Inflatable kayaks are a great way to get out in the sun and have some fun on rivers and lakes. There are several different kinds of kayaks and models to choose from, which can be difficult to narrow down your options. Here are a few things you should take into consideration prior to purchasing an inflatable kayak.

1. How often you go

If you are taking a family vacation for a few days, purchasing the most expensive inflatable kayaks is certainly not required. On the contrary, if you kayak every weekend then you will want to get one that will last you for awhile. The more you go, the more you should plan on spending.

2. Experience

Experience plays a huge part in determining the model of kayak you want to buy. If you are just starting out, there is no point in blowing a $1000 on something you may not even enjoy. Test the waters out first and go from there. If you find that you enjoy the outdoor activity a lot, then you can purchase a more expensive model.

3. River class

Part of purchasing an inflatable kayak is knowing your experience and what kinds of rapids you will be going up against. There are different river classes based on the difficulty of the rapids. Each kayak can withstand a different river class, which means you do not want to purchase a kayak that can only withstand a class I if you intend on battling violent rapids.

4. Style

This is probably the least of your concerns, but selecting a color and style that suits you should be taken into consideration. There are a number of different styles to choose from, so take your time and find the perfect kayak for you.

5. Know your budget

There is a wide price range for inflatable kayaks, which makes it all the more important that you know what you are looking to spend prior to shopping. You do not want to get suckered into purchasing a $1,500 kayak when you were planning on spending $300-$500. Have a budget and stay true to your budget.

6. Shop around

You can find kayaks online and in a number of different outdoor stores. Therefore, there are several different models to choose from and each store will have different prices. If you shop around, you may find the exact same kayak for a cheaper price at one store than another.

Purchasing an inflatable kayak is an exciting time, but taking the above tips into consideration will help you make a smart buy. By knowing your budget and shopping around, you will be able to find the perfect inflatable kayak for you at a reasonable price.