Paddling Checklists
Sea Kayaking Basic Gear List
The Four Essentials -
Don't leave home without them
Kayak
- without this you are going nowhere
Paddle
- without this your kayak is going nowhere
Sprayskirt
- without this your kayak may fill with water
PFD
:
personal flotation device (life jacket) - without this you may die
Safety Gear -
Don't leave shore without them
Spare
Paddle
- without this you may not get back
Bilge
Pump
- without this you may stay submerged
Paddle
Float
- without this you won't get back in your boat
Weather
Radio
- without this you won't know what is coming at you
Emergency
Shelter And Rations
- without this you might freeze
First
Aid Kit
- without this you might
Tow
System
- without this your friends might not come back
Helmet
For Surf Conditions
- without this you may leave your scalp on a rock
Signaling –
In case you need to get help
Flares
:
handheld and aerial
Smoke
Canister
Flag
Mirror
Whistle
Flashlight
Marine
VHF Radio
Strobe
EPIRB
Navigation –
So you can get to where you're going
Compass
:
hand-held and deck-mounted
Charts
Chart
Cover
Course
Protractor
Tide
Charts And Tables
Wristwatch
Clothing –
Dressing correctly for your trip
Paddling
Jacket
Wetsuit
Drysuit
Polyester,
Nylon, Or Wool Insulating Garments
if it's cold OR the water is cold
Cotton
Garments For Cooling/Sun Protection
if it's hot AND the water is warm
Headwear
:
balaclava, beanie, or neoprene hood, sun hat, rain hat, etc.
Handwear
:
gloves or pogies
Footwear
:
booties, neoprene socks, aquasocks, sandals, rubber boots, etc.
Camping -
Stay where you're going
Sleeping
Bags
