Kayaking is a fun and easy activity that can keep you close to nature. It’s also a great way to exercise. Like other forms of wilderness travel, kayaking requires some preparation.
Part of this preparation is knowing what to take with you.
In addition to water, food, and a life jacket (state law), there are four items you might consider bringing on your kayak excursion:
gps
If you’re paddling down rivers or on small lakes, you may not need a GPS. However, if you are in a large body of water and plan to paddle over the visible horizon, GPS is a requirement. GPS units are also great for swampy areas where you’re buried under a canopy of cypress and tupelo trees.
waterproof containers
It is always necessary to keep things dry when you are in the water. Cell phones, cameras, and many other items don’t mix well with water. Waterproof containers are a must when kayaking. They come in all shapes and sizes, from flexible rubber bags to hard plastic boxes sealed with O-rings.
anchor
As absurd as it sounds, they make small anchors specifically for kayaks, and they can be very useful. When you’ve rowed hard for hours against the current or the wind, it’s nice to be able to drop anchor and take a break without worrying about drifting back the way you came.
Towel
Just because it won’t tip over doesn’t mean it won’t get wet. On a windy day, the dew alone is enough to leave you damp at best and soggy at worst. Don’t forget to bring a towel. You can store it in one of its waterproof containers.
A kayak trip is so much better when you know what to pack. Anticipate what you want to do, what might happen, and pack accordingly. Having the right equipment can mean the difference between an exciting experience and pure misery.