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The entire system should be airline compatible, meaning that it should fit into two standard checked bags and a single carry-on bag. This allows the system to be easily transported by air, ship, rail, bus, etc. without extra cost.
It should be possible to convert from bicycle mode to boat mode, and vice versa, in under 1 hour.
This system should be modular, so that if certain segments of a trip do not require certain components, those components can be temporarily left behind (backpacking without boat or bike, boating without bike, biking without boat).
The system should consist of commercially available components as much as possible in order to reduce costs, both in time and money.
The bicycle can be disassembled to fit into a hard sided suitcase. A trailer kit, which also fits in the suit case, is used to convert the suitcase into a bicycle trailer. When being used as a trailer, a backpack containing the camping gear is placed inside the trailer, and the deflated kayak, paddle, and associated gear is placed in a bag and strapped to the top of the trailer.
When in boat mode, the bicycle is packed into the suitcase, and the suitcase is placed in a waterproof bag. The suitcase is then placed in the forward section of the kayak. Given the dimensions of the suitcase, this causes the forward part of the kayak to bulge, which looks kind of weird, but does not seem to adversely affect paddling performace. I am looking at the possibility of finding or constructing an alternative to the suitcase with dimesions more compatible with the kayak. The rest of the camping gear is stowed in smaller dry bags and packed into the kayak.
I am experimenting with using portions of the trailer assembly as boat wheels to aid in launching and retrieving the loaded boat from the water. I have also been trying out the idea of using the recumbent seat within the kayak, using a simple converter that also allows the seat to be used as a standalone seat around camp.
I am also looking at the possibility of adding additional forms of propulsion when in boat mode, such as a simple sailing rig or a pedal drive of some sort.
Brompton folding bicycle. There is also a folding recumbent kit available.
Human Powered Vehicles Phaser folding recumbent bicycle.
Boats
Shuttle bike kit - different from the above. Basically an inflatable catamaran upon which a bicycle a bicycle fits. It is powered (and inflated) by pedaling the bicycle. Looks very interesting for recreational use and short trips, not sure how well it would be suited for more extended travels.