If you are a water enthusiast, then a kayaking trip is the answer to your call for adventure. Kayaking is an activity full of joy and excitement, but it is also an opportunity to taste the healing power of the water. Get lost in the peace and serenity of your connection with the water while you’re kayaking and enjoy creating unforgettable memories. To let this exercise of body and soul fully adorn your journey, there are a few things to consider before you touch water surfaces. Check them out!
Be Physically Prepared
Strengthening your muscles is very welcomed before a kayaking trip. It does not require some specific preparation, but having your muscles, heart, and lungs in a good shape will help you a lot. You will be able to row for longer periods and thus have more fun and spend more time exploring the water. Take time for some short cardio exercises before your trip, and you won’t regret it. Bear in mind, besides planning a trip, you’re planning a physical activity as well and should be Packing lightweight backpacking gear.
Be Well Equipped
With the right gear, your trip will be more enjoyable, and you will have peace of mind. Proper gear will promise an enjoyable and carefree kayaking experience. Kayaking has many benefits, especially for your health, so be well-equipped on your trip. The list of the gear you will need includes:
- Suitable kayak type – What type of kayak you prefer is the question you need to answer before heading out. Depending on your skills and stage of expertise, pick the kayak type that suits you the best before your kayak trip to avoid some complications or obstacles. Consider the distance and speed you want to follow on your trip before deciding on which type of kayak is the best for your touring.
- Transportation – Getting to the body of water you want to conquer should be smooth and swift. So, you should figure out your transportation mode to avoid any complications on the road. Finding the best kayak trailer for car that can carry your kayak(s) safely and comfortably is crucial. It will give you enough space for the rest of your equipment in your car, and you’ll be ready to hit the water.
- A proper paddle – To save yourself from hand muscle pains, make sure you carry a paddle that is lightweight. Besides this, the length of the paddle is also very important, since it should fit the kayak’s size and your body height.
- Sun protection – Do not forget to protect yourself from harmful UV rays. Sunscreen must be at your fingertips so that you do not get sunburns and ruin your kayaking experience. You will also need sunglasses and a lot of water as well. Staying hydrated is crucial, especially when kayaking during hot weather. You should also have sunglasses and a hat to secure better sun protection.
- Adequate clothes – A drop in body temperature can lead to hypothermia, which can lead even to a fatal outcome. Falling into cold water can lead to this phenomenon. Because of this, it is very important to wear adequate clothes for kayaking. It is crucial that your clothing fits you well so that you can freely move. Choose fabrics that wick away moisture.
- Other must-haves – Make sure to wear a life jacket and that you are a good swimmer. Your life jacket should also fit you. Bring some dry bags for your spare clothes and your supplies, bring healthy snacks and enough water.
Take Small Water Steps
Starting easy is always a secret to success. Kayaking is no exception. Especially if you’re a beginner, do not push too hard. The aim is not to get exhausted or stressed. Start with short distances and calm waters, and you will perfect your kayaking skills, after which you will enjoy your next trip even more.
Good kayaking companions
The fun, beauty, and excitement of kayaking increase when you share your adventure with someone. However, you should bear in mind the characteristics of the company you bring with you; their abilities, skills, and endurance. When planning your trip, make sure you adjust it to the people you go with. It is advisable to choose someone you are comfortable with and someone who is willing to be in pace with your comfort. Plan it together, share ideas and keep the harmony with your kayaking companions.
Pick a Dream Location
Exploring different locations for kayaking makes a kayaking expedition indescribable. But often it is hard to decide on what place is the one that you want. Figuring out where to kayak can sometimes be the most demanding part of the trip plan, but this interactive kayaking map is a great shortcut to circumvent complications and indecision. This ultimate tool will help you narrow down your search and find the dream location for your kayaking. It pinpoints the best places and describes them in depth so that you find your treasure easier. With marvelous locations, your kayaking trip will be a dream come true.
Understand the signals
You should be familiar with the basic and common paddle and hand signals. When you know how to communicate with signals, you will have more confidence while in water. You can understand and give signals to the others, which can keep both you and them safe and sound while kayaking. These signals help you act properly while kayaking.
Back up Adventures
Spice up your trip with some additional activities. Explore the wilderness of the location. Add camping or some other sport to your kayaking. You can also try outdoor cooking and enjoy delicious meals prepared in beautiful landscapes. You can also try fishing or some other hobby you prefer. Do not forget to freeze your moments with art – write your diary and take wonderful shots to preserve your adventures.
Try out new Styles
Monotony in kayaking style can make your trip boring. Because of this, you should explore some different styles and try them out. This will help you improve your kayaking skills and perfect the techniques, and also break the monotony.
Importance of Weather and Time
Pick a good time for your kayaking. Also, be prepared for weather changes. Your adventures should be canceled only under extreme conditions, which can cause some dangerous experiences. Adjust timing to the weather as well.
A good plan is always the key to unforgettable journeys. After you consider these crucial points, prepare yourself well enough and pick the best locations, you are sure to win! Create lovable memories while you’re wandering through the water and wondrous landscapes and enjoy your kayaking trip.
My personal list includes the following:
Sunscreen, Spare paddle, Appropriate clothing, Helmet or hat, Whistle or warning device, Essentials bag, Water and snacks, Proper shoes, Self-rescue gear, Maps or compasses, River knife.