Kayaks and canoes can be expensive, but with some smart shopping strategies, you can find high-quality models at discounted prices. Whether you’re looking for a recreational kayak or a durable canoe for fishing or camping, here are the best places and methods to help you save on your purchase.
Shop During Seasonal Sales and Clearance Events
Retailers often run sales during off-seasons or major holidays to clear out inventory, making these events a great opportunity to buy kayaks and canoes.
Best Times to Shop:
- End of summer: Stores clear out outdoor gear to make room for fall items.
- Black Friday and Cyber Monday: Look for online deals on kayaks, canoes, and accessories.
- Memorial Day and Labor Day: Many outdoor retailers offer discounts on outdoor equipment.
- Spring sales: As the weather warms up, stores may offer early bird discounts to attract customers.
Shopping during these times ensures you get a good deal before the peak paddling season.
Look for Discounts at Outdoor Retailers
Outdoor gear retailers are some of the best places to find discounted kayaks and canoes, especially during seasonal promotions.
Top Outdoor Retailers:
- REI: Offers end-of-season sales and discounts on overstocked or returned items.
- Dick’s Sporting Goods: Frequently has promotions on kayaks, canoes, and paddling gear.
- Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s: Ideal for finding deals on fishing kayaks and outdoor equipment.
- Academy Sports + Outdoors: Known for competitive pricing and seasonal sales on outdoor gear.
Many of these retailers also offer loyalty programs that provide additional savings or cashback.
Explore Online Marketplaces
Online marketplaces are great for finding new or used kayaks and canoes at reduced prices.
Where to Shop Online:
- Amazon: Features regular sales on inflatable kayaks, canoes, and accessories.
- eBay: A good option for finding both new and gently used watercraft.
- Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist: Search for second-hand kayaks or canoes from local sellers.
- OfferUp: Another platform to find used paddling gear in your area.
When buying second-hand, inspect the kayak or canoe for damage and ask the seller about its condition and history.
Use Coupons and Promo Codes
Many outdoor retailers offer coupons and promo codes that can further reduce the price of your kayak or canoe.
Where to Find Coupons:
- RetailMeNot and Honey: Provide coupons and discount codes for outdoor stores.
- Rakuten: Earn cashback and apply promo codes during checkout.
- Store newsletters: Sign up to receive exclusive offers and early access to sales.
Combining coupons with seasonal sales ensures the lowest possible price.
Buy Refurbished or Open-Box Models
Some retailers offer refurbished or open-box models at a discount. These items may have been returned or lightly used but are still in good condition.
Where to Find Refurbished Deals:
- REI Outlet: Offers discounts on returned or refurbished outdoor gear.
- Amazon Warehouse: Features open-box items with minor packaging defects.
- Local outdoor stores: Some stores sell demo or rental equipment at reduced prices.
Always check the return policy and warranty when buying refurbished or open-box items.
Consider Used Kayaks and Canoes
Buying used kayaks or canoes can save you hundreds of dollars. Many people sell their gear after upgrading or moving, making it easy to find affordable, well-maintained options.
Where to Find Used Options:
- Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist: Great for finding local deals.
- Paddling clubs or community boards: Members often sell or trade equipment.
- Garage sales or estate sales: Look for outdoor gear in good condition.
Inspect used kayaks and canoes for wear and tear, especially around seams, handles, and hulls.
Shop at Warehouse Clubs and Outlet Stores
Warehouse clubs and outlet stores sometimes carry outdoor equipment, including kayaks and canoes, at discounted prices.
Where to Look:
- Costco: Occasionally offers inflatable kayaks at competitive prices.
- Sam’s Club: May carry outdoor gear, especially during the summer months.
- Local outlets: Check for outdoor gear outlet stores in your area.
Warehouse clubs often offer bundle deals that include paddles, life vests, or other accessories.
Use Buy Now, Pay Later Services
If you want to buy a high-end kayak or canoe but prefer not to pay upfront, consider using buy now, pay later (BNPL) services.
Popular BNPL Providers:
- Affirm: Available at many outdoor retailers like REI and Dick’s Sporting Goods.
- Klarna: Works with several e-commerce platforms and outdoor gear stores.
- Afterpay: Splits payments into four interest-free installments.
BNPL services make it easier to afford high-quality gear without stretching your budget.
Join Loyalty Programs and Take Advantage of Rewards
Many outdoor retailers offer loyalty programs that reward frequent shoppers with discounts, cashback, or exclusive access to sales.
Loyalty Programs to Consider:
- REI Co-op Membership: Offers dividends on purchases, special member-only sales, and early access to deals.
- Bass Pro Shops Club Card: Earn points on purchases that can be redeemed for discounts.
- Dick’s Sporting Goods ScoreCard: Provides points for every purchase and access to exclusive discounts.
These programs can provide substantial savings, especially if you shop for outdoor gear frequently.
Check for End-of-Season Rentals and Demos
Some outdoor shops and paddling outfitters sell their rental or demo equipment at the end of the season. These kayaks and canoes are usually well-maintained and sold at steep discounts.
Where to Find End-of-Season Rentals:
- Local kayak rental companies: Many sell used equipment at a discount after summer.
- Outdoor events or paddling expos: Vendors may sell demo units at reduced prices.
- Paddling clubs: Members often sell or trade lightly used gear at the end of the season.
These units may show some wear but often offer excellent value for the price.
Finding discounts on kayaks and canoes requires smart shopping and careful timing. Shop during seasonal sales and clearance events, explore online marketplaces, and consider buying used or open-box models to save money. Take advantage of coupons, rewards programs, and BNPL options to further reduce costs.
By combining these strategies, you’ll be able to get high-quality kayaks and canoes at a fraction of their original price, making it easier to enjoy your time on the water without overspending.
