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Packraft. What is it?

All the answers about the Packraft, the high performance lightweight inflatable kayaks.

By Packrafting.cat

June 2^nd, 2025

What is packraft? Complete guide to getting started

The packraft is much more than a kayak: it is an open door to adventure. Light, compact and surprisingly resistant, the packraft allows you to explore rivers, lakes and coasts combining hiking with sailing. If you like walking, discovering hidden corners and experiencing nature from a different perspective, read on.

In addition to being perfect for calm trips, the packraft has also established itself as a very good option for whitewater kayaking. Its great stability, manoeuvrability and resistance make it suitable for class III and even class IV or V rivers with the right equipment and knowledge. Thanks to its low weight and compact size, it can be carried as hand luggage on a plane, making it the perfect boat for trips abroad. It also facilitates portages in rivers with impracticable sections and allows you to combine it with a bike (bikerafting) for solo descents in which you pedal up and paddle down, opening up possibilities that would be unthinkable with a traditional kayak.

The main advantage over whitewater kayaking is that the initial learning curve is much more pleasant with the Packraft, thanks to its better primary stability. Another great advantage is the operation we call self-rescue: in the event of a swim, unlike in kayaking, you don't need to be able to do the skimming manoeuvre, but you can self-rescue, alone or with the help of your companions, by getting back into your packraft. Emptying a packraft of water is not the same as with a kayak! It is a much simpler manoeuvre.

Here is a complete guide to understand what a packraft is and how to get started in this outdoor sport and leisure activity.

Types of packraft

There is a packraft for every type of adventurer... The choice of packraft depends on both the type of activity and the configuration of the cabin. Here are the main categories:

Recreational or beginner: for calm waters, lakes, reservoirs and quiet rivers. They are very stable, light and easy to use, ideal for beginners. Decathlon Itiwit packrafts are an option for this type of packrafts.
Multiactivity (trekking + river): Versatile, balanced, light and suitable for waters with some current (class II-III). They can cope with long hikes as well as class I to III rivers. Widely used in mountain trekking and self-sufficiency explorations. The Alpacka packrafts were the pioneers in this field.
Whitewater: Designed to withstand technical rivers (class III-IV). They incorporate structural reinforcements, interior fastenings, skirt or self-bailing system, and offer great manoeuvrability. Brands such as Aoraki with its Valkyrie or Mekong Packraft have packrafts ideal for whitewater.
Double or tandem: For two people or to carry extra load (bicycle, camping equipment, small animals). Some models can be converted into a single-seater. In the River Guru shop you will find double packrafts and packrafts from other brands such as Mekong and Kokopelli.
Ultralight (Fast & Light): Optimized to the maximum in weight and size. Ideal for long expeditions where every gram counts. Also popular with adventure runners. Examples of such packrafts are the Nano-SL from Anfibio, or the Itiwit 100 from Decathlon.
Specialized: Some models are adapted to specific uses, such as fishing, arctic trekking, military use, or even cave packrafting.

Depending on the design of the passenger compartment

Without bathtub cover (exposed): Open cockpit, very easy to get in and out. Ideal for calm waters or when simplicity and quick access are a priority.
With removable bathtub cover: They allow you to close the cockpit with a skirt, protecting you from the water and the cold. Versatile to combine recreational and technical uses.
With integrated spraydeck (whitewater spraydeck): A more advanced system, designed for rough rivers. Similar to closed kayaks, it improves thermal control and prevents water from entering.
Self-bailing: They have drainage holes in the floor and a raised floor. Ideal for large rivers or hot climates, they allow water to drain quickly without the need for a skirt.

Packrafts specialised in whitewater

In the last few years, packrafts designed specifically for high-level whitewater have appeared, which are far removed from the classic concept of a compact, multi-purpose boat. These are technical packrafts with performance close to that of a creek kayak, ideal for experienced paddlers.

High performance whitewater packrafts

Recently, models designed exclusively for technical whitewater have emerged that combine the portability of a packraft with the performance of a creek kayak. These packrafts have longer, narrower lines, a rigid internal hull, an integral skirt and a design optimised for demanding descents. Notable examples are the Alpacka Valkyrie, designed for Class IV+ and V rivers, or the Mekong Jekyll, which incorporates pronounced rocker, greater structural rigidity and more precise control in rapids. These boats are designed for experienced paddlers looking for performance without sacrificing the lightness of the packraft (although we are talking about weights close to 8 kilos, compared to the 4 kilos of the classic whitewater packrafts).

How to choose your packraft: a step-by-step guide

Choosing your first packraft - or the next - may seem complicated, but with the right information it's easy to find the model that's right for you. There is no "perfect packraft for everything", so the most important thing is to define your priorities according to your activity, experience and environment.

1. What kind of activity are you going to do?

Start by identifying the main use you are going to make of it. Some questions to help you:

Will you use it for calm rivers, whitewater, lakes, sea, or a mix?
Do you want to do combined trekking and sailing routes?
Are you going to carry a lot of luggage, or do you use it for short trips?
Are you interested in bikerafting (combined with cycling)?
Are you going to use it on foreign trips or remote expeditions?

Depending on the answer, you can rule out packraft types that don't suit your objectives. For example, if you're only going to do lake cruising, you don't need a skirt or internal bindings.

2. Weight and portability

One of the great values of the packraft is its portability. The total weight of the equipment (packraft, shovel, PFD, inflator, etc.) can vary from 3 to 8 kg. If you are going to hike long distances with it on your back, every gram counts.

For long expeditions, alpine hikes or bike combinations, look for ultra-light models (1.5 kg - 3 kg).
If you prioritise performance and safety on the river, a heavier model (up to 5-6 kg) may be more suitable.
Consider also the folded volume: some models fit in a 30L backpack, others take up more.

It does require a minimum of maintenance (regular lubrication and careful cleaning) to ensure its watertightness and durability.

What is the main drawback of the TiZip?

Although the TiZip offers a great advantage in terms of capacity and organisation, it also has a major weakness: it is a delicate mechanical element that requires attention and maintenance. If it is not clean, lubricated and properly closed, it can allow water to enter the interior of the float, compromising both buoyancy and safety. In addition, a TiZip failure in the middle of a voyage can be difficult to repair without the right equipment. This is why it is essential to carry out regular maintenance, applying specialised grease (such as ZipCare or similar) to maintain a watertight seal and prolong the life of the TiZip.

Un packraft Itiwit 100 de Decathlon tuneado para poder hacer aguas bravas con él.

It is also important to inspect it before each outing, to prevent sand or dirt from entering, and to close it carefully. Some users prefer to avoid the TiZip in very wet or muddy environments, where maintenance is more difficult.

Load capacity is a key aspect, especially if you plan to do multi-day tours, self-sufficient routes or combine packraft with a bike (bikerafting). A packraft must support your weight, the weight of your luggage and, if necessary, that of a companion.

Standard models usually have a load capacity between 120kg and 150kg, enough for one person and a medium-sized rucksack.
Some XL or tandem models exceed 200-250kg, ideal for carrying a tent, bag, cooker and more equipment without compromising buoyancy or safety.
If you're travelling with a bike or bulky loads, you'll need adequate space and tie-down points at the front or rear of the packraft.

TiZip: access to the inside of the floater

Many advanced models incorporate a watertight zip (TiZip), which allows access to the inside of the packraft's side floats and storage of equipment inside. This solution has several benefits:

Increased payload capacity without compromising manoeuvrability.
The material is better protected from water and possible shocks.
Better weight distribution, as the ballast is more evenly distributed throughout the packraft.
Keeps the outside of the packraft free of bulk, which improves hydrodynamics and reduces the risk of snagging on branches or rocks.
Easy and tidy access at campsites: you can store dry clothes, food, bags, etc.

The TiZip is especially useful on long expeditions or international trips, where you need to maximise space without compromising on lightness and safety.

4. Type of passenger compartment (cockpit)

One of the most important decisions:

Open (without bathing cover): for calm water, maximum accessibility. Ideal for beginners and recreational use.
With removable bathtub cover: offers protection against splashes and cold, but can also be used open. Versatile.
Fixed spraydeck (with kayak type skirt): necessary for medium-high level whitewater (class III+). Improves thermal control and prevents it from filling with water.
Self-bailing: without skirt, with raised floor and drainage holes. Ideal for whitewater in warm climates. Less thermal protection.

Choose according to climate, river type and personal preference.

5. Stability and manoeuvrability

All packrafts are stable thanks to their wide, flat-bottomed design, but there are differences:

Recreational models are wider and more stable, ideal for beginners or for relaxing.
Whitewater or technical models are more manoeuvrable, with front and rear rocker, but less stable for beginners.
If you prioritise speed and efficiency on lake or long trips, look for longer and narrower models.

6. What is your budget?

Price differences in packrafts according to use and make

Packraft prices vary greatly depending on the type of use, materials, design and brand. Below is an indicative price guide by category of use, with examples of popular brands and models in each.

Main use AND price range

Examples of brands/models

Recreational use / initiation: 300 € - 800 € For calm waters. Thinner material, without skirt or extras. Models: Decathlon Itiwit Packraft, Mekong George All Well, MRS Microraft Light
Trekking and hiking: 700 € - 1.200 € Lightweight and versatile. Some with TiZip or optional skirt. MRS Microraft, Alpacka Classic, Amphibio Rebel 2K, Kokopelli Rogue.
Whitewater (medium level)€1,000 - €1,600. Reinforcements, skirt or self-bailing, internal bindings. Alpacka Wolverine, MRS Nomad S1, Kokopelli Nirvana Self-Bailing
Advanced Whitewater 1.600 € - 2.500 €: Designed for class IV-V. More technical, rigid and specific. Alpacka Valkyrie, Mekong Jekyll & Rife, Amphibian Vertex WW
Tandem / two-seater: €1,200 - €1,800. Alpacka Forager, MRS Barracuda R2, Amphibio Sigma TXCapacity for two people. Some convertible to single-seater.
Ultralight / fast & light600 € - 1.200 € Amphibio Nano SL, Alpacka Ghost, MRS Nomad S1 LightPriority to weight. Thin material, ideal for trekking or technical mountaineering.
Bikerafting / expedition: 1.000 € - 1.600 €Alpacka Caribou, Kokopelli Twain, MRS Adventure X2Designed for transporting bikes. TiZip almost essential.

Additional considerations

Accessories (paddle, waistcoat, inflator, spray skirt, carry bag, repair kit) are not always included and may cost an additional €150 - €300.
Some models have versions with or without TiZip, spraydeck or self-bailing, which directly affect the price.
Promotions and second-hand purchases can greatly reduce the cost, especially on entry-level models.

7. Which brand to choose?

Investing more usually means more durability, lower weight and better performance in the water.

Some recommended brands according to type of use:

Decathlon: You have in this blog an extensive article about the Decathlon Itiwit 100 and 500 models.
Alpacka Raft: world reference. Quality and technical design. Models such as Expedition, Rogue or Valkyrie.
Kokopelli: good mid-range and whitewater. The Recon (self-bailing) and the XPD stand out.
MRS (Micro Rafting System): excellent value for money, balanced and durable models.
Mekong: young brand with innovative models such as the Jekyll, designed for advanced whitewater.
Amphibian (Germany): wide range of models and accessories, good after-sales service.

Conclusion: the ideal packraft is the one that fits you!

Don't go for the most expensive or the most technical model, but the one that fits your style of adventure. If you are new, start with something versatile and evolve. If you already have experience in kayaking or mountaineering, you can go for a more specific model.

8. Other factors to take into account

Material: TPU is the current standard. The thicker (deniers), the greater the strength but the heavier the material.
Easy repair: You can repair it in the field with patches or a basic kit.
Accessories: Does it include seat, backrest, fixing rings, inflator, carrying bag?
Possibility of customisation or modularity: optional skirt, TiZip, bike attachments...

The packraft is a versatile and revolutionary tool for exploring nature. Ideal for those who love walking, paddling and discovering new horizons. From easy routes on lakes to adrenaline-pumping whitewater descents, every packrafter can find their own style.

At packrafting.cat, we will continue to accompany you with reviews, tips, routes and community. If you have questions or want personalised recommendations, write to us!