Preparing to have fun on your kayaking trip starts with just that, being prepared. There are certain items you should bring along with you on your journey to ensure a safe and enjoyable time out on the water.
These items will help you spend less time worrying and more time enjoying your kayaking adventure.
Here is a complete packing guide on what to bring kayaking on your next trip.
Determine Your Environment
Not every kayaking trip is the same. That means you don’t have to pack the same for every trip you take.
Saltwater versus freshwater, lakes versus oceans, these factors can make a big difference to your packing and plans.
The length and duration of your trip will also help determine other items you will need as well. If you are planning on spending the whole day out on the water, you will have to bring different things for during the day and during the late afternoon/early morning.
Understanding everything about your trip will help you figure out what you will need to pack.
What to Bring Kayaking Starts with Knowing What to Wear
Knowing what the weather will be like beforehand is necessary for dressing appropriately.
Wearing a bathing suit is appropriate for warmer months. Consider wearing a long-sleeve on top of your suit that has SPF abilities, so you don’t get burnt. You will spend a lot of time exposed to the sun.
If the weather isn’t so sunny, or it’s during the cooler months, you might need a windbreaker or some sort of cover-up.
Regardless of the weather type, a hat is always a good idea for possible rain or sun avoidance.
Hydration is Key
A long day out on the water means you will require some serious hydration. You don’t want face dehydration in the summer heat on the water.
Make sure you pack enough water for both you and whoever is traveling with you without weighing down your kayak. Try to have 8 – 16 oz per person per hour that you are in the sun.
This should make sure that everyone is happy and hydrated.
Other Items You Won’t Want to Miss
You should also consider including some of these other items for your trip.
- Flashlight or Headlamp
- Safety Knife
- First Aid Kit
- Watch
- FM Radio
- Compass
- Map
- Whistle
- Towels
- Bug repellent
- Water shoes
If you plan on fishing, make sure that you have all the proper equipment and that it can fit on the type of kayak you will be using. Many saltwater kayaks should have the space needed for your equipment.
Don’t Forget to Protect Your Skin
Sunscreen is beyond important to have with you when you are spending extended amounts of time outside under the sun.
Try to get SPF 50 or higher to prevent yourself from quickly getting a sunburn.
You can also use a light blanket or towel to cover your legs while you are kayaking which can also help shield you from the sun.
Safety Comes First
This checklist will help you determine what to bring kayaking on your next trip.
Having a good time starts with having everything you need to be safe on your kayaking trip.
Naples Beach Adventures has water rentals for canoes, stand-up paddleboarding, kayaks and guided tours of the area.
Check out our blog for more information on water adventures and the Naples area.
Naples Beach Adventures
11135 GulfShore Drive
Naples, FL 34108
Parking Lot #4
(239) 596-9842