Kayak Camping

Kayak camping is one of the best ways to enjoy your the thrill and relaxation of kayaking. Whether you plan an overnight trip or a week-long excursion, it’s important that you carefully plan what you will need to take. Since your kayak only has so much space, you’ll want to pack light but make sure you include the essentials.

You will need to pack equipment, personal gear and, naturally food. Layer your clothing so that you can remove it gradually to suit your level of comfort. If it’s summer weather you’re kayak camping in, take only one sweater or sweatshirt. You will most likely be in your swimsuit most of the time anyway and those extra clothes will just weigh you down. Don’t pack a lot of underwear or heavy outerwear either. Use a couple of plastic trash bags to waterproof your clothing in two layers, one inside the other. Secure each bag separately with a heavy-duty rubber band, and then place them inside your nylon or canvas duffle bag to protect the plastic from ripping or tearing.

You can also waterproof your small gear by using zip-lock bags or you can purchase special waterproof gear bags. Don’t pack those big, full-sized bottles of shampoo, sun lotion or tubes of toothpaste. Sample sizes are perfect for kayak camping and they won’t add a lot of extra weight to your pack. The same goes for tableware, utensils and cooking gear. Purchase light, compact things like airline utensils, which can be found at the Salvation Army or Goodwill store. Choose a small, compact flashlight and if you’re taking a book or games, choose a paperback and small travel games.

It is critical that you tie your gear up in your kayak to prevent loss in case you capsize. Use two to three foot sections of 1/4 inch or 3/8 inch line with a bow knot that can easily be released. Searing the ends of your line with a candle flame will help to prevent fraying. Whatever you do, don’t use your kayak bow or stern lines for tying up your gear. If you keep the items that you use most often in the top of your pack, they will be easier to reach without having to unpack everything each time you want them.

Don’t feed any wild animals, they may seem tame but if they tear into your gear while you’re sleeping, they can do some major damage as well as eat all your food. Purify all drinking water by heating it to a rolling boil or use purifying chemicals. Make sure you start and finish your day with a warm meal. You can lunch in between on ready-to-eat snacks, simple cold lunches and freeze-dried meat. If you find yourself getting cold and hungry during the day, eat an extra snack and drink plenty of water. Unzip your sleeping bag in the morning to remove moisture.

Following a few simple rules will ensure that your kayak camping trip will be an enjoyable one you’ll long remember.