How to Choose the Right Raft for You

Your Guide to buying the best Rafts

Overview

A raft is an essential part of any outdoor adventure and can be used for a variety of activities including fishing, floating, and exploring. With a large selection of rafts on the market, it can be difficult to determine which one is the best for your needs. This buying guide will provide you with all the information you need to choose the right raft that meets your needs. It will cover the different types of rafts, features to consider, and tips to help you find the perfect raft for your next outdoor adventure.

Key features

  1. Size: What size of raft do you need and what size can fit on your vehicle for transporting?
  2. Capacity: How many people and how much gear do you want to fit in your raft?
  3. Material: What type of material is best suited for your needs and budget?
  4. Inflation: Do you prefer inflation by hand pump or electric pump?
  5. Accessories: What accessories are included and which additional accessories are recommended?
  6. Warranty: What type of warranty does the raft have and what type of service is included?
  7. Cost: What is the cost of the raft and is it within your budget?

See the most popular Rafts on Amazon

Important considerations

Pros

  • Versatility: Rafts are versatile vessels that can be used for a variety of activities like fishing, river rafting, or just leisurely cruising.
  • Durability: Rafts are made of sturdy materials like vinyl, PVC, or Hypalon, making them resistant to punctures and built to last.
  • Portability: Rafts are relatively lightweight and can be easily transported and stored.
  • Easy to Operate: Rafts are simple to maneuver and require minimal maintenance.
  • Cost-Effective: Rafts are much more affordable than other watercraft, making them a great choice for budget-minded adventurers.

Cons

  • Cost: Rafts can be an expensive investment depending on the type, size, and quality of the raft.
  • Storage: Rafts are bulky and require a significant amount of storage space when not in use.
  • Maintenance: Inflatable rafts require regular maintenance and repair to ensure they are safe to use.
  • Durability: Rafts can be prone to damage from rocks, sticks, or other debris in the water, as well as extreme temperature and UV light.
  • Safety: It is important for buyers to understand the safety risks associated with rafting, such as hypothermia, falling overboard, or capsizing.

Best alternatives

  1. Kayaks - A small canoe with a double-bladed paddle, usually propelled by one or two people.
  2. Canoes - A narrow boat with both ends pointed and open at the top, propelled by a paddle or paddles.
  3. Stand Up Paddle Boards - A wide board used to stand on and paddle in the water, often used for surfing.
  4. Inflatable Boats - A boat made of PVC or other material that is inflated before use, and can be deflated and stored for easy transportation.

Related tools, supplies, and accessories

  • Inflatable Rafts - A type of watercraft that is designed and constructed for buoyancy on water and is powered by a paddle or oars.
  • Paddles - A flat-bladed oar used to propel a raft.
  • Life Jackets - A type of personal flotation device designed to be worn around the torso.
  • Anchors - A device used to securely hold a raft in one place.
  • Rope - A strong, durable cord used to secure the raft and items contained within.
  • Repair Kits - A set of supplies used to repair any damage that may occur to the raft itself.
  • Foot Pump - A device used to inflate and deflate the raft.
  • Storage Bag - A bag used to store and transport the raft when not in use.

Common questions

  1. What type of raft should I buy? The type of raft that you should buy depends on what type of water activity you plan on doing. If you plan on doing white water rafting, you should buy an inflatable raft, as it is more durable and can handle the rigorous environment. If you plan on doing leisurely rafting, you should buy a plastic or aluminum raft, as they are easier to maneuver and provide more stability.
  2. How much should I expect to pay for a raft? The cost of a raft depends on the size, type, and quality of the raft. Generally, an inflatable raft can range anywhere from $200 to $500, while a plastic or aluminum raft can range from $100 to $400.
  3. How many people can a single raft hold? Most rafts typically hold between two and six people, depending on the size and type of the raft.
  4. What is the best way to store a raft? The best way to store a raft is to keep it in a cool, dry place. Make sure to clean the raft before storing it to prevent mold and mildew from forming. Additionally, it is a good idea to cover the raft when storing it.
  5. Can I use a raft in a saltwater environment? Yes, you can use a raft in a saltwater environment, however, it is important to use a raft that is specifically designed for saltwater use. Most inflatable rafts are designed for freshwater use only, so you should make sure to buy a raft that is specifically designed for saltwater use.
  6. What safety equipment should I bring with me when rafting? It is important to bring the appropriate safety equipment when rafting. This includes a life jacket or other personal flotation device, as well as a whistle and a first aid kit. Additionally, it is important to make sure that everyone in the raft is familiar with the proper safety protocols.

Trivia

Rafts have been around for centuries and were once used for fishing, transportation and even warfare. One funny story involving rafts is that during the American Civil War, Confederate soldiers managed to escape capture by Union forces by floating down the Mississippi River on rafts made of barrels and logs. This story has been immortalized in the classic American folk song “Oh! Susanna” which says, “I come from Alabama with my banjo on my knee, I'm going to Louisiana, my true love for to see; It rained all night, the day I left, the weather it was dry, The sun so hot I froze to death, Susanna, don't you cry.” The songwriter was actually referring to the Union soldiers who froze to death while pursuing the Confederates floating down the river on their rafts. Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Raft

Disclaimer: This buying guide was not created by humans, and it is possible that some of it's content is inaccurate or incomplete. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this buying guide. Additionally, the images on this page were generated by AI and may not accurately represent the product that is being discussed. We have tried to convey useful information, but it is our subjective opinion and should not be taken as complete or factual.