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Spend more time on the water with these packable, inflatable kayaks.

Person sits in a Kokopelli Kayak on a lake

Credit:Travel + Leisure

Im a fan of versatile models that balance performance and durability with portability.

It is on the heavier side I prefer to carry it with two people when its fully inflated.

Kokopelli has made waves with their kayaks and packrafts since launching in 2014.

Campingworld Kokopelli Platte Inflatable Kayak

Credit: Campingworld

The Platte is a recent lightweight addition to their inflatable fleet.

Setup is easy and can be completed in under 10 minutes.

There are three inflation points: the floor and both sides of the kayak.

Person sits and paddles in a Kokopelli Platte Inflatable Kayak on a lake

Credit: Travel + Leisure / Lydia Price

The valves have been rock solid and I havent noticed any deflation whatsoever after long days on the water.

One of the best selling points of this kayak is its strength and spaciousness.

It glides through the water beautifully and is easy to steer, too.

Person paddles on a lake in a Kokopelli Platte Inflatable Kayak

Ive taken it on calm rivers, light rapids, and chopper days on a large lake.

The cockpit is also roomy with space formultiple dry bagsand taller paddlers.

Bungee straps on the bow and stern are perfect for storing gear or tying multiple boats together.

The bow of a Kokopelli Platte Inflatable Kayak

Theres really space for everything you need for a full day or even an overnight on the water.

The Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame Sport Inflatable Kayak is built with rugged adventure in mind.

The exterior features double-coated ripstop fabric and welded seams, plus PVC along the bottom.

Person paddles on a lake in a Kokopelli Platte Inflatable Kayak

A repair kit adds further assurance that paddlers can address leaks if they arise.

I appreciate that the kit includes detailed instructions for use.

Whereas most inflatable kayaks have flat bottoms, the AdvancedFrame Sport resembles a traditional kayak hull.

The bow of a Kokopelli Platte Inflatable Kayak as it floats on a lake

The limited weight capacity may not be suitable for all paddlers.

It comes with a paddle and hand pump included a great value for under $100.

The nine-foot kayak is easy to maneuver, while a removable skeg helps with tracking.

Person inflates a Kokopelli Platte Inflatable Kayak

This is an investment item that may not be best for touring or flatwater paddling.

The Aire Lynx I Inflatable Kayak packs stability and durability to safely navigate rapids and whitewater.

When paddling rougher waterways, the four self-bailing holes along the kayak floor quickly clear away incoming water.

An uninflated Kokopelli Platte Inflatable Kayak lying on the ground next to its paddle and accessories

Im a fan of the mesh coverings that prevent debris from clogging the bail holes.

The Lynx Is 350-pound capacity and numerous cargo loops also make this an ideal kayak for overnight adventures.

It does not come with an included paddle.

Hand holds an accessory for a Kokopelli Platte Inflatable Kayak

As a taller paddler, I love that theres flexibility in where the inflatable seat and footrest are installed.

It also feels rigid and responsive while paddling.

It doesnt come with an ankle leash included.

Person inflates a Kokopelli Platte Inflatable Kayak

A big perk of inflatable kayaks is their compact storage and portability.

At three feet wide, the LowRider Aero feels incredibly stable as both a kayak and paddleboard.

It also tracks well, thanks to a three fin steering system.

Person inflates a Kokopelli Platte Inflatable Kayak

Im a big fan of the customizable features Bote incorporated in the hybrid design.

The Magnepod attachment connects to aMagneTumblerorMagneBoom Waterproof Speakerfor hydration and entertainment.

The deck can also be equipped with a cooler or fishing gear systems.

Person sits and paddles in a Kokopelli Platte Inflatable Kayak on a lake

But portability still ranges between inflatable kayaks.

Besides the weight and packed dimensions, assess the design of the carry bag.

Its also important to factor in the weight and portability to get the kayak from home to the water.

Person paddles on a lake in a Kokopelli Platte Inflatable Kayak

Inflatable kayaks can take from 5 to 10 minutes to assemble.

Frequently Asked Questions

Many inflatable kayaks are wider by design, offering more surface area and stability.

The seating position often has a lower center of gravity, too, helping keep paddlers steady.

The bow of a Kokopelli Platte Inflatable Kayak

If you are tall and lean, you may need a wider-width kayak for better stability, Randall adds.

Repair kits can also help address punctures to keep your kayak running longer.

Kayaks may be stored partially inflated or fully deflated and rolled up for more compact storage.

Person paddles on a lake in a Kokopelli Platte Inflatable Kayak

Randall prefers to keep his kayak partially inflated to avoid creases and damage to the material.

If rolling up, be sure to let the kayak air-dry completely.

The only time your kayak should get wet is when you are in it, Randall adds.

The bow of a Kokopelli Platte Inflatable Kayak as it floats on a lake

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Kevin Brouillardis a writer specializing in outdoor gear and apparel.

Person inflates a Kokopelli Platte Inflatable Kayak

An uninflated Kokopelli Platte Inflatable Kayak lying on the ground next to its paddle and accessories

Hand holds an accessory for a Kokopelli Platte Inflatable Kayak

Person inflates a Kokopelli Platte Inflatable Kayak

Person inflates a Kokopelli Platte Inflatable Kayak

Amazon Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame Sport Kayak

Credit: Amazon

Person sits in an Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame Sport Kayak on a lake

Credit: Travel + Leisure

Person sits in an Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame Sport Kayak on the water

An inflated Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame Sport Kayak sits in the grass

An uninflated Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame Sport Kayak sits in the grass next to its accessories

Close-up of a hose attached to an Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame Sport Kayak

A hose attached to an Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame Sport Kayak

Back view of a person paddling an Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame Sport Kayak on the water

Person sits in an Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame Sport Kayak on the water

An Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame Sport Kayak leans against a tree

Hands hold an Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame Sport Kayak

Hand holds a hose used to inflate an Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame Sport Kayak

A hose attached to an uninflated Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame Sport Kayak

Person sits in an Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame Sport Kayak on a lake

Person sits in an Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame Sport Kayak on the water

An inflated Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame Sport Kayak sits in the grass

An uninflated Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame Sport Kayak sits in the grass next to its accessories

Close-up of a hose attached to an Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame Sport Kayak

A hose attached to an Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame Sport Kayak

Back view of a person paddling an Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame Sport Kayak on the water

Person sits in an Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame Sport Kayak on the water

An Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame Sport Kayak leans against a tree

Hands hold an Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame Sport Kayak

Hand holds a hose used to inflate an Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame Sport Kayak

A hose attached to an uninflated Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame Sport Kayak

Amazon Intex Challenger K1 Kayak Inflatable Set

Credit: Amazon

Amazon Aire Lynx 1 Inflatable Kayak

Credit: Amazon

REI Aquaglide Cirrus Ultralight 110 Inflatable Kayak

Credit: REI

REI Bote LowRider Aero Inflatable Hybrid Paddleboard

Credit: REI