Paddling Gear
It only seems like you need a lot of stuff!
Some of the paddling gear discussed here is for longer excursions, such as the VHF radio, flashlight or medications that do not need to be taken on a short day paddle. Most of the other gear is standard safety carry alongs. When you start kayaking, you'll likely be with a trainer or a group, paddling for a few hours at a time.
Here's the paddling gear
you need …
in addition to your lunch!
PFD
It goes without saying - a personal flotation device is required. Just like the seatbelt in your car, you can't paddle without one. Find out which type of PFD to use for kayaking.
Signal Device
Of audible capability as required per Navigational Rule 35 for signaling. Clipped to each PFD. See: Navigational Rules.
Spare Paddle
Not required but a good plan for longer trips - to save room, you could pack one half of a collapsible paddle (which technically is an oar!).
Repair kit
Especially for longer excursions - specific to your kayak material & some duct tape.
Float line
Floatable line with or without clipped ends - used for towing. You can purchase a quick release pack like this - it straps to your waist - the line is packed in a pouch. The use of these is usually covered in a certified kayak class.
First Aid Kit
A small air-tight container for a first aid kit - it's a must-have. I insert my dry box in a zip-lock plastic bag - and then wrap it again in 2 more zip bags - this keeps these supplies dry. The extra bags do not add any weight and they double as waste containers, or to use for other purposes during paddling.
Here's a basic dry box first aid kit:
Aspirin
Antiseptic Cream
Band-Aids (variety)
Bandages or gauze |
Antacids
Burn Cream for skin
Sugared Candy
Energy food bars |
For an extended trip - Add:
Change of warm clothing - fleece
Thermal emergency blanket
Type IV PFD for throwable float
Disposable lighter to make a fire
Ice pack |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Flashlight
Standard paddling gear includes a flashlight necessary for night paddling. See: Navigational Rules 
Float Bags
These are not required - but if you're going to spend any extra money on paddling gear - this is well worth it - these are inflated bags - cone shaped and clip-fit into a kayak's bow and stern to add buoyancy in the event of a capsize - you can purchase a set for about $50.
Hand Pump
These are small hand-powered pumps that extract water from the cockpit. A sponge is also handy for drying up small puddles that accumulate.
Paddle Float
Either an inflatable cushion type or foam for self rescue assistance. It attaches to one paddle blade in order to float that end - then the paddle shaft lays across the deck to aid the swimmer to climb onto the deck. See: Kayaking Safety.
Sprayskirt
Although not required, many use these every time they paddle - however, do not use one without having training to know how to detach it quickly underwater.
Float Plan
It's a good habit to let a responsible person know of your plans. Even if intending to simply paddle for a few hours nearby - I stick a note on the fridge. For longer excursions, leave a more detailed plan listing the different places in the order in which they will be visited … and call when you're back on shore.
Click here for a printable Float Plan - Print enough for the season and use them each time you paddle.
VHF Radio and GPS
Hand held VHFs are relatively inexpensive - more expensive models are submersible. For NOAA weather updates and emergency contact - especially useful on overnight or extended trips.
Global Positioning Systems (GPS) - hand held navigation is so popular for autos that they've exploded into sports and off road navigation use. You can find scaled down mapping systems that are terrific for finding your way back or keeping track of time and weather. Because they are fed by satellite signals, not land towers, they are more reliable anywhere on the planet.
Gear and Paddling Plan Checklist
Included here, is a printable Gear and Paddling Plan Checklist . The Checklist is a convenient guide - a reminder of things to bring each time you go paddling - the checklist portion reminds you about things to do before your paddling trip. As your skills improve or you take on more advanced paddling, you will likely add to your gear list - but this will get you started!
For Personal Comfort:
Sun Protection
Sunglasses, hat, sunscreen
Small Dry Bag
For snacks, medication - things you will need at hand. Zip locking bags work perfectly fine for this. Just a note - if you are taking along medication, only take enough for a few days beyond your intended paddle time - you don't want to risk your prescription bottle becoming fish food!
Warmer Clothes
A sweater or fleece pull over and long pants in case the weather turns cooler.
Foot Protection
You will want to have a pair of flexible sneakers or sandals on board for walking protection on shore. Make sure they're not your best pair because they're going to get wet. Flip-flops are great but they tend to get stuck in sand or mud if you have to step out in shallow water. I use a "demoted" pair of sneakers.
Now see . . . that's not so bad!
To keep all your paddling gear in good condition see Kayak Care.
Find the paddling gear mentioned above in the Paddling Shop.
Take me back to the Home Page
