Embarking on a kayaking touring trip is an exciting way to explore nature, navigate waterways, and experience the thrill of adventure. To ensure your trip is both enjoyable and safe, it’s crucial to have the right gear. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the essential kayaking gear you need for a successful touring trip.
1. Kayak
The most fundamental piece of equipment is, of course, the kayak itself. For touring trips, you’ll need a kayak designed for long distances and varying water conditions.
Look for features like:
– Stability and Comfort: Ensure the kayak offers a stable and comfortable ride, with adjustable seating to support long hours on the water.
– Storage Space: Adequate storage compartments for gear, food, and personal items are essential for multi-day trips.
– Durability: A robust, durable material that can withstand different water conditions is crucial.
If inland touring is your forte, The Pyranha fusion offers all these features: having a confidence inspiring flat hull with high soft edges which are ideal for anywhere from easy whitewater to a lake day.
The Pyranha fusion has a sealed rear hatch, meaning you have optimal storage for your kit, which will also stay dry. The fusion also features Pyranha’s connect outfitting which offers comfort and connectivity in one package. It is constructed of Pyranha’s MZ3 plastic, which has been used and abused throughout their whitewater range; it is a stiff and impact resistant material.
On the other hand, if you are a sea kayaker the P&H Virgo may suit your needs. It is an all-round sea-kayak which can be used for surf, tide races and touring in a ~14 foot package. The Virgo has become P&H’s most Popular kayak due to its versatility of application.
Go Kayaking North West is a specialist Touring demo centre and the perfect place to try before you buy, speak to fellow paddlers, and ensure you get the right kit for the job.
2. Paddle
Investing in a high-quality paddle can make a significant difference in your kayaking experience. Consider the following when choosing a paddle:
– Weight: Lightweight paddles reduce fatigue, allowing you to paddle longer distances comfortably.
– Blade Shape and Size: Are you looking for a high angle or low angle paddle?
High-angle paddles are intended to be used when your paddles are at a nearly upright position during strokes, these have a wide but shorter blade, meaning power is transferred more quickly but at the expense of being more fatiguing. The Werner Shuna is the best selling high-angle paddle in the shop.
Low angle paddles are intended for use at a low angle during strokes, so nearly flat. These blades are long and narrow; they transfer power more slowly across a less fatiguing movement. Blades like the Werner Camano are popular low angle paddles.
Material: Materials like carbon fibre or fibreglass are lightweight and durable, ideal for touring trips. Paddles often have many material options in your chosen style of blade.
Shaft style: Straight or cranked? Cranked shafts are designed for a more ergonomic feel which takes some stress away from shoulders and wrists. Whereas a straight shaft is … straight.
The use of a cranked or straight shaft is completely up to personal preference.
3. Personal Flotation Device (PFD)
Safety should always be a priority. A personal flotation device, commonly known as a life jacket, is an essential piece of gear. When selecting a PFD:
– Fit: Ensure it fits snugly but comfortably, allowing full range of motion for paddling. Ensure that your PFD won’t ride up during use and especially in the event of a swim.
– Buoyancy: Although not as important as fit, ensure your PFD is buoyant enough to keep you afloat. This is secondary to fit as if your PFD doesn’t fit it can’t do its job properly: riding up and effectively pushing you down while bringing the PFD up.
– Features: What type of kayaking are you doing? Some PFDs have features which are specific to kayaking disciplines; for example, a whitewater PFD is likely to have a rescue harness and sufficient storage.
Come in store and try out your new PFD before buying with expert fitting advice!
4. Spray deck
A spray deck is essential for keeping water out of the kayak, especially in rough waters or inclement weather. Although, not all kayaks require a spray deck, such as the venture Islay cruiser- recreational kayaks are designed for ease of access and calm water so don’t require a spray deck.
When choosing a spray deck, think about:
– Material: Durable, waterproof materials like neoprene or nylon are ideal. You will see that more high end decks will be constructed of thicker neoprene with features like latex to reduce the chance of the deck coming off.
– Fit: Ensure sizing is correct for your kayak and you. Fit on the waist is important as to not let water in through the waist as well as being comfortable and not sagging down.
Kayaks often have varying cockpit sizes so understanding what size your deck needs to be is important- you can do this by measuring your cockpit width and length and consulting the sizing guide of the deck or consult one of our product experts.
5. Dry Bags
Keeping your gear dry is important, especially on multi-day trips. Dry bags come in various sizes and are perfect for storing items like clothing, electronics, and food. Look for:
– Waterproof Seals: Roll-top closures are most effective at keeping water out. Some dry bags combine technologies, using seal systems combined with roll-top, such as the watershed Ocoee.
– Durability: Choose rugged materials that can withstand use, which may involve dragging and being caught on rough surfaces.
6. Navigation Tools
Navigation is important on longer journeys in addition to an understanding of your route, there are tools which are helpful in navigation. These include:
– Map and Compass: Carrying a map and compass can be useful, allowing you to navigate your route accurately.
– GPS Device: A GPS device can be valuable for precise navigation, especially in unfamiliar waters. But cannot always be relied on for need of service or in the event of a device dying.
7. First Aid Kit
Accidents can happen, so it’s important to be prepared. A well-stocked first aid kit should include:
– Bandages and Gauze: For cuts and abrasions.
– Antiseptic Wipes: To prevent infection of any treated cuts.
– Pain Relief Medication: For common ailments like headaches or muscle soreness.
The Lifesystems waterproof first-aid kit features all you need in a drybag package.
8. Clothing
Dressing appropriately can significantly impact your comfort and safety, reducing the risk of climatic injury. Consider:
– Quick-Drying Layers: Moisture-wicking and quick-drying clothing helps keep you dry and comfortable.
-Weather-Appropriate Gear: Apparel like drysuits, dry cags and pants may be helpful in cold temperature conditions, as they create a waterproof layer which paired with good thermals create an insulating effect. Some days may require shorts and a t-shirt though. It is important to have equipment on hand that may help if the British weather takes a usual turn- it may be worth packing a spare cag in your boat.
– Footwear: Footwear with good grip, support and comfort are important in kayaking.
-Headwear: A woolly hat or a cap to keep the sun off? Are you going to be near obstacles? If so it may be worth carrying a helmet to protect you in the case of a collision or a capsize in shallow water.
If you’re wondering what will be the right helmet for you, speak to our product experts through our website’s live chat service, a phone call or in store. Remember, it’s always best to try on a helmet before you buy in order to ensure the fit is right for you.
9. Food and Hydration
It’s nice to be energised on your trips, carrying food and hydration items helps to make the fun last longer and stop tiredness from taking over.
Pack:
– High-Energy Snacks: Nuts, dried fruit, and energy bars are great for quick boosts.
– Plenty of Water: Hydration bladders or water bottles with a filtration system are practical.
Don’t expect to be able to pick up supplies from the local corner shop while you’re out.
10. Safety and Communication Devices
Having means to communicate can help ensure the safety of yourself and others. Include:
More common:
-Your phone: To contact emergency services or to share your journey with friends.
– Whistle: For signalling in case of emergencies.
Less common:
– VHF Radio: For communicating with other vessels or emergency services.
Ensure your radio is waterproof or sealed within a waterproof
– Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) or Gps Device: For alerting rescue services to your location if you’re in distress- such as a Garmin InReach etc.
Conclusion
Being prepared for your kayaking trip, enhances the experience you will have and ensures your safety. Although, not every item on the list is required it’s worth having an understanding of what items you may want to bring with you as every trip is different, along with your preferences.
Happy Paddling!!
