What Is a Packraft and Why Is It Revolutionizing Outdoor Adventures?
Durable, lightweight, and compact, a packraft—also known as a backpacking raft—brings a whole new dimension to hiking and paddling! Packrafts are so light and easy to pack that you can take them practically anywhere: on hikes, bike trips, boats, or even on a scooter.
Our lightest packraft weighs just 2.1 kg! Packrafts have many uses and, depending on the model, are suitable for hiking, water crossings, longer paddling trips, fishing and hunting adventures, as well as river running.
Where Does the Name Packraft Come From?
The name “packraft” comes from the words “pack” (to carry) and “raft,” referring to their portability and compact pack size. Packrafts are made from high-strength, tear-resistant TPU-nylon materials designed to withstand wear and demanding use—many packrafters even run rapids with them!
How Quickly Can You Get a Packraft Ready to Use?
Packrafts can be unpacked and inflated straight from your backpack in about five minutes, and deflating and repacking them takes only a few minutes more. Every packraft comes with an inflation bag that allows you to fill it anywhere. You can also get a super-compact battery-powered pump, about the size of a soda can, to inflate the raft in just 1–2 minutes. For the best pressure, finish the inflation by blowing manually. It’s also worth investing in gear that improves comfort and safety, such as buoyancy aids and waterproof bags for worry-free adventures. If you need help choosing the right model, check out our short guide below or contact our customer service for personalized advice.
How to Choose the Right Packraft for You
Choose the Right Size Packraft
The easiest way to narrow down your options is by the number of users. If you’re paddling solo, a single-person model is perfect. However, if you occasionally have a companion, you’ll want a two-person model. One great advantage of a tandem packraft is its versatility—you can adjust the seat in open models to make extra space for gear or even bring your dog along. A decked tandem model, on the other hand, is best paddled from the rear when solo, but you can balance the weight by placing gear in the bow.
What Features Should a Packraft Have?
Packrafts vary greatly in functionality. If you plan to use your raft mainly for water crossings on long treks, weight and pack size are key. In that case, consider one of the lightest or ultralight models made from lighter materials, such as the Feather. If your main goal is to explore remote fishing spots with a partner, a stronger two-person model like the Adventure Twin XL will serve you better.
If you’re looking for a versatile all-round packraft that performs well in most conditions, we recommend mid-range models that handle both calm and slightly moving waters with ease. The most popular all-purpose option is the Saimaa Kayaks Packraft Trek, featuring a long, wide hull for excellent stability and buoyancy while weighing only 2.5 kg.
For more demanding users, Saimaa Kayaks Adventure or Adventure Twin models offer rugged and premium construction with deck covers and internal storage systems. Their durable materials and added features like a spraydeck do increase packed weight and size slightly, but at just 4.1 kg, the Adventure Twin remains easy to carry on any journey.
What Features Are Needed for Whitewater Paddling?
For whitewater paddling, one of the key features is a spraydeck or a self-bailing floor. A self-bailing design includes multiple holes along the sides to let incoming water flow out automatically. When navigating rapids, open-deck packrafts tend to take on water quickly, so it’s important to ensure that it can drain efficiently. The Rapid packraft, for example, comes with a self-bailing floor ideal for fast-moving water.
Does the User’s Size or Amount of Gear Affect the Choice?
The paddler’s size also influences the choice. A 165 cm tall paddler may feel perfectly comfortable even with extra gear in a smaller model, while someone 195 cm tall might find the same packraft cramped even without equipment. Product pages list both internal and external dimensions, which are useful when choosing the right fit. The load capacity is also specified—calculate your combined weight (you plus your gear) to ensure proper buoyancy. Especially on longer trips, ergonomics are crucial, so make sure you have enough space to paddle comfortably.
If you’re unsure whether to choose an inflatable kayak or a packraft, check out our paddling guide for tips—or contact our customer service. We’re always happy to help you find the perfect solution!
