Winter brings not only the holiday cheer of the season but also an entirely new set of challenges. The freezing temperatures can leave you stranded for hours on end if you do not prepare yourself properly. So, here are some useful items that you should bring to your kayaking trip. Don't forget to check our sale on ski gear!
1. A Kayak Roof Rack
A kayak roof rack is a very useful item that you must have with you, as it can save your life if any accident were to happen. It is important that the kayak itself is thoroughly checked for damage before getting into it. You should also tie a rope onto the kayak so if anything does go wrong, it will be easy to pull out, especially because of its sharp edges.
You can look online for the best kayak roof rack and check out some reviews. They are a must-have for a successful kayaking trip. Having them allows you to transport your equipment safely, so you can enjoy the best time on the water. If you're looking for a ski equipment, please check our discount on ski equipment.
It is usually advisable to tie both kayaks together when they are stacked on top of each other in order to prevent them from falling. You can also attach the paddle with a cord, which will make it easier for you to retrieve it if it falls in the water.
2. A Waterproof Bag
Be sure to pack all of your items in a waterproof backpack, so they stay dry during the trip, and you prevent damage. One of the problems that people make is not bringing enough dry clothes to change into after they get wet during kayaking. This can be dangerous because it could cause hypothermia, which is a dangerous condition in which your body temperature drops significantly, causing issues such as confusion and cardiovascular failure. It's not recommended to swim in cold weather, but if that happens, consider using dry bag when swimming.
It's also highly recommended that you bring some hand warmers just in case. Having the waterproof bag allows you to enjoy the trip without worrying about keeping your items dry.
Another fun thing that should be considered is having a waterproof camera because it will capture all the amazing memories that you make on your kayaking trip.
3. Extra Flashlights
There is nothing more frustrating than heading out for a kayaking trip and forgetting to bring extra flashlights because it means that you could be stuck out during the night. It is important that you plan ahead of time and have everything packed up before leaving so that there are no mishaps such as this.
The last thing that you want is to get caught in an emergency situation and not be able to call for help because your phone died and be stuck out in the darkness with no light source. Having a flashlight will make it easier for other boats or people on shore to see where you are if they don't manage to see your kayak at first. You should also pack some flares just in case something goes wrong.
4. A Knife or Multi-Tool
A knife will come in handy if you plan on fishing. It can also be used to cut up food, tie the kayak to the roof rack, open a bottle of water, or cut off any clothing that could get caught in your paddle. It's also helpful if you need to do some emergency repairs on your equipment. A knife is very useful because it is small enough, so you can easily use multiple functions, but it has everything that you need in one tool. If you are looking for an alternative choice for a multi-tool, then there are many options available online. This will make it easier for you to find the perfect tool that will work effectively. You can find finger knife and other ski stuff in our collection.
5. A Compass
On your kayaking trip, you need to know where you are going and which direction you need to go in. If your phone dies or breaks, then how will you know where to go? You can get lost very easily on the water with nothing to guide you, so bringing a compass will ensure that this doesn't happen. It is important that before heading out onto the water for your trip, you know which direction you are going in order to have an idea of where the wind is coming from if it changes directions. Having a compass will come in handy if your kayak ends up flipping over because you won't need to guess which way north is if you can see the sun or stars.
6. A First Aid Kit
This is another item that is very useful because there may be times when something goes wrong, and you could require some medical care. Accidents are bound to happen, even if you are very careful, but you can prevent them by being prepared. The last thing you want is for your trip to end up with someone getting injured because they didn't have the proper equipment. Having a first aid kit will make it easier for emergencies to be treated quickly before the situation gets worse. As always, when preparing for any kind of trip, it's important that you do not forget anything. Checklists are very useful because they allow you to save time and money by avoiding mishaps that could cost you more in the long run. Follow these tips we discussed above, make a checklist, and you will be ready for a fun winter kayaking trip in no time!
Conclusion
When going on a kayaking trip in winter, it is important to be prepared for the cold and wet weather. Having the right items can make the trip much more enjoyable. A waterproof jacket and pants are essential for keeping you warm and dry. Extra layers of clothing are also important for staying warm in cold weather. A waterproof bag is crucial to keep your items dry and safe. Additionally, it is important to bring extra items such as a compass, flashlight, and a first aid kit. The compass will help you to stay on the right course, while the flashlight will be useful in case of darkness. The first aid kit is important to have in case of any emergencies.
Questions & Answers
What do you need for overnight kayaking?
When going kayaking overnight, it is important to bring the right items. First, bring a good quality tent and sleeping bag to keep you warm and dry. Next, bring plenty of food and water to keep you well nourished. Also, don't forget to bring a first aid kit, sunscreen, and insect repellent. Additionally, bring a map and compass to help you navigate the area. Finally, bring some extra clothing, including a rain jacket and hat, a flashlight, and a whistle in case of an emergency.
What do you wear kayaking in the winter?
Layering is key when kayaking in winter, as you will want to stay warm but also be able to move freely. Start with a base layer of a synthetic material such as polyester or wool, which will help keep you warm and dry. Over that, add a fleece or soft-shell jacket for warmth and wind protection. On your legs, wear waterproof pants such as breathable nylon or Gore-Tex. Lastly, don’t forget to wear a waterproof hat and gloves, as well as a life jacket.
What should you take along when you go kayaking?
Some essential items for kayaking include a life jacket, paddle, whistle, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, water, snacks, a first aid kit, a map, a cell phone, and a dry bag. A life jacket is an absolute must for safety, as is a whistle in case of an emergency. A hat and sunglasses will protect you from the sun, while sunscreen will help keep your skin safe. Bring plenty of water and snacks to keep you hydrated and energized. A first aid kit and a map are also important for any unexpected emergencies.
Kayaking in winter? What to bring?
With the proper preparation, kayaking in winter can be a great way to enjoy the outdoors and stay active. It is important to bring when kayaking warm and waterproof clothing, including a hat and gloves, as well as a life jacket. A dry bag for your phone and other items is also essential. Wearing multiple layers of clothing will help keep you warm and dry while on the water. Lastly, it is important to check the weather before heading out on the water. If you're still not sure about kayaking in winter, you can try skiing! We created list of best ski resorts for beginners.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Fred Felton
Content Creator / Editor
Fred Felton is a copywriter, editor and social media specialist based in Durban, South Africa. He has over 20 years of experience in creating high end content. He has worked with some of the biggest brands in the world. Currently Fred specialises in the winter outdoors space, focussing on skiing and snowboarding. He is also a keynote speaker and has presented talks and workshops in South Africa.