Best Cheap Inflatable Kayaks

The best cheap inflatable kayaks offer a good balance of durability and safety in their price range. Size is, frankly, a non-issue in the real world when using budget inflatable kayaks.

People’s definition of cheap varies, but I consider kayaks under $300 to be the cheap option. You might stretch this definition a little if you find an inflatable kayak clearance sale, too. In that case, click buy and do a little celebration dance!

With over 20 years of outdoor paddling experience and 25 hours of research put into this article. We take a focus on which budget inflatable kayaks are not lemons. In fact, some of these picks actually perform quite well for their price range.

Most of this guide focuses on the kayaks themselves and how they offer the best value for your money. If you are not entirely sure How to pick an inflatable kayak for your needs scroll to the end where we grab your hand and walk you through step by step on how to choose a cheap inflatable kayak.

Below we will go into:

• Best Cheap Inflatable Kayaks List
• What to Look for in a Budget Inflatable Kayak
• Just Tell me What the Best Cheap inflatable Kayak is!

Ready? Let’s get into it!

10 Best Cheap Inflatable Kayaks

Here are my top ten choices for the best budget inflatable kayak. While on-water perfomance of budget inflatable kayaks is ususally sacraficed, I added a few decent perfoming ones to even things out.

1. Intex Excursion Pro (Top Value Pick)

Specifications

• Length: 12.5’ 
• Width: 37”
• Height: 18”
• Materials: 3-ply laminate PVC with a polyester core
• Weight: 43 lbs
• Maximum Capacity: 400 lbs.

Why is it a Good Budget Pick?

The Intex Excursion Pro is a great budget pick because it offers more of everything people want in this price range while remaining affordable. Things such as built in rod holders and mounting brackets make this kayak extra appealing. The three-chamber construction is particularly important because it helps provide support even if one section ends up getting damaged.

Truthfully, however, the part I like most is the high-pressure deflation valve. Most kayaks near $300 are similar, so it’s the smaller quality-of-life features like fast deflation that set them apart and make life a bit easier when packing up. I also like the bright red color, which is easy to see (and therefore safer) in all weather conditions.

On-Water Performance

The Intex Excursion Pro has solid performance for its price range, with two skegs to provide added control in different environments. Specifically, it has a shallow water skeg when you want to paddle through areas that aren’t too deep. There’s a noticeable difference between that and the standard directional skeg when padding.

The shallow water skeg will give the craft more maneuverability in the water while the directional skeg (the longer one) will let your inflatable kayak track in a straighter line. 

(If you’re not familiar with them, skegs are assistive devices that help keep your kayak straight when you’re paddling. They’re helpful for newcomers who don’t know how to maneuver with just a paddle yet.)

-Editors note

No cheap kayak performs well in the water under a heavier load, but the Excursion Pro has a mounting bracket for accessories and works well for a single-person fishing kayak. It may not hold up under the weight of two people and a lot of fishing gear, though, so keep that in mind. This craft is more for the bare-bones fishing enthusiast.

Kayak Design

The key feature of this inflatable kayak’s design is its thick outer walls, which provide extra support and space to put things down when you’re out on the water. The footwells, fishing rack, and rod holders are also nice additions that give this kayak more add-on accessories.

The kayaks material is not exactly PVC but a sort of hybrid/ in between of vinyl and PVC material. This does make it the more durable watercraft on this list. 

Accessories

Accessories here include a convenient carry bag, a high-output pump, and a repair pack. The mounting bracket is helpful because it lets you attach many other accessories such as fish finders, extra rod holders, or a small tackle tray. 

What Customers Think

Buyers like this kayak, citing things like the modular seating arrangements and overall comfort when it’s inflated. Reports of manufacturing problems are rare, though, like all cheap inflatable kayaks, they’ll never be as good as the higher-quality PVC options you will find in our best inflatable kayaks list.

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2. Advanced Elements Sport (Single Pick)

Specifications

• Length: 10’ 5” 
• Width: 32” 
• Materials: PVC-coated polyester, aluminum ribs
• Weight: 26 lbs.
• Maximum Capacity: 250 lbs.

Why is it a Good Budget Pick?

Advanced Elements’ Sport kayak stretches the definition of a budget kayak, but the comfortably easy-to-enter cockpit makes it a superb choice for people who have a hard time getting in or out of the water. The interior aluminum ribs are a rarity among budget options, providing added stability to help if you bump into things.

It also performs more like a decent kayak should. So if performance is important to you, take note. 

On-Water Performance

The Sport performs well in calmer environments like bays, inland water, and slow rivers. It’s not a good choice for rapids or other dangerous water, but it can support up to 250 lbs, and that’s enough to carry a moderate amount of gear with you.

The Sport is more on the budget side of the Advanced Elements line up so it’s not the top performer in their line-up. Still, its tracking will be better than most on this list.  

My experience is that this is more of a paddling kayak than a fishing one, so use it to go on recreational day paddles.

Kayak Design

This kayak has an unusually bulging shape to it. Although not a great option for speed or competitions, it’s user-friendly for casual trips and ideal for beginners. I particularly like the metal ribs on the inside, which give it noticeably more internal structure without significantly adding to the weight.

Above is a good comparison video I found about the AdvancedFrame Sport vs the AdvancedFrame Single kayak. Basically the Sport is better suited for casual paddlers while the AdvancedFrame is a more heavy duty kayak meant for people who plan to go paddling more.

One of the things I have to mention about this kayak and any kayaks with nylon covering is that they take a long time to dry and they require more maintenance compared to the Sea Eagle or Intex models. So if you are looking for a quick pack-up look at those kayaks instead as they are easier to clean and dry. 

Accessories

The Advanced Elements Sport comes with an owner’s manual, a duffel bag, a folding seat, and a repair kit as official accessories, which is fairly standard. What’s not standard is the lack of a pump and a paddle, so you’ll have to buy that separately. I like this kayak, but not including a pump is a bit ridiculous for this price range. Not to mention it’s inconvenient. 

What Customers Think

Customers like this kayak, citing general durability and outstanding stability when it’s out on the water. Its wider middle area makes a big difference there. However, some people mentioned poor documentation, which can be troubling if you get a bad unit.

One of the more common complaints was the fact that it took a while for the kayak to dry and clean. There are video instructions on how to properly do this but it’s something you must factor in with this kayak. 

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3. Sea Eagle 370 Inflatable Kayak (Tandem Pick)

Specifications

• Length: 12’6” 
• Width: 2’10” 
• Materials: K80 PVC (More of a vinyl-like Material)
• Weight: 32 lbs.
• Maximum Capacity: 650 lbs.

Why is it a Good Budget Pick?

Sea Eagle’s 370 stands out from the crowd by fitting up to three people and 650 pounds total, which is significantly higher max capacity than most other budget models. Its weight limit alone can make it the best inexpensive kayak if you want to carry many supplies or accessories, but its ability to hold up to three people means it’s also a good family pick.

On-Water Performance

The Sea Eagle 370’s in-water performance is solid, with dual skegs on the bottom that make paddling significantly easier. It’s not as good for fast paddling or an amazing tracking boat as the name suggests. 

The 370 does rate this boat for Class III environments, which is better than most other affordable kayaks on this list. This rating means the boat is rated for slightly rougher water use in Classification III Rapids.

This inflatable kayak is most at home in calm waters with the family who want a kayak they can jump out and climb back in. 

Kayak Design

The standout design feature here is the large floor tubes. Most kayaks put most of their weight on the side sections, which reduces overall effectiveness. The Sea Eagle 370 puts the most weight on the floor instead, making it more rigid and easier to paddle over long distances. Other kayaks waste much more of your energy, so this is a standout choice for loading the kayak with gear. Fishermen too for that matter!

Accessories

Sea Eagle sells this kayak with multiple packages, allowing you many levels of customization. All the packages come with basics like a carry bag and a small repair kit. 

You can optionally get a storage box for fishing, extra seats, paddles, or even a small sail. That last one is rare for kayaks, but it can significantly extend the range you can travel on a windy day.

What Customers Think

Customers cite these kayaks as easy to set up and use, with comfortable durability and excellent compactness when deflated. However, some customers also felt that this boat may take too long to clean, and a few think it’s too heavy to carry easily by strap alone, which reduces its total portability.

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4. Intex Challenger K2 (Budget Pick)

Specifications

• Length: 11’ 
• Width: 2’6” 
• Height: 1’3” 
• Materials: Vinyl
• Weight: 38 lbs.
• Maximum Capacity: 400 lbs

Why is it a Good Budget Pick?

Intex’s Challenger K2 is one of the cheapest inflatable kayak options on the market, making it a good starting point if you’re especially budget-sensitive. It’s also much better than its low price point suggests, offering a solid 400-lb capacity that can realistically support two people. 

In my opinion its a looker! Although it does blend in with the water more than other crafts on this list.

On-Water Performance

The Challenger K2 performs acceptably in the water, especially if you put on the removable skeg. It’s not a racing kayak by any stretch of the imagination and it’s not suitable for anything worse than a mild river, but it does well enough for casual paddling in gentle environments. The large interior and high weight capacity mean you can realistically carry a decent amount of gear.

This kayak was actually one of the best value performers in Jack Baikoffs speed tests for budget kayaks 

Kayak Design

This kayak has no stand-out design features, which is normal when you’re at the bottom end of the price range. However, while I don’t find it uniquely good in any particular area, it’s unexpectedly a decent performer for its price. It even outperforms some of the rival’s kayaks on this list! 

Specifically, it’s both relatively durable and easy to use, without any glaring drawbacks. That makes this easily one of the top choices for budget-minded buyers.

Accessories

Intex ships this kayak with grab lines, a cargo net, a removable skeg, a repair patch, paddles, and a pump. 

Unusually, they also ship it with an NMMA-certified U.S. Coast Guard identification, which means you can take it straight out to other areas that other kayaks might need additional registration to visit. That makes this kayak easier for some buyers to enjoy whenever and wherever.

What Customers Think

Customers like this kayak, and it’s easily one of the most popular options thanks to its low entry price. However, a few people did point out that this is a lightweight and cheap kayak, which means it can flip over faster if you’re not prepared for that.

Also because of the vinyl materials, you will have to be extra wary of things around you that could puncture the kayak. I’ve heard many reports of the kayak lasting 2 weeks all the way to 5 years. 

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5. Sea Eagle 330 (Recreational Paddling Pick)

Specifications

• Length: 11’2” 
• Width: 2’10”
• Materials: k80 PVC (More of a vinyl-like Material)
• Weight: 26 lbs.
• Maximum Capacity: 500 lbs.

Why is it a Good Budget Pick?

Sea Eagle’s 330 is a smaller and lighter version of the 370 up above. Although it has a slightly lower capacity at 500 lbs total, it’s still one of the better-made affordable inflatable kayak options on the market. 

The 370 is arguably too much for a budget model, while this unit has a lower price without sacrificing too much space for most families.

On-Water Performance

The Sea Eagle 330 works well in most environments. Like its larger cousin, it has two molded skegs on the bottom that provide better control, while the whole unit is rated for Class III environments. That remains comfortably higher than competitors, so this is a good option if you want to improve your safety margins and get some extra support on the water.

The higher up profile of the kayak is a disadvantage when it comes to windy conditions though which can make paddling back against the wind a pain. 

Kayak Design

The 330 is nearly identical to the 370 aside from being slightly smaller, which means it has the same floor-focused construction. This provides better structural integrity and more support for long-distance paddling. 

Unfortunately, you can’t remove the skegs is unfortunate but acceptable given this kayak’s overall quality.

Accessories

Once again resembling the 370, the 330 is available with a selection of accessory packages. Things like carrying bags, repair kits, and foot pumps are standard, but you can get either one or two chairs, some extra paddles, and that nice sail to go with it.

What Customers Think

Customers broadly like this kayak, citing happiness with the quality of the vinyl and the valves. Sea Eagle has good customer service, too, which can help if you have problems. 

However, a few people mention some difficulties using this kayak in areas with too much wind, so check to see whether you can expect calm days anywhere you want to use it.

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6. Intex Explorer K2 (Budget Tandem Pick)

Specifications

• Length: 10’3” 
• Width: 3’
• Height: 1’8”
• Materials: Vinyl
• Weight: 35 lbs.
• Maximum Capacity: 400 lbs.

Why is it a Good Budget Pick?

In the Sea Eagle vs. Intex debate, Intex comes out on top when you’re looking at the price tag. 

The Explorer K2 is a comfortable two-seater made for small bodies of water, which is excellent if you want to explore gentler lakes. The Boston-style valves provide additional support for keeping it inflated over longer trips, which I’ve always found handy.

On-Water Performance

The Explorer K2 has below average performance out on the water. While it won’t match up to sports kayaks, it paddles well in gentle waters and encourages exploring areas at your own pace. The bright yellow design is highly visible in most environments, which makes it much safer and can help other people find you faster if you wind up in trouble. 

Kayak Design

The Explorer K2 has a three-chamber design, resisting sinking if you happen to puncture one section. 

The I-beam floor provides better rigidity when the craft is out on the water, too. Although I personally think Sea Eagle does a better job with their take on the floors.  

If you want to set up cameras or stand up and look around, the extra stability is superb. Grab lines provide a more accessible way to hold the kayak, which older users may appreciate

Accessories

Intex ships the Explorer K2 with a standard dual paddle, a pump, and a carry bag. It also comes with a removable skeg for added control of your kayak in slightly faster conditions, as well as an NMMA-certified Coast Guard I.D. in case anyone has questions. 

Fairly standard accessories for a kayak of its price range.

What Customers Think

Customers broadly approve of this product, citing that it’s easy to re-enter and generally doesn’t flip when you’re trying to get in. However, there are a few reports of it wearing out relatively quickly, which is common among cheap blow-up kayak options.

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7. Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame Convertible (Premium Pick)

Specifications

• Length: 15’
• Width: 2’ 8” 
• Materials: Nylon and aluminum
• Weight: 52 lbs.
• Maximum Capacity: 550 lbs.

Why is it a Good Budget Pick?

The AdvancedFrame Convertible is an impressively flexible kayak for its price range, with rigid decks you can install to make a closed-top one-seater or two-seater kayak. 

Is it a good budget kayak? The quality of the kayak is greater than anything on this list but unfortunately, it will cost you. 

This helps stop water from getting in, adds places to put things, and makes it harder to fall out of the kayak. For people who want flexibility, this is essentially several kayak styles in one.

On-Water Performance

The AdvancedFrame Convertible performs well in the water, offering aluminum ribs inside of a sturdy front that makes it much easier to maneuver and control. This kayak is better than most of its competition in terms of flatwater paddling.

If you wanted to improve the on-water performance of this craft you can add a “back-bone” or a drop-stitch floor to the kayak for better tracking! 

It’s best to stick to flat water with this kayak because it’s only rated for up to Class II environments. 

Kayak Design

The obvious design element here is the replaceable cockpit configurations you can put on top. These are rare on most models, but when installed, they provide additional insolation from the outside elements. Making is more like a traditional hardshell kayak. In fact, many people don’t even realize this kayak is hardshell until you tell them it is!

Accessories

Accessories here include two folding seats, a carrying bag, a repair kit, and an owner’s manual. All of these are standard on most kayak models. Note that the conversion decks themselves do not come with the basic kayak, so you’ll need to find a bundle or purchase them separately to make use of this kayak’s convertible nature.

Without the decks, it’s just an expensive open kayak, and you can find a better option for much less money.

What Customers Think

Customers like this kayak, citing its overall durability and stability. However, they also think that the straps on the bag are too short and awkward, which makes this kayak a little harder to get over to the water.

It also shares the slow drying characteristic of its cousin the Advanced Frame Sport. 

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8. AquaGlide Chinook 100 (Warranty Pick)

Specifications

• Length: 10’ 
• Width: 3’ 
• Height: 13.5” 
• Materials: 600 deniers rip-stop polyester
• Weight: 23 lbs.
• Maximum Capacity: 400 lbs.

Why is it a Good Budget Pick?

AquaGlide isn’t as well-known as some other manufacturers, but their Chinook 100 is a pleasant choice for flat-water environments. It comes with a one-year warranty, which is longer than many budget competitors, while the large open body offers plenty of space to move around.

On-Water Performance

The Chinook 100 has relatively low performance. The tracking is fine for slow rivers and lakes, but it won’t hold up in water much rougher than that. 

It’s also smaller than many competitors at just 10 feet long, so it’s maneuverable enough to navigate complex areas at your own pace. Larger kayaks may be as much as 50% larger than the Chinook 100, which is too big for some.

Kayak Design

The Chinook 100 has a standard inflatable design, featuring space for one or two people, plus large sidewalls that provide most of its buoyancy support. However, while it has no uniquely notable design elements, it’s much lighter than many competing products. If you’re worried about being able to carry your kayak, this is a clear first option to consider.

Accessories

AquaGlide ships the Chinook 100 with two footrests, a quick-release fin, a repair kit, and a storage bag. Similar to Advanced Elements, they do not ship it with a pump, paddles, or valve adaptors you’ll probably need to inflate it. That’s a big oversight at this price point, in my opinion. 

What Customers Think

Customers don’t have a lot to say because the Chinook 100 isn’t nearly as popular as models from other companies, but a few people mentioned appreciating its stability and the ease of deflation. Unfortunately, without more commentary, we can’t draw any further conclusions.

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9. AquaGlide Noyo 90 (Lightweight Pick)

Specifications

• Length: 9’ 
• Width: 34” 
• Height: 15” 
• Materials: 600 denier ripstop polyester
• Weight: 21 lbs.
• Maximum Capacity: 250 lbs

Why is it a Good Budget Pick?

AquaGlide’s Noyo 90 is an ultra lightweight inflatable kayak, making it ideal if you’re worried about weight. It’s also one of the smallest inflatable options on the market, with a decked design that provides more places to relax and put things.

So if you are a smaller person wanting to go on a solo paddle this may be a decent pick for you. 

On-Water Performance

The Noyo 90 performs well in calmer waters, especially if you focus on recreational paddling. It’s both stable and forgiving for newcomers, while its small design provides better control and maneuverability while you’re out on the water. 

Children may also prefer this kayak, as its small size will suit them better than a twelve-foot or bigger inflatable kayak.

Kayak Design

The Noyo 90 has a closed deck on top, which is a noticeable departure from the more common open deck style you see on most inflatable kayaks. Its weight tolerance is solidly acceptable at 250 pounds, while a zippered compartment provides some extra storage.

Accessories

AquaGlide ships this kayak with a seat and a storage bag. Like the Chinook 100, though, it doesn’t come with paddles, a pump, or the required valve adaptors.

What Customers Think

Customers don’t like this kayak quite as much as most of the other options on this list. It’s a little expensive even before you get the necessary extras like paddles and a pump, but most people prefer inflatables that are a little larger and have a higher weight limit. 

Several people suggested getting this specifically for kids, whereas adults will want something else.

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10. Advanced Elements Lagoon 1 (Compact Pick)

Specifications

• Length: 8’ 4” 
• Width: 34”
• Materials: rip-stop polyester and PVC
• Weight: 23 lbs.
• Maximum Capacity: 250 lbs.

Why is it a Good Budget Pick?

The Lagoon 1 is a compact single-seater kayak and a direct competitor to the Noyo 90 above. However, I like the Lagoon 1 better because it has a wider entry area and more space for legs. It also has more of a teardrop-shaped design, giving excellent handling at a significantly lower price than the Noyo 90.

On-Water Performance

The Lagoon 1 has good handling on the water thanks to a few rigid panels that give more definition. An extra inner tube cover provides more protection for the air bladder, too, making it more durable and longer-lasting.

Kayak Design

This kayak is a little wider around the middle than some people are used to, which is immediately obvious when inflating it. The tear drop shape gives it more primary stability which is helpful when getting in and out of this kayak. 

However, it’s compact and comfortable, making it a top choice for anyone who wants a slimmer kayak that’s easier to inflate. It’s easily one of the best single-person inflatable kayak choices on the cheaper end of things.

Accessories

Advanced Elements ships this with a duffel bag, a repair kit, a seat, and an owner’s manual. However, it doesn’t come with a pump or paddle, so you’ll need to get that separately.

What Customers Think

Customers generally like this kayak, citing the ease of inflation and how well it handles in calm water. It’s light enough for a single person to handle without much difficulty, although a few people noted the lack of a waterproof pocket.

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What to Look for in Budget Inflatable Kayaks

Here are the main things to look for when you’re buying an inflatable kayak.

Quality of Materials

Material quality matters for overall durability. It’s something people talk about when deciding if inflatables are worth it, especially because all inflatable kayaks have a risk of manufacturing defects. If you don’t care for them exactly right, they’ll wear out much faster.

The best inflatable kayaks either have thick vinyl or something covering a vinyl interior. PVC is better than vinyl if you can find it, although it tends to be more expensive and can push products out of the cheap range.

On-Water Performance Factors

Cheap kayaks won’t perform as well as more expensive options, but they’re more than good enough for casual paddling. The below video explains more about how their performance factors vary.

Tracking

Tracking is how well a kayak will keep going straight when you’re paddling. Any inflatable kayak with a skeg will track significantly better than those without. 

I personally like removable skegs the most since you have a bit more flexibility with those, but permanent skegs are an acceptable substitute because you’ll never have to worry about them falling off. Although they make packing up a bit of a pain. 

Stability

Stability is another important factor. Stable kayaks are easier to get in and out of, both alongside the dock and out in the water. Stable kayaks tend to have wider middles, sacrificing pure speed to help ensure a more comfortable ride. No budget kayak is a true high-performer, and people know it, so it’s often easier to just focus on stability and not worry about speed.

Maneuverability

Budget kayaks maneuver much better than many people expect. They tend to have flattish bottoms, which make them easier to maneuver in the gentle waters where they excel. Small budget kayaks, which are those shorter than 11’, are also easier for newcomers to control because there’s much less kayak to move.

Inflatable Kayak Capacity

Most inflatable kayaks are two-person units, and they’re subject to a lot of discussions. One-person kayaks are more common among the cheapest options. Longer is usually better if you have two people, though, so you can adjust the seats enough to ensure you’re both comfortable. Tandem kayaks can be good for speed, too.

Three-person inflatable kayaks are rare and usually work best with two adults and one child. Few kayaks can fit three adults comfortably, so buy accordingly.

Where You are Paddling

Inflatable kayaks are best for shorter trips in calm areas, including slow rivers, most lakes, and some calm bays. 

A few inflatable kayaks are tough enough to hold up under moderate whitewater rafting, but it’s better to go all in and get a solid kayak or a premium inflatable kayak like the Sea Eagle 380X if you expect to go through rapids.

What’s the Best Cheap Inflatable Kayak?

Out of every raft here, I like the Intex Excursion the most. It offers an outstanding balance of overall quality, performance in different environments, user safety, weight capacity, and price.

It is the kayak that gives you the most value for the price you pay. Is it the best inflatable kayak? No not at all. But it’s a jack of all trades kayak that can do the job well without sacraficing anything for it’s price tag.

However, every option on this list has advantages in different areas, so evaluate your needs before deciding on the cheap inflatable kayak you want. What will be the best cheap inflatable kayak for one person will be something else for someone else. Find out whats important to you in an inflatable kayak and make the jump!

Have you got a cheap inflatable kayak that’s not on the list? Tell us about it!  Want to know!