Kayaking is a wonderful way to explore nature and get some much-needed exercise. To make sure that your kayaking trip is safe and enjoyable, there are a few essential items that you should bring along with you. In this blog post, we will discuss the 7 essential items you need on your next kayaking trip.
Life Jacket
The most important item to bring on any kayaking trip is a life jacket or personal floatation device (PFD). It is required by law that all passengers in a kayak wear one, so make sure to pack at least one for each person in the boat. Also, make sure to choose an appropriate size and style of PFD for your body type and activity level. When you check out inflatable kayak reviews, make sure to look for the best safety tools as well.
Sunscreen
Protect yourself from the sun’s harmful rays while out on the water by packing sunscreen. Be sure to slather on plenty of SPF 30+ before heading out and reapply throughout the day as needed. Bonus points if you opt for a waterproof variety!
Water Bottle
It can be easy to forget how quickly dehydration can set in while out on the open water, so make sure to pack plenty of water or an electrolyte-rich beverage such as Gatorade or Powerade. A sturdy reusable water bottle is preferable over single-use plastic bottles which contribute to ocean pollution.
Sunglasses & Hat
Sunglasses are essential for protecting your eyes from the sun’s UV rays and reducing the glare of the water. Plus, polarized lenses will help improve visibility under bright light conditions. If you have long hair it would also be wise to bring along a hat with a chin strap so it won’t blow away on windy days!
Food & Snacks
Pack snacks such as granola bars and trail mix for an energy boost throughout your paddling adventure. Don’t forget lunch if you plan on spending more than half a day out on the open waters! Sandwiches, wraps, salads, fruit—anything goes when it comes to packing delicious sustenance for your excursion.
Navigation &Communication Gear
When venturing out onto bigger bodies of water such as lakes or oceans, navigation gear such as GPS devices can prove invaluable in case something goes awry during your adventure! Additionally, having some sort of communication device (such as a cell phone) could come in handy in case of an emergency situation where help needs to be called upon immediately.
Clothing & Footwear
Last but not least—clothing! Make sure to dress appropriately depending on the weather conditions; wear lightweight layers that can easily be taken off or added depending on temperatures throughout the day. Also, remember footwear; closed-toe shoes are best when kayaking since they provide extra protection against sharp objects potentially lurking below the surface of the water!
With these 7 essential items packed up and ready for action, you’ll be well-prepared for whatever may come up during your next kayaking excursion! Don’t forget about safety either; always let someone know where you’re going and what time you plan on returning just in case something unexpected happens during your journey! Happy paddling everyone!