ADVANCED ELEMENTS Packlite+ Packraft One Person Inflatable Kayak, Orange

Why it's worth it

The Packlite+ folds into its own backpack and weighs about 7 pounds in UltraLite mode. Its 39-inch beam is the widest in this guide, so it feels planted even if you've never paddled before. You trade straight-line speed for that stability.

A 39-inch beam is a lot of boat width for something this small. Width is what stops a kayak from feeling twitchy, and this is the widest hull here. If you're nervous about tipping, or you want to turn around and grab a sandwich from the dry bag behind you, that extra beam is exactly what buys you the confidence to do it.

It packs down to about the size of a couch cushion. Folded, it's roughly 16 by 15 by 5 inches, and the included backpack carries the boat and its accessories together. That means a trailhead lake, a checked bag, or a studio apartment with one closet all stop being obstacles. Most inflatables claim portability. This one is genuinely carryable.

From our review of 7 inflatable kayaks, by Genevieve Dubois, Home & Living Expert

What we like

• +A 39-inch beam is a lot of boat width for something this small
• +It packs down to about the size of a couch cushion
• +210D nylon with a TPU coating handles abuse better than thin PVC
• +The removable floor is a comfort feature you'll actually use

What to know

• –Short and wide means slow
• –Owner feedback is thin