Is an Inflatable Kayak Suitable for Camping or Backpacking? A Complete Guide

I'll never forget the first time I stuffed an inflatable kayak into my backpack and hiked 8 miles to a hidden alpine lake in the Rockies. My buddies thought I was crazy hauling the extra weight, but their jaws dropped when I pulled out what looked like a rolled-up sleeping bag and transformed it into a fully functional kayak in under 10 minutes. That's when I knew inflatable kayaks would change how I explore the backcountry forever.

If you're wondering whether you can use an inflatable kayak for camping or backpacking, the short answer is: absolutely yes. But here's the thing - not all inflatable kayaks are created equal, and choosing the wrong one could turn your dream adventure into a shoulder-aching nightmare. Let me break down everything you need to know about taking inflatable kayaks into the wilderness.

The Truth About Inflatable Kayaks for Camping

Inflatable kayaks can be excellent boats for kayak camping trips, and here's why: they typically have higher weight capacities than hardshell equivalents. Last summer on Lake Travis, I loaded my Sea Eagle 380x with 100 pounds of camping gear and still had room to spare. The boat handled like a dream, even in choppy afternoon winds.

The beauty of inflatable kayaks for camping lies in their versatility. Unlike rigid kayaks, you can:

• Pack them inside your vehicle without roof racks
• Store them in tight campsites without worry
• Portage them over rough terrain between water bodies
• Launch from spots inaccessible to traditional kayaks

However, not every inflatable kayak suits camping adventures. You'll want to look for models with:

• High weight capacity (at least 400 lbs for solo boats)
• Multiple air chambers for safety
• Durable materials (1000 denier or higher)
• Adequate deck space for gear

Best Inflatable Kayaks for Camping

Through years of testing, I've found that inflatable touring kayaks offer the best combination of speed, stability, and storage space. Drop-stitch construction models provide more usable deck space than traditional inflatable designs. If you're planning extended expeditions, consider a tandem kayak - even for solo paddling. The extra space lets you spread out gear without affecting performance.

For those interested in fishing from their camping kayak, look for models with high stability ratings and attachment points for rod holders. The Sea Eagle 420X Explorer handles both camping gear and fishing equipment beautifully.

Backpacking with an Inflatable Kayak: Weight Matters

Here's where things get interesting. Traditional inflatable kayaks often weigh 20-40 pounds - manageable for car camping but brutal for backpacking. I learned this the hard way trying to haul a 33-pound kayak up a Colorado fourteener. Never again.

For true backpacking adventures, you need something revolutionary: enter the world of ultralight inflatable kayaks and packrafts.

The Packraft Revolution

Packrafts have completely changed the game for wilderness paddling. Packrafts are perfect for these adventures thanks to their light weight and gear hauling capabilities. Inflatable kayaks are significantly heavier than packrafts. For example, an AIRE Lynx IK weighs about 33 pounds compared to Kokopelli's packrafts, which on average weigh between 6 and 19 pounds.

The difference is staggering. These boats usually weigh about 5-10 pounds, only take up a portion of the space in your pack, and are usually inflated with a minimalist "inflation bag" instead of a pump. My Alpacka Scout weighs just 3.8 pounds and packs down smaller than my sleeping bag.

Ultralight Champions: Advanced Elements PackLite

If you're not ready to invest in a packraft but want something backpack-friendly, the Advanced Elements PackLite deserves serious consideration. Weighing just 5.25 pounds in its bag, the PackLite is far and away the lightest kayak we tested. It's not only the lightest, but also the smallest, both set up and packed away.

I've carried the PackLite on multiple backpacking trips, and it's a game-changer. Extremely compact and lightweight at only 4 pounds, the PackLite™ inflatable kayak is ideal for paddling in remote locations. It's sturdy yet easy to carry and can adapt to your needs thanks to add-ons, offered separately. This recreational inflatable kayak has 3 chambers for optimum safety, packs down to 11"x11"x5".

The trade-offs? It paddles like a pool toy in wind and lacks a skeg for tracking. But when you're floating on a pristine mountain lake that's miles from the nearest road, those compromises feel worth it.

Packraft vs Inflatable Kayak: Making the Right Choice

The debate between packrafts and inflatable kayaks for backpacking comes down to your priorities:

Choose a Packraft if:

• Weight is your primary concern (hiking long distances)
• You're crossing technical terrain to reach water
• Durability in rocky environments matters most
• You have the budget ($500-$1,500+)

When it comes to portability, therefore, the packraft goes home with the win. Most packrafts weigh between 2.5 and 4.5 kilos which means you can easily put it in your backpack. Ideal if you don't just want to get out on the water, but also go into the mountains or plan to bike for stretches.

Choose an Ultralight Inflatable Kayak if:

• You want better tracking and speed on flat water
• Budget is a concern (PackLite costs around $250)
• You'll paddle more than you'll hike
• You prefer a more traditional kayaking experience

Essential Gear for Kayak Camping & Backpacking

Don't forget these crucial items that I've learned are non-negotiable through trial and error:

Pumps and Inflation

• For car camping: Electric pumps save energy
• For backpacking: Packrafts come with a lightweight inflation bag that you use to inflate the raft. You attach the bag to a valve on the raft and then scoop air with the bag and squeeze the air into the raft.
• Always carry a manual backup pump

Safety and Repair

• Patch kit (check it's complete before each trip)
• Proper PFD designed for kayaking
• Spare valve caps
• Duct tape (fixes almost anything temporarily)

Storage Solutions

Since most inflatable kayaks lack built-in hatches, you'll need:

• Multiple dry bags in various sizes
• Deck bungees or additional tie-down points
• Waterproof map case for navigation

Real-World Performance: What to Expect

Let me set realistic expectations. Your inflatable camping kayak won't slice through water like a sea kayak. On Lake Superior last fall, I watched hardshells cruise past while I worked twice as hard to maintain speed. But here's what they couldn't do: pack their boat in a backpack and hike to isolated lakes the next day.

You plan to paddle on waterways you can drive to, or where you'll store your kayak (i.e., the family cabin or lake home). Weight isn't much of a factor, but you still like the idea of a very portable boat that's easy to store. For these scenarios, a quality inflatable kayak makes perfect sense.

Paddling Loaded

Weight distribution becomes critical when camping. I learned to:

• Pack heavy items low and centered
• Use bow/stern tie-downs to secure gear
• Keep essentials within arm's reach
• Balance weight side-to-side meticulously

An unbalanced kayak in rough water spells disaster. Trust me - I've taken unplanned swims in glacier-fed lakes because I got lazy with packing.

Hybrid Adventures: Bike + Packraft

One of my favorite adventure combinations involves bikepacking with a packraft. Packrafts are primarily designed for river use and to be ultra-portable. They can pack down to a small size that fits in your hiking rucksack and the weight ranges from 1kg to 6kg. This means packrafts are perfect for expeditions where you want to combine hiking with water travel over multiple days.

Last month, I biked 40 miles of forest roads to reach a chain of alpine lakes, then spent three days island hopping with my packraft. Try doing that with a traditional kayak!

Making Your Decision: Key Factors

For Kayak Camping (Drive-In Access):

• Weight capacity: Minimum 400 lbs for solo boats
• Durability: 1000+ denier material
• Size: Longer boats (12'+) track better loaded
• Features: D-rings, bungees, grab handles

For Backpacking (Hike-In Access):

• Total weight: Under 10 lbs (ideally under 6 lbs)
• Packed size: Must fit in/on backpack
• Setup time: 10 minutes or less
• Multi-use potential: Some packrafts double as sleeping pads

FAQ Section

Can you use an inflatable kayak for camping or backpacking?

Yes, inflatable kayaks work excellently for both camping and backpacking. For car camping, choose models with high weight capacity and durable construction. For backpacking, opt for ultralight options under 10 pounds like packrafts or the Advanced Elements PackLite.

What's the difference between a packraft and inflatable kayak?

Packrafts typically weigh 5-10 pounds and pack extremely small, designed specifically for wilderness travel. Inflatable kayaks usually weigh 20-40 pounds but offer better tracking and speed on flat water. Packrafts cost more but excel at portability.

How much weight can an inflatable kayak carry for camping?

Quality inflatable kayaks can carry 400-750 pounds. My Sea Eagle 380x handles 750 pounds - enough for me, a week's worth of gear, and my 80-pound dog. Always leave a safety margin of at least 100 pounds below the maximum capacity.

Do I need special gear for camping with an inflatable kayak?

Essential extras include multiple dry bags (since inflatables lack hatches), a reliable pump, comprehensive repair kit, and extra tie-down points. Don't forget a proper kayak maintenance kit for multi-day trips.

What's the best ultralight kayak for backpacking?

The Advanced Elements PackLite at 4 pounds offers the best balance of weight, price ($250), and performance for backpacking. For ultimate portability, packrafts like the Alpacka Scout (3.8 lbs) or Kokopelli Nirvana excel but cost significantly more.

Can packrafts handle whitewater while loaded with camping gear?

Yes, many packrafts are designed for loaded whitewater travel. Models like the Alpacka Expedition or Kokopelli Nirvana Self-Bailer handle Class III-IV rapids with full camping loads. Always practice in easier water before attempting technical rapids.

How long does it take to set up an inflatable kayak at camp?

Setup times vary: traditional inflatable kayaks take 10-15 minutes with a pump, while packrafts inflate in 5-10 minutes using an inflation bag. The PackLite inflates in about 6 minutes. Factor in loading gear for another 5-10 minutes.

Are inflatable kayaks durable enough for extended camping trips?

Quality models with 1000+ denier fabric handle extended trips well. I've used my Sea Eagle for 10+ years including multi-week expeditions. Avoid boats under $300 - they typically use thin materials unsuitable for serious camping.

The Bottom Line

Can you use an inflatable kayak for camping or backpacking? Absolutely. I've paddled everywhere from wilderness rivers in Alaska to hidden cenotes in Mexico with inflatable boats. The key is matching your boat to your adventure style.

For car camping and short portages, a quality inflatable kayak offers the perfect blend of performance and convenience. For true backpacking adventures where every ounce counts, invest in an ultralight kayak like the PackLite or step up to a packraft.

Whatever you choose, remember that the best boat is the one that gets you on the water. Some of my most memorable paddling experiences have come from lakes I never could have reached without a packable boat. The sunrise paddle on that hidden Rocky Mountain lake I mentioned? Worth every ounce I carried.