What You Need To Know When Picking Kayak Trips Ontario

By Sarah Fox


If you have recently been introduced to kayaking, you may be looking at taking a trip in one. Kayak trips Ontario are incredibly fun but you do need to make sure you are properly prepared. Here are some tips and tricks that you can use in order to make sure your upcoming paddling excursion is as safe, fun and enjoyable as possible.

Paddling trips can take one of two basic forms. One situation would involve paddling from one campsite to another. The other situation would involve camping in one set location and then exploring the surrounding water. Knowing what kind of trip yours will be will affect how you pack for your trip.

Just remember that if you are going on a tour that is being run by a paddling company that likely they will supply you with a list of what you need to bring and what they will be providing. If there is anything you are not sure about, it is a good idea to contact the organizers and clarify things well in advance of the trip's start date. When picking a tour, make sure to choose one that matches your paddling skill and experience.

Some people prefer to plan a camping trip that involves traveling to their site via the water. If this is the case, planning ahead of time is even more important. You should make sure you have the camping supplies you will need as well as the safety equipment and spare gear that you will need if something happens while you are on the water.

Your boat is definitely something you need to think about. You need to think about how long you are going for and what kind of water you are going to be encountering as this will affect what you choose to bring. If you are going to be paddling from one location to another and are going to be mainly on flat water you will want a longer touring boat that has room to stow your gear. If you are planning to camp in one spot and get some fun time in on white water, you will need to look at a boat that is designed for that and less or storage capacity.

Camping gear that will be stowed in your boat needs to be small, light and compact. There are small tents with lightweight poles that will keep you warm and dry. Sleeping bags can be packed down and an inflatable pillow will help keep you comfortable. You need spare paddles in case you break yours, things to bail your boat out and equipment in case you have to recover a paddler or yourself while you are on the water.

The food you bring and how you bring it is also important. If you are doing a lot of padding you are likely going to get very hungry. Make sure you have food for three meals a day and several snacks that you can eat while you are paddling so that you keep your energy levels up. There are coolers that are designed to work with your kayak that can keep food cold while you are paddling.

If you are not sure what to bring in terms of clothing, supplies or equipment there are many places that you can find help. Outdoor equipment stores usually have staff that are familiar with kayak touring and may have good advice. There are also websites where you can find options as well that will meet your needs and your budget.




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