Tips for Buying Your First Kayak

Drumroll please!…After much research, deliberation and an assortment of pros and cons lists, I am now the proud owner of my very own kayak! Living in Southern Ontario, with water all around me – just a short drive in any direction – kayaking is the perfect activity for a sunny summer day. If you’re like me and love the water/outdoors/sunshine/fitness kayaking may just be for you, too! Even if you’ve never done it before, it’s an activity that’s super easy to pick up.

Here’s how to purchase your own kayak without breaking the bank.

1. Do Your Research

This seems a bit tedious but it’s so important! It could mean the difference of hundreds of dollars. Make a list of all the retailers that sell kayaks in your area. A few of the places I researched were Canadian Tire, Sail, and TSC. Note any brands down that interest you and then read customer reviews online.

2. Be Patient – Don’t Impulse Buy 

I am so glad I didn’t buy the first kayak that caught my eye. Patience and timing is everything. I had been ready to buy a kayak on sale for $600 a few different times. It wasn’t until a flash sale at Canadian Tire that I ended up getting a very similar one for $300!

3. Watch For Sales, Closely

And not just any sales, really good sales! And be ready to jump on the deal as soon as it starts! Like I said, I found mine at Canadian Tire for a steal! That sale began on a Friday. I was there Friday night. After checking that this kayak was in fact what I was looking for, I purchased it right then. (After having done my research, making the decision at crunch time was easy). They were sold out by morning.

4. Don’t Forget to Check Buyer & Seller Sites

I have friends who have bought really nice kayaks from sites like eBay and Kijiji. Keep an eye out for new posts. If something does look like a good find, ask the seller as many questions as you need to.

5. Be Realistic

I was so excited about all the kayaking adventures I’d be going on that I thought I needed a top-of-the-line fancy tripping kayak. But honestly, if you aren’t planning on heading out on a weeks long wilderness kayak trip, you probably don’t need this either! If you’re a beginner and looking for a fun afternoon on the lake, a less expensive, recreational model will do just fine! If you ever decide you want to take it to the next level and actually head out on that wilderness trip, you can always upgrade then, when that time comes!

I hope this list helps you out on your quest to purchase your first kayak. I’ll see you guys out on the water!

Christy xo