Best Portable Kayaks of 2023
Portable kayaks represent some of the greatest innovations in kayak technology. And not just because the creativity behind them will blow your sprayskirt off. Portable kayaks have made kayaking accessible to many of us who, otherwise, simply couldn't store or transport a kayak. By breaking down those barriers and prerequisites to owning a traditional kayak, portable kayaks have allowed the apartment-dwelling, bicycle-riding or compact-car-owning (or even no car at all) paddlers to own, store, and transport a kayak with ease.
Types of Portable Kayaks
Within portable kayaks, you'll notice there are several types to consider-
- Inflatable Kayaks - these boats can run the range from very inexpensive to high-end performance craft. They all rely on air chambers to create the structure for the kayak.
- Folding Kayaks - these kayaks combine a frame with an outer skin to create kayaks that are high-performance and very portable. Overall, they tend to be the most expensive but also have great performance features. One man, Hannes Lindemann, even paddled solo across the Atlantic and then wrote a book, Alone at Sea.
- Modular Kayaks - a relatively new innovation in kayaks, these boats are designed with multiple pieces and often-times the pieces fit within one another for easy transport. Some boats can also be configured to allow for one, two or even a 100-person kayak!
When a 17-year-old paddleboarder was swept out to sea, his survival depended on his cell phone and the voice on the other end of the line.
Factors to Consider When Buying a Portable Kayak
There are tons of things to consider when buying a portable kayak. Before you start shopping based on price and color, you first need to consider:
- How, Where and With Whom you plan to paddle with?
- Which type of portable kayak? Folding, inflatable, or modular?
- Number of Seats - do you plan to paddle solo or is tandem or 3-person ideal? Don't forget that some modular kayaks and inflatables can be converted from solo to tandem.
- There is no one size fits all. The best portable kayak for you will be different than the best one for the next paddler.
- Read these portable kayak reviews - they are submitted by paddlers like you!
- Try it before you buy it. Research is key, but nothing beats getting on water with a boat. Talk to friends, borrow a boat, and contact your local retailer for a demo.
The best portable kayak for you is going to be different than the next paddler. And that's okay. You have to factor in everything from your experience, planned water types, durations, budget, and preferences. So use this list as a starting point. Get some ideas, read some reviews, look through the entire kayak gear guide, maybe browse the message boards, talk to your local paddlesports retailer or paddling groups, and get out and try it before you buy it! And, of course, when you're done, be sure to help the next paddler in their search by submitting a review!
Best Portable Kayaks of 2023
- AdvancedFrame Sport by Advanced Elements
- Lynx II by AIRE
- Martini GTX Tandem / Solo by Point 65 Sweden
- Chinook 9.0 by Aquaglide
- FastTrack™ 465ft by Sea Eagle Inflatables
- Bay ST by Oru Kayak
- AdvancedFrame Expedition Elite by Advanced Elements
- Explorer 380x by Sea Eagle Inflatables
- Beach LP2 by TAHE
- SE-370 by Sea Eagle Inflatables
- Tomcat Tandem by Tributary
- Aerius II 545 Classic by Klepper America
AdvancedFrame Sport
A highly-rated inflatable kayak that is a great choice for a first-time buyer. The lower cost makes it affordable for most paddlers. It's a great choice for protected waters and slow moving rivers. Advanced Elements offers a variety of models in the AdvancedFrame series including the AdvancedFrame Convertible that can be paddled solo or tandem.
- More information about AdvancedFrame Sport
- View all products from Advanced Elements
- Structure: Inflatable
- Cockpit Type: Sit Inside
- Seating Configuration: Solo
- Ideal Paddler Size: Smaller Adult/Child, Average Adult
- Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate
- Ideal Paddler Size: Smaller Adult/Child, Average Adult
- Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate
Additional Attributes
- carrying duffel
- Repair kit included.
- folding seat
AdvancedFrame Sport Reviews
I originally posted a…
I've wanted a kayak for years…
Excellent customer service…
Lynx II
Looking for a kayak that is up for whitewater adventure, then the Lynx II is your boat. Their tried and true design performs well on big water, creeks and local river sections. Lynx kayaks are all-around whitewater craft built for day-long outings and small extended trips. Paddle the Lynx II tandem or use its increased load capacity to gear up for longer trips, paddling solo.
- Structure: Inflatable
- Cockpit Type: Sit on Top / Open Cockpit
- Seating Configuration: Tandem
- Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult, Larger Adult
- Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate
- Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult, Larger Adult
- Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate
Additional Attributes
- Tube Diameter: 11.5"
- Bow Rise x Stern Rise: 15"
- Weight: 43
- 2" Waterline: 91
- Aire Chambers: 3
- AIREcell Material: Urethane
- Fabric Denier x Material Weight: 1100 x 24/27
- Seam Construction: Welded
- Valve: Leafield C7
- Warranty: 10 Year No Fault
Lynx II Reviews
I have used/own several Aire…
The AIRE Lynx II is the most…
We bought 2 Lynx II…
Martini GTX Tandem / Solo
![](https://optimise2.assets-servd.host/big-bandicoot/production/images/products/Point-65N/Martini_GTX_Tandem_Red.png?w=500&h=281&q=80&auto=format&fit=clip&dm=1474467003&s=36d7b199ec70d7b572d2bd086e323f05)
The Martini GTX is a decked, take-apart, touring kayak with a roomy and comfortable cockpit to explore with and then take back home in the back of your car. Like the sit-on-top version, the Martini GTX features the innovative patented Snap-Tap solution. The Martini GTX is designed with both kids and adults in mind. Whether paddling, fishing or just relaxing, this comfortable, stable and strong high-performance kayak is the ideal choice for family fun on the water.
- Structure: Modular
- Cockpit Type: Sit Inside
- Seating Configuration: Solo, Tandem
- Ideal Paddler Size: Smaller Adult/Child, Average Adult
- Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate
- Ideal Paddler Size: Smaller Adult/Child, Average Adult
- Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate
Additional Attributes
- Ergonomically designed seat, backrest and foot braces
- Integrated rudder and easily adjustable rudder pedals
Martini GTX Tandem / Solo Reviews
Love this tandem kayak that…
I love that I can store this…
Chinook 9.0
![](https://optimise2.assets-servd.host/big-bandicoot/production/images/products/Chinook-90-34_web-1.jpeg?w=500&h=281&q=80&auto=format&fit=clip&dm=1638576080&s=a44d9aeea509ad10c3f57f38cb32f11a)
The Chinook 90 is Aquaglide’s shortest open cockpit kayak that provides exceptional maneuverability for calm rivers and shorter trips on flat water. With its compact 9-foot open bow layout, the Chinook allows for easy transitions in and out of the boat. If you are looking for a lightweight recreational boat that’s easy to set-up and provides easy transitions in and out of the water, the Chinook 90 is for you.
- Structure: Inflatable
- Cockpit Type: Sit on Top / Open Cockpit
- Seating Configuration: Solo
- Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult
- Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate
- Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult
- Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate
Additional Attributes
- Core™ Seat (1)
- Fin with Quick Release Pin (1)
- Basic Bag (1)
- Repair Kit (1)
Chinook 9.0 Reviews
I love this kayak. It is…
FastTrack™ 465ft
Looking for a 3-person kayak or tandem with a bunch of gear? The The Sea Eagle 465ft FastTrack™ combines all the features of it's smaller sister, the 385ft FastTrack™ with the ability to carry more cargo and/or paddlers.
- More information about FastTrack™ 465ft
- View all products from Sea Eagle Inflatables
- Structure: Inflatable
- Cockpit Type: Sit on Top / Open Cockpit
- Seating Configuration: Tandem, 3+
- Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult, Larger Adult
- Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced
- Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult, Larger Adult
- Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced
Additional Attributes
- NMMA Certified
- 2 Open and close drain valves
- Front & rear spray skirts with storage below and elastic rope lacing for additional storage above
- Separate inner High Pressure Drop Stitch floor for greater rigidity
- Large, removable, swept back skeg at rear to control yaw and improve speed
- Outside drop stitch high pressure keel at bow for true tracking
- 18 D-rings to secure seats and gear
- State of the art NeedleKnife Keel
- Bow and stern grab handles
FastTrack™ 465ft Reviews
Used it on a 18 km trip for family of 4 with 160 lbs of gear
Ok I wrote my original review…
We have had our 465 for 5…
Bay ST
![](https://optimise2.assets-servd.host/big-bandicoot/production/images/products/Oru-Kayak/2018_BayST_aerial.png?w=500&h=281&q=80&auto=format&fit=clip&dm=1527612941&s=5b6a68b311608266c0220f84554f6f8a)
The original Oru Kayak that's withstood the test of time. Launched on Kickstarter, sold by retailers around the world, and in the permanent collection at the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art. Stable enough for beginners, while fast and sporty for expert kayakers. Plenty of room to stash gear for day trips and short camping excursions. Transforming it from box to boat takes just a few minutes.
- Structure: Folding
- Cockpit Type: Sit Inside
- Seating Configuration: Solo
- Ideal Paddler Size: Smaller Adult/Child, Average Adult
- Skill Level: Beginner, Advanced
- Ideal Paddler Size: Smaller Adult/Child, Average Adult
- Skill Level: Beginner, Advanced
Additional Attributes
- Comfortable foam seat and fully-adjustable backrest
- Easy-to-close watertight seams
- 2 rubber deck straps for extra gear
- Easy-to-adjust footrest
- Reinforced cockpit for easy entry
- Pair of bulkheads for extra rigidity
- Simple and intuitive strap and buckle closure system
- Fits standard spray skirts (size medium)
Bay ST Reviews
Very much like the kayak but…
Wow - took it out on the…
Bought the Oru Bay used for…
AdvancedFrame Expedition Elite
The higher-performance version of the AdvancedFrame Sport, the AdvancedFrame Expedition Elite is a hybrid of a folding frame kayak and an inflatable kayak, it incorporates our proven aluminum rib-frame technology in the bow and stern, and Drop-stitch technology in the floor, to provide paddling performance that rivals that of a hard-shell kayak.
- More information about AdvancedFrame Expedition Elite
- View all products from Advanced Elements
- Structure: Inflatable
- Cockpit Type: Sit Inside
- Seating Configuration: Solo
- Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult, Larger Adult
- Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced
- Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult, Larger Adult
- Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced
Additional Attributes
- carrying duffel
- Repair kit included.
- folding seat
AdvancedFrame Expedition Elite Reviews
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Explorer 380x
Tackle your adventures in tandem. The 380x is made to be ridden by one or two persons. Now you can do what others only dream of with our most versatile kayak series ever! Designed to tackle whitewater, open-water, and now down-wind sailing! Large enough for two but small enough for one! The 380x does it all!
- More information about Explorer 380x
- View all products from Sea Eagle Inflatables
- Structure: Inflatable
- Cockpit Type: Sit on Top / Open Cockpit
- Seating Configuration: Solo, Tandem
- Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult, Larger Adult
- Skill Level: Intermediate, Advanced
- Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult, Larger Adult
- Skill Level: Intermediate, Advanced
Additional Attributes
- NMMA Certified
- 16 High Capacity Self-bailing Drain Valves
- Large, Removable, Swept Back Skeg for Flatwater Touring
- Front & Rear Spray Skirts with Carry Handles and bungee cords
- Separate Drop Stitch floor for rigidity
- 24 D-rings to secure seats and gear
- One-Way Air Valves
- Sea Eagle motormount receivers for optional motormount
Explorer 380x Reviews
I took this 169 miles down…
It is great
the best kayak I have owned
Beach LP2
![](https://optimise2.assets-servd.host/big-bandicoot/production/images/products/Tahe-Marine/Tahe-Beach-LP2.png?w=500&h=281&q=80&auto=format&fit=clip&dm=1615932378&s=4e1f992805738686ef0ffd77c2d61034)
The Beach LP2 inflatable kayak is a lightweight, easy to use inflatable kayak for one or two person use with a maximum capacity of 330lbs/150kg. Featuring a hydrodynamic hull made of durable tarpaulin, three air chambers, elevated inflatable seats and three removable fins for tracking and control. The complete package fits neatly into the included carry-all backpack together with two 4-piece take-apart paddles, inflation pump and repair kit.
BIC Sport is now TAHE! New Brand, Same Great Company and Products – Learn More
- Structure: Inflatable
- Cockpit Type: Sit on Top / Open Cockpit
- Seating Configuration: Solo, Tandem
- Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult
- Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate
- Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult
- Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate
Additional Attributes
- 3-Chamber construction
- Stable and easy to ride
- Stern deck bungee
- Quickly converts from 1-person to 2-person use
- Hydrodynamic hull
- Inflates in under 5 minutes
- Elevated, adjustable inflatable seat
- Bow and stern carry handles
- Drain plug
Beach LP2 Reviews
Was looking for something to…
A key aspect of your…
We have 3 different…
SE-370
The Sea Eagle 370 is the SE-330's big sister. Only 6 lbs. heavier (32 lbs.) with a larger carrying capacity of 3 people or 650 lbs. You can take along enough gear for that long weekend fishing trip, camping adventure or river running voyage. Form and function make the Sea Eagle 370 America's second most popular inflatable kayak.
This affordable inflatable sport kayak is as lightweight and portable as it gets, yet still remarkably stable and durable.
- More information about SE-370
- View all products from Sea Eagle Inflatables
- Structure: Inflatable
- Cockpit Type: Sit on Top / Open Cockpit
- Seating Configuration: Tandem, 3+
- Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult, Larger Adult
- Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced
- Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult, Larger Adult
- Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced
Additional Attributes
- NMMA Certified
- Open and close drain valve
- Five deluxe one-way valves
- Lashed down inflatable spray skirts
- I-beam construction floor
- 2 skegs on the bottom for better tracking & speed
- Sun & saltwater resistant hull material
SE-370 Reviews
I have had mine since 2013…
Recently bought a sea eagle…
I have gone up and down with…
Tomcat Tandem
A bigger tandem version of the Tomcat, this stable inflatable shares the same durable construction and design features, but offers more paddling options. It comes standard with two inflatable seats to tackle whitewater with a friend, but can also be paddled solo and the extra load capacity filled with gear. It features bow and stern dodgers, a mesh drain system, improved shape, flip handles, welded seams and bow/stern d-rings.
- More information about Tomcat Tandem
- View all products from Tributary
- Structure: Inflatable
- Cockpit Type: Sit on Top / Open Cockpit
- Seating Configuration: Tandem
- Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult, Larger Adult
- Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate
- Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult, Larger Adult
- Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate
Tomcat Tandem Reviews
Fantastic Inflatable. Sturdy…
Great beginner-intermediate…
I've been paddling this model…
Aerius II 545 Classic
The Aerius Classic is truly a classic design from Klepper. While it certainly won't make the list for least-expensive, it's a time-tested performance kayak that has often outlived its owners.
- Significant storage capacity for extended trips on lakes, open rivers and the ocean.
- Construction is a gray reinforced Hypalon® Hull with a water proof breathable Egyptian cotton deck
- The hand crafted frame is triple dipped Ash and Birch
- Assembly is effortless with Klepper's unique patented Snap Lock system
- More information about Aerius II 545 Classic
- View all products from Klepper America
- Structure: Folding
- Cockpit Type: Sit Inside
- Seating Configuration: Tandem
- Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult, Larger Adult
- Skill Level: Intermediate, Advanced
- Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult, Larger Adult
- Skill Level: Intermediate, Advanced
Aerius II 545 Classic Reviews
Expedition boat for the forgotten corners of our planet
The frame is circa 1955, the…
I've used an Aerius II to…
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