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 my Stohlquist PFD because it is comfortable, has lots of easily accessible pockets and best of all, it comes in many different sizes.
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 use Aqua Bound paddles. They come in all price ranges. Werner Paddles makes exceptional products, too.
Dry Bags
Water and gear don't always get along.
I carry a dry bag to protect essentials such as my phone, keys, extra layers, snacks, and camera equipment. Even on calm days, unexpected splashes, rain showers, or a misplaced water bottle can leave gear soaked.
Personally, I like to use both Granite Gear waterproof stuff sacks and Outdoor Research dry bags.
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.
Communication Device
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.
If I am depending on a cell phone, I may carry a pocket-sized phone charger. My favorite brand is Anker as 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, 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 shirts made by Orvis. Look for a breathable fabric and one dries easily. I like one with a hood that you can wear under or over a hat.
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 is Sawyer 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 NRS Paddling 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.
Essential Navigation Tools
A paper map (in a plastic bag) 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, 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.
What is the one piece of gear that you always take with you on your adventures?