Smaller Packraft Recommendations

[Luke Schmidt]

I have a Yukon Yak but I would like a smaller and lighter raft for two situations.

1. Trips with lots of hiking and not much rafting.

2. Trips with a less capable friend, they can us my Yak and I'll us the smaller raft.

The obvious choice would be a Scout but I saw a used older model (i.e. small stirn) Alpacka on sale. I was thinking if I removed the backrest, seat and spray deck I could cram in that and be less comfortable then with my Yak but more comfortable then with a Scout.

Does anybody have any idea how bulky a stripped down old model Alpacka would be compared to a current model Alpacka Yak? The bulk of the raft is more annoying then the weight.

[Dan @ Durston Gear]

If you're actually looking for a raft that is still semi-capable in mild whitewater (which it sounds like you are) then I can't be of much help other than speculating the weight and bulk of the Scout vs old alpacka is likely close so I'd buy on price.

Something to consider if you're sticking to tame water is the really light/small rafts from Klymit/Ruta Locura. For $225, you can buy a light (29-35oz) and small packing raft that would be great for fishing, river crossings or class I rivers. I've got a Yukon Yak and it's great, but it is quite a bit of weight and bulk so there are a lot of trips where a raft would be kinda neat, but not worth carrying.

[Luke Schmidt]

Thanks Dan, I did look at a used Flytpacker but from what I could gather it sounded like a less attractive option then a Scout. Less durable and according to one review its a "mushy" boat, you can't inflate it stiff like Alpacka rafts. All that made me lean toward a Scout (or just making do with what I have).

If anyone has used the old model Flytpacker and can comment I'd be interested to hear it.

I just bought a Unaweep Frame and plan some pack making projects. Perhaps after I design a better pack I'll be less incline to spend money on a smaller raft.

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