Planning On Going Kayaking On Your Next Trip? Here’s A Useful Guide

Kayaking is one of the best ways to experience nature. It’s also a great way to get exercise and make friends! With this guide, you will learn everything you need to know about kayaking-from safety tips to what gear you should bring with you. Check it out before your next trip!

1. What Gear Do I Need?

First, you’ll need a kayak. Don’t just borrow one from a friend! Make sure you have your own kayak to stay safe and sound when you’re out on the water. You can find them at most sporting goods stores or big-box retailers. You can check some cheap options here with all of the specifications you’ll need. You will also need a kayak paddle that’s the right size for you, as well as a personal flotation device (PFD). 

2. What Else Do I Need To Bring?

If you want to be safe on the water, it’s important to know what additional equipment you should consider bringing along. You will definitely need a dry bag so your things stay nice and dry as you go down rapids or through big waves. For comfort and stability, make sure you have enough room in your kayak for all of your gear, extra clothes, and lunch.

Also, you should always have a first-aid kit on hand just in case someone gets hurt or has an accident. Items inside the first-aid kit should include bandages, gauze pads, tweezers, medicine to reduce swelling and nausea, and other items that are important to you. 

Depending on where you plan to go kayaking, make sure you have sunscreen and bug spray. Wearing sunscreen will help protect your skin from harmful UV rays, while bug spray will keep you safe from the annoying mosquitos that might be hanging around. 

Lastly, don’t forget the camera!

3. Where Should I Go Kayaking?

Now that you have your gear all set up, where should you go? You have many options for kayaking destinations. You can do short or long trips, go with friends or by yourself, on calm water or rapids. Many kayakers enjoy going out on rivers, but you can also find public lakes and ponds in your area if that’s where you want to go. Make sure the place you plan on going doesn’t have any hidden dangers or is too far away from other people who can call for help if anything goes wrong. Make sure it’s rated for kayakers your size and skill level.

4. What Should I Wear?

To stay safe and comfortable, you’re going to need the right clothes for kayaking.  It’s best to wear athletic clothes that won’t get caught on anything. You’ll also want sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. Any water-resistant shoes will work well with kayaking. You will also need dry clothing for when you’re done kayaking for the day. Make sure to wear some layers so you can stay warm while paddling and also after the sun goes down.

5. How Do I Get Started?

If you’re an inexperienced kayaker, the best way to get started kayaking is by taking lessons at a local club, school, or shop. This way, you can learn how to kayak properly and make sure you know the basics before heading out on the water all by yourself. If you find lessons at the local club or shop, they may even offer you some deals on the equipment that’s needed! You should also find a group of people who also love kayaking and go out together. You can make friends and learn together! 

6. Staying Safe

Safety is the number one priority when kayaking. Always have a PFD with you, even if you plan to just be on calm water or are going out for short trips. If you’re planning on kayaking in open waters, always tell family or friends where you’re going and let them know when you plan to return. Keep your phone on you so they can call if anything goes wrong! It is important that you stay calm if anything happens. If you have taken all the necessary measures, everything will be fine, so it’s important that you don’t stress out.

Kayaking is a great way to get exercise, enjoy nature, and make friends. This guide should have you ready for your next kayaking trip with all the information you need-from safety tips to what gear you’ll need when heading out on the water. We hope this article has helped answer any questions that may still be lingering in your mind about planning an amazing day of kayaking!