In this article, we\u2019ll discuss some of the best cheap kayaks for a variety of situations depending on water conditions and what they\u2019re made of.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Whether you\u2019re looking for the most basic inflatable kayak or need a more intricate touring or whitewater model, we\u2019ll help you make the right decision and steer you toward the best inexpensive kayaks in your chosen field.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
8 Best Affordable Kayaks<\/h2>\n\n\n\nBest Budget Sit-On-Top Kayak: Lifetime Lotus 80<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"Lifetime](\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/04\/lifetime-lotus-80\u202fsit-on-top-kayak.png\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nBuy on Amazon<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n\n\n\nBuy at Walmart<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nMeasuring just eight feet long, the Lifetime Lotus is one of the easiest kayaks to transport regardless of your vehicle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Despite the small size, the Lotus 80 doesn\u2019t feel cramped thanks to an adjustable padded seat and multiple footrest positions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Cost savings do make this a stripped-down model, however. The stubby hull and sit-on-top design limit this budget kayak\u2019s performance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Tracking and speed are reduced in anything but calm conditions. It\u2019s a fine recreational kayak but should never be taken anywhere with the potential for poor weather.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- Comes with self-bailing scupper holes for cockpit and tankwell storage platform<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- A paddle is included with the purchase from most retailers<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Stripped-down version for price efficiency means it lacks some features (no skeg, rudder system, scupper plugs)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Best Cheap Kayak for 2 Persons: Intex Explorer K2<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"Intex](\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/04\/intex-explorer-k2-KAYAK-e1586802013115.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nBuy on Amazon<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n\n\n\nBuy at Walmart<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nEasy to store and simple to set up, the Intex Explorer removes a lot of logistics from kayak ownership.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A pair of paddles are included from most retailers and this coupled with impressive stability means it\u2019s a good choice for tandem paddlers of all experience levels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This budget kayak can handle minor chop should a breeze pick up, but I don\u2019t think I\u2019d take it in anything bigger than a mid-sized lake.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
But since you won\u2019t find much in the way of storage options, there isn\u2019t much temptation to attempt ambitious crossings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- Easy assembly thanks to the included pump<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Fantastic stability when inflated properly<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Durable for an inflatable kayak but still more vulnerable than a hard shell kayak<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Removable skeg to help with tracking<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Read our full Intex Explorer K2 kayak review.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\nOverall Best Affordable Kayak For Beginners: Sea Eagle 370<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"Picture](\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/sea-eagle-370.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nBuy on Amazon<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nProviding flexibility and stability, the Sea Eagle 370 makes for the best budget kayak for newcomers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It handles well with one or two paddlers and roomy enough to include a midsize canine paddling companion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The impressive stability is thanks to a rigid I-beam construction design that makes it sturdy regardless of the paddlers\u2019 experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you\u2019re a complete beginner with no gear, this affordable kayak comes with paddles, a pump, a repair patch kit, and even a carry bag.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Like most cheap recreational kayaks, the performance is not the best. But it should do fine in most calm lakes and slow-moving rivers. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- has an extra thick and forgiving fabric exterior for any accidental bumps or drops. <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- A svelte 32 pounds making it one of the lighter tandem kayaks. <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Easy storage and transportation + easy set-up with intuitive inflation instructions<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Comes with pump, paddles, repair kit, and carry bag<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Learn more: Best Kayak for Beginners<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\nBest Cheap Sit-In Kayak: Sun Dolphin Aruba 8<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"Aruba](\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/Aruba-8-SS.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nBuy on Amazon<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n\n\n\nBuy at Walmart<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nIn many ways, the Aruba 8 is the sit-in version of the Lifetime Daylite. Checking in at 8-feet long and weighing just 27 pounds makes moving the Aruba from place to place a breeze.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Once on the water, the design focuses on stability and tip resistance making it a good introduction for beginners.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Despite its short stature and stability, this affordable kayak has a streamlined, recreational design that gives it a respectable top speed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Despite these improvements, the Aruba 8 won\u2019t respond well in rough water. You should avoid large open water crossings or high wind environments. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- Stature limits it to calm water<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Adjustable foot braces<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Easy to transport and move on your own<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Small size makes it uncomfortable for tall paddlers<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Read our full Sun Dolphin Aruba 8 review.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\nBest Cheap Ocean Kayak: Perception Carolina 12.0<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"Perception](\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/04\/carolina-12.0-2.png\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nBuy on Amazon<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nTouring kayaks are usually longer to maximize speed. But despite being one of the shortest ocean kayaks, the Perception Carolina 12.0 maintains a good top speed thanks to its narrow hull design. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
As an added bonus, the compact design makes it one of the easiest boats in its class to transport and store. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
There\u2019s enough storage space for weekend trips and stability and performance are good enough to handle many waterways.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- Wide cockpit for easy entrance and exit<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- More technical paddling and tight turns are challenging<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Adjustable padded seat keeps you comfortable all-day<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Good maximum weight capacity<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Best Budget Touring Kayak: Advanced Elements Advanced Frame<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"Advanced](\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/06\/advanced-elements-advanced-frame-side-view.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nBuy on Amazon<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n\n\n\nBuy at Walmart<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nYour first attempt at inflating the Advanced Frame will likely include some frustration. But once you\u2019ve got the hang of the different nozzles and tubes, it handles ocean conditions like a charm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
With its aluminum frame and multiple air chambers, it feels more like a hard-sided than an inflatable kayak.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The adjustable inflatable seat is one of the most comfortable I\u2019ve ever sat in at this price range.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The boat\u2019s performance and speed also compete with its hard-sided brethren while storage and transportation remain infinitely simpler. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- One of the top-performing inflatable kayaks available<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Heavy-duty puncture resistant hull<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Can handle similar water conditions to hard-sided sea kayaks<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Assembly involves multiple gaskets with a learning curve<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Read our full Advanced Elements Advanced Frame review.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\nBest Budget Kayak For Rivers: Liquidlogic Remix XP10<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"Liquidlogic](\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/04\/Liquidlogic-Remix-XP10-kayak.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nCheck Availability<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nWhile most river or whitewater kayaks are limited in where they can be paddled, the Remix XP10 has a little more versatility.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This is due to the included skeg that improves tracking and makes calm water paddling easier.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you want to learn how to roll, it\u2019s a great kayak to practice in. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- Focus on stability limits it on more difficult rivers<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Watertight stern storage hatch + bungee cord<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Roomy cockpit<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Learn more: Best Kayak for Rivers<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\nBest Budget Fishing Kayak: Ascend 12 Ft Fishing Kayak<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"Ascend](\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/ascend-fs128T-fishing.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nCheck Availability<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nThe customization options that are common in the angling kayak world are omitted from the Ascend model.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Outside of the two built-in rod holders, there\u2019s no fishing gear tracks or other accessories. In addition, the 350-pound weight capacity may limit the amount of gear some paddlers can take.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nMeasuring just eight feet long, the Lifetime Lotus is one of the easiest kayaks to transport regardless of your vehicle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Despite the small size, the Lotus 80 doesn\u2019t feel cramped thanks to an adjustable padded seat and multiple footrest positions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Cost savings do make this a stripped-down model, however. The stubby hull and sit-on-top design limit this budget kayak\u2019s performance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Tracking and speed are reduced in anything but calm conditions. It\u2019s a fine recreational kayak but should never be taken anywhere with the potential for poor weather.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Comes with self-bailing scupper holes for cockpit and tankwell storage platform<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- A paddle is included with the purchase from most retailers<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Stripped-down version for price efficiency means it lacks some features (no skeg, rudder system, scupper plugs)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Best Cheap Kayak for 2 Persons: Intex Explorer K2<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n
\n<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nBuy on Amazon<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n\n\n\nBuy at Walmart<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nEasy to store and simple to set up, the Intex Explorer removes a lot of logistics from kayak ownership.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A pair of paddles are included from most retailers and this coupled with impressive stability means it\u2019s a good choice for tandem paddlers of all experience levels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This budget kayak can handle minor chop should a breeze pick up, but I don\u2019t think I\u2019d take it in anything bigger than a mid-sized lake.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
But since you won\u2019t find much in the way of storage options, there isn\u2019t much temptation to attempt ambitious crossings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Easy assembly thanks to the included pump<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Fantastic stability when inflated properly<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Durable for an inflatable kayak but still more vulnerable than a hard shell kayak<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Removable skeg to help with tracking<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Read our full Intex Explorer K2 kayak review.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Overall Best Affordable Kayak For Beginners: Sea Eagle 370<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n
\n<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nBuy on Amazon<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nProviding flexibility and stability, the Sea Eagle 370 makes for the best budget kayak for newcomers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It handles well with one or two paddlers and roomy enough to include a midsize canine paddling companion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The impressive stability is thanks to a rigid I-beam construction design that makes it sturdy regardless of the paddlers\u2019 experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you\u2019re a complete beginner with no gear, this affordable kayak comes with paddles, a pump, a repair patch kit, and even a carry bag.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Like most cheap recreational kayaks, the performance is not the best. But it should do fine in most calm lakes and slow-moving rivers. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- has an extra thick and forgiving fabric exterior for any accidental bumps or drops. <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- A svelte 32 pounds making it one of the lighter tandem kayaks. <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Easy storage and transportation + easy set-up with intuitive inflation instructions<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Comes with pump, paddles, repair kit, and carry bag<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Learn more: Best Kayak for Beginners<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Best Cheap Sit-In Kayak: Sun Dolphin Aruba 8<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n
\n<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nBuy on Amazon<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n\n\n\nBuy at Walmart<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nIn many ways, the Aruba 8 is the sit-in version of the Lifetime Daylite. Checking in at 8-feet long and weighing just 27 pounds makes moving the Aruba from place to place a breeze.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Once on the water, the design focuses on stability and tip resistance making it a good introduction for beginners.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Despite its short stature and stability, this affordable kayak has a streamlined, recreational design that gives it a respectable top speed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Despite these improvements, the Aruba 8 won\u2019t respond well in rough water. You should avoid large open water crossings or high wind environments. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Stature limits it to calm water<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Adjustable foot braces<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Easy to transport and move on your own<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Small size makes it uncomfortable for tall paddlers<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Read our full Sun Dolphin Aruba 8 review.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Best Cheap Ocean Kayak: Perception Carolina 12.0<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n
\n<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nBuy on Amazon<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nTouring kayaks are usually longer to maximize speed. But despite being one of the shortest ocean kayaks, the Perception Carolina 12.0 maintains a good top speed thanks to its narrow hull design. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
As an added bonus, the compact design makes it one of the easiest boats in its class to transport and store. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
There\u2019s enough storage space for weekend trips and stability and performance are good enough to handle many waterways.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Wide cockpit for easy entrance and exit<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- More technical paddling and tight turns are challenging<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Adjustable padded seat keeps you comfortable all-day<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Good maximum weight capacity<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Best Budget Touring Kayak: Advanced Elements Advanced Frame<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n
\n<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nBuy on Amazon<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n\n\n\nBuy at Walmart<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nYour first attempt at inflating the Advanced Frame will likely include some frustration. But once you\u2019ve got the hang of the different nozzles and tubes, it handles ocean conditions like a charm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
With its aluminum frame and multiple air chambers, it feels more like a hard-sided than an inflatable kayak.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The adjustable inflatable seat is one of the most comfortable I\u2019ve ever sat in at this price range.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The boat\u2019s performance and speed also compete with its hard-sided brethren while storage and transportation remain infinitely simpler. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- One of the top-performing inflatable kayaks available<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Heavy-duty puncture resistant hull<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Can handle similar water conditions to hard-sided sea kayaks<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Assembly involves multiple gaskets with a learning curve<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Read our full Advanced Elements Advanced Frame review.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Best Budget Kayak For Rivers: Liquidlogic Remix XP10<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n
\n<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nCheck Availability<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nWhile most river or whitewater kayaks are limited in where they can be paddled, the Remix XP10 has a little more versatility.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This is due to the included skeg that improves tracking and makes calm water paddling easier.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you want to learn how to roll, it\u2019s a great kayak to practice in. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Focus on stability limits it on more difficult rivers<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Watertight stern storage hatch + bungee cord<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Roomy cockpit<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Learn more: Best Kayak for Rivers<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Best Budget Fishing Kayak: Ascend 12 Ft Fishing Kayak<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n
\n<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nCheck Availability<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nThe customization options that are common in the angling kayak world are omitted from the Ascend model.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Outside of the two built-in rod holders, there\u2019s no fishing gear tracks or other accessories. In addition, the 350-pound weight capacity may limit the amount of gear some paddlers can take.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/RIVER-KAYAK-705x429.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n![\"Man](\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/07\/man-in-sit-in-kayak.png\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/kayaking-569282_1920-705x434.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/Fishing-kayak-705x432.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/06\/advanced-elements-advanced-frame-on-the-lake.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/kayak-touring-706x765.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n