Lidl launches a £39.99 inflatable kayak, just in time for a summer staycation
Start planning your next trip to the UK’s rivers and lakes now with this budget-friendly piece of equipment
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.As lockdown restrictions ease and holidays abroad to some countries are now permitted, you may well be planning your next getaway Asap.
However, if you’re not quite ready to travel outside of the UK following the past four months, then book a staycation instead.
Whether you’re opting for camping or road trips, there’s no shortage of beautiful scenery to enjoy closer to home from Cornwall, to the Lake District and the Scottish highlands and and islands.
You can trust our independent round-ups. We may earn commission from some of the retailers, but we never allow this to influence selections. This revenue helps us to fund journalism across The Independent.
If you’re an avid water sports fan, Lidl has just what you need with its new crivit 2-person inflatable kayak (Lidl, £39.99).
It’s a budget-friendly option that will not only save you money but allow you to get creative with your weekend plans and go beyond just a socially distanced picnic, which we still love, but sometimes we want an activity that gets your adrenaline going.
Made from a hard-wearing PVC, which is reportedly resistant to saltwater, oil and the cold, it comes with a removable footrest, bow and rear splash guard, double-bladed aluminium paddle and a repair kit.
As it only comes with one paddle, either one person gets an easy ride and you can swap over, or you'll have to buy another one separately elsewhere, as well as a pump.
It also has a two year warranty and a net wight of 8.2kg which between two people will be easy to carry if you have a little walk to the water.
As it’s inflatable, it's much more portable and can be folded up making it easier to stow away in the boot of your car. It also comes with a waterproof bag that means you won’t find any puddles on the carpets of your vehicle.
If like us, you’ve started making a list of all the hotspots in the UK to visit, we think this will be the activity of the summer. We’ve found three other inflatable kayaks to buy if you can't get your hands on the Lidl version, to help make the most of it summer.
If you’re already accustomed to kayaking, this Ykhome kayak inflatable canoe, 2-person set with aluminium oars (Amazon, £252.99) is a lot more, but a worthwhile upgrade.
The adjustable seats with backrests mean you'll have a comfy ride as you bob along the rivers and canals.
The bright yellow colour will increase visibility, keeping you safe when it’s not as bright, and it has a removable skeg, which will keeo your kayak running straight in a crosswind.
Should you encounter any problems, it also comes with a repair set, inflatable pump, and of course, two aluminium paddles to help you steer.
For a solo kayak session, try this Itiwit 1-person inflatable kayak (Decathlon, £119.99) which has been designed for use on lakes and calm rivers.
It takes six minutes to inflate with the double-action hand pump and the seat is raised which will keep you comfortable and dry when you’re gliding across the water.
If your family are keen to kayak together, then this Sevylor Willamette 2+1 inflatable kayak (Outdoor GB, £499) is ideal for three people.
Recommended for use on sheltered coastlines and inland waters, it has removable seats which allow you to convert it from a two-person boat to fit three people.
The suspended seating has been designed to keep you dry while your paddling, and you can tuck your belongings under the seat adjustment webbing.
The outer material is made from tarpaulin, a robust fabric that’s water-resistant and durable too, which will limit any abrasion, and there’s also a carry handle for you to put your paddle when you need a quick break.
Read our guide to the best paddle boards for every ability now