There’s nothing like sitting in a kayak out on the water. Whether you’re coasting along on calm waters or battling through rapids, kayaking is truly one of the joys of life. If you’re new to kayaking, we’re so excited that you’re looking into it or preparing to try it.
For those of you who are new to kayaking, we thought it would be helpful to provide two lists. First, what to bring on a kayaking trip, and second, and just as importantly, what not to bring. Following these lists will help keep you and your valuable belongings safe.
What to bring on a kayaking trip
Here are the essentials you will want to bring on your kayaking trip. By the way, we’re assuming you have a kayak and paddle—those are pretty important.
Food and water: No matter how long you expect your trip to be, always carry some snacks and extra water. You never know when something could go wrong and leave you stranded. So be prepared.
Personal flotation device (PFD): whether you’re kayaking in an ocean, lake, or river, always wear a PFD when you’re in the water. Choose one that will allow you to paddle.
Proper clothing: Your choice of clothing will depend on the weather, and, more importantly, the water temperature. Wear comfortable clothing that will dry quickly. You don’t want to wear cotton because it holds water. If it’s a hot summer day and you’re not going on a long trip, you can get away with a t-shirt and swim shorts or a bathing suit bottom. But if it’s not hot, the water is cold, and you’re planning on a longer trip, you’ll want to wear a wetsuit or drysuit. The drysuit will keep you warmer and, of course, dry.
Proper footwear: Whether you’re kayaking in an open or closed kayak, prepare to get wet. And when you get wet, you don’t want to be wearing your favorite street shoes. You also don’t want to wear flip-flops. Instead, invest in some wet shoes. The rubber bottoms are grippy and they dry quickly.
Rope bag: It’s what it sounds like—a rope tucked inside a bag—but the bag is attached to a rope. If you see a fellow kayaker who needs to be rescued, you hold one end of the rope and toss the bag at the person in distress. They grab the bag, you pull them to safety, and you become the hero! We hope you never have to use it, but it’s important to have it.
Dry bag: Nobody likes to go anywhere without their cell phone, but you definitely don’t want to keep it in your pocket, unless you have a waterproof case. If you don’t have a special case, then you can use a dry bag. Dry bags are a great way to store dry clothes. They are a waterproof bag with a roll clip at the top that clamps shut.
What NOT to bring on a kayaking trip
Things that can be damaged or destroyed by water: The list of things that water can destroy is a long one. Any electronics that are not essential to your trip and waterproof should not come with you. If you’re exploring a new place, you may want to bring a GPS in a waterproof case or your phone, also in a waterproof case.
Valuable things that sink: Jewelry comes to mind here. You do not want to wear any expensive jewelry out on the water. Precious stones can come loose, and bracelets and necklaces can break. And when they submerge, the current will take them along, and they are gone. Forever. So leave those valuable at home in a safe place.
Things you do not want to risk losing: This builds off of the last two categories, but anything you do not want to risk losing, that is irreplaceable, should not come with you. For items like car keys, you can purchase waterproof cases with a leash that attaches to your body. That way they won’t get separated from you. And if they do, they float.
Hopefully, this list helps you prepare for your kayaking trip. Following the advice above will only help you have a better, safer experience, so you can set your worries aside and enjoy the water and scenery.
If you’re looking for an enjoyable trip, check out your local kayak adventures company. If you have more questions, there may be a FAQs section on their website that you can consult.