[Summit Soul]

Hey fellow adventurers,

It all began when I decided that gentle canoeing was too mainstream, and thus the thrilling realm of packrafting found its way into my life. There’s just something magical about being able to strap an inflatable raft to your back and venture out into the wild. I mean, who wouldn’t want the chance to paddle out into the middle of nowhere, only to realize they’ve forgotten their lunch on the riverbank? Classic me!

Anyway, packrafting isn’t just about remembering your snacks. It’s about freedom, exploration, and finding those hidden gems in the great outdoors. That’s why I’ve decided to put together a little piece on my top three favorite packrafts that’ll not only blow you away (literally) but will also help make your backcountry dreams a reality. I’ll be walking you through my experiences with each of these trusty rafts and providing a handy buyer’s guide for anyone who’s ready to dive in (or stay afloat, rather). So, without further ado, allow me to introduce you to these waterborne warriors:

• Alpacka Raft Classic
• Kokopelli Rogue R-Deck
• Advanced Elements PackLite

Stay tuned; hilarity and useful tips guaranteed!

[Summit Soul]

Alpacka Raft Classic

So, I recently took the plunge (not literally… well, mostly not literally) and got myself an Alpacka Raft Classic, and let me tell you, it’s been an absolute riot! I’m a long-time paddler, having dipped my toes in everything from kayaks to canoes, and I gotta say, the Alpacka Raft has a special place in my heart now.

First off, this thing is incredibly lightweight. I mean, I tossed it into my backpack as if it were a sandwich and headed out for my local lake. When I pulled it out, two hikers actually stopped in their tracks with what could only be described as “inflatable envy.”

Once inflated (and yes, there’s a bit of puffing involved, but it’s not like blowing up a bouncy castle at a toddler’s birthday party), I pushed off and felt this wonderful moment of realization. It clicked: I was going places my bulky kayak never dreamed of. Streams, marshes, questionable creeks? Yes, please!

A few things to note:

• Maneuverability: I was honestly surprised at how well it handles. It’s nimble! Perfect for when you’re trying to dodge your buddy’s poorly aimed fishing line.
• Durability: I, um, accidentally tested this against some less-than-forgiving rocks. Happy to report, it survived. Can’t say the same for my pride.
• Comfort: Alpacka has outdone themselves. Let’s just say I’ve spent more comfortable hours on this raft than on my couch back home.

Another pleasant surprise—this thing can carry gear like a pro. I still wonder how I managed a full day’s fishing gear and some survival snacks without turning it into the Titanic. It’s like Mary Poppins, but make it water gear.

And, as much as my dog would love to join, he’s got a romantic relationship with capsizing boats. So for now, he stays in the land of dry. (Sorry, Rover!)

In conclusion, if you’re thinking of adding versatility to your water adventures, give the Alpacka Raft Classic a go. Trust me, you won’t regret it—unless, of course, you regret fun, adventure, and newfound water freedom. But who would, right?

Happy paddling, folks! 🛶

[Summit Soul]

Kokopelli Rogue R-Deck

So, I finally got my hands on the Kokopelli Rogue R-Deck last weekend, and I’m pretty sure this inflatable kayak has single-handedly redefined my idea of “lightweight adventure.” If Jack Sparrow had one of these babies, he’d probably have taken a more leisurely approach to piracy.

First Impressions: Right out of the box, it was love at first puff. Seriously, the setup was a breeze, thanks to the helpful folks at Kokopelli who must have realized that instructions and I have a complicated relationship. Within minutes, I was ready to hit the water like a pro (or at least like a well-informed amateur).

On-Water Experience:

• Stability: I have to admit, I was initially a bit skeptical about how stable this inflatable could be, but boy was I wrong. Even with my wobbly sense of balance, it handled beautifully. It could give a yoga guru on a paddle board a serious run for their money!
• Maneuverability: Turning and paddling the Rogue R-Deck felt almost intuitive. It’s so responsive, I swear it read my mind a couple of times. If you’re into exploring those tight channels or taking an impromptu detour to inspect a duck (which happens more often than I’d originally thought), you’ll appreciate its agility.
• Comfort: Spending a couple of hours in this kayak wasn’t just bearable; it was delightful! The seating is more comfortable than my beat-up couch at home. Plus, the adjustable footrests are great for when I need to stretch the ol’ legs.

Durability and Portability: I’ve heard of indestructible kayaks, but the Rogue R-Deck is the poster child for resilience. I navigated over some rocky patches that looked more like an obstacle course than a serene waterway, with nary a scratch to my boat. And let’s talk portability — deflating and packing it away into my car was ridiculously easy. It’s like having a foldable sidekick that doesn’t complain about legroom.

On a humorous note, the sheer portability led to an unexpected event where a curious raccoon tried to hitch a ride while I was setting up at dawn. I like to think he was keen on a joyride, or maybe he’s head of the local “Wildlife Enthusiastic Mariners Guild.”

If you’re considering an inflatable kayak that is both adventurous and reliable, you have to check out the Kokopelli Rogue R-Deck. It’s kind of like having a trusty steed, but for the water (and much lower maintenance, I promise). Cheers to many more adventures on the open waters!

[Summit Soul]

Advanced Elements PackLite

So, let’s talk about the Advanced Elements PackLite Kayak, the featherweight champ of inflatable kayaks. First off, I’ll admit I initially approached this kayak like I did kale chips—skeptically. But oh boy, was I in for a delightful surprise.

Picture this: It’s Saturday morning, and I’m at the lake with my friends. They’ve got their bulky kayaks, reminiscent of beached whales, while I’m over here pulling this glowing red deflated tortilla from my bag. Inflating it was as easy as convincing a cat to sleep—super quick and straightforward! In less than ten minutes, it was plump and ready to hit the water. No gym membership necessary.

Now, the first thing you notice once in the water: this little guy glides like a dream, and I’m not saying this just because the wind was backing me up. At only 4 pounds, it almost felt like I was paddling a water lily. It’s not built for whitewater shenanigans or catching a marlin, but for lazy laps around the lake or a chill river float, the PackLite is buoyant bliss.

Let’s chat durability. While it may look like you’re rafting on a chewy fruit snack, this kayak is no pushover. The fabric seems surprisingly tough—I even let my dog hop in once, and she wasn’t gentle. No scratches or punctures. Phew!

And the portability… I mean, wow. This kayak you can invite to the movies because it packs down smaller than my appetite after a buffet. Want to throw it in the trunk with a day’s worth of gear? No problemo. Need to hike with it to a remote lake? Your back won’t even notice it’s there.

Quirks? Sure, this isn’t the kayak for ultrafast speed demons or long-haul comfort seekers. Also, sitting down into it can feel like you’re folding into a crepe—mind the center of gravity, folks. 😉

All things considered, if you’re looking for an easily portable kayak that makes onlookers go, “Is that really an inflatable?”, the Advanced Elements PackLite is your new best friend. I can’t promise it’ll make you a kayaking pro, but I guarantee you’ll have a lot of fun pretending.

[Summit Soul]

Best Packrafts for Backcountry Adventure Buyer’s Guide

Embarking on a backcountry adventure with a packraft? Oh, you adventurous soul! Let me dive into the watery depths of packraft knowledge and light a beacon to guide your inflatable boat purchase. Here’s what I’ve learned from my own soggy escapades and a few, let’s say, memorable battles with unexpected rapids.

When it comes to choosing a packraft, it’s all about finding your buoyant soulmate. These little guys are not just about floating—they’re about freedom, exploring places you couldn’t reach with just your hiking boots and a dream. Here’s my take on what you need to consider:

• Weight: After schlepping through miles of wilderness, the last thing you want is a packraft that’s heavier than your beefy uncle on Thanksgiving. Look for something lightweight, ideally between 5 to 12 pounds. A fast and light packraft, like the Alpacka Raft Caribou or Kokopelli Hornet Lite, might be your perfect companion.
• Durability: Sure, lightweight is great, but if it can’t survive a tango with the twigs and sharp stones of a wild river, what’s the point? Consider a raft with rugged, rip-resistant material. I’ve taken an Alpacka through some questionable choices of river and survived, so there’s that!
• Packability: Ever tried stuffing a marshmallow back in the packet? Yeah, don’t relive that nightmare with your packraft. Test how easy it is to pack and unpack because you’ll be doing it a lot. Some clever folding and rolling could be the difference between frustration and fabulosity.
• Setup Time: Let’s face it—no one wants to reenact an inflatable wrestling match every time they hit the water. Most packrafts can be inflated in about 5 to 10 minutes. My secret weapon is the inflation bag—truly a game-changer.
• Shape and Stability: If your plan involves tackling rivers with the grace of a water nymph, rather than resembling a drenched cat, pay attention to the shape. Wider models offer great stability, while narrow ones slice through the water with Olympic grace. Brands like NRS Packraft tend to have that nice balance.

Now, you may be tempted to go bargain-hunting for your first packraft. However, trust me when I say that quality counts here. I once thought I snagged a deal but ended up with what was essentially a glorified pool toy, which turned my serene lake trip into a waterlogged misadventure.

If you’re planning to do more than just float and Instagram, make sure you go for a packraft with options for adding gear like thigh straps or a spray deck. Fishing on a pristine alpine lake, casting your line from a proper packraft setup—now that’s quality adventuring.

Sharing my personal tales on packrafts wouldn’t be complete without mentioning the importance of practice. Before heading into the backcountry, I spent a few afternoons at a tame local pond getting the hang of things. It cost me a Saturday, but in exchange, I didn’t become an impromptu comedy show for the local ducks. Worth it.

One last nugget of wisdom: get involved with the packrafters community. They’re a wise and friendly bunch, pleased to share tips and swap tales of river triumphs (and mishaps).

So, grab your metaphorical paddle and set sail on your packraft shopping journey. Remember, the best packraft is one that gives you both the courage to explore and the sense to back down from that class V rapid—trust me on that one. Happy paddling!

[Rugged Roamer]

Hey fellow paddlers! 🛶

I’ve been down the rabbit hole of packrafting, and let me say, it’s a game-changer in the world of “oops, where did the map go?” adventures. If you’ve ever thought hiking to a remote spot and being able to float down a river like some kind of modern-day Huckleberry Finn sounds appealing, you’re in good company! Here are a few nuggets of wisdom (okay, they’re more like amusing observations) I’ve picked up along the way:

• Packing Skills: Who knew fitting a packraft, a paddle, and all your snacks (don’t forget the snacks!) into a backpack could turn into an Olympic event? For me, it often ends with a game of Tetris meets wrestling match. But once you’ve got it down, you’re pretty much unstoppable. 🥇
• Adventure Level: Packrafting is all about finding that perfect balance between adrenaline rush and “Oh no, I forgot I can’t swim.” So, whether you’re looking at calm ponds or river rapids, always plan to blend excitement with a *little* bit of sanity.
• Wildlife Surprises: It’s amazing what you’ll see when you’re not paddling a boat the size of a blue whale. I once had a staring contest with a heron—I lost, but hey, it’s the small things. Just imagine sneaking up (safely) on wildlife without blowing your cover!
• Fashion Statement: Let’s face it, wearing an inflatable raft as a backpack might not scream fashion icon, but in the world of packrafting, you’re basically a trendsetter. Plus, who needs a runway when you’ve got rivers to explore?

And remember, getting involved with packrafting communities or groups online can really enhance your adventure game. They’re filled with seasoned veterans and newcomers alike who can share tips, tales, and maybe even some packraft-inflating contests. Ready to set sail (and potentially laugh at my poor memory of forgotten riverbank lunches)? 😊

[Peak Packer]

Ahoy, fellow packrafters! 🚣‍♂️

I see we’re diving deep into the wonderful world of inflatable adventures. I’ve had my fair share of packrafting escapades, and let me just say, it’s like combining a Swiss army knife with the joy of a water balloon fight—truly my kind of multitasking! 😄 And every journey comes with its… unique situations. Here’s my advice with a slightly unorthodox twist:

• Always Bring a Backup: No, not just a spare oar—I’m talking about a playlist! Imagine gliding down serene waters with “Row, Row, Row Your Boat” on repeat. Plus, it’s great for when the fish aren’t biting or when you pull a “forgot the snacks” classic.
• Animal Encounters: Get ready for some unexpected company! Once, I paddled past a family of curious otters who took a liking to my paddle. Just be grateful it’s not a bear with a affinity for inflatable snacks. 🦦🐻
• Hydration Can Be Tricky: Drink plenty of water, but avoid the urge to sample the river. I’ve heard that a mouthful of questionable H2O can make for an unexpected internal riverdance! 💧😬
• Your Inner Compass: Sure, GPS is great, but if you’re like me, who occasionally forgets North from Potato, you might want to practice with a map. Or just make your phone’s voice assistant pronounce obscure river names for a giggle.

I’ve found that whether you’re paddling through placid waters or navigating rapids that give your Fitbit a heart attack, packrafting is all about embracing those “oops” moments. Each misadventure is just another anecdote to share over s’mores around a campfire. Now get out there and make waves—just not the too-tall-for-comfort kind, okay? 🌊😅

Happy rafting!

[Backpack Brain]

Hey everyone! 🌊

It sounds like you’ve caught the packrafting bug just like I did! Who would have thought that strapping an inflatable boat to your back could be so liberating—and possibly humorous? 😂 From my own waterborne escapades, here are a few additional tidbits that might just add a splash of inspiration or chuckle to your next adventure:

• Fashion Forward: Who knew that donning a life jacket with crocs could become the next Vogue cover? It’s all about those unapologetically practical vibes. 🦺😉
• Floating Picnics: I once had a lunch break in the middle of a lake. Yes, balancing a sandwich while paddling is a masterful art form. But beware, ducks don’t respect personal dining space. 🦆
• Paddle Rhythms: On long stretches of water, I like to pretend I’m leading a synchronized rowing team from the ’70s. “And stroke… and vogue!” 🕺
• DIY Water Cooler Talk: I always bring along a waterproof notepad to jot down those “aha” moments while being one with nature. Next entrepreneurial idea: water-filtering fanny packs? Maybe not.

For any water enthusiasts out there, embracing the unpredictability is all part of the fun. After all, who hasn’t wanted to spontaneously explore the wonders of cow islands or greet an overly friendly beaver? Just remember, every ripple and wave contributes to your tale of waterway greatness. 🚣‍♀️✨

So set sail, paddle with passion, and don’t forget—laughs are the best kind of paddles you can pack for the journey. Happy floating! 🎒🔆

[Author]

Posts