When I first dipped my paddle into the world of kayaking seven years ago, I often found myself on the water wishing I had brought this or that crucial item. Through countless kayaking trips in New York, from serene day trips to challenging 12-mile paddles in the Finger Lakes, I learned โ sometimes the hard way โ exactly what kayaking gear was essential for a safe and enjoyable paddle.
That’s why I’ve created this comprehensive checklist of everything I take kayaking with me.
Now, I know what you’re thinking – kayaking gear can be expensive. And you’re right, it can be. But here’s the good news: you don’t have to break the bank to get started.
In many cases, you can find quality gear at outdoor consignment shops, outlet stores, and gear swaps.
Take my kayak, for instance. I scored it on Craigslist for just $350. This post covers all my tips for used gear shopping if you are interested in saving money by buying secondhand.
As for my paddle, I treated myself to a lightweight model from the LL Bean Outlet in Freeport as a birthday present.
That $125 was a stretch for me at the time, but it’s been worth every penny. It’s so much more ergonomic than the paddle that came with my boat.
If you’re on a tight budget, I recommend investing in the best kayak and rack you can afford, then upgrading other components of your kit over time.
Affiliate Link Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases through links included in posts such as this. I only recommend products I personally use and love.
Here’s a checklist list of absolutely necessary kayaking gear for kayaking โ everything I take for personal safety, along with brief descriptions of why this should always be in your gear kit.
This list includes all the gear I personally use and recommend, based on my seven years of kayaking experience. It’s a collection of items that have proven their worth time and time again, ensuring comfort, safety, and enjoyment on the water.
Essential Kayaking Gear for Safety
Here’s everything you need to go kayaking, from a safety and logistics perspective.
- Roof rack: Unless you drive a pickup and can throw your kayaks in the back, you need a roof rack for transport. I’ve used both Thule and Yakima racks successfully. I’ve also tried budget racks hoping to save some money. Take it from me, you DON’T want those. You’ll lose hearing in a single journey from how loud those things get! They’re also flimsy. It’s much better to save up for the recommended brands than skate by with something inferior.
- Kayak cradle: These hold the kayak on the rack. Again โ I’ve used both Thule and Yakima J-shaped cradles here and both have worked for me!
- Personal flotation device (life jacket): Essential for safety! It keeps you afloat in case you capsize or fall into the water. I strongly recommend you buy a PFD designed for kayaking. The back has a higher profile to accommodate the kayak seat, which means a more comfortable fit for you.
- Paddle: Obviously necessary to propel and steer your kayak. Kit paddles tend to be heavy, which care tire your muscles over time. I upgraded for this fiberglass paddle with a carbon fiber shaft and noticed an immediate difference.
- Whistle: Keep a whistle attached to your life jacket so you can signal for help in emergencies.
- Bilge pump and/or kayak sponge: If water gets into your kayak, this will help you take it out. Bilge pumps are the quickest way to get water out of your kayak. Sponges only remove a little water at a time. They do a better job at getting water out of nooks and crannies. If you can only afford one piece of gear, buy an inexpensive kayak sponge to start with. You can see mine in the photo above!
- Sun protection: Most of the places I go kayaking are totally exposed to the sun, with no shade cover. This means that sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat are necessary for sun protection. I’ve lost sunglasses while leaning over my boat, so I also recommend a secure strap to keep your sunglasses attached โ especially if they’re prescription!
- Water: Staying hydrated is crucial. I take along two to three plastic bottles (because plastic floats, and I’ve had to rescue a bottle from the river multiple times). On hot summer days, I’ll preload my water with some electrolyte tablets for hydration.
- Dry bag: An essential to keep your phone, keys, and extra clothes dry. Yes, your kayak has storage cubbies. Unfortunately, they are not always water tight. I’ll take a small dry bag out with my SUP, but for my kayak I find the 5 liter size works best. This Wise Owl set gives you options of 3 different size dry bags!
- Quick-drying clothes: Ever heard the saying cotton kills? Cotton absorbs moisture quickly, takes ages to dry out, and doesn’t insulate when it’s wet. This puts you at increased risk of hypothermia โ even on a hot summer day. Rather than wear a cotton tee, choose quick-drying synthetic clothing that will dry out if you get wet. Keep layers in your dry bag in case the weather changes while you’re out there.
- Navigation tools: Out on the water, I’ll use the Runkeeper app to track how far I paddle. I’m also able to check the GPS on my phone to figure out where I am. But there are times when paddling takes me out of range, and I can’t rely on my phone. It’s a smart idea to have a map and compass on longer or more remote adventures where you can’t rely on your phone.
Nice to Have Kayaking Gear
As mentioned above, these items are not necessary. If you’re on a budget or traveling light, you can always leave them behind.
But in my seven years of experience paddling, these non-essential gear makes your trip more pleasant! I’ve included links to the brands I use and personally recommended – so you know I’m a fan!
- Waterproof phone pouch: Rather than store my phone in my dry bag (and have to open the bag to check the time or distance), I use a floating waterproof pouch.
- Snacks: I get crabby in the head and humidity, and don’t make the best decisions when I’m hungry or drained. I always keep a snack in my dry bag โ usually a Lara bar.
- Headlamp or light: Out on the water after dark or in low-light conditions? Wear a headlamp or take a solar-powered Luci light.
- Paddling gloves: These keep your hands soft, preventing callouses and blisters. I like this half finger style.
- Seat cushion: The seat on my used kayak was so worn out, my butt started aching after an hour in the seat. This seat cushion made kayaking MUCH more comfortable for me!
- Binoculars: Great for wildlife viewing. I’ve seen herons, bald eagles, frogs, turtles, and even badgers out there. I got these Celestrons for a Costa Rica birding trip. For the price point, they’re awesome.
- Insect repellent: Keeps bugs away for those who attract all the mosquitos!
- Power bank: For a longer trip, a power bank helps keep your devices powered. I’ve tried a few over the years, and this one is the most reliable.
- Water shoes: I don’t want to step on the muck at the bottom of the lake or river. With my trusty water shoes, I don’t have to. I rely on an ancient pair of Jeep brand water shoes I bought at Costco (budget shopping for the win), but if I was buying new shoes, I’d go with these Astrals. My wife has a pair and she loves them. They are sturdy, they dry out quickly, and the soles are no-slip.
There you have it: everything I take kayaking wiith me, for safety and for enjoyment! I hope you’re feeling inspired and well-equipped for your next water adventure.
Don’t let the gear list intimidate you. Start with the essentials, and build your kit over time as your experience and needs grow. The most crucial elements are safety, comfort, and a sense of adventure.
Looking for inspiration? Browse LGTBQ kayak meetups, or read paddle write-ups about kayaking to Emerald Cove, New Orleans swamp tours, or the best places to kayak in the Hudson Valley, where I live!
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your paddle, your life jacket, and whatever gear you have on hand, and head out to your nearest waterway. The serenity of nature and the thrill of exploration are calling! And if you need some inspiration on where to go, check out these related posts!
