I am trying to decide on the best flotation system to use for my kayak (Pygmy AT 17)
Currently I use a sea sock, but I think it may not be adequate in severe conditions.

Here are the options I consider along with their pros (+) and cons (-)
*****
Option 1.
Bulkheads and internal hatches (accessible from the cockpit)
(+) Watertight bulkheads are the floatation standard.
(+) Unlimited cargo-carrying potential.
(+) No holes/leaky hatches on the deck.
(+) Bulkheads strengthen the boat by stiffening the hull (according to some).

(-) If a bulkhead/hatch fails 1/3 to 2/3 of boat fills with water.
(-) Added weight to the boat
(-) Bulkheads weaken the boat by creating stress points (according to some)

******
Option 2.
Sprayable insulation foam filling the bow and stern sections.
(+) Permanent floatation that is always working no matter what
(+) Light, cheap innovative solution that should be easy to "install"

(-) Once in place the area left for cargo cannot be increased
(-) Not sure how the foam will hold up in the long run.
(-) Unorthodox solution (has anyone done it).

*******
Option 3.
A few (2-4) cone-shaped and progressively larger rolls of bubble wrap
encased in plastic tape (to hold the shape) and stuck in the bow and stern section.
(+) The volume of floatation/cargo room may be changed by adding/removing cones.
(+) Always works no matter what.
(+) Light, cheap and easy to install.

(-) Not sure how the cones will should up in the long run.
(-) Unorthodox solution (has anyone done it).

I am somehow attracted to option 3. I wonder if it has any "legs" in your opinion.

-Tom

PS. This website could really benefit from search functionality, perhaps all these questions have been asked (and answered) before)