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Whether you’re a local here in the Florida panhandle or a visitor wanting to take advantage of the beautiful water, you may find yourself looking to rent a kayak. Renting a kayak is a good idea for locals that don’t use kayaks often or if you don’t have the space to store one. If you’re visiting, bringing a kayak with you can be a hassle or even impossible.

There are some things you should look out for when you decide to rent a kayak. The quality of the kayaks can vary depending on where you rent them. Then there are the logistics of getting the kayak to the water.

Quality

New kayaks come in beautiful colors. If the kayaks you see are faded, they may not have gotten the most TLC. Rent kayaks from a shop that cares about the equipment they rent out and regularly buys new equipment.

Availability

Before renting from anywhere, make sure you check the company website to see what options they have available. Kayaks come in multiple sizes and some can hold 3 people. If the shop you’re looking at doesn’t have the size you want, look elsewhere.

A good rental location will have a variety of options to choose from.

Fees

Make sure you’re not overpaying. If you go through a service or agency to book your rental, you’re going to pay more. Make sure you aren’t talking to a middleman when you make the call to rent your kayak.

If you call and get the owner of the shop, you know you’re getting a good deal.

Transportation

Do you have a vehicle that can carry a kayak?  You’re renting a kayak because it would be inconvenient to bring your own. So, if you need to rent one, you’re likely to need it transported for you. Find a rental shop that will transport your kayak to your location without any hassle. If they act like transporting your kayak will be time consuming and expensive, look elsewhere. Professionals should be able to easily transport the products they rent out.

Multiple Services

It’s good to rent from a shop that has more than one service. That way you don’t have to scour the area for different shops if you also want a bike, paddle board, or would like to have a bonfire. It’s better if you can find everything you need in one place. You can rent a kayak in the morning and then have a bonfire at the beach for your family and friends at night.

Renting a quality kayak should be easy. If it’s a hassle, you’ve gone to the wrong people. When you’re dealing with the right people you know it instantly by the great customer service and their willingness to help you find the right kayak for you. Whether you need a kayak for fishing or just enjoying the water, find a shop that has the right equipment at the right price. Don’t pay extra fees by going through a service. Talk to the owners directly.