Should You Buy a Kayak at Costco?

Costco kayaks are reasonably priced and come with important gear (like paddles and cartop carriers) that can put you out in the water without setting back your personal finance goals. The variety might be lacking, but if you're looking for a beginner kayak, Costco might be the place to buy one cheaply. Let's take a look at why you should buy a Costco kayak, as well as some reasons for shopping elsewhere.

Buy a Costco kayak if price is the most important factor

The low prices on Costco kayaks could be perfect for the casual kayaker who just wants to relax in the water and doesn't need something for demanding rapids or deep, tumultuous seas.

The Pelican Mission Sit-In Kayak, for instance, is one of Costco lowest priced single kayaks. The retail price is $400 online and comes with a paddle and cartop carrier. You could also look at Costco inflatable kayaks, which are reasonably priced between $159 and $200 online. Its tandem kayak is one of the lowest priced two-person kayaks I've seen: $500, and it even comes with two paddles.

Now, I will say -- If price is of utmost importance to you, I would also scan Facebook Marketplace for a used kayak. If you're okay with buying it used, you can find some incredible deals on kayaks, many priced below the $400 Pelican kayaks at Costco.

Shop elsewhere if you want higher quality or more variety

Since Costco isn't an outdoor recreational store, it's likely going to stock lower-priced kayaks that have broad appeal. For those looking for higher-performance kayaks, then you'll likely have to shop at another store, like REI.

For instance, I wouldn't buy a Costco kayak if I was planning to paddle in rough ocean or down rapids, as I would want something more durable and stable for those courses. At the very least, I would test out the kayak to see how fast it could go and how easily it would flip over.

However, I wouldn't rule out Costco altogether. Even if you prefer kayaks that Costco doesn't sell, you might want to buy a low-priced kayak for friends or family, especially if they don't own their own but want to go out in the water with you. Again, you could look on Facebook Marketplace or other local resellers, too. But if you can't find cheap kayaks used, Costco could help you buy a second one for some company.

One good thing about Costco kayaks is that you have 365 days to return them for a full refund. This might be a good idea if you want to test how comfortable these kayaks are. Often, you'll be sitting in a kayak for hours, so if it's uncomfortable you have a reasonable excuse to take it back.

All in all, I'd say, if you're learning how to kayak or going down a relaxing course, a Costco kayak will give you a vessel at a very competitive price. At the very least you could try its kayak and return it for a full refund to your credit card if you're not 100% satisfied.