Kayaking is the best way to explore the destinations the world has to offer. It gives you a platform to see things from another perspective. Since kayaking is an outdoor sport, you have to be fully prepared for anything not to get frustrated when on the trip. That’s why you must know what can make your experience better and more engaging. This post will cover six of the most essential items you need to bring wherever you go on a kayaking trip.
Safety Gear
The first and most important spot on this list belongs to your safety gear. Safety is the most critical factor on a kayak trip. One way to avoid accidents is by wearing a Personal Floatation Device (PFD) when you go outside. PFDs come in all shapes and sizes, with some being better suited for kayaking than others. If you are unaware of what safety items are recommended, you can use various online resources such as those written by kayak professionals at WaterSportsWhiz.com. Nevertheless, wearing clothing such as a life jacket will also give your body more buoyancy, which creates an increased chance of survival should you ever capsize or get stuck underwater. Along with your PFD, you will need to bring your helmet with you and even a whistle to call for help if you get stuck.
Dry Bags
A dry bag is a waterproof bag with a zipper closure to protect personal belongings from the weather and water. They are typically made with lightweight materials, such as nylon or polyester, to reduce the weight. You can use a dry bag for many things like storing items that may spill or need to be kept separate from other items during transport. If you get caught in the rain or want to keep your electronics safe from the sand elements, you can put them inside the dry bag for safety.
Bringing a dry bag while kayaking is vital as it allows you to pack almost everything you need in relative safety. It can also save you from forgetting items such as food, water, clothes, and first aid kits (more on that later). Dry bags are lightweight and easy to carry around, making them great for when you find a campsite. You can simply pull up to the shore, grab your drybag and pull your kayak onto land. They also come in different sizes and colors so that you can match them with your kayak’s color scheme. It is also essential that you make sure that the dry bag has a floatation system so that it doesn’t sink below the surface, never to be seen from again.
Enough Food And Drink
Kayaking may be an exhilarating activity, but it can also be demanding on the body. In order to maintain a healthy lifestyle and ensure that you can kayak effectively, it is important to bring enough food and drink with you. Depending on the length of time and season you go, you will need different supplies. Nonetheless, you should always bring an electrolyte drink to replenish what is lost through sweat. Electrolyte drinks are usually made from diluted sports drinks, fruit juices, and other beverages containing electrolytes. These drinks are used to replace fluid and nutrients lost through sweating during exercise. They are especially useful for athletes who need to rehydrate quickly while continuing with the activity. You should also ensure that you bring enough food along for the trip and some in reserve if you find yourself in an emergency situation.
First Aid Kit
First aid kits may not be the most glamorous thing to pack, but they are necessary when kayaking. Whether you’re kayaking on your own or with friends, it’s always a good idea to bring a first aid kit onboard your kayak. The following is a list of the items to include in your emergency first aid kit:
- Tourniquet
- Triangle bandage for wrapping around arms and legs if necessary
- Latex gloves
- Medical tape used for securing bandages
- Antibiotic ointment used for minor cuts and scrapes
- Bandaids
- Aline solution
The items mentioned above are only suggestions, and you can set up your kit to whatever situation you think you will find yourself in. For example, you might want to include mosquito repellent in warmer climates, while it might be a good idea to pack a space blanket in colder climates.
Camping Equipment
It might be tempting not to bring camping gear on a kayak trip to save weight and space. But it is actually one of the most important parts of safety and comfort on the water. Bringing your stove, sleeping bag, and other necessary equipment can help you enjoy your trip in many ways. Everyone should think about what they will do with their kayaks before leaving on a long-term adventure. Some people might go out for a day or two, but others may have plans for weeks at a time. The equipment you choose to bring with you on your journey will really make or break the experience, so it’s essential to do some research and plan ahead!
Gear To Protect You From Sun Exposure
It’s essential to use a sun protection kit on a kayak trip as most people don’t think about it. To be fair, it’s so easy to forget about, especially if the water is cold and the wind makes it seem cooler than it really is. But the truth is that it’s vital to keep yourself protected from the sun. The reason is that kayaks are entirely exposed to the sun’s rays. One way is by using a special hat that covers your head and neck. These hats are specifically designed to block out the sun and keep your head and neck safe from burning (not to mention keeping your sweat from dripping into your eyes).
Don’t forget that the most critical gear will always be overlooked, which is why it is so important to take the time to prepare your trip well in advance. After all, you never want to get caught out on the water unprepared, nor do you want to waste a trip by having to turn back due to poor planning. Take these tips into consideration as you make final preparations for your kayak trip, and enjoy your adventure!