiple footrests provides plenty of sprawl space, but the kayak does not include a padded seat. If you want some cushion, you can spring for the Harmony Gear Standard Sit-on-Top Seat, or rig something yourself.
While the inherent design of this sit-on-top boat is bound to get a bit wetter than sit-in kayaks, self-draining scupper holes at least ensure the deck is always drained of water.
Cargo space at the bow and stern provide plenty of room for gear, but once again, keep in mind that the deck is likely to take on some splash unless conditions are truly flat. A cup holder is also built-in to the design so you can set down your beverage while paddling.
Equipped with front and rear handles ergonomically optimized for easy carrying, moving this boat from the garage, to the car, to the shore is made easy.
With a few fun color options to choose from, you can even personalize the aesthetic to your preferred style!
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Shop now at Amazon From Amazon - 36 pounds
- 275-pound weight capacity
- 10-feet
The Pelican Maxim 100X Recreational Kayak is simple and straightforward, entry-level kayak option offering a stable yet fast hull, and an exceptionally lightweight build suitable for virtually any strength paddler.
If you’re seeking a kid’s kayak, this is a wonderful option that will be easy and fun for children to paddle due to its especially low weight and stability. The shallow V-chine hull design boosts maneuverability and tracking while also increasing secondary stability, so even amateurs lacking on-the-water confidence will find this is a friendly boat to take for a spin.
Built from durable high molecular density polyethylene, Pelican has engineered the Maxim 100X to weigh in at just 36 pounds, so moving this kayak onto your cartop or down to the water’s edge should be a non-issue.
While we recommend this vessel as a great kid’s option, certainly don’t overlook this compact kayak if you’re an adult. Its 10-foot length and adjustable ERGOFORM padded backrest and ERGOBASE seat cushion make this a comfortable option for grownups as long as they’re under the 275-pound weight capacity.
Pelican has even included a front hatch with bungee cord stays and a rear tank well with a mesh deck cover, so there’s plenty of space to pack your on-the-water essentials. A cup holder and a small dash-space are also included at the front of the cockpit.
Complete with molded footrests and carry handles, we find this to be a stellar value portable boat for the price point.
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Shop now at Amazon From Amazon - 44 pounds
- 9.5-feet
- 275-pound weight capacity
- Both recreational and angling models available
The Pelican Sentinel 100X is another very generously priced hard kayak option that’s loaded with features while remaining easy to transport and store.
Offered as a recreational or angling kayak, both models of the Sentinel 100X are designed with a multi-chine flat bottom hull for added stability. It’s not the most hydrodynamic hull shape, but the low 44-pound weight means that moving this vessel at a quick clip won’t be difficult.
The main difference between the two models is the inclusion of molded-in rod holders and a center console storage system on the angling vessel. Both models include a removable ExoPak that sits in the stern well of the boat – a super handy feature for dry storage or even use as a kayak cooler.
With some added bungee or mesh storage at the bow (depending on which model you go with) there’s loads of space for packing paddling essentials, fishing gear, snacks, and more.
Keep in mind this is a 9.5-foot kayak with a 275-pound weight capacity, so it won’t support particularly large or heavy paddlers. That being said, its sit-on-top design and open deck space ensure you have plenty of space to move around in there as long as you don’t mind a slightly wetter ride than sit-in alternatives.
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Shop now at Amazon From Amazon - 36 pounds
- 10.5 feet
- 300-pound weight capacity
- 30 by 17 by 10 inches folded up
The Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame Kayak combines the best aspects of foldable and inflatable designs for an impressively stable and equipped boat.
These kayaks come pre-assembled in the factory – all you need to do for set-up is unfold and inflate! This brand takes the inflatable kayak design to the next level with an aluminum ribbed frame and multiple layers of material for maximum durability. All the model kayaks built by Advanced Elements are crafted to feel more like hard bodied kayaks than blow-up boats.
This innovative design folds up and stores in an included duffel bag style storage system that’s just 30 by 17 by 10 inches – now that’s portable. The total weight of the boat is furthermore just 36 pounds making this an impressively transportable option for essentially anyone!
This is a great portable kayak for casual use, as well as some more intense paddling. You can even store a good bit of gear under the lashing on the bow!
The heavy-duty 30-gauge PVC main chamber is shielded by a high-density polyurethane-coated polyester inner cover as well as a rugged PVC Tarpaulin with 1000 Denier Polyester outer layer. That’s a lot of material for such a lightweight boat! The bottom line here is that Advanced Elements builds a far tougher than the norm inflatable kayak that should ease your concerns regarding puncture and abrasion
The padded seat is furthermore built with a breathable foam mesh back support making this a particularly comfortable option when it comes to inflatables.
The hull design also sets this brand apart from other inflatable kayak options due to its hard-bodied build and inherently hydrodynamic shape. The more you think about it, the cost of this innovative portable kayak is wildly low when you consider its capabilities as a vessel and versatility as a grab-and-go option!
There is a repair kit and carry bag included with this purchase, but you’ll want to purchase Advanced Elements Double-Action Hand Pump for faster, effortless inflation if you go with this option!
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Shop now at Amazon From Amazon - 52 pounds
- 15-feet long
- 550-pound weight capacity
- 35 by 21 by 12 inches folded, carry bag included
Here’s a tandem version of the righteous design by Advanced Elements previously listed great for adventurous kayak pairs.
This is a pretty tough boat considering the aluminum-ribbed design and 550-pound weight capacity. You and a partner can paddle slow-moving rivers and also take on some wave action with this hybrid hard-bodied/inflatable design.
You have the option to make this boat an open or closed deck and can furthermore choose between three different seating positions. Yes, it’s a bit heavier at 52 pounds than most of the other options listed here, but remember it’s a 15 foot long two-man boat once deployed.
The larger size, of course, also gives you a larger gear capacity. There’s some bungee storage on the bow, and adequate space on the drop-stitch floors of the deck to stash gear. Whether you use this boat alone or with a friend, you should have plenty of room to bring along all of your essentials.
Despite its large size once unfolded and inflated, this is still an impressively portable kayak at just 35 by 21 by 12 inches broken down, and there’s furthermore a duffel style carry bag included. For kayaking pairs looking for an easy to transport, or road trip option, this is an excellent choice of portable kayak.
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Shop now at Amazon From Amazon - About 25 Pounds
- Carries in a backpack system (included)
- 250-pound weight capacity
- 10-foot length
Here’s an impressively portable and affordable inflatable kayak option by Sevylor that could make the perfect companion for some backcountry paddling.
The Sevylor K5 Inflatable Kayak breaks down into the included carry backpack, which in turn becomes the seat when the kayak is assembled. The backpack even has side sleeves for sliding each half of a kayak paddle – Sevylor has really thought this one through. In total, the boat and included pump and paddle weigh just about 25 pounds.
Similar to the Oru Kayaks when paired with the Oru Pack carry system, this is definitely a great kayak option for hiking into more remote wildernesses due to the brilliant backpack carry design.
This boat is built with 24-gauge PVC and features a tarpaulin bottom and polyester cover, so it can handle some abuse. You won’t want to bring it down any seriously swift-moving water, but it’s a suitable kayak for taking on some current.
There is a decent amount of above deck space to lash gear with the bungee storage system, but no real gear capacity otherwise, so you’ll have to pack light with this option. This is more of a go-anywhere leisure kayak than an expedition option.
Remember this is an inflatable, so although the K5 is a seaworthy vessel, it won’t track or maneuver nearly as well as a hard-bodied boat with an actual hull, or an inflatable with a built-in skeg.
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Shop now at Amazon From Amazon - 27.2 pounds
- 220-pound weight capacity
- 9-feet long
- 25 by 16 by 9 inches broken down, carry bag included
Here’s perhaps the ultimate budget option for a grab-and-go portable kayak.
The Challenger K1 Kayak has a super reasonable price tag considering its capabilities as a personal watercraft. It’s a surprisingly durable boat for the cost, and even features some above deck storage on the bow. This inflatable kayak can’t handle rougher waters or swift current like some of the other options listed here, but for casual paddlers looking for a leisure boat, the Challenger fits the bill!
Once inflated, this is a 9-foot long kayak option with a 220-pound weight capacity. Particularly large paddlers might feel a bit cramped in here, but the cockpit is at least built with some added leg-room in mind.
The vinyl used to build this boat is tough, but certainly not on par with some of the more rugged boats listed here. Steer clear of this portable kayak option if where you plan on paddling has an abundance of abrasion and puncture hazards. This is a general rule for inflatable kayaks overall – if you think you might pop an inflatable vessel where you enjoy getting on the water, then go with a hard-bodied option!
Unlike a lot of the more expensive inflatable kayaks, the Challenger has a removable skeg for improved tracking and handling. It’s a simple feature, but it makes a tremendous difference if there is any waves, wind or current where you’re paddling. Intex also includes a manual pump, carry bag and paddle with the purchase of this kayak making this a truly killer value.
There’s also a tandem version of the Challenger 1 if you like this portable kayak but want to own a two-man boat!
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Shop now at Amazon From Amazon - 23-pounds
- 29 by 18 by 5 inches folded, carry bag included
- 8 feet 4 inches long
- 250-pound weight capacity
Here’s a smaller sized inflatable kayak with an included carry bag that’s great for not-so-large paddlers. The Lagoon 1 Inflatable Kayak by Advanced Elements is a 23-pound, eight and a half foot long inflatable/foldable kayak that’s easily stashed in the included carry bag. Broken down, this kayak is just 29 by 18 by 5 inches!
This boat will definitely be a little tight for larger paddlers, but for smaller sized kayakers and kids, it’s an awesome portable kayak option.
Although this is an inflatable, Advanced Elements has built this model kayak with a rigid bow and stern as well as a tracking fin to improve durability and handling. This boat is rated for still water and slow moving rivers so it can handle some current if you’re looking to paddle some moving water.
A high support seat provides better-than-average comfort as far as inflatable vessels go, and a foam floor to reduce interior puncture risk. If you can fit in this smaller sized portable kayak, you’ll love how you sit in the water!
Set-up is remarkably fast and easy utilizing Advanced Element’s spring valves, but you’ll likely want a manual pump to speed things up!
Additional features like carry handles, mesh pockets, bungee storage, and paddle loops make the Lagoon 1 a highly equipped boat for the cost – no doubt a top option for the right sized kayaker!
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Shop now at Amazon From Amazon - 44 pounds
- 10 feet long
- 250-pound weight capacity
The Sun Dolphin Journey 10 is an excellent value, budget hard-bodied kayak that’s an ideal option for lightweight car-top or truck bed transport.
With plenty of included features, this portable kayak option really has it going on for the price. Perfect for more casual outings on the water, this kayak is nice and compact. The open cockpit includes a cup holder, a mounted adjustable rod holder, and two side pouches and a bungee system on the bow for gear storage. There are furthermore two additional flush-mount rod holders behind the seat making this a great portable kayak option for fishermen.
At 44 pounds, the Journey is easily lifted onto a car top or into a truck bed with a friend or alone and can be moved overland almost effortlessly by utilizing a kayak cart. The weight capacity of this vessel is 250 pounds, so although this is a hard-bodied kayak, you won’t be able to load it up with a ton of weight if you’re a particularly heavy paddler.
The Journey comes with a waterproof portable accessible carrier (P.A.C.) which can be removed from the stern in order to be towed or carried – a righteous and unique feature for such an inexpensive kayak that will help keep your onboard gear neat and organized.
The hull is fairly hydrodynamic compared to a lot of other portable kayak options. It’s far more streamlined than the alternative traditional hard-bodied kayak listed here (the Skipjack) and therefore a bit speedier on flat water and in current.
The seat is adequate for long days on the water, but there’s no bottom cushion if that’s important to you. This can be easily remedied and upgraded if you choose to install some padding for your bottom. Thigh pads are furthermore located on the cockpit rails and adjustable foot pegs are present for added comfortability.
All things considered, this is a killer value portable kayak option that you should own for many years of paddling with the proper care.
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Shop now at Amazon From Amazon - 44 pounds
- 9-feet long
- 330-pound weight capacity
- Constructed from a single piece of roto-molded high density polyethylene
- Paddle included
The BKC 9 Foot Single Sit On Top Fishing Kayak is a wonderfully affordable, lightweight, and compact traditional style kayak that’s perfect for cartop transport on even smaller vehicles.
You don’t need a particularly high level of strength to muscle this boat up onto your roof racks on your own – so solo paddlers seeking an easy to manage hard-bodied boat should definitely have this option on their radar.
For the price point, this is an impressively feature-rich kayak for gear-intensive paddlers, fishermen, and all sorts of kayaking enthusiasts. BKC has equipped this vessel with flush-mount rod holders, bungee storage, two waterproof hatches, and an ergonomic, adjustable seat. The brand even includes a swivel-mount rod holder and a paddle with this purchase, bringing the overall value here from great, to excellent.
The rear cargo hold with bungee tie-downs is perfect for stashing a cooler, tackle boxes, waterproof speaker, or safety gear, so despite this boat’s modest length and overall dimensions, it has an impressive capacity for gear.
The roto-molded polyethylene construction goes on to ensure excellent abrasion resistance and overall integrity – so you can plan on owning this kayak for many, many years of use. It’s a rock-solid construction method that results in a downright tough hull.
Lightweight, compact, feature-rich, and versatile in its potential applications, this affordable option from Brooklyn Kayak Company is without a doubt a killer go-to for a wide spectrum of kayak enthusiasts!
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Shop now at Amazon From Amazon - 18-pounds
- 6-feet long
- 130-pound weight capacity
Here’s a killer little boat for the kiddos that’s perfect for easy grab-and-go trips to the lake or beach. The Lifetime Youth 6 Foot Wave Kayak weighs just 18 pounds and can support paddlers up to 130 pounds, making it a stellar play boat, swim platform, river floater, and more!
Built with molded finger handles on each side for easy carrying, you may even be able to slide this little vessel into certain model hatchbacks it’s so compact!
A reverse chine hull for enhanced stability makes rough-housing on this kayak a non-issue, while a sloped back end and swim-up step enable easy reboarding after the kids take a spill or jump off. Scupper holes at the front of the bow also ensure that the Wave Kayak won’t take on water and sink.
The twin-fin design goes on to enhance tracking, so moving this boat on a straight line is easy for any level of paddler. As the name suggests, you can even take this kayak out in some wave action for some rowdy fun – just be mindful that this is a hard boat, so consider a helmet if you’re going to let your children play out in the surf.
Including a 5-year limited warranty, you can furthermore purchase in confidence you’re scoring a quality product.