What To Bring On A Kayaking Trip

The waters of Crystal River, Florida, are exceptional in their natural beauty. With its undisturbed inlets, islands, backwaters and forests that are cherished by nature lovers, photographers and tourists, Crystal River is the perfect place for an unforgettable kayaking trip. With a kayak, you can access many places in Crystal River that larger boats cannot reach and make the most of your trip to Florida. So what should you bring on a kayaking trip?

Safety equipment

To ensure that your trip is both fun and safe, you need to bring the necessary kayak safety equipment. At the top of this list is the video provided by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service that must be watched by every person intending to engage in water sports while visiting the Kings Bay area. The video provides insights and instructions on how to interact with wildlife and marine life without interfering with their habitats.

Secondly, you need a personal flotation device (PFD) that fits snugly, bilge pump, paddle float, safety whistle, spray skirt and an extra paddle. You also need sunscreen with a high SPF for protecting your skin from the sunlight reflected off the water. You can bring a small first-aid kit to help with any landing accidents and a small knife, cell phone, head lamp and map to help you on your paddling adventure.

Dry bags

A quality dry bag is important for keeping your clothing, food, camera and other gear dry during the trip, particularly if the kayak is swamped by a wave or a rollover occurs. The bag should have sealed seams and rolled closures, but must be chosen depending on the size of the hull of the kayak. For example, if the kayak has a sealed bulkhead with an opening, then you will need a smaller dry bag.

The items you may bring in the bag include:

Comfortable outdoor clothing, not jeans. Remember, clothing is worn in layers when you go out kayaking.

1. Plastic bag for wet gear.
2. Warm socks.
3. Soft shoes or sandals.
4. Water bottle.
5. Camera (waterproof or disposable)
6. Towel, sunglasses and a sun hat.
7. Rain jacket and footwear to be used after kayaking.

Plenty of water

When going out kayaking in Crystal River, you need to bring plenty of water to hydrate yourself. The water is necessary because of the sunshine and the effort you will make as you paddle, which will lead to profuse sweating. Similarly, you should bring extra clothing to cover yourself in case the sun is extremely hot or the weather is chilly. A look at the weather forecast can help you plan what types of clothes you should carry.

Physical capability

Kayaking is a physically challenging exercise. Because of this, it is recommended that you venture in the activity only if you are physically capable of paddling without unnecessary body harm. For example, if you have a chronic health problem or are older than 70, you may have to limit the distance you can cover or just avoid paddling altogether. Likewise, children between ages 13 and 17 may only go paddling with the permission of their parents or guardians. And while as a healthy adult you can paddle at your pleasure, the distance you cover or type of paddling you engage in should depend on your physical ability. Paddle less if you are less physically capable.

Affordable kayak rentals in Crystal River

A kayaking trip is as good as the kayak you use. At Captain Mike’s Kayak Academy, we have a track record and reputation for providing stable, comfortable and safe kayaks to all our clients. Our kayaks come with everything you need to have the best time on the water, including safety videos, guided tour options and packages that include breakfast and accommodations. Visit the “Captain Mike’s Kayak Academy” site for more information.