Kayaking and camping are two amazing and enthralling activities on their own. However, put them together, and you’ll stumble across something that’s absolutely extraordinary. Kayak camping is one of the greatest kinds of camping there is. With kayaking, you get to enjoy the thrill of paddling on open waters while spying on some of the most gorgeous views around. When it comes to camping, it’s an exciting time in the lap of nature and away from the hectic pace of everyday life. This is why you need good kayaks for camping trips, which are in a league of their own. The best camping kayaks not only have lots of storage space allowing you to bring all camping necessities you need for a multi-day trip. At the same time, they’re comfortable enough for you to spend numerous days out on the water, tracking well enough so that you stay on course.
So, just like you have specific Best River Fishing Kayaks or even the Best Fly Fishing Kayaks, you need specially designed good kayaks for camping too. While kayak camping is quite similar to backpacking, you depend on your trusty kayak to get you places instead of your feet. Imagine finding gorgeous campsites along the shoreline and falling asleep right next to the water; that’s exactly why kayaking camping is so much fun. And it all begins with finding the right kind of watercraft. To that end, here are the 13 best kayaks for camping trips.
How To Choose The Best Kayaks for Camping?
Every different kind or type of kayaking activity requires a different kind of kayak. For instance, if you want all sorts of portability, then you need to look at the Best Folding Kayaks. If you’re a family of kayakers who want lightweight kayaks, then you need to look for the Best Two-Person Inflatable Kayaks or the Best Family Inflatable Kayaks. Just like that, there are specific aspects you need to look for when you’re buying a camping kayak. So, what are they? Read on.
Storage
If you’re headed out on a camping trip, any camping trip, then the first thing you need to check is storage, obviously. You need to have a ton of storage space onboard your kayak that can fit everything from camping equipment to sleeping bags to kayaking gear. What’s more, it shouldn’t overload your kayak and reduce its performance. So, watch out for kayaks with bungee cord storage on the outer hull, watertight compartments for valuables, and large tank wells. Also, go for lighter camping gear or less voluminous ones so that storage isn’t a problem.
Weight capacity
Perhaps one of the most important aspects of choosing camping canoes is the maximum load or weight capacity of your boat. Usually, you won’t need to stretch your boat’s weight capacity to the limit. However, you need to remember that when you weigh down your kayak with excess gear, it can negatively affect its performance. What’s more, it can even increase the risk of your boat taking on more water or capsizing. While you’re looking at that, maybe it’s time to check out the Best Kayaking Scupper Plugs too.
Comfort
Since kayak camping trips can span over a number of days, comfort becomes an important factor/ After all, you don’t want to end up with back pain, leg ache, or any other body part ache just because you spent an extended period of time onboard the kayak. Hence, you need to look for kayaks that have adjustable footplates and comfortable and ergonomic seats, especially if you have a larger frame. You can check out the Best Kayaking Seats for your comfort. Moreover, the knee and thigh pads reduce friction on the lower part of your body, while offering greater stability during tight turns or fast-water runs at the same time.
Type of kayaks
A kayak’s performance largely depends on the kind of environment you’re paddling in, and whether your kayak fits the environment, That’s why you need to know the different kinds of kayaks. Broadly, kayaks can be divided into sit-on-top and sit-inside kayaks. Sit-inside kayaks are lower and more ideal for cooler weather and for whitewater kayaking. Sit-on-top ones are perfect for warmer weather and flatwater paddling. Then again, you have different categories of kayaks such as recreational kayaks, touring kayaks, and inflatable ones. Recreational kayaks are short and perfect for day trips. Touring is meant for longer, multi-day expeditions, while inflatable ones are an excellent choice when you can’t afford a lot of storage space.
What is the best kayak for a camping trip?
Our vote goes to the Airhead Montana Two-Person Inflatable Kayak, which is lightweight, portable, packable, and comfortable all at once. The best part is that it costs just $450, which is way less than most other excellent kayaks cost. Besides a rugged and durable build, the kayak also boasts a rigid floor and can be inflated and deflated within a matter of minutes. If that wasn’t enough, it’s also extremely comfortable for longer water adventures due to the ergonomic seat, adjustable footrests, and back support. Rounding up the features are the sux D-rings, carrying handles at both ends, spray covers, and its resistance to rips, tears, and punctures.
Extreme Sport Outfitters HydroKaddy
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Available in five amazing colors, the Extreme Sport Outfitters HydroKaddy is amongst the best kayaks for camping. If you’re looking for that little bit of additional storage for your kayaking expeditions, then this kayak is it. The Hydrokaddy is sort of like a mini-kayak that you basically tow behind you. The four-foot-long nifty thing comes with both a bungee cord on top for securing more gear as well as a dry hatch for additional storage. In fact, the dry hatch alone can hold about a backpack’s worth of stuff. Even though you have to tow it behind you, its well-designed shape allows it to cut through the water and minimizes drag, so you’ll barely even know that it’s there.
The craft’s easy access design helps keep all your gear at your fingertips. Moreover, it keeps your personal items such as a tent, sleeping bag, first aid kit, electronic items, and food and beverages all safe and dry.
Specifications
- Weight: 11 lbs
- Weight capacity: 50 lbs
- Capacity: Not applicable.
Pros:
- 35 liters of storage space.
- Can carry up to 50 lbs of gear.
- Waterproof hatch.
Cons:
- Not exactly a kayak that you can ride yourself.
Ocean Kayak Tetra 12 Sit-On-Top Kayak
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Are you looking for a versatile kayak? Then look no further than the Ocean Kayak Tetra 12 Sit-On-Top Kayak, which has the top of a sit-on-top but the shape of a day tourer. The 28-inch width and 12.16-foot length of the kayak help you glide across the water with ease. What’s more, it’s not only perfect for day touring, but also if you need to travel long distances each day. While the low-profile and open-top might mean getting splashed around a bit, it shouldn’t be a problem in the summertime. In any case, you might also want to look at the Best kayaking Skirts too.
Despite being a sit-on-top kayak, what you’ll really like about the Ocean Tetra is that it boasts a sealed hatch in the bow for storing items that cannot get wet at all such as sleeping bags and electronic items. For storing everything else, the large storage bay in the stern, along with bungee cords on the deck are perfect.
Specifications
- Weight: 53 lbs
- Weight capacity: 350 lbs
- Capacity: 1
Pros:
- Lots of handles for pulling out of the water.
- Adjustable seat.
Cons:
- No rudder option.
Advanced Elements Straightedge 2 Kayak
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One of the best kayaks for camping is also one of the Best Inflatable Whitewater Kayaks is the Advanced Elements Straightedge 2 Kayak. Don’t let the fact that it’s an inflatable craft fool you, for this is no pool toy. To begin with, this is one hell of a long-lasting, tough, and durable kayak that can take a serious beating. It boasts a weight capacity of a whopping 500 lbs! So, you can literally load the craft up with as much camping gear that you get your hands on. Plus, the kayak boasts self-bailing ports that’ll drain any water that gets in, no matter how rough waves or water you encounter.
Sometimes some inflatable kayaks have issues with maintaining their shape, but not this one. It has a rigid stern and bow for maintaining its shape in critical areas, allowing it to track better as well. Besides the kayak’s high-back seats boasting great lumbar support, it even has paddle holders, bungee deck lacing for extra storage, and stainless-steel D-rings.
Specifications
- Weight: 47 lbs
- Weight capacity: 500 lbs
- Capacity: 2
Pros:
- Extremely stable and durable.
- Portable and packable.
- Lots of practical and versatile features.
Cons:
- On the heavier side.
Intex Excursion Pro Kayak
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Yet another excellent entry on this list is the Intex Excursion Pro Kayak, which also happens to be one of the Best Inflatable Fishing Kayaks. The kayak is resistant to everything from the sun’s UV rays and saltwater to abrasions and scratches and even punctures or leaks. The bucket seats boast ergonomic backs and adjustable floor-mounted footrests which means that your body won’t end up aching after a day of kayaking. Despite being a tandem kayak, it can even be converted into a solo one, thus making more space for legroom and storage. The best part? When it’s deflated, it folds up enough to fit into a car’s backseat or trunk.
Boasting a 400 lbs capacity, the kayak can take the load of all your kayaking and camping gear, and then some. Finally, it even has a mounting bracket where you can mount an action or GPS camera, or even your fishing rod holders too while you’re angling.
Specifications
- Weight: 39 lbs
- Weight capacity: 500 lbs
- Capacity: 2
Pros:
- Integrated fishing rod holders.
- Stable and durable.
- Simple and easy to use.
- Adjustable and removable bucket seats.
Cons:
- Expensive.
Perception Pescador Pro 12
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One of the most stable kayaks for camping is the mighty Perception Pescador Pro 12. The Pescador Pro won’t win any speed awards, but the craft that boasts a width of more than 32 inches and a length of 12 feet sure boasts plenty of stability. o, you can rest assured that your craft won’t capsize, no matter what. Despite being a sit-on-top kayak, the craft stays well out of the water. It even features a lawn-style and a rather sturdy seat that not only provides tons of support but is also plenty comfortable. The best part? You can even remove the oh-so-comfy seat and take it along with you to the campsite!
But, that’s not all. The kayak also features two quick-to-adjust footrests for resting your feet and two integrated rod holders allowing you to fish hands-free. What’s more, the storage hatches at the bow and stern can store a ton of gear. Rounding up the features is the fish finder console for attaching the Best Kayaking Fish Finders and even an in-built cup holder!
Specifications
- Weight: 57 lbs
- Weight capacity: 375 lbs
- Capacity: 1
Pros:
- Removable, adjustable seat.
- Many extras.
- Roomy storage hatches at the bow and stern.
Cons:
- Heavy.
- Expensive.
Sun Dolphin Aruba SS Kayak
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Kayakers on a budget, this one is for you. The Sun Dolphin Aruba SS Kayak costs less than $700, also making it one of the Best Kayaks For Beginners. First of all, this kayak boasts copious amounts of storage in the form of in-built bungee cords for strapping gear to the deck as well as two separate hatches. More, it even has a portable and removable accessory carrier that you can drag behind your kayak, thus making space for even more kayaking and camping gear. If that wasn’t enough, there’s even additional padding to help support your feet and thighs as well as adjustable foot braces to keep you comfortable while paddling.
Going further, the kayak even has a high backrest that allows you to stay comfortable for days together out on the water. Plus, since it’s designed from high-density and sturdy polyethylene Fortiflex, the kayak is resistant to rips, tears, and even the harmful UV rays of the sun.
Specifications
- Weight: 40 lbs
- Weight capacity: 250 lbs
- Capacity: 1
Pros
- Stable and durable.
- Spacious cockpit.
- Seat with back support and adjustable foot braces.
- Tons of storage.
Cons
- None, really.
Wilderness Systems PUNGO 120
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Balancing comfort and stability nicely is the Wilderness Systems Pungo 12, one of the best kayaks for camping. The kayak comes equipped with the proprietary and super comfortable, might we add an AirPro seat from the brand. It’s what makes the Wilderness Systems kayaks so popular. What’s more, the width of the kayak is as much as 29 inches, allowing for a decent level of stability. At the same time, its performance shape and 12-foot length are what will help you paddle easier on longer and multi-day kayaking expeditions.
Despite not having two dry hatches but rather just one, the kayak even has two different bungee straps to tie additional cargo to the deck. Going further, there’s even a rather nifty dashboard insert along with a mini dry hatch that keeps things like your wallet or phone closeby as well as dry and safe. Finally, the dashboard even has two cup holders to sip on your favorite beverage as you calmly paddle down the waters of the lake.
Specifications
- Weight: 50 lbs
- Weight capacity: 320 lbs
- Capacity: 1
Pros:
- Lightweight and durable.
- Even comes in a 14-foot version.
Cons:
- Just a single dry hatch.
Wilderness Systems Tsunami 165
6
Designed to cover longer distances, the Wilderness Systems Tsunami 165 with a length of almost 13 feet is quite possibly the longest kayak on this list. Perfect for multi-day kayak camping expeditions, the kayak boasts an uber-comfortable and fully adjustable seat that supports your back while keeping your back dry and cool. What’s more, it even has two spacious dry storage hatches, along with a smaller dry storage hatch right behind the paddler. It’s the perfect place to stash quick-access items such as phones, keys, food, and water.
In addition to the above, there are even four different bungee sections where you can strap on a whole lot of additional gear. The boat even has adjustable padded thigh braces and adjustable footrests that keep your leg comfortable, especially when you cover longer distances. Finally, the ergonomic soft-touch handles and course-control rudder help you track better.
Specifications
- Weight: 51 lbs
- Weight capacity: 350 lbs
- Capacity: 1
Pros:
- The rudder helps you steer straight.
- The seat is adjustable and super-comfortable.
- Large 350-lbs weight capacity.
Cons:
- Some paddlers might find it very long.
Riot Kayaks Edge
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How would you like your kayak to have a little bit of everything? That’s why the Riot Kayaks Edge is one of the best kayaks for camping. It’s neither too long like a touring kayak, nor is it too short like a recreational kayak. One of the most standout features of this kayak is the custom-fit seating system. It allows you to adjust the thigh braces, the seat, as well as the foot braces to get a comfortable fit that’s perfect for you. What’s more, it’s got decent amounts of storage space for all your kayaking and camping gear. Plus, there are even bungee cords on the deck and tie-off places for strapping all your gear. If that wasn’t enough, there are even two watertight storage hatches for dry storage as well.
Measuring almost 14.5 feet in length, the kayak also has a whole lot of other pluses. For instance, it features a pilot rudder system that helps you track straight. Finally, it even has a slim deck line and a slender bowline that allows your craft to cut through the water.
Specifications
- Weight: 60 lbs
- Weight capacity: 260 lbs
- Capacity: 1
Pros:
- Durable polyethylene build.
- Rudder to help you steer and track straight.
- 325-lbs weight capacity.
Cons:
- Not as stable or wide as a recreational kayak.
Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame Convertible Inflatable Kayak
4
Yet another excellent camping kayak is the Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame Convertible Inflatable Kayak, which is also a great all-round fishing kayak. The boat has a durable and robust construction that makes it resistant to both rips, leaks, and even abrasions and scratches. With a whopping weight capacity of 550 lbs, two of you can easily and comfortably settle into the kayak along with all your gear. Plus, the kayak is extremely portable due to its foldable nature and packs down in a super-small carry bag, weighing just 52 lbs. Moreover, it comes pre-assembled, leaving you to just unfold, inflate and attach the padded seats to head into the water.
Thanks to the in-built aluminum ribs on the stern and bow, the kayak boasts an excellent tracking performance. Moreover, the skeg tracking fin improves both directional abilities and stability, while the integrated pressure relief valve helps with buoyancy. Rounding up the features is the deck lacing and D-ring tie-downs that are perfect for tying extra gear.
Specifications
- Weight: 52 lbs
- Weight capacity: 550 lbs
- Capacity: 2
Pros:
- The comfortable seats are adjustable, removable, and padded.
- Portable.
- Lightweight and durable.
Cons:
- None, really.
Oru Kayak Bay ST Folding Portable Lightweight Kayak
3
An update on Oru’s original kayak, the Oru Kayak Bay ST Folding Portable Lightweight Kayak is one of the best kayaks for camping. Not only is it more graceful as compared to the original, but it’s also more comfortable to use and makes for an easy assembly. Made from durable custom polypropylene, the material is 10 years-UV treated making it long-lasting even if you continuously take it out on saltwater. There are also tons of storage compartments where you can keep your gear both dry and secure. The best part? They’re located at both the rear and front and come fitted with laces so that your gear is secure in one place.
What you’ll really like about the kayak is that despite it being medium-sized, it comes with plenty of space at the deck. It’s this space that allows you to paddle comfortably sans feeling any strain. Since it can be folded up and carried in your camping or backpacking bag, it makes for an ideal camping kayak.
Specifications
- Weight: 28 lbs
- Weight capacity: 300 lbs
- Capacity: 1
Pros:
- Durable and rugged construction.
- Fast and stable.
- Lightweight and comfortable.
Cons:
- Slightly expensive.
Driftsun Voyager 2 Person Tandem Inflatable Kayak
2
Born on the shores of Lake California, the Driftsun Voyager 2 Person Tandem Inflatable Kayak is a thoughtfully-designed speed monster that has everything to make your fishing trip fantastic. The kayak comes with a whole lot of additions and extras, which is what makes it so great. These include a removable tracking skeg, a deluxe hand pump for easy inflation, removable EVA padded seats, and even adjustable aluminum padded handles. Professional kayakers will know how much big a difference all these additions make to your kayaking experience.
However, what will surprise you the most is that this strong, robust, and durable kayak weighs just 27 lbs. That, combined with the deluxe hand pump makes inflation one hell of an easy job. Plus, the splash guards have integrated bungees for additional storage, Finally, the double-reinforced stitching makes the kayak extra sturdy.
Specifications
- Weight: 27 lbs
- Weight capacity: 400 lbs
- Capacity: 2
Pros:
- Removable skeg.
- Corrosion-resistant hardware.
- Easy-carry handles.
Cons:
- Some users reported that the valve rings come out easily.
Airhead Montana Two Person Inflatable Kayak
1
We end the list of best kayaks for camping with the Airhead Montana Two-Person Inflatable Kayak, one of the finest inflatable kayaks you’ll ever come across. The best part? It costs just $450, also making it one of the Best Fishing Kayaks Under 700! The nine-foot-long kayak has all the makings of an excellent camping kayak. For one, it has a semi-rigid PVC build that renders it durable and rugged. The rigid tubular I-beam floor lends it further stability, allowing you to even stand up and fish with ease. Weighing just 27.7 lbs, the kayak is also extremely lightweight, and thus very portable too. The best part? It’s supremely easy to inflate and deflate, allowing you to push off in a manner of minutes.
Thanks to the ergonomic seat, adjustable footrests, and back support, the kayak is perfect for longer, multi-day kayaking expeditions too. The kayak is resistant to rips, tears, and punctures, and stays steady on the water due to the stable three-chamber airtight build. Rounding up its features are the spray covers, the threaded drain plug and hold, the carrying handles at both ends, and the six D-rings.
Specifications
- Weight: 27.7 lbs
- Weight capacity: 300 lbs
- Capacity: 1
Pros:
- Good performance and tracking.
- Quick to inflate and deflate.
- Strong and durable, and yet comfortable.
Cons:
- None!
