If you’re looking to go on a kayaking adventure in your small van, it can be tricky to find a kayak that will actually fit. You’ll want something compact but fully functional to skip any fuss.
Thankfully, you still have a few options – here are our top five.
1. Razor Edge Pro Folding Kayak
Folding kayaks offer a happy medium to those who are eager to get out on the water but don’t have the space for a traditional hard-sided kayak.
The Razor Edge Pro is perhaps one of the highest-rated folding kayak in the UK. Folded down, the Razor Edge Pro measures 86cm x 71cm x 30cm, so you should have no issues putting it in the back of your small van.
In spite of its folding design, this kayak is very sturdy as it features a reinforced bow and stern. Many reviewers say that it glides through the water quickly so if you’re looking for speed on the water this will probably work well.
Be warned that its full price is £1,145. Thankfully it’s often discounted to around £695, so if you’re patient you could get a great deal.
2. Oru Bay ST Folding Kayak
Another folding kayak we have to mention is the Oru Bay ST. Oru is renowned in the kayaking community for their origami-style design. The company sells lightweight but heavy-duty kayaks, most of which can be used in both calm and choppy waters.
It is lightweight, which is perhaps a negative as it moves around a lot during high winds so be sure to check conditions before you set off. For easy loading and unloading into your van, the weight can also be seen as a positive.
Folded down, the kayak fits into a 84cm x 36cm x 74cm box (sold separately), which should be compact enough to fit into your vehicle.
This kayak is another hefty investment as it’ll set you back around £1,375 new. There are other, more affordable, models in the Oru range which could suit you better if you’ll only use it on lakes and calmer waters.
3. Intex Challenger K2 Inflatable Kayak
A much more affordable option is Intex’s Challenger K2, which will set you back just under £100 on UK retail sites. This is an inflatable kayak, which are fairly divisive with kayakers: some people love them, some people hate them.
If you’re a beginner, you might want to steer clear of inflatable kayaks entirely in spite of their much smaller price tag – they can be difficult to manoeuvre when the wind picks up.
If you’re only planning on short trips in calm lakes or mild rivers, this is still a decent option as its deflatable design makes it perfect for storing in a small van.
4. Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame Elite Inflatable Kayak
A sturdier but more expensive option for an inflatable kayak is the Advanced Elements AdvancedFrame Elite. This is actually a cross between an inflatable kayak and a folding one, so you get the best of both worlds: sturdier than other typical blow-up kayaks and featuring the dropstitch floor you tend to find on most high-end inflatables.
The AdvancedFrame Elise includes built-in rigid panels that define the bow and stern and improve tracking, while the comfortable foldable seat can be used for hours on end – perfect for longer kayaking adventures.
The kayak can be deflated to 80cm x 47cm x 29cm. This is more than compact enough to fit into most small vans, even if you’re planning a long trip and have a lot stored in your vehicle already.
Pump and paddles are sold separately so make sure you get these plus any other safety equipment you need.
This kayak will set you back around £600 to £700, but for the peace of mind, we think it’s well worth the price and is still a lot more affordable than the other folding kayaks featured on this list.
5. Dagger Kayak Stratos
If you own a Ford Transit Connect, a Vauxhall Combo, or another similarly sized vehicle and you’d prefer to stick with a hard-sided kayak, many have successfully installed a roof rack to hold their kayak.
So long as you use enough straps and ties to keep it secure, and you don’t go over the maximum loading weight for your vehicle, this can work for you too. Make sure to do some research for your specific vehicle and the kayak you’d like to purchase.
The Dagger Kayak Stratos is perhaps one of the most popular all-rounders as it’s both beginner friendly and suitable for use in the surf and open waters. Available in a range of different lengths, you can find one that’s just right for you – and one that will fit on top of your small van!
The Stratos isn’t available directly from Dagger, but there are plenty of sellers in the UK to choose from. You can get yours for around £1,000 all told, just make sure you leave room in your budget for a roof rack and any other equipment you need.
Make sure your small van is covered before your next adventure
Wherever your next adventure destination is, make sure you have a private van insurance policy in place for your small van. We can also provide van contents cover for up to £4,000 worth of gear and can cover you in Europe too.
Call us on 0800 369 8590 for a quote or book a callback at a time that suits you.
