Get ready for your paddling trip with this multi-day canoe tripping and kayak touring checklist.
When you’re packing, remember to take your portage plan into account. Lots of portages mean you’ll want to pack wisely, since all your gear has to move across land too. If you don’t have any portages, you can travel in a bit of luxury, as your boat acts a floating storage space.
Paddling lets you explore remote areas, so it’s important to be self-sufficient, aware of the weather and tides, and prepared for emergencies. All paddlers must carry mandatory safety items on canoes, kayaks and even stand-up paddleboards.
Boat-related gear
- Canoe / kayak and sprayskirt
- Canoe paddle / kayak paddle (with drip rings)
- PFD – 1 per person, plus an extra
- Paddle float (for kayaking)
- Pump or bailer
- Extra paddle
- Repair kit
- Signaling devices (whistle, flares, mirror)
- Watertight flashlight
- Dry bags and electronics cases
- Portage bag
- Portage cart
- Throw bag
- Swift water rescue gear
Safety essentials
- First aid kit
- Knife
- Waterproof matches and fire starter
- Chart and map (in a waterproof map case)
- GPS / compass
- Headlamp or flashlight + batteries
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Lip balm
- Trip plan, left with a friend
Camping gear
- Tent + tent footprint
- Sleeping bag
- Sleeping pad
- Stove and fuel
- Pots and pot grabber
- Utensils
- Dishes and cups
- Water treatment or filter
- Hydration system or water bottles
- Food and food storage
- Caffeine creator and coffee
- Lightweight cord
- Camping gear repair kit
- Camping or trail permit (if required)
Clothing
- Sandals
- Hiking boots
- Socks
- Underwear
- Quick-drying pants or shorts
- Wicking base layers
- Short-sleeved top
- Lightweight long-sleeved shirt (for sun protection)
- Fleece or insulating top or jacket
- Warm pants
- Drysuit or dry top
- Sun hat and warm hat
- Rainwear pants and jacket
- Neoprene gloves or pogies
- Neoprene booties and wetsuit
- Swimsuit or rashguard
- Gloves or mitts
Personal items and additions
- Toothbrush and toiletries
- Toilet paper
- Biodegradable soap
- Lightweight towel
- Phone or communication device
- Insect repellent / bug-proof shirt or hat
- Earplugs
- Bear safety gear
- Stuff sacks
- Pack cover
- Binoculars
- Barometer
- Camera and accessories
- Change of clothes at the take-out point
Before you leave, remember to check weather forecasts, tell someone about your trip plans and when you expect to be back, and stash a copy of your trip plan in the car at the trailhead. If you’re missing items from the list, you can create a wishlist to keep track of them while you shop at MEC.
