9 Best Budget-Friendly Kayaks (2023 Reviews and Guide)

It’s hard to find a kayak that is both affordable and durable. Not everyone has the budget for a $1000+ kayak. You need a great kayak but don’t want to pay much money for one.

We have just the solution. This article will explore some of the best budget kayaks on the market today.

These are top-rated boats from trusted brands with excellent reviews from real customers who love them as much as we do. And they won’t break your budget either.

Check out our top picks:

Best budget kayak

This article will cover some of the most popular cheap kayaks on the market. They are perfect for those who want to go kayaking but don’t want to spend a fortune.

There are many good inexpensive kayaks available. So before you head out on your next kayak adventure, here’s our list of the best affordable kayaks.

Sea Eagle 330

If you are in the market for a cheap inflatable kayak, the Sea Eagle 330 is an excellent option. It is the perfect kayak for families (but you might need two of them).

The kayak is very spacious and can hold up to 2 people or 500 lbs. It weighs just 26 lbs and packs down small enough to fit in the smallest car trunk.

>==Click here to read the full review==<

The great thing about the Sea Eagle 330 is its portability. The SE330 is an excellent option for traveling and fits easily in an RV or car. You can take this inflatable kayak with you wherever you go.

This inflatable I-beam construction helps the kayak maintain stability, and the boat is suitable for Class III rapids. In addition, the kayak has two built-in skegs, which help improve the speed and tracking of the boat.

Multiple air chambers keep the kayak afloat in case something goes wrong 🙂 You must be careful with cheap inflatable kayaks, but the 330 is built to last.

The seats are inflatable and adjustable. The kayak has everything you need to start, including paddles, a pump, a carry bag, and a repair kit.

There are different customizable packages to choose from, so the kayak is customizable to suit your needs. There are also a lot of accessories you can add to the kayak if you desire.

It is easy to store and transport and even easier to assemble. This kayak is also great for families as you can fit two people or paddle solo. If you want to take your pup, that is also an option.

>>Check the price at Sea Eagle<<

>>Check the price at Amazon<<

The durable PVC construction makes this an excellent kayak for all uses, even some whitewater if you are so inclined. In addition, the hull is salt water and UV resistant so that you can paddle all day in the sunshine.

If you are looking for the best cheap kayak, the Sea Eagle 330 is rugged and durable. The affordable price makes this an easy choice for anybody (or family) looking for a great way to spend time together outside.

You must be careful with cheap inflatable kayaks, but the SE330 is a solid option. It is affordable, so if you’re new to kayaking, this is an excellent first investment.

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Intex Explorer K2 kayak

We all know that kayaking is a great way to spend a day, but finding the right equipment for your budget can be tricky.

Most people think of kayaks as expensive and out of their price range. But with Intex Explorer K2, you get a cheap kayak without sacrificing quality or comfort.

The Intex Explorer K2 is made from durable PVC material and includes features like comfortable inflatable seats, directional stability, increased visibility in case of emergencies (it’s bright freaking yellow), and more. This makes it perfect for beginners who want to try kayaking without breaking the bank.

The Intex Explorer K2 kayak is a great inexpensive kayak for those looking to get into the sport. The K2 is designed for smaller bodies of water like lakes and mild rivers and (we mentioned) increased visibility in case of emergencies with its bright yellow color.

The seat includes an adjustable inflatable backrest, making it comfortable for anyone to use, and the cockpit is spacious enough to accommodate paddlers of all sizes.

The kayak comes with everything you need, including; paddles, an air pump, and a removable skeg that gives you more directional control over your boat.

With its lightweight design at only 35 pounds when deflated, it’s highly portable, making it easy to transport in a car, SUV, or RV. This kayak is a great option to take with you on the road since it’s very portable.

It measures 10 feet 3 inches long by 3 feet wide when inflated with a diameter of 32 inches. When deflated, the dimensions are 26 x 13 x 8 inches. The Intex Explorer K2 kayak is capable of handling up to 400 pounds.

The Intex Explorer K2 is also an affordable kayak that you can use to take kids or grandkids on the water with you. The Explorer is also available in a single-person model if you prefer to paddle solo.

Seriously, if you are looking for the best cheap kayak out there, the K2 is worth a look.

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Intex Challenger series kayaks

Kayaking is fun for everyone, but not everyone has a lot of money to spend on a kayak.

However, you don’t have to break the bank to enjoy being out on the water in your own Intex Challenger kayak.

The Intex Challenger K1 and K2 sit-inside kayaks are affordable for budget-conscious paddlers who want a quality kayak.

The kayaks are perfect for beginners and experienced paddlers alike because they’re affordable and easy to use.

>==Read the complete Intex Challenger K2 review==<

With its streamlined design, you can choose between the sporty and fun Intex Challenger K1 Kayak. The Intex Challenger K2 also comes with (2) 86-inch aluminum paddles, an Intex high output pump for easy inflation and deflation, and a 400-pound maximum weight limit.

But you can also paddle the K2 solo if you want to. It’s also a good kayak if you want to take a small dog with you.

These budget-friendly kayaks feature a sleek design with bright green graphics that make the kayak highly visible in the water, which is an added safety benefit.

Plus, the Intex Challenger kayaks are made from the company’s rugged, super-tough vinyl that’s puncture and UV damage-resistant for long-term durability.

The removable skeg system lets you precisely control the kayak’s tracking on open water.

It’s easy to transport Intex Challenger kayaks, as they’re lightweight and inflate quickly with the included high-output pump.

The company provides repair patch kits for emergency repairs on the water.

The one thing these kayaks lack is onboard storage. There is enough extra space for gear if you paddle the K2 by yourself, but the K1 doesn’t give you the same space.

Inflatable kayaks are popular because they are lightweight and easy to transport. You can easily store the kayak in your garage or a closet in your house.

The Intex Challenger is a cheap kayak with everything you need to hit the water immediately. Just throw on a life jacket and start paddling.

You have to be careful with some cheap inflatable kayaks, but the Challenger series are very durable.

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Pelican Sit-on-Top Kayak – Sentinel 100X

If you want an affordable kayak that is easy to store, lightweight and has plenty of storage space, the Pelican Sentinel 100X Sit-on-Top Kayak is the perfect solution.

This compact kayak is 9’6″ long, making it easy to store, and at only 42 pounds, it can easily carry anywhere.

The nice thing about a kayak this size is its maneuverability on the water. You can turn easier than other, longer kayaks, which is great for newbies.

The innovative design allows Pelican to put more flotation blocks (foam) between the hull and the deck. This makes for a much more stable kayak.

The kayak has a 275-pound weight limit, which is important to pay attention to. Once you factor in the paddler’s weight and gear, it can add up quickly.

The Sit-on-Top design is perfect for paddlers of all ages because you can easily get in and out of the kayak. In addition, molded footrests keep you comfortable while you paddle.

One feature that sets the Pelican Sentinel 100X apart is the ExoShell 13L removable storage compartment which provides extra room for all your gear on the water or at camp.

This sit-on-top kayak also features Pelican’s patented RAM-X material, which creates a strong yet conveniently lightweight kayak.

The Pelican Sentinel 100X Sit-on-Top Kayak is an inexpensive kayak, making it the perfect choice for the beginner or budget-conscious kayaker.

The best uses for this kayak are day trips, casual paddling, flatwater excursions, and fishing. This excellent kayak packs a lot of value at a great price point.

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Intex Excursion Pro Kayak

If you are in the market for the best cheap kayak, the Intex Excursion Pro Kayak is an excellent choice for beginners and seasoned paddlers. The inflatable kayak is tough, lightweight, and packs down small, so you can take it everywhere.

This affordable kayak has some excellent features not found on other kayaks in this class.

One great feature is the built-in adjustable floor-mounted footrest, which you don’t find in many inflatable kayaks. You can adjust the footrest to your height or remove it if you want.

Another great feature this kayak comes with is the adjustable mounting bracket. You can use the bracket to attach accessories such as fish finders, GPS, rod holders, and similar items. You can also purchase additional mounts depending on what you need.

The kayak is also loaded with other features, including two integrated recessed fishing rod holders, two adjustable inflatable seats, two removable skegs (to help with tracking), two aluminum paddles, and a pump.

The Intex Excursion Pro Kayak is constructed with a 3-layer super tough PVC resistant to abrasions, impact, and sunlight damage. This material also allows for more air pressure to provide rigidity to the kayak, which helps with stability and tracking.

This kayak has storage space in the bow and stern areas, with stainless steel D rings for tying down dry bags and other gear. The total weight capacity of this kayak is 400 pounds.

The beauty of this boat lies in its durability, affordability, and flexibility – there are so many ways to customize it.

There is plenty of room for two paddlers, or you can go solo if that’s more your style.

Pack all the necessary gear into waterproof storage bags, and you’re set for an extended kayaking trip or simply go out on weekends for some relaxation.

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Perception Flash 9.5

The Perception Flash 9.5 is a cheap kayak for beginners and people who enjoy leisurely afternoon voyages on the water. The hard shell kayak is stable and easy to paddle, making it ideal for various paddlers.

The short length of the kayak makes it exceptionally maneuverable, so you can turn quickly in one direction or another without veering off course, as is often the case with longer boats that are more difficult to control when they suddenly change directions.

Adjustable foot braces accommodate paddlers of different sizes, while zone comfort seating is awesome for all sizes.

One of the coolest features of the Perception Flash kayak is the convenient dashboard, which is perfect for snacks and drinks, a water bottle, and things like your phone.

You can also keep fishing lures and other gear easily within reach on the dashboard.

As a bonus, you’ll find two built-in rod holders behind the seat, so if you enjoy fishing on nice days out on the water, this kayak allows you to catch some fish.

The 10″ rear storage hatch is perfect for gear that you want to keep dry. For example, you can use a dry bag and put your valuables in the rear storage hatch.

The Perception Flash 9.5 kayak also comes in various colors, a nice bonus for people who want to add a splash of color to their boat.

The cockpit of this sit-inside kayak has a comfortable seat cushion and an adjustable backrest. You will also find a cupholder to keep your drink while paddling.

Molded bow and stern carry handles make the kayak easy to transport to and from the water.

Bottom Line: If you’re looking for a sleek kayak that’s not just budget-friendly but also easy to maneuver, the Perception Flash is an excellent option. It’s stable and tracks well, so it’s ideal whether you’re a beginner or a more experienced paddler.

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Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100 Fishing Kayak

The Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100 Fishing Kayak is an excellent option for those looking for the best cheap kayak.

The hard shell kayak is designed with an all-around fishing boat in mind, and it has the necessary features to make your experience as easy and comfortable as possible on the water.

The first thing you will notice about this model is its ability to easily handle any water condition without sacrificing stability or maneuverability.

This means you can go out on calm water just as easily as choppy water, making it perfect for a beginner learning to control their boat.

It also has two flush-mounted fishing rod holders that allow you to store your rods securely while paddling.

Front and rear bungee cord storage give you plenty of room for fishing gear, a cooler, and whatever else you need to bring. This sit-on-top kayak is also a great option if you have a small-ish dog you want to take kayaking with you.

For easier transport, the Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100 Fishing Kayak also comes with two handles on either side of its hull and a bow and stern handle.

The Tamarack Angler 100’s stable flat bottom and robust design have a maximum weight capacity of 275 pounds. In addition, the kayak is made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE), which is durable and stable.

The kayak has a flat bottom hull which helps with stability and tracking, an excellent combination for people just getting into the sport.

If you are in the market for an affordable kayak designed with fishing in mind, this model may be right up your alley. The Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100 Fishing Kayak has many features to make getting on the water as easy and comfortable as possible.

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Lifetime Lotus Sit-On-Top Kayak

If you’re looking for a great kayak that will fit your budget, then Lifetime has just what you need with their Lotus Sit-On-Top Kayak.

This kayak is 8 feet long and has a weight capacity of 250 pounds, this kayak is great for kids and smaller adults. A kayak this size is agile and easy to paddle. The kayak weighs 38 pounds, so it’s easy to tote around.

The Lifetime Lotus Sit-On-Top Kayak is made from polyethylene construction, so it’s durable and easy to maintain.

The kayak can be taken just about anywhere, and its multi-chine hull is designed for stability, so you don’t have to worry about feeling like you’ll tip over.

This kayak is also very affordable, given the overall quality, so whether you’re a beginner or an experienced paddler, you should take a close look at the Lifetime Lotus.

This cheap sit-on-top kayak includes a quick-release seat back and molded footrests with four positions for your feet. Molded footrests are great because they work well for different-sized paddlers and allow you to stretch your legs if needed.

The tank well storage with bungee cord storage to secure loose items will also come in handy. This is a great spot for a dry bag to keep your stuff dry while you paddle.

Finally, this kayak comes with a center carry handle and bow and stern carry handles for easy transport to the water.

If you want an affordable yet high-quality option that won’t break the bank, then Lifetime has it covered.

Granted, this is a pretty small kayak. If you need something with more legroom, you might be better off with the Lifetime Tamarack or the Pelican Maxim.

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Pelican Maxim 100X

The Pelican Maxim 100X is an affordable hard-shell kayak that every outdoor enthusiast should consider. This kayak offers stability, maneuverability, and comfort, while paddling has everything you need for a great day out on the water.

It features molded footrests to provide secure footing and ensure your feet stay in place when paddling. In addition, the cockpit table provides storage space for snacks or beverages so you can enjoy them while you paddle.

These are just some of the many benefits of the Pelican Maxim 100X, making it one of our favorite budget-friendly models.

The kayak has a weight capacity of 275 pounds which is on par with many other kayaks on this list. Front and rear t-handles give you an easy way to portage the kayak to and from the water.

The rear tank well has a mesh cover to keep your gear secure while you paddle. There is also a front storage hatch with bungee cord tie-downs. This kayak has a decent amount of storage for a fun day on the water.

The hull design is a shallow v chine which provides good stability and performance. The kayak is best used in lakes, ponds, or slow-moving rivers. It is not designed for whitewater rapids or other rough water.

The Ergoform seat is adjustable, offering good lumbar support. This is important for paddlers of all body types to keep their backs comfortable over long periods.

The kayak measures 10 feet long and is made of Polyethylene material for added durability against rocks or other debris you may encounter on your trip.

The Pelican Maxim 100X is a cheap kayak that offers much value for the money.

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How to Choose a Cheap Kayak

It’s hard to find a kayak that is both affordable and of good quality. The best budget kayaks are out there, but it can be challenging to find the right one.

Here are some things to consider when looking for an affordable kayak. Even though you are looking for an inexpensive kayak, there are still some choices you will need to make.

Type of Kayak

There are many types of kayaks, including sit-on-top (SOT), sit-inside, hardshell, inflatable, etc. There are pros and cons to each. We will discuss these kayak types and help you determine what is right for you.

This section has a lot to cover, so here we go.

SOT kayaks are very popular because they are easy to get in and out of, and there is plenty of room for gear. In addition, they are stable and easy to use for beginners or those who want a budget option.

Sit-on-top kayaks give you more range of motion than a sit-inside kayak because you don’t sit in a cockpit while you paddle. However, many prefer a SOT kayak for fishing or other activities because you have more room.

Many SOT kayaks are very stable, especially fishing kayaks designed to let the angler stand up and cast.

SOT kayaks are also much easier to get back on if you fall overboard or go for a swim. However, the downside to SOT kayaks is that you are completely exposed to the elements.

Sit-inside kayaks offer protection for your lower body since you sit in a cockpit while you paddle. You can also add a spray skirt to a sit-inside kayak if paddling in cold weather conditions.

Sit-inside kayaks are often more stable since your center of gravity is lower. As a result, these kayaks are generally better for speed and long-distance kayak trips, although you can’t store as much gear as on a SOT kayak.

A sit-inside kayak is a bit more challenging to fish out of because you are seated the whole time.

Here is an article with more detail on sit-inside vs sit-on-top kayaks.

Hardshell kayaks are great for people who want something that will track well and handle fast. They are very stable as well, depending on the design.

Inflatable kayaks are a good choice if you want to bring your kayak with you camping or on a road trip because they pack down to a manageable size.

Inflatables are very popular because they are easy to pack and store (more on storage a bit later). However, inflatable kayaks are generally not as fast as hardshell kayaks.

The obvious downside to inflatable kayaks is they are more prone to punctures, but you would be surprised how durable these kayaks are.

Both sit-on-top and sit-inside kayaks are available in hardshell or inflatable models.

Many people choose an inflatable kayak for convenience. With a hard shell, you need a way to transport the kayak to the water. In contrast, an inflatable will fit in the trunk of your car.

Another thing to consider is if you want a tandem or solo kayak. Do you want to paddle with a partner or go it alone? Again, hardshell, sit on top, sit inside, and inflatables are available in single or tandem.

Where Do You Plan On Paddling?

Many cheap recreational kayaks will be good for calm waterways, like lakes, slow-moving rivers, and inlets.

If you plan long excursions or ocean kayaking, you need to increase your budget!

For the average recreational kayaker, many affordable kayaks will work just fine for calm water. Some of the inflatables are rated for light whitewater kayaking, but for the most part, in this entry-level price range, it’s best to stick to calm water.

If you use a kayak for conditions that are not intended, you can get into trouble.

Kayak Size

It is important to get a kayak that will fit your activities. Typically a longer recreational kayak will allow for more people and gear.

Kayaks are designed for different purposes, fishing, touring, etc., so you want to ensure that you get a size that will be comfortable for your needs.

The size also has a lot to do with your gear and storage space on the kayak, so it’s worth considering when deciding which one to purchase.

Check out this article for more information on choosing the right kayak size.

Kayak Stability

A kayak is only as stable as its design, and its stability depends on many factors. For example, the hull shape, length, width, and weight all play a role in determining if the boat will remain upright when pushed by waves or wind.

Cheap kayaks can be as stable as more expensive models, sometimes more so, depending on the model. Let me explain.

Typically, a sea kayak is long and narrow and can quickly flip if you don’t know what you are doing. However, a cheap sit-on-top kayak will be much more stable for a novice paddler.

If you are starting kayaking and want a stable kayak, these affordable options will serve you well.

Onboard storage

When buying a cheap kayak, one thing to consider is how much storage space you will need. Real estate on kayaks is pretty valuable because often there isn’t much available.

A kayak like the Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100 Fishing Kayak is a sit-on-top kayak with plenty of room for gear and possibly your pup.

A boat with a lot of storage will allow you to carry many more supplies and equipment but will weigh the boat down and make maneuvering the kayak more difficult.

The main storage area on a kayak is usually located in the bow or stern, either a hatch, a tankwell, a bungee, or a combination.

It’s important to figure out what you will need to take and determine how much storage space you will need.

Accessories

One way to make an inexpensive kayak more comfortable is by using accessories. Many different accessories can be added to a kayak if it doesn’t come with what you need.

If you want to fish from your kayak, you can add fishing rod holders if the kayak doesn’t already come with them.

You can also add gear tracks to a kayak, allowing you to add things like a GPS or fishfinder.

Look at different kayaks, see what accessories are included, and determine what you want on your boat. There are plenty of ways to modify a cheap kayak!

Transporting Your Kayak

We all know the excitement when we finally take our kayak out on the water. It’s one of life’s simple pleasures that anyone can enjoy, regardless of age or skill level.

The only thing standing between you and your first paddle is getting it from your house to the nearest body of water.

But transporting a kayak isn’t as easy as just tossing it over your shoulder and walking down the street – there are some essential things to keep in mind so you don’t damage your kayak.

Transporting a kayak is easy if you have the right equipment. If you have a hardshell kayak, you will need a roof rack, a truck, or a trailer.

Getting an inflatable kayak to the water is much easier because these kayaks fold down small for easy transport in your car, SUV or RV.

No matter what kind of inexpensive kayak you purchase, make sure you have a way to get the vessel to the water.

Storing Your Kayak

One thing that many people overlook when they buy a kayak is how to store the kayak. Kayaks are awkwardly shaped and take up a lot of space. If you don’t have a garage or shed, you must store the kayak outdoors.

It’s essential to store your kayak correctly to keep it in good shape for years to come. Many people use a kayak wall mount in the garage, shed, basement, or outdoors under a deck.

Other folks (like me) use a ceiling-mounted kayak rack. Wherever you store your kayak, make sure you have plenty of room.

If you store the kayak outside, you will need to make sure it is out of direct sunlight, and you can also use a kayak cover.

One of the great features of an inflatable kayak is how easy they are to store in your house.

Durability

Durability is an important consideration when choosing a new kayak, whether it’s inexpensive or not.

Many things can happen while you’re out on the water, such as carrying your kayak onto shore, and encountering rocks or tree stumps.

All of these things can cause damage to your kayak and possible leaks, which can be a problem if you’re far from shore or your launch spot.

Even cheap kayaks are made from quality materials, so you don’t have to spend a fortune on your boat.

Inflatable kayaks like the Sea Eagle 330 are made from durable materials and are a great option for many people.

Conclusion

It’s no secret that kayaking is a great way to explore the great outdoors. It can also be an excellent family activity when you consider how easy it is to get on the water with a cheap kayak.

We’ve reviewed some of our favorite inexpensive models if you’re looking for a budget-friendly kayak.

Whether you want something compact and portable like the Sea Eagle 330 or a kayak like the Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100 Fishing Kayak, these affordable options won’t disappoint.

If you have any questions, please comment below. Happy paddling.