What’s the Best Thing You Can Do While Kayak Camping?

You've packed your tent, food, and sleeping bag, but what should you do once you set up camp? Some people like to fish from their kayak, while others prefer exploring coves by standup paddleboard. Why sacrifice when you don't have to?

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The ultimate kayak camping activity is sea-kayaking, which combines exercise, sightseeing, and relaxation all in one. With a bit of preparation and the right knowledge, it can be an incredible experience.

Why Would Anyone Want to Go Camping with Kayaks?

Kayak camping is an exciting way to explore the outdoors and experience nature in a unique way. It can be intimidating at first, but with the right preparation and knowledge, it can be a great adventure.

One of the main advantages of kayak camping is that you can access areas that are not accessible by foot or car. You can explore rivers, lakes, and other waterways while carrying all your gear with you.

This means that you don't have to worry about finding a campsite or having to carry heavy backpacks full of supplies.

Another advantage of kayak camping is that it allows you to get up close and personal with nature. You will be able to observe wildlife from a different perspective as you paddle along the waterway. You will also have plenty of opportunities for fishing and swimming during your trip.

Even if you do flip your kayak (which is bound to happen at least once), it's easy enough to get back in and continue on your journey.

All in all, kayak camping offers an exciting way to explore the outdoors and experience nature in a unique way.

A Few Simple Things That Will Make Your Kayaking Trip Easier

When you're planning a kayaking trip, there are some simple items that can make your experience much more enjoyable. Read more about it below.

Dry Bags

Dry bags are an essential item for any outdoor enthusiast. They are made from waterproof materials and have special closures that keep water from entering the bag.

This makes them perfect for activities like kayaking, fishing, or camping in wet conditions. Not only do they keep your items dry, but they also provide a great way to store and transport them.

Sunglass Tether

Losing your sunglasses while out on a kayaking or canoeing trip can be a real bummer. Not only do you have to deal with the intense squinting, but you also have to worry about the cost of replacing them.

To avoid this problem, many people are now using sunglass tethers to keep their glasses secure.

These straps are comfortable and even float, so if your sunglasses do end up in the water, you might actually have a chance of retrieving them.

Kayak Repair Kit

Having a kayak repair kit on hand is essential for any kayaker, especially if you're planning to venture out into the wilderness.
A small crack or puncture can quickly ruin your trip, so it's important to be prepared with the right tools and supplies.

Kayak repair kits are lightweight and inexpensive, making them easy to bring along on any adventure.

Good Water Shoes

Good water shoes are an essential item for any outdoor enthusiast. Whether you're kayaking, canoeing, or just wading in the river, having a good pair of water shoes can make all the difference.

Sure, you could get away with flip-flops, but if you've ever tried to pull a kayak up a muddy riverbank in them, you know it's not easy.

That's why it's important to find something that offers more protection and stability than your average flip-flop.

Comfy Kayak Seat

The Skwoosh Expedition Kayak Seat is a great choice for those looking to upgrade their kayak seat. It features a lightweight, breathable mesh fabric that helps keep you cool and comfortable during long days on the water.

The seat also has adjustable straps and a lumbar support cushion to provide extra back support. The cushion is filled with air cells that can be adjusted to fit your body shape, making it perfect for customizing your comfort level.

Top Canoe and Kayak Camping Tips

Canoe and kayak camping is a great way to explore the outdoors, but it can be intimidating for those who are new to the activity. To ensure a successful trip, it's important to have the right equipment and know-how. Here are some of the top tips for canoe and kayak camping:

First, make sure you have all the necessary gear. This includes a canoe or kayak that fits your size and skill level, life jackets, paddles, dry bags for storing items, and other safety equipment such as flares or a whistle. You should also bring along plenty of food and water, as well as clothing appropriate for the weather conditions. Additionally, you may want to bring along a map or GPS device so you can easily find your way back if needed.

Second, plan ahead by researching your route before you set out on your trip. Make sure you know what type of terrain you'll be dealing with and any potential hazards that could arise during your journey. It's also important to check the weather forecast so you can prepare accordingly.

Finally, practice proper safety protocols while on the water by wearing life jackets at all times and avoiding alcohol consumption while paddling.

Plan Your Trip

Travel planning can be intimidating at first, but it doesn't have to be. Beginners should select a shorter route with calm waters and a relaxing destination.

Your maiden voyage is all about figuring things out, so you want your outing to be as stress-free as possible. Mild, sunny weather is ideal for the best experience. It's recommended to have a short one or two-night trip on your first outing.

This will give you enough time to get comfortable with the boat and its systems without having to worry about being away from home for too long.

Gather Your Gear

When planning a canoe or kayak camping trip, it's important to pack like you would for a backpacking trip. This means bringing all the necessary camping gear, such as a sleeping bag, tent, and cook stove.

While standard car camping gear works well, backpacking variants are often better suited for limited space.

Weather-appropriate gear is also essential when packing for a canoe or kayak camping trip. Make sure to bring rain gear if there's even the slightest chance of rain during your trip.

Pack Your Gear

Packing your gear for a canoe or kayak camping trip is essential to ensure you have enough space and that everything fits properly. To make sure you have the most efficient packing system, use dry bags for all your gear.

This way, you can easily organize items into different bags.

Load Your Craft

When loading your craft, it is important to consider how the extra weight will affect its handling. A loaded craft handles differently than an empty one, so it takes a little practice to get used to the new feel.

To ensure that your craft handles as best as possible, keep your gear load low and centered. For a canoe, this is relatively easy since you can stash all of your equipment near the middle of the boat.

Stay Safe

When embarking on a canoe or kayak camping trip, safety should always be the top priority. Before heading out on your first overnight trip, it is important to take a dry run with all of your camping gear loaded into your craft.

This will help you get used to the new weight distribution and make sure that everything is secure. Additionally, wearing a life jacket at all times is essential for staying safe while out on the water.

How Do You Pick a River Route?

Kayaking is a great way to explore nature and get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

National parks like Yellowstone and Grand Teton have seen record numbers of visitors, while Arches National Park in Utah has had to turn people away due to overcrowding.

This makes it even more important for those looking to go kayak-camping this summer to plan ahead and pick a river route, gear, and camping site that will provide the best experience possible.
With careful planning, you can still find seclusion on your next kayaking adventure!

Start Slow

The key is to start slow and build up your skills and confidence gradually. Professional kayakers recommend beginning with a part-day trip to a lake or flat river. This will help you become comfortable in the kayak before taking on more challenging waters.

You can also look for kayak rentals near your destination and make sure you have the necessary safety equipment like personal flotation devices.

Find a Route — and Outline It

It's important to do some research before embarking on your journey. Following a river isn't always easy since it's typically not marked and it's very easy to miss a turn if you're not paying attention.

To avoid this, you should plot your routes by finding prominent features to follow ahead of time in Google Maps.

Study the Forecast

When planning a trip on the river, it is important to stay up to date with the current weather and forecast. Even experienced river travelers check for storms and wind direction before trips.

Strong winds can push you in directions you don't want to go, so if the wind isn't "on your side", experts recommend pulling over.

It is also important to dress for the worst-case scenario when it comes to sun exposure. Even if it is hot outside, professionals recommend wearing long sleeves and pants as well as a big goofy sun hat in order to protect yourself from getting burned.

Find Your Line, and Know Your Limits

Kayaking is an exciting and thrilling activity, but it's important to know your limits. Adrenaline is the enemy in kayaking. Taking calculated risks is part of the adventure, but it's important to be aware of what can happen if you don't know your line and stay within your limits.

Appreciate the Ebb and Flow

The ebb and flow of the river is a mesmerizing experience for kayakers. The rush of the rapids is an adrenaline-filled adventure, but the quiet serenity of nature can be just as rewarding. There are all kinds of wildlife, and they won't notice you until you're right on top of them.

This kind of peacefulness can be found between the rougher patches on the water, allowing kayakers to take in the woodsy sights and gentler sounds.

Ready to Go On Your Kayaking Trip?

Are you ready to go on your first kayak or canoe camping trip? With the right preparation and planning, it can be an incredibly rewarding experience.

Start by planning your route and making sure you have all the necessary supplies. Make sure everything fits in your kayaks and that you have enough room for all of your gear.

Once you're out on the water, don't forget to have fun! Splash each other with paddles, sing campfire songs, and enjoy a peaceful cup of coffee in the morning.

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