The best inflatable kayak Australia has makes those day trips or weekends away so much more enjoyable! Whether you’re a family, a couple or a group of mates, it just adds a whole other element to your trip being able to get out and paddle on the water.
Sure many places hire out kayaks these days – but those fees soon add up. However, if you have one of the best inflatable kayaks Australia has, you can go paddling whenever you like without being concerned about having money to hire one or being sure to return it in the allocated time frame.
But why look at an inflatable kayak for sale? Why not just go all out and buy a hard shell kayak? Well, we feel like we are pretty qualified to answer this question – because we had a hard shell kayak for years! While we loved our hardshell kayak – it was such a nightmare to load up and it wasn’t possible to take it everywhere – like where weight or space was an issue. But if you’ve really got your heart set on a hard shell kayak, you can read our guide to choosing one here.
Since we sold our hard shell kayak and now have a super portable inflatable kayak, we get so much more use out of it. We even took it over to Great Keppel Island with us – can you imagine doing that with a hardshell kayak? While you certainly were permitted to – imagine lugging it on and off the boat!!!
So if you want to buy a kayak but are wondering are inflatable kayaks worth it – then this guide is certainly for you. In this best inflatable kayaks 2024 guide, I take you through all the things you need to think about so you purchase the best rated inflatable kayak which is perfect for you. Then in the review section, we’ll look at some of the top rated inflatable kayaks currently on the Aussie market.
No matter what sort of inflatable kayak you’re after, whether it be the best single inflatable kayak or the best 2 person inflatable kayak for sale, even just the best cheap inflatable kayak, hopefully after reading this inflatable kayak reviews Australia guide, you’ll be well on your way to buying one that’s right for you.
So let’s get into it and find you the best inflatable kayak 2024 has!
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Our Pick for the Best Inflatable Kayak Australia 2024: Challenger Intex Inflatable Kayak
Don’t fancy reading our entire inflatable kayak guide and just want to know our recommendation for the best air inflatable kayak? We recommend the Challenger Intex inflatable kayak – this is the kayak we have and just love it.
The Intex Challenger comes as a single or double kayak and includes everything you need – paddles, a pump and a carry bag. These blow up kayaks are lightweight, durable and all at a reasonable price. We find it easy to inflate and deflate the Intex inflatable kayak Australia has and it packs down very compactly, so it’s easy to take wherever we go.
Keep reading below for our full Challenger inflatable kayak review or click here to check it out now.
Are Inflatable Kayaks Worth it?
When Andy first brought up the idea of selling our hardshell kayak for an inflatable one, I thought the whole idea was crazy! I mean, how could an inflatable portable kayak be any good? But I suppose when I heard the term “inflatable”, I was thinking of inflatable pool or beach toys.
I did agree with Andy that our hardshell kayak was a real nightmare to take anywhere with us. I mean, we all loved it once we were out on the water in it – but dragging it from the side of the house to the car and then putting it on the car, tying it down and doing the same at the other end just made it hardly worth it.
So I started doing some research to find out are inflatable kayaks durable, and are inflatable kayaks any good and if so, what is the best inflatable kayak to buy. I read various articles on inflatable vs hard kayaks and eventually decided to throw caution to the wind and give it a go.
Well, the fact that I’m here writing this article tells you that in my view, it’s a resounding yes – inflatable kayaks are worth it.
Here are my thoughts on why I think inflatable kayaks are better than hard / rigid kayaks:
- You can take them anywhere! Given a good inflatable kayak packs up so compactly, you can throw them in the back of the car and take them wherever you go.
- They are lightweight – so easy to pick up; this is also super important when camping and you have weight limits to abide by.
- No need to tie them down, like a rigid kayak. Just throw them into the car and away you go.
- Easy to store. Unlike a rigid kayak which can take up a stack of room, an inflatable kayak takes up next to no space at all.
- They are comfortable – this is one thing that really surprised me. Unlike a hard rigid kayak, I find the cushioning of an inflatable kayak way more comfortable.
While you do need to inflate and deflate an inflatable kayak overall, they are just way less effort than a hardshell kayak.
Best Inflatable Kayaks Australia 2024 Comparison Chart
In the inflatable kayak comparison chart below, we’ve listed all the kayaks reviewed in this guide. The chart provides a quick and easy way to compare inflatable kayaks for sale and their features side by side so you can determine which inflatable kayak is best for you.
Keep reading the reviews below for further detail about these top inflatable kayaks.
| Brand | Capacity / Weight | Kayak Weight | Inflated Size L x W x H | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Intex Challenger | Single - 100kg Double - 180kg | 11.15kg 17.65kg | 274 x 76 x 33cm 351 x 76 x 38cm | Check Price |
Intex Excursion PRO  | Single- 120kg Double - 180kg | 17kg 20kg | 305 x 91 x 46cm 384 x 94 x 46cm | Check Price |
Bestway Hydro Force Lite Rapid X2  | Double - 160kg | 8.3kg | 321 x 88 x 46cm | Check Price |
Sea Eagle SE330 | Double - 227kg | 12 kg | 340 x 86 cm | Check Price |
Decathlon ITIWIT | Single / Double -150kg Double / Triple - 230kg | 14kg 17kg | 340 x 103cm 382 x 108cm | Check Price |
Sevylor Quikpak | Single - 181kg | 9.1kg | 261 x 91cm | Check Price |
Bestway Hydro Force Cove | Single - 100kg | 8kg | 275 x 81cm | Check Price |
Sea Eagle 300X | Single - 179kg | 14kg | 300 x 100 cm | Check Price |
Choosing An Inflatable Kayak for Sale
When it comes to buying the best blow up kayak, it’s different for everyone as it really depends on what you want to use it for and a range of other factors that are unique to you. So that you buy inflatable kayak that is perfect for you, consider the following factors.
Single Kayak vs Tandem Kayak
Probably one of the first things you’ll want to consider is whether you want to purchase a single or tandem kayak. If you’re a single person, this is easy to decide – however, families may find this a harder question to answer.
We’re a family of three and have always had a double kayak – this was great when our daughter was tiny as we could easily squeeze all three of us in. Now she is much older; this is no longer possible.
We still have an inflatable double kayak, and I think I’d certainly recommend looking for the best inflatable tandem kayak Australia has for families or couples. It’s just easier and more efficient paddling an inflatable 2 person kayak than inflatable 1 person kayaks – particularly if you’re all going out on the water at the same time anyway.
Now our daughter is older, we’re in the market for a second kayak, but this time will look for the best 1 person inflatable kayak. Together with our 2 man inflatable kayak, all three of us can go out on the water together and on longer trips.
It is also possible to buy a 3 person inflatable kayak – I’ve even seen 4 four man kayaks. But for larger families with tiny kids, you may even want to consider an inflatable canoe Australia has or even a small inflatable boat – we’ve got a few options in the review section below.
When buying a kayak, also look at the weight capacity. There is no point in purchasing what is recommended as the best inflatable kayak 2 person option only to discover it won’t hold the combined weight of the people intending to use it. Also, if you plan on going for longer trips in your kayak, you’ll want to factor in any gear you plan on bringing with you.
Purpose
Next up, you’ll want to consider what you plan on using it for. For us, we take our kayak on our camping trips when we know we’ll be near a lake, creek, river or calm water at the beach. We don’t tend to go too far, just enough to paddle out on the water and explore the area from a different perspective.
However, others may like to get an inflatable kayak to go on day long trips or even half day trips. Maybe you’re a fisherman and want the best inflatable fishing kayak Australia has. Will you be sticking to calm water or occasionally go river kayaking and need a kayak durable enough to go over the odd rock or stick?
The kind of water activities you have planned for your kayak will guide you when determining other factors, such as how durable you need your kayak to be. So do keep this in mind as you make your way through this guide.
Durability / Material
When it comes to the best quality inflatable kayak, this really comes down to what it’s made from.
A kayak made with a single layer of fabric will not offer the same level of durability as a more expensive kayak with a double or even triple layer of fabric. The more layers of fabric, the better the kayak can resist tears or punctures.
The most common materials used to make inflatable kayaks are PVC and Hypalon, although Nitrylon is also becoming more popular these days. I’ll briefly cover each of these materials below:
PVC
PVC is the most common material used to make a blowup kayak. Here are a few points about kayaks made with PVC:
- Strong and durable
- Easy to inflate
- Lightweight
- Packs down nice and compactly.
- Can be welded, so no need for using glue or stitching fabric together, which makes for sturdier construction.
- Can have an added UV protective coating which reduces damage from repeated exposure to the sun. However, out of all the fabrics mentioned here, PVC is more likely to break down after long periods in the sun.
- Is relatively cheap
Hypalon
Hypalon is a synthetic rubber that is incredibly durable. Here are a few points about kayaks made with Hypalon:
- It’s more expensive than PVC.
- It’s incredibly durable but not overly flexible or bendable. So it’s great for keeping its shape, but it means it doesn’t pack down as compactly as PVC.
- It is far more abrasion resistant than PVC or Nitrylon.
- Much heavier than PVC.
- It is more UV resistant than PVC and will last much longer than PVC.
Nitrylon
Nitrylon is a fairly new player in inflatable kayaks and has mainly come about due to the negative impact PVC has on the environment as it is a synthetic material with a coating of natural 1200D rubber. Here are a few points about kayaks made with Nitrylon:
- Tends to be more durable and stronger than PVC
- Resistant to punctures and abrasions
- Much heavier than PVC
Inflation / Deflation
A good quality kayak is easy to both inflate and deflate. Most good quality kayaks will have airtight values, which means that once air goes in, it won’t come out – similar to what you see on an inflatable camping mattress.
A high quality inflatable kayak should have multiple inflation chambers so that in case of a puncture in one part of the kayak, the remainder of the kayak will remain inflated. This means you can stay afloat until you get back to shore to repair the tear. But, unfortunately, it also means multiple chambers that you’ll need to inflate – usually the floor and sides.
Generally, blow up kayaks for sale will come with their own hand pump, which may be fine for you, but if you plan to use your kayak regularly, you may want to invest in a good quality electric pump – this will make your inflation time fast. We just use the hand pump that came with our kayak and find it more than sufficient.
Stability
The larger and wider the kayak, the more stable it will be – but this doesn’t necessarily mean a lightweight, compact kayak. Plus, if you want to glide through the water quickly, the narrower and longer, the better.
When it comes to your kayak stability, consider your level of experience and what you plan on using it for. For those just starting out, then stability is probably more important than gliding quickly through the water. Plus, for those planning on using their kayak for light recreational purposes, a fast moving kayak is really not important.
Performance / Tracking
Tracking refers to how well your kayak goes straight when properly paddled. If you’re purchasing a kayak for light recreation use, then the tracking may not be an issue for you. However, for those planning on taking their kayak for long trips, definitely consider how well the kayak tracks.
One important factor in tracking is whether or not the kayak comes with a skeg or a tracking fin. A top quality kayak will come with a detachable skeg made from a solid piece of plastic or inflatable. These attach to the kayak’s bottom and help the kayak from being impacted by crosswinds and cross currents.
Comfort
A kayak that is uncomfortable to sit in is no fun for anyone! But, as I said above, we were quite surprised to find that our inflatable kayak was way more comfortable than our hardshell kayak.
Unfortunately, you won’t really know how comfortable your kayak is until you take it for a spin. However, a few things that I recommend looking for to increase the chances of your kayak being comfortable include:
- Kayaks with seats – sometimes we’d forget to take our seats with our hardshell kayak, which was the worst! With our inflatable kayak, they are always in the bag, so we never forget. Look for adjustable seats and have heaps of padding, including a supportive backrest.
- Space – the taller you are, the more important the area in your kayak is. We’re all fairly short in my family, so we don’t find this an issue – but perhaps that’s because we have plenty of room to get our legs into a comfortable position and have the ability to stretch them out from time to time as needed. Some more expensive kayaks even come with footrests.
Storage
If you plan on going on long trips in your kayak, then you’ll want some storage in your kayak. Most kayak storage comes in the form of a cargo net on the front of the kayak. This enables you to pop in snorkelling gear, fishing gear or whatever it might be that you want to take with you. Also, look for various hook points so you can secure your gear to the kayak by way of carabiners.
Portability / Weight
As you know, the main reason we sold our hardshell kayak for an inflatable one was due to portability. A pump up kayak is just so much easier to transport. However, a few factors can make one inflatable kayak more portable than another.
Weight, of course is the number one factor. Better quality inflatable kayaks do tend to be heavier than cheaper kayaks. So don’t necessarily go for the lightest inflatable kayak you can find, but consider this when weighing up your options.
Also, consider how compact the kayak packs down too. Again a heavy duty inflatable kayak is likely to be bulkier than a cheap one, so keep this in mind when you’re comparing different options.
Most inflatable kayaks come in a good quality carry bag with handles. You’ll want to ensure it has durable zippers that don’t fall apart after a few uses. Make sure the bag is big enough to include the kayak seats and paddles. If the carry bag it comes with isn’t ideal, you can always buy yourself one of those good quality Kings outdoor bags.
Inflatable Kayak Reviews Australia 2024
Hopefully, after reading the above, you better understand what would make the ideal kayak for you. Keep reading our best inflatable kayak review below to see which one meets your needs.
Intex Challenger Inflatable Kayak Review
The Intex Challenger kayak is among the top ten inflatable kayaks currently on the Aussie market. In fact, I’d go as far as saying it is the top rated inflatable kayak. This is the inflatable kayak BCF stocks, so it’s super easy to get your hands on and it’s the one we have and so far, we love it! Keep reading our Intex kayak review below.
The Challenger Intex kayak comes as either a single or inflatable tandem kayak and is a mid priced kayak. So it’s not the most expensive kayak but certainly is not an inexpensive inflatable kayak either. It’s made from tough, durable vinyl that’s punctured and UV damage resistant. Plus, it features two separate air chambers, so it will stay afloat even if one part has a puncture.
This is a really easy kayak to use. It has a low profile and the inflatable skeg makes for easy gliding across the water. So easy that this is perfect if you’re after the best family inflatable kayak or kids inflatable kayak. It also has comfortable adjustable inflatable seats, which are removable.
The kayak is reasonably lightweight – even the kids can carry this kayak down to the water. It also packs up nicely and compactly and comes in its own carry bag. The kayak has a cargo net for storage and grab lines at either end. It also comes with 86 inch aluminium paddles, a repair kit and an easy to use hand pump.
If you’re after the best inflatable kayak for the money – perfect for taking on trips with the family, then the Intex Challenger is a great choice. It is the ideal all rounder kayak – lightweight, compact, well priced – perfect for those after the best affordable inflatable kayak.
Click here for more information or to check current pricing.
Intex Excursion PRO Inflatable Kayak Review
If you like the Intex brand but are after the most durable inflatable kayak, which is long lasting, then the Intex Excursion PRO range of inflatable kayaks is worth considering. Made from super tough 3 ply PVC with a polyester core, these double layer kayaks are perfect for serious kayakers.
Like the Intex Challenger – the Excursion PRO comes with the option of a one person inflatable kayak or double kayak. However, they are heavier than the Challenger – thanks to being made with more durable PVC, plus the single PVC inflatable kayak also has a weight maximum of 120kg – which is 20kg more than the Challenger. The tandem is the same at 180kg.
This is an excellent kayak for those after the best fishing inflatable kayak with built in fishing rod holders and removable and adjustable mounting brackets for other fishing accessories. It also has adjustable footrests and removable, adjustable seats to ensure your comfort.
It has a three chamber construction which is easy to inflate with the included pump and has a pressure gauge, so you’ll know the precise PSI. Other great features of these kayaks include a directional and shallow water directional skeg, integrated drain plug, storage space in the bow and stainless steel d-rings to attach gear, aluminium paddles and it can also be easily packed away in the included carry bag.
Featuring more durable materials and additional features, these kayaks are one of the heaviest in these reviews – so certainly not something you’d consider if you’re just after something lightweight – but if something durable and long lasting is a priority – then the Excursion kayak is well worth checking out.
Click here for more information or to check current pricing.
Hydro Force Lite Rapid X2 Bestway Inflatable Kayak Review
In terms of the best inflatable kayak brands, a brand you’ll regularly see is Bestway. Bestway makes a range of different inflatable kayaks, such as the Hydro Force Lite Rapid Kayak. This Bestway inflatable kayak is a 2 seater inflatable kayak that is super lightweight, compact and cheap – so great if you’re wanting the best budget inflatable kayak on the market.
At just 8.5 kg for a two seater inflatable kayak, this is one of the lightest in these reviews. This is because the kayak is made with durable PVC, which can still accommodate a weight capacity of up to 160kg despite being so light.
Thanks to the removable inflatable seats, you’ll be comfortable in this tandem inflatable kayak. The ultralight inflatable kayak is also quick and easy to inflate with the included pump and for easy deflation, there are quick release valves.
Other features of this kayak include wraparound grab lines to make it easy to get in and out of the kayak, a removable fin for directional stability and two lightweight 86 inch aluminium paddles. The whole thing then packs down compactly and goes into a carry bag for easy transporting and storage.
For a good all rounder double inflatable kayak – you can’t go wrong with the Bestway Hydro Force Lite kayak. It is definitely one to consider for anyone after the best two person inflatable kayak when something lightweight is the priority. However, keep in mind that with a weight capacity of 160kg – this may not be suitable for everyone.
Click here for more information or to check current pricing.
Sea Eagle SE330 2-person inflatable Kayak Review
If you are looking for something lightweight and perfect for beginners, then the Sea Eagle SE330 2-person inflatable kayak is a pretty good choice. It provides a comfortable and stable paddling experience as long as you remain in calm waters such as lakes and tidal rivers. The kayak itself is rated for Class 3 rapids.
This inflatable comes as a double-seated kayak however the second seat can easily be removed and used as a single. The kayak is made from 33 mil Polykrylar (K80 PVC) and the seams are high frequency welded. All of this adds up to a durable and stable kayak.
The kayak has a weight capacity of 227 kg despite its low weight of just 12 kg. The Sea Eagle features an adjustable inflatable seat that provides good support and comfort. It has 2 skegs for stability and speed. Included with the Sea Eagle are a foot pump, 2 paddles, a repair kit and a carry bag.
As this Sea Eagle review shows, this is a very lightweight, portable kayak that is ideal for beginner kayakers who just want to go paddling in a range of different conditions.
Click here for more information or to check current pricing.
Decathlon ITIWIT Inflatable Kayak Review
If high quality and a name you can trust are important to you and you have a larger budget, the Decathlon ITIWIT range could be just what you are looking for. They are also the only option we review here that can actually be used as an inflatable 3 person kayak.
These Decathlon kayaks come in a double or triple option but there are multiple seating configurations that are clearly marked on the floor so the double can be used as a solo kayak and the triple can be used as a double. Both models are made from extremely durable polyester material and come with comfortable, raised inflatable seats and an inflatable floor that provides extra stability.
The double kayak only takes 7 minutes to inflate and the triple option only takes approximately 10 minutes. The v shaped front of the kayak gives an extra smooth entry into the water and the 3 keel hull coupled with the wide side tubes helps keep it stable in the water.
High quality handles on both sides, the front and rear of the kayak make it super easy to carry when inflated and the convenient bag means it is easy to store when deflated. These kayaks also feature bungee cords at the rear to assist with storing gear. Be sure to note though, the hand pumps are sold separately.
A durable and high quality option that would be perfect for a family of three who all want to share one kayak or limit the gear they have to carry with them on their next trip.
Click here for more information or to check the current pricing
Sevylor Quikpak Inflatable Kayak Review
The Sevylor Quikpak would be an excellent kayak for anyone who takes a lot of trips on their own and needs something convenient to carry, set up and deflate solo. Amazingly this kayak conveniently folds up completely into a backpack for easy transport.
To use, simply unfold the kayak from its backpack, inflate it using the included hand pump and secure the seat in place. The backpack itself even doubles as the seat so there’s no need to leave any part behind on the shore or take up valuable storage space onboard. The whole thing weighs just over 9kg so it is a comfortable load for most but it has a whopping 180kg capacity.
This kayak is made from a heavy duty 21 gauge PVC so it is also a great option for setting up and paddling in rugged areas. It even features multiple air chambers for added safety and stability, just another reason why it’s great for solo travellers.
This inflatable kayak also features grab handles at the front and rear, a cup holder and a bungee cord secured area to store gear. It comes with a dual action hand pump and a 2 piece paddle that also conveniently fits into the backpack.
Overall, the Sevylor Quikpak K1 is a versatile and convenient inflatable kayak that is perfect for those who want to explore remote bodies of water or take trips alone and need something easy to carry.
Click here for more information or to check the current pricing
Bestway Hydro Force Cove Inflatable Kayak Review
The Bestway Hydro Force Cove is not just one of the lightest kayaks in our inflatable kayak reviews but it’s also the cheapest as well. Perfect for anyone who wants an inflatable kayak that is easy to transport and easy on the wallet.
This kayak is made from puncture resistant “Inflata-Shield” material with stretch resistance that gives greater stability and speed in the water. It has a fixed, firm, inflatable floor for additional rigidity. The enclosed cockpit is comfortable and has an inflatable seat with a backrest for extra support.
The whole thing weighs just over 8kg, making it lightweight in comparison to many of the other options here. It has a maximum capacity of 100kg so will suit most adults and still be able to carry ample gear.
This great option from Bestway comes with a grab rope on both sides of the front and rear which makes it super easy to get in and out of the water. There is also a storage area with bungee cords on the front and back, great for keeping gear or securing things with D shackles.
The kayak also comes with a lightweight aluminium paddle, “Air Hammer” pump for quick inflation, a carry bag for ease of transport and two removable fins to suit different water conditions and give better tracking.
All in all, this quality inflatable kayak from Bestway would be a great option if you want something you can rely on but that won’t break the bank.
Click here for more information or to check the current pricing
Sea Eagle 300X Explorer Inflatable Kayak Review
The Sea Eagle 300X Explorer Inflatable Kayak is a sturdy and reliable vessel that can handle surf and whitewater conditions. In fact, they are rated to handle class four whitewater; despite this, they still perform great on flat water. This is certainly a high-end kayak and is the most expensive in this review.
Made of 1100 Decitex Reinforced PVC high-quality abrasion-resistant material. The floor is made of a removable High-Pressure Drop Stitch which gives the kayak increased rigidity. When inflated, the kayak measures 300cm long and 100cm wide, providing ample space for one. The kayak’s impressive weight capacity of 179kg ensures that even the heaviest loads can be safely transported. This Sea Eagle can be used for any type of adventure you may wish to undertake, from camping, fishing, whitewater, touring, and exploring you can do it all in this kayak.
Equipped with 3 air chambers and a foot air pump, the Sea Eagle can be easily inflated in a matter of 5 minutes. Once inflated, the kayak’s rigid drop-stitch, non-slip floor provides a stable platform to stand.
This kayak incorporates 16 self-bailing drain valves, a large removable rear Skeg, and 18 D rings to hang and secure equipment on.
Don’t let the higher price tag scare you off; it is well worth it when you consider the build quality, extra features, and inclusions. Overall, the Sea Eagle 300X is a versatile and reliable option for any kayaking adventure.
Click here for more information or to check the current pricing
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And there you have it, our ultimate guide to the best inflatable kayaks. We also have a guide on the best fishing kayaks or perhaps you’re also interested in our guide on choosing an inflatable SUP. We have plenty of other guides to help you with camping, including roof racks, pop up tents, camping fridges and we even have the ultimate camping checklist here.
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