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

Make weekend plans more exciting than a picnic and get kayaking instead (iStock/The Independent)

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.

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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.

Only available while stocks last in-store, make sure you pick up this affordable kayak before it sells out (Lidl)

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.

Amazon

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.

Bold, bright and practical, this two-seater kayak is well equipped for the water (Amazon)

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.

Decathlon

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.

Made for one, explore lakes and rivers with this single-seat kayak (Decathlon ) (Decathlon)

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.

Outdoor GB

If your family are keen to kayak together, then this Sevylor Willamette 2+1 inflatable kayak (Outdoor GB, £499) is ideal for three people.

This three seater kayak means all the family can get involved (Outdoor GB)

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.

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