FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

(updated 13/06/2023)

 Q. What packrafts does Pack Raft Australia sell? 

A. Pack Raft Australia is the official retailer of Alpacka Raft products in Australia and we’ve been supplying Alpacka Raft packrafts since 2014, delivered Australia wide! We offer the entire, premium quality, Handmade in USA Alpacka Raft range of packrafts, capable of all manner of water exploration. Be it whitewater packrafts, adventure touring packrafts, bikerafting packrafts, hunting packrafts or simply a packraft to enjoy a paddle at sunset. We’ve got an Alpacka Raft packraft suitable for you.

Q. Where are Alpacka Raft packrafts made? Are they handmade or mass produced?

A. Every Alpacka Raft packraft is handmade, by a small team of craftsmen/women, in a bespoke production workshop located in Mancos, Colorado, USA. Every Alpacka Raft starts with quality Made in USA fabrics, and undergoes a variety of steps to get to the final product; design and innovation, fabric panels cut, sewn, double seam welded, with the floor and spraydecks the final process of construction. High demand and limited production capacity mean each packraft is Built-to-Order, often with a production lead time of several weeks (or months in peak season).

Pack Raft Australia as the official Alpacka Raft dealer, keeps stock of number of popular models, colours and sizes in peak season, and throughout the year. All Ready to Ship packrafts are available for immediate delivery without any production lead time.

Below is a short video to give you an insight in to the production process and what Alpacka Raft is all about.

Q. Ready-to-Ship, Pre-Order, Built to Order… That’s a bit confusing, which one do I order…

Updated 16/02/2024

A. Alpacka Raft offer a lot of configurations in their packraft lineup to suit lots of different types of uses. Between model, sizes, boat configurations and colour/material type there are over 100 different standard packraft configurations across the 12 current 2024 season packrafts. This does allows for you to select a boat best suited to your desired outcomes and use scenarios, but makes keeping stock on hand of every possible configuration not practical.

• Ready-to-Ship: Our Ready-to-Ship Alpacka Raft packrafts page is just that! Ready to Ship models, In-Stock on our shelves ready to dispatch from our Victorian based workshop. We aim to dispatch all Ready to Ship and In-Stock orders within 24hrs, but often dispatch same business day (wherever possible), if your order is in prior 2pm.

• Delivery to you is usually within ~2-7 business days from dispatch, for most capital cities and centres (some remote or regional areas may have additional transit times, typically between ~5-10 business days). Ready-to-Ship Alpacka Raft’s are available in select Packraft Models, Build Configurations, Colour and Sizes and are available until sold out.

• Our Ready to Ship page is updated when new stock arrives.

• August through November is usually when the largest Ready to Ship range is available, during peak paddling season.

• If the model/configuration/size you are looking for is not currently in-stock, we offer the entire Alpacka Raft packraft line-up as Built to Order also.

• Pre-Order:

• From time-to-time, we may list certain models as available as Pre-Order for new inbound stock. This ordering option is quicker than Built-to-Order, but limited to set configurations of boats we already have being made by Alpacka Raft.
  

• Custom Lab

• Due to high demand, complexity and variable customisation in Custom Lab Builds, these are no longer available from authorised dealers.

Please note: Alpacka Raft packrafts are a little different to your typical sporting goods item, in that each raft is Handmade-to-Order by in small-town Mancos, Colorado, USA, in relatively small production workshop. Each raft is cut, sewn and IR welded by a dedicated and highly skilled production team, creating a high quality, Made in USA product. This bespoke nature means limited production, and lots of configurable options. Pack Raft Australia offers a variety of ordering options throughout the year, dependant on your requirements and timeframe for getting your new Alpacka Raft.

Q. What are the difference between Lightweight (LW) 210D, Standard 210D & 420D material choices in the Alpacka Raft range?

A. Alpacka Raft offer a range of packraft models and configurations, as well as material choice. The fabrics used to construct an Alpacka Raft are made of high quality, Made in USA fabrics, with different material properties/characteristics intended for different applications/uses.

All Alpacka Raft’s packrafts are constructed of a strong and lightweight Made in USA, woven Nylon base fabric, with a thermal plastic urethane (TPU) exterior laminate coating. Both the 210D & 420D fabrics have approximately the same urethane laminate coating thickness. The Lightweight 210D fabric option however has a thinner urethane coating, which allows for a smaller packed size, but with reduced overall durability.

There are three fabric choices available:

• Standard 210Denier

  • Properties:

    • 210Denier woven Nylon based fabric with standard thickness urethane laminate coating

    • Most commonly used raft tube material in Alpacka Raft packrafts

    • Good balance of durability and packability

    • Rolls and folds smaller than 420D fabrics

    • Standard urethane coating has a good level of abrasion resistance in most river environments

    • Best uses: Touring, Whitewater, Ultralight

• Lightweight (LW) 210Denier

  • Properties:

    • 210Denier woven Nylon base fabric with a thinner urethane laminate coating (over Standard 210D & 420D fabric)

    • Smaller packed weight/bulk (than Standard 210Denier fabric)

    • Suited to Specialist applications requiring lighter and smaller equipment (such as bikerafting, ultralight packrafting trips etc).

    • Best uses: Bikerafting, Ultralight remote journeys over land and water where minimising carry weight is high priority

    • Cons: More susceptible to abrasions/pin pricks in urethane coating

• 420 Denier Heavy Duty

  • Properties

    • 420Denier woven Nylon base fabric with standard urethane laminate coating

    • Increased fabric tear strength (very hard to tear)

    • Less play/stretch in material (i.e. boats can be inflated firmer)

    • Suited to heavy duty use applications, particularly two person packrafts which may carry additional gear and equipment and/or people. Some whitewater paddlers may find the heavy duty material advantageous due to be able to get a firmer and slightly more responsive boat, where paddling is car based and weight/bulk are less priority.

    • Cons: Heavier fabric, bulkier when packed. Doesn’t fold roll as small as Standard or UL 210D fabrics.

Q. So which fabric is best then?

Good question. Alpacka Raft’s 210D (Standard coated) fabric is a very good choice for most trips and paddlers. This fabric has been used in most Alpacka Raft’s going on 20yrs. It is a great balance between packed weight and effective durability.

The 210D Lightweight (LW) coated fabric is generally offered in specialist use packrafts only. Boats like the Caribou, which generally have more specific use cases, such as for bikerafting, where weight/bulk are of higher importance. Similarly, the Alpacka Raft Refuge and Scout packrafts also fall into this specialist use category, where these are designed as minimalist remote access boats, where minimal packed weight/bulk is extremely important.

The larger two person Forager packraft uses the 420Denier fabric, as its intended uses of carrying two people and heavy loads for longer trips warrant the extra weight and bulk of this fabric type. Whitewater boats built in 420D may suit paddlers who are harder on their gear, and want greater tear resistance. 420D fabrics do also have less lateral stretch, so boats can be a little firmer when inflated.

Note that the urethane coating found on the Standard 210D and 420D fabrics is a similar thickness.

NOTE: Alpacka Raft packrafts are designed to be lower pressure rafts, and should never be inflated beyond 2.5psi.

If you’re still undecided, the team at Pack Raft Australia are more than happy to assist you in selecting the correct boat design and material for your intended uses.

Q. What is the approximate weight difference between boats constructed of the different material options? How much bulkier is 420D fabric, say over 210D fabric?

A. Alpacka Raft list the difference of weight from between ~150-250grams (depending on size of boat) in respected of 210D verses 420D fabric.

Pack Raft Australia has independently weighed various boat models, and the average weight difference we have observed is as follows:

• Weight difference between LW 210D and Standard 210D fabrics = ~250-350grams

• Weight difference between Standard 210D and 420D fabrics = ~350-550grams or ~18% weight increase for 420D fabric option

Actual weight may differ slightly from the above due to individually crafted nature of each individual boat, however we have found the above to be a fairly accurate guide.

Q. Do you have Alpacka Raft packrafts In-Stock and Ready to Ship directly from the Pack Raft Australia Victorian based workshop?

A. Yes, we have a range of popular Alpacka Raft models/colours available in our Ready-To-Ship section. These are updated when new stock arrives. All Ready-To-Ship Alpacka Rafts ship directly from our Victorian based workshop.

Delivery of in-stock Ready-To-Ship rafts is generally between ~2-7 business days from dispatch, to most major areas around Australia.

We offer total peace of mind when purchasing a Ready-To-Ship Alpacka Raft, which are all backed by Pack Raft Australia’s 100% Stoked or Exchange It policy. This ensures your raft is the correct fit, model, style and you’ll be happy paddling for years to come in your new raft.

Q. Do I need an electric pump to inflate my packraft? Does Pack Raft Australia sell lightweight lithium rechargeable packraft pumps?

1. You do not need an electric pump!! Alpacka Raft packrafts are designed to easily and efficiently be inflated by the included inflation bag. The sheer volume of the bag quickly and efficiently inflates your packraft. For a standard whitewater series packrafts, it takes approximately 1-2minutes to inflate your raft with the inflation bag technique.

2. Pack Raft Australia promotes the sustainable exploration of wild places, with equipment that is both durable and appropriate. For wilderness travel, the included lightweight inflation bags which come standard with all Alpacka Raft’s are innovative, efficient and reliable. They do not require a power source and will not run out of battery in the middle of nowhere, nor get damaged by environmental influences (i.e. Water!). They’re also very light, appropriately durable and pack down very small. The whole point of heading into the wilderness is to reconnect and enjoy the ambience of the natural world… do you really want or need to hear a portable air pump buzzing away out there?

3. For car based rafting, where quicker packraft inflation may be desired or you’re paddling with a group of packrafters, we recommend using a 18V mini cordless blower, such as a Makita, Ryobi, Milwakee etc. (whatever brand you may already use/have other cordless power tools from). All these brands have a similar blower to one these. This style of blower/pump are both multi use (use as an actual blower or a pump), and much quicker at inflation due to delivering a larger air volume (Makita Blower = 3200L/min v Standard Small Rechargable Packraft Pumps = 100L/min).

4. To gain a firmer air pressure in your raft, we recommend Alpacka Raft’s Pack-a-Pump or a K-Pump mini or similar. Electric pumps will generally not inflate your raft to the correct air pressure, so using a hand pump to top off pressure is is generally recommended.
   
   

   Q. What is a packraft and why are they so awesome?

A. Packrafts (packable-rafts) are small, lightweight and durable inflatable watercraft. They're designed to be compact and light enough to "pack-a-raft" in your hiking pack, hence the name, packraft. Our Alpacka Raft packrafts are constructed of high quality, USA manufactured, single sided urethane coated woven nylon & vectran fabrics (in simple terms these are ultralight, durable fabric which are watertight/airtight fabrics). 

We believe pack rafts are incredibly awesome. Having a pack raft in your bag opens up endless on-water exploration possibilities, be it wilderness areas, coastal shores or urban ports and rivers. Link up a hike with floating back to your car, or paddle across an alpine lake. We love pack rafts, and that's why we're here, to share the joy! 

Q. What delivery options are there? Can I use a PO Box for delivery?

A. We use a variety of delivery methods, with the most efficient option used based on your specific delivery area and address.

We can deliver orders to both physical address’ or a PO Boxes, no dramas. For smaller items, these will usually be delivered Australia Post EXPRESS. All packraft or higher value orders are sent with Signature on Delivery required either Standard or Express.

For convenience, we generally aim to ship orders Australia Post, so if you miss the delivery, your package is available for collection from your local Post Office. Orders can also be sent via courier to business address’s (such as a workplace), or where somebody is home during the day for delivery dependant on your specific location. For courier delivery, you’ll be able to track and view delivery ETA day, but unfortunately a specific time window for delivery isn’t provided by couriers, due to the varied nature of the courier delivery networks.

Flat rate Australia wide delivery is added in the checkout window.


Q. Where in Australia do you deliver? Do you ship internationally?

A. We deliver goods Australia.

Currently we also ship orders internationally to New Zealand only. We cannot ship some limited items, specifically hazardous goods (glues/adhesives) to NZ, due to restrictions on air freight.

Please note: For all orders to New Zealand, the purchaser is responsible for any/all import duties/taxes which may be applicable to your order. Please do not request false customs declaration or split shipments from us, as we are unable to assist with these requests. Additional info on NZ customs available here.

Q. What is a pack raft and why are they so awesome?

A. Packraft (packable-rafts) are small, lightweight and durable inflatable watercraft. They're designed to be compact and light enough to "pack-a-raft" in your hiking pack, hence the name, packraft. Our Alpacka Raft packrafts are constructed of high quality, USA manufactured, single sided urethane coated woven nylon & vectran fabrics (in simple terms these are ultralight, durable fabric which are watertight/airtight fabrics). 

We believe pack rafts are incredibly awesome. Having a pack raft in your bag opens up endless on-water exploration possibilities, be it wilderness areas, coastal shores or urban ports and rivers. Link up a hike with floating back to your car, or paddle across an alpine lake. We love pack rafts, and that's why we're here, to share the joy! 

Q. What's the weight of an Alpacka Raft packraft or your TNP paddles?

A. Our paddles and Alpacka Raft packrafts are all relatively lightweight and compact and generally best in class for weight, durabilty and versatility. 

• The Ultralight Series Alpacka Raft Scout or Caribou w TiZip weigh approx. 1.5kg and 2.27kg (respectively)

• A single person Alpacka Series Classics weigh a little under 2.5kg.

• The Duo two person Alpacka Raft Forager packrafts weigh in at approximately 6kg.

• Our TNP Rapa 4 piece split carbon fiber shaft kayak paddles weigh 1.1kg.

  
  
  
  
  

Q. How small does a pack raft roll/fold down to?

A. Alpacka Raft pack rafts can be rolled or folded in a variety of ways depending on the method of packing/transport. As a guide, they pack down to roughly similar size of 2 person, 4 season hiking tent or an average sized stuffed sleeping bag.

Our paddles split down into four pieces (two shafts, two blades) for easy transport.

• 1 person Alpacka Series Classics approx. rolled up dimensions: 20cm x 60cm

• 4 piece split paddle: Shaft piece lengths 62cm, Blade 53cm (L) x 20cm (w)

Q. I see similar packrafts on the market, what makes an Alpacka Raft so good? 

A. For the past 20+years, the dedicated team at Alpacka Raft have pushed innovation in materials and design of their Made in USA packraft range, to bring you products that inspire and endure. Ask around, Alpacka Rafts are renowned the world over for their longevity and corresponding high resale value, and with the test of time well and truly with them.

Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery and as the old adage goes, you get what you pay for. We not only stand steadfastly behind the products we sell, but our manufacturers offer industry leading warranties and after purchase service and repair for the products they produce. We encourage you to do your own research, and we're confident we'll be seeing you sometime now or in the future, paddling out there in an Alpacka Raft packraft.

A short history of Alpacka Raft packrafts in this video below.

Q. I see you now stock Hyperlite Mountain Gear ultralight packs and accessories. Can I purchase other Hyperlite Mountain Gear items directly through Pack Raft Australia?

A. Yes! Pack Raft Australia is an official Hyperlite Mountain Gear retailer in Australia. We keep a packraft focused range of HMG gear in-stock. If there are any other Hyperlite Mountain Gear products you are interested in, please get in touch via our contact form for pricing and availability. Delivery times for special order items will be advised upon receipt of your request via our contact form.

All our >> In-Stock << Hyperlite Mountain Gear packs are also back by Pack Raft Australia’s 100% Stoked or Exchange It policy to ensure correct fit in the comfort of your own home.

Q. What’s the warranty on your Alpacka Raft packrafts and Hyperlite Mountain Gear packs

A. All our Alpacka Raft’s packrafts are backed by the team with Limited Lifetime Warranties on raft materials and workmanship, across all models (5 year Warranties on Ultralight Series Caribou & Scout). Specific warranty details available here (including specifics regarding third party TiZip’s).

Q. What’s the go with your rental Alpacka Raft’s? Are you still offering this service in 2023?

A. In 2020/2021 (you remember those unique years) we put our Alpacka Raft packraft rental service on hiatus. Although we would love to continue offering this service, we do not foresee reinstating this in the near future due to a variety of changed operating conditions. If you are looking to purchase a new Alpacka Raft and are unsure of which model you may need/want, please get in touch with us and we can discuss the options available including local in person demo options to trial a raft (pending availability).

Q. What payment types do you accept?

A. We accept the following payment types for any order online. We can also accept EFT bank transfer for offline orders.

Q. Why purchase my new Alpacka Raft from Pack Raft Australia?

A. We are an Independent Australian Owned, Run and Dedicated packrafting store. We’ve been suppling satisfied customers across Australia since 2014, remaining true and focused to packrafting the entire time.

We offer localised customer advice, product support and after sales warranty.

All our pricing is in Australian Dollars ($AUD). The price you pay at checkout is the complete picture and the final price, inclusive of all currency conversion fees, customs broker fees and any applicable import duties and taxes, usually payable when you import goods from overseas into Australia valued greater than $1000AUD. 

We save you the headache of DIY import and customs processing (and potential delays).

We're also locally based in Australia, so you won't be charged foreign transaction fees on your credit card (some cards add an additional 2.4% for overseas currency purchases).

And, we're a local port of call for any questions you may have before you buy a new raft, and any after sales support.

Basically, if you buy an Alpacka Raft fully legit (no customs fraud), we offer the best rates in town! 

Have a unique request or desire a custom built raft. Feel free to shoot us a message using the contact form to the top right of this page and one of our team will get back to you via email or return phone call (be sure to include your best contact number!). 

Oh, and we also now offer our 100% Stoked or Exchange It on any >> In-Stock << Alpacka Raft purchases for peace of mind!

Q. Can you deliver rafts anywhere in Australia and what will delivery cost? 

A. Delivering pack rafts to your door Australia wide is our speciality! 

For all new packraft and accessories sales, we offer simple & fair Australia Wide Flat Rate delivery charges.

Flat Rate Australia wide delivery on all new raft sales, no matter where you’re based to keep things simple, and fair.

Q. Do you sell ex-rental/ex demo packrafts ever?

A. From time to time we refresh our fleet of demo Alpacka Raft packrafts. Ensuring we have the best boats in town! Check out our Dirtbag Specials page which has used & ex demo rafts listed from time to time at discounted rates. If no boats are listed when you check, we don’t currently have any rafts up for grabs, so check back at a later date.