Accessories For Canoes: Gear List For Canoeing Equipment
🛶 Welcome fellow adventurers! Firstly, let me tell you about us to give you some confidence in reading this blog, we are OBSESSED with canoeing. We have not been paid to create this post and have bought all our own gear at full cost to us. We get out on the water as much as we can, since discovering this incredible sport in June 2022. The reason we wanted to share this post is that we found the current ones lacking information and/or boring so you can use this to always be prepared regardless of if you are a beginner or an advanced competent canoeist.
Embarking on a thrilling canoe trip is an experience like no other. As you prepare to paddle through picturesque waterways and immerse yourself in the wonders of nature, having the right gear can make all the difference. In this blog, we've curated a comprehensive gear list to ensure you're fully equipped for your canoeing escapades. From essential items to handy accessories, we've got you covered. Use this guide to support your plans for canoes and kayak trips. So, let's dive in and discover the must-have gear that will elevate your canoe trips to new heights of comfort, safety, and enjoyment! 🛟🌊
“Anyone who says they like portaging is either a liar or crazy.” – Bill Mason
🛶🗺️Short canoe trip kit list:
Canoe and Paddles: Your trusty vessel for navigating the waterways. Buy or hire and get out on the water!
Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs): Ensure everyone has a properly fitting one. This is so important so that you are as safe as possible and reduces the risk of drowning.
Safety Equipment: Mobile phone and a first aid kit, a phone is great for taking those pics but also in case you need to make a call and we always take a first aid kit, we hope to never have to use it, but better to be safe than sorry.
Dry Bags: Keep your belongings dry and protected from water, if you capsize, you will not need to worry about your stuff getting ruined.
Water and Hydration: Carry enough water, you need to make sure you stay hydrated as you’re exercising.
Clothing: Pack appropriate layers, including rain gear and quick-drying clothes. Always pack a spare bag with dry clothes in case you get wet! We also take a quick dry towel.
Sun Protection: Hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
Personal Essentials: Medications and insect repellent.
🛶💼Long canoe trip kit list:
Canoe and Paddles: Your trusty vessel for navigating the waterways. Take an extra canoe paddle, just in case!
Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs): Ensure everyone has a properly fitting one.
Navigation Tools: Maps and/or GPS devices to stay on course unless you’re confident in where you are going!
Safety Equipment: Whistle, mobile phone, sponge, bailer, head torch, spare carabiners, safety knife, throw line, tic tweezer set and a first aid kit. If the trip involves whitewater, then a helmet should be worn. A small mirror (visibility in emergency situations).
Dry Bags and Barrels: Keep your belongings dry and protected from water.
Water and Hydration: Carry enough water and a filtration system for longer trips.
Clothing: Pack appropriate layers, including rain gear and quick-drying clothes. Always pack a spare bag with dry clothes in case you get wet! We also take a quick dry towel. Paddling gloves are useful to prevent blisters.
Sun Protection: Hats, sunglasses, lip balm and sunscreen.
Repair Kit: Duct tape which is great for clothing a quick fix for gear.
Personal Essentials: Medications and insect repellent.
Keys: CRT and the canal lock water key - super for accessing facilities (where they are available) such as toilets and drinking water.
Canoe Portaging: Canoe trolly, at the time of writing this we have a 40kg canoe so it is unrealistic to always portage it by holding it above your head!
🛶🏕️ Canoe-camp kit list:
-See everything from the Long canoe trip kit list above and add the below:
Camping Gear: Tent, sleeping bags, sleeping pads, and folding camping chairs. Keep warm.
Cooking Equipment: Camp cooking facilities such as a firebox, cookware such as a frying pan or Billy can, utensils, and food storage containers.
Fire Starters: Matches, lighters, or fire starters for campfires (check local regulations).
Food and Water: Plan and pack meals that are easy to prepare and store, and ensure an adequate supply of drinking water.
Campsite Essentials: Tarp or groundsheet and/or camping hammocks - this helps with rain and relaxation.
Lighting: Headlamps, lanterns, or flashlights for nighttime visibility.
Campsite Comfort: Camp pillows, washing line, batteries, solar charger, binoculars and power bank - very helpful if you are wild camping or are on a campsite without an electric hookup.
Toiletries: Biodegradable soap, toilet paper, toothpaste and brush, and hand sanitiser - helps you feel fresh.
Insect Protection: Mosquito nets, bug repellents, and citronella candles.
Extra Clothing: Layered clothing, including warm layers for colder nights and rain gear.
Entertainment: Books, games, or musical instruments for campsite enjoyment.
🚮 Leaving no trace is an essential principle that ensures we enjoy the beauty of nature while minimising our impact on the environment. When embarking on canoe trips and camping adventures, it's crucial to follow these principles. Pack out what you pack in, disposing of waste responsibly. Respect wildlife by observing from a distance and refraining from feeding or disturbing them. Minimise campfire impact by using established scorch zone, fire rings or designated cooking areas. By practicing leave no trace ethics, we can preserve these pristine environments for future generations and continue to enjoy the wonders of canoeing amidst unspoiled natural beauty. 🌅
As you embark on your next canoe trip, remember that proper gear preparation is essential for a safe and enjoyable experience. By using this comprehensive gear checklist, you can check that you have everything you need to navigate the waterways and make lasting memories. Don't forget to prioritise safety, respect the environment, and practice leave no trace principles. So grab your gear and happy canoeing!
We're Tim & Claire, we love UK canoeing and are obsessed! Come and join us!
