Packing Tips For Kayaking Trips
My friends are constantly asking me about how I manage to pack so quickly and efficiently for all of the trips I take.
I thought it would be great to share my tips and help you find what works best to fit your needs when packing for your short or long kayaking trips.
First, I examine the type of trip I am going to take and the form of transportation I am going to be using such as: day trips and week long paddles, multiple trips in the car, or traveling by plane, train, or helicopter.
(OK so the last ones a bit far fetched, I'm just checking to see how close you're reading).
The next thing I think about is how much space I am going to need for my necessities versus how many people are going with me and what they might be bringing.
I can usually manage to keep everything down to one large duffel, one small soft sided suitcase, and my inflatable kayak.
The final thing I consider before packing my essentials and kayaking gear is what the weather will be like at my destination.
If you are going to Florida you don't really need that big heavy winter coat until you come back and I can typically get away with a couple of sweatshirts if the temperature is between 40-60 degrees.
There's no need to take extra items that you'll only use at the beginning and end of your trip.
How do I manage to pack all that gear and clothing into only a couple of pieces of luggage, you ask? I use these things called "Space Bags".
Not only are they waterproof but I can pack massive amounts into them and turn those into tiny layers in my suitcases or duffels.
I also use Ziploc bags for things like my guide books and maps.
My shoes get their own bag and I always stuff other empty bags for my muddy river shoes in the toes of my shoes as I hate getting out of the river, having to pack my muddy shoes with my clothes.
Bug spray, shampoo and conditioner go into a Ziploc bag which goes into the top of my suitcase along with my PFD and I am ready to go.
If you are packing for a trip, keep all of my tips in mind.
I think you will find yourself surprised that you too can pack efficiently and enjoy your trip more.
I thought it would be great to share my tips and help you find what works best to fit your needs when packing for your short or long kayaking trips.
First, I examine the type of trip I am going to take and the form of transportation I am going to be using such as: day trips and week long paddles, multiple trips in the car, or traveling by plane, train, or helicopter.
(OK so the last ones a bit far fetched, I'm just checking to see how close you're reading).
The next thing I think about is how much space I am going to need for my necessities versus how many people are going with me and what they might be bringing.
I can usually manage to keep everything down to one large duffel, one small soft sided suitcase, and my inflatable kayak.
The final thing I consider before packing my essentials and kayaking gear is what the weather will be like at my destination.
If you are going to Florida you don't really need that big heavy winter coat until you come back and I can typically get away with a couple of sweatshirts if the temperature is between 40-60 degrees.
There's no need to take extra items that you'll only use at the beginning and end of your trip.
How do I manage to pack all that gear and clothing into only a couple of pieces of luggage, you ask? I use these things called "Space Bags".
Not only are they waterproof but I can pack massive amounts into them and turn those into tiny layers in my suitcases or duffels.
I also use Ziploc bags for things like my guide books and maps.
My shoes get their own bag and I always stuff other empty bags for my muddy river shoes in the toes of my shoes as I hate getting out of the river, having to pack my muddy shoes with my clothes.
Bug spray, shampoo and conditioner go into a Ziploc bag which goes into the top of my suitcase along with my PFD and I am ready to go.
If you are packing for a trip, keep all of my tips in mind.
I think you will find yourself surprised that you too can pack efficiently and enjoy your trip more.
Source...