Packing List for a Kayak Trip
Must Have Items
- boat
- paddle
- PFD (personal flotation device) – please wear this when paddling – DO NOT place it on your deck or, worse yet, in your boat!!
- spray skirt
- extra paddle - have a break-down and strap it to your rear deck
- map and/or charts
- map or chart case (to be strapped to top deck)
- compass
- sun screen
- bug spray
- water bottle - at easy access
- water (1 gallon per day) or water purifier if fresh water (and not saltwater) is available
- tent
- tent stakes
- sleeping bag
- sleeping pad
- stove and fuel
- cooking pot(s) and utensils
- biodegradable soap and small sponge for washing dishes
- matches
- emergency fire starting kit
- camp food and lunch food (repacked to appropriate portions)
- light or headlamp
- extra batteries
- camp clothes
- biodegradable soap, toothpaste, etc.
- camp towel
- toilet paper and small shovel and/or carry-out containers
safety/rescue equipment
- paddle float
- stirrup if needed
- pump…remember: these are only useful if you know how to use them!
- signal horn
- whistle
- signal mirror
- strobe on PFD
- boat repair kit
- first aid kit (this will vary greatly depending on your trip location and conditions and your own first aid knowledge and skills) - have this easy-access! (ie: day hatch)
paddling clothes (this list will vary greatly depending on trip location and water temperature)
- hat/cap
- sunglasses with a strap
- paddling gloves if needed
- splash jacket
- wet-suit or “Farmer John/Jane” suit if needed for water temperatures
- quick-drying bottoms and tops (capilene, synthetics, fleece, etc.) remember: “cotton kills!”
- extra wind-proof layer for stops along the way
- booties, paddling shoes, or water shoes
Optional Items
- tarp and rope
- paddle leash
- rope for a bow-line
- helmet (for surf landings or play)
- sail
- pillow
- camp chair
- camp oven
- coffee percolator or press
- lantern or candles
- book(s)
- fishing rod and reel
- camera
- binoculars
The following items may be necessary depending on trip location/type of waters
- GPS
- tide charts
- VHF radio/weather radio
- EPRIB
- cell phone
- radar deflector (anything metal)
- flares
- tow rope
Save it for later!

Kayak Packing List |