If you’ve ever skipped a paddle because the board felt like too much work, you’re not alone. Roof racks. Garage space. Tight apartments. Rental cars that definitely weren’t designed with paddleboards in mind. That’s exactly where inflatable paddleboards changed everything.
When travel and storage matter, the best inflatable paddleboards don’t just make paddling possible - they make it easy to say yes and get out on the water more often. Here’s what to look for, and which inflatables actually make sense for life on the move.
What Makes a Paddleboard Good for Travel?
Not all inflatable paddleboards were created equal. For travel and small storage, a few things matter more than anything else:
1. Pack Size
The board should roll down small enough to fit comfortably in:
- A backpack
- A closet
- A car boot
- An overhead compartment on a plane (with the right bag)
If it still feels bulky when packed, it’s not truly travel-friendly.
2. Weight
Lighter boards are easier to:
- Carry through airports
- Hike into remote waters
- Load and unload on your own
A few pounds makes a big difference after a long travel day.
3. Setup Simplicity
Paddling on a trip usually means:
- Navigating new spots
- Limited time
- Less patience for complicated setups
Boards that inflate quickly and don’t require any fine-tuning are likely to get used more.
The Best Inflatable Paddleboards for Travel & Tight Spaces
Solo SUP™ Backcountry
Best for: Travel, apartments, hiking access, minimalist paddlers
If you’ve ever looked at your gear pile and thought, “This is why I don’t paddle more,” the Solo SUP™ exists for you.
This board was built specifically for:
- Backpack travelling
- Small apartment living
- Remote water access
- Anyone tired of roof racks and garage clutter
It rolls down smaller than a sleeping bag, fits where traditional inflatables don’t, and still delivers a surprisingly solid, sturdy and stable ride once inflated.
Why it works for travel
- It’s ultra-compact packed size
- It’s lightweight and easy to carry in the dry bag backpack
- It’s designed to go where cars don’t
This is the board that turns those “I wish” paddles into actual paddles.
Stowaway Lite
Best for: Weekend trips, car travel, easy storage at home
The Stowaway Lite hits the sweet spot between performance and packability.
It offers:
- A stable, confidence-inspiring width
- A compact roll-up size
- Easy inflation without wrestling the pump
If you want a board that disappears into storage but still feels like a “real” paddleboard on the water, this one delivers.
Why it works for travel
- Fits easily in a car trunk
- Stores in a closet or small shed
- Simple setup for quick sessions
Big EZ Air
Best for: Families, shared gear, forgiving stability on the go
Traveling with kids, friends, or a dog in tow? Stability becomes non-negotiable.
The Big EZ Air offers:
- A wide, ultra-stable platform
- Enough volume for extra passengers and gear
- Inflatable durability that handles bumps and beach launches
It’s not the smallest inflatable on the list, but it’s one of the most forgiving - especially when travel means unpredictable launches and shared use.
Why it works for travel
- Durable construction for unfamiliar terrain
- A stable board for beginners anywhere
- Packs down smaller than any hard board ever could
What About Paddles for Travel?
A travel-friendly board deserves a travel-friendly paddle.
Look for:
- 3-piece or multi-piece designs
- Adjustable length
- Lightweight materials
Options like adjustable fibreglass, aluminium, or ultra-compact rollable paddles make a huge difference when packing light.
(Pro tip: your paddle usually takes up more space than you think.)
Inflatable vs Hard Boards for Travel (The Honest Take)
Hard boards paddle beautifully - no argument there. But when travel and storage are priorities, inflatables win for one simple reason:
They remove friction.
No racks.
No storage stress.
No “maybe next time.”
And the board you actually bring with you is always better than the one you left behind.
How to Choose the Right Travel Inflatable
Ask yourself:
- Will I be carrying this far?
- Am I storing it in a small space?
- Do I want the fastest setup possible?
- Will beginners or family use it too?
If portability is the difference between paddling once a month or once a week, go inflatable and go compact.
The Real Benefit of a Travel-Friendly Board
It’s not just about fitting in a bag it’s about catching sunrise on a work trip, saying yes to a lake you didn’t plan for and turning small spaces into big adventures. That’s the magic of a good inflatable paddleboard.
Roll it up. Pack it down.
Time to get on the water.
