Essential Paddling Gear: What I Never Leave Behind
One of the questions I get asked most often is what gear I carry when I head out on the water.
The truth is that my gear varies depending on the trip. A short paddle on a local lake or stream requires less preparation than a full day exploring a remote Adirondack waterway. But there are a few items that almost always come with me, no matter where I'm paddling.
Here are some of the essentials I rely on.
Personal Flotation Device (PFD)
Let's start with the obvious one.
A properly fitting PFD is the most important piece of paddling gear I own. It doesn't do much good if it's stowed away in the boat, so I wear it whenever I'm on the water.
Fortunately, today's paddling-specific PFDs are lightweight, comfortable, and designed to allow freedom of movement while paddling.
I love myStohlquist PFDbecause it is comfortable, has lots of easily accessible pockets and best of all, it comes in many different sizes. Look for one with pockets large enough to hold your phone and other items you wish to be accessible. I suggest trying on different sizes to make sure you find the best fit for you. Make sure it is adjustable to make room for any layers you may wear underneath.
Paddle
A good paddle can make a surprising difference in comfort and efficiency.
I've learned that lighter paddles reduce fatigue, especially during longer outings. Whether I'm exploring quiet ponds or covering several miles of open water, a paddle that feels right in my hands makes the experience more enjoyable.
Personally, I useAqua Boundpaddles. They come in all price ranges with many made of lightweight carbon. Werner Paddles makes exceptional products, too.
🛶 Download my free PDF checklist here: Essential Paddling Day Trip Checklistbefore your next adventure on the water.
Extra Clothing and Emergency Essentials
An extra layer of clothing is always a good idea to bring along when on the water. Being cold and wet at the same time is not a good idea. I also carry a few emergency items, including a light source (headlamp or flashlight), a fire starter and a emergency shelter or bivy. MyHeatsheets Emergency Bivvy is light and very small.
Most days, these items stay tucked away in my dry bag—and that's exactly how I like it.
Dry Bags
Water and gear don't always get along.
I carry a dry bag (or two) to organize my gear and protect essentials such as my phone, keys, extra layers, snacks, and camera equipment. Even on calm days, unexpected splashes, or rain showers could leave gear soaked.
Personally, I like to use bothGranite Gearwaterproof stuff sacks andOutdoor Researchdry bags. Choose a few different sizes. My favorite color is bright yellow or orange.
Tie Line and Pocket Knife
A tie line and pocket knife are two simple items that always find a place in my gear bag. Whether I'm securing my boat at a launch, preventing it from drifting away, cutting a piece of rope, or making a quick repair, both come in handy more often than I would have guessed.
They're lightweight, take up very little space, and have earned a permanent place on my paddling checklist.
Small Repair Kit
I also carry a small repair kit with a few simple items that can solve a surprising number of problems on the water. Mine typically includes duct tape, zip ties in a few sizes, a multi-tool, a couple of carabiners, and a few safety pins. If I'm using dry bags, I'll often toss in a small repair patch as well. Thankfully, I've rarely needed these items, but they're reassuring to have along just in case.
Communication Device(s)
Many of the places I enjoy paddling have limited or no cell service, particularly in the Adirondacks. Depending on where I'm going, I may carry a communication device that allows me to stay connected or call for help if needed.
For local paddles, a fully charged cell phone may be enough. For more remote adventures, I like having an additional way to communicate in an emergency.
Look for a future post here on Gear Etc on emergency communication devices.
If I am depending on a cell phone, I may carry a pocket-sized phone charger. My favorite brand isAnkeras they are lightweight and fast-charging. I also place my phone in airplane mode during my paddle to save on battery.
Hopefully, I'll never need it, but knowing I have a way to reach someone if conditions change provides valuable peace of mind.
Water and Snacks
Hydration is easy to overlook when you're surrounded by water.
I always carry plenty of drinking water, and for longer trips I'll pack a few simple snacks. A paddle is always more enjoyable when I'm not distracted by hunger or dehydration.
Sun and Bug Protection
Depending on the season, this can be just as important as any piece of gear.
A hat with a visor, sunscreen, sunglasses, and insect repellent can make the difference between a memorable day and a miserable one.
For overall sun protection, I like to wear a long-sleeved, breathable SPF shirt. There are many good ones on the market but I have been loving the Sport Tec shirts made by Seatec Outfitters andAFTCO provides a variety of SPF shirtsfor fishing and other water sports. Look for breathable fabrics that dry easily. I prefer a shirt with a hood that you can wear under or over a hat. Consider also SPF shorts or long pants.
Polarized sunglasses are a must-have on the water. They reduce glare, protect my eyes from UV rays, and make it easier to see beneath the surface. Whether I'm paddling a local lake or a remote Adirondack pond, they always come along for the ride.
My favorite bug protection these days isSawyer Picaridin, a family-friendly spray that covers a wide variety of insects. Their 4-oz bottle is perfect for paddling.
Paddling Shoes
I’ve been loving my NRSPaddling Wet Shoes.
Over the years, I've tried a variety of footwear for paddling, and these have become my go-to choice. They're comfortable, lightweight, and designed to get wet. Whether I'm launching from a sandy beach, stepping into a stream, or navigating a rocky shoreline, they provide excellent traction and protection.
They're one of those pieces of gear I rarely think about which is exactly why I like them. They simply do their job, and they come with me on nearly every paddle.
A Small Medical Kit
Thankfully, I rarely need it.
But a few basic supplies tucked away in a dry bag take up very little space and provide reassurance when exploring farther from the launch. Adventure Medical Kits make several sizes. I have the waterproof kit.
Essential Navigation Tools
A paper map (in a plastic sleeve) and a digital map downloaded to my phone before I leave home. I like to use the GAIA app for online maps and navigation as I paddle.
The Most Important Thing
If I had to choose one thing beyond the gear itself, it would be preparation.
Checking the weather before I start, understanding water conditions, telling someone where I'm going, and knowing my route are every bit as important as what I carry in my boat.
The gear helps me enjoy the experience. Preparation helps me return home safely.
Download my free PDF checklist
Before you push away from shore, make sure you've got the essentials covered. I've put together a free Essential Paddling Day Trip Checklist that you can print, save to your phone, or tuck into your dry bag for your next adventure.
🛶 Download my free PDF checklist here: Essential Paddling Day Trip Checklist.
What is the one piece of gear that you always take with you on your adventures?