Howdy folks! Today's agenda: assemble some kayaks and grill some burgers. But plain reviews are boring, so we made it a competition — and it got interesting fast.
The Race (With a Twist)
We both have Tucktec folding kayaks, and you have to unfold and assemble them before you can paddle. So: who's faster? My wife insisted it wouldn't even be close — last time I had to help her after ten minutes of struggling. To make it "fair," her terms were simple: I do mine blindfolded. I agreed. I also broke skin. Watch the video to see how badly I lost — yes, she won, blindfold and all. The real takeaway: these kayaks are simple enough that you can mostly assemble one blindfolded, which answers the "is it complicated?" question better than any spec sheet. (Not sponsored — we just like them.)
Why Folding Works for Truck Camping
Both kayaks, two life vests, and two oars all tuck into the Tramper — and it is not a very large space. That's the whole pitch: folded flat, a Tucktec slides where no rigid kayak fits, and unlike an inflatable there's nothing to puncture and nothing to pump — it's a hard shell once assembled. After the race we got them on the lake (where my wife stalked me like a lake monster) and grilled those burgers. A perfect truck camping day.
Get One
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Tucktec Folding Kayak
The fold-flat hard-shell kayak from the video.
Kayak Paddle
A decent lightweight paddle makes a bigger difference than you'd think.
PFD / Life Vest
Non-negotiable. Get one that fits and wear it.
The Verdict
Watch the race and judge for yourself — but the fact that these kayaks still ride with us says plenty. If your rig is short on space and you keep ending up camped next to water you can't paddle, a folding kayak might be the most fun-per-cubic-foot gear you can carry.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article and its video is for entertainment/educational purposes only. By following any advice from this article, video, or any provided links, you do so at your own risk. Please consult with a professional before attempting any construction, plumbing or electrical work.