What you need to take on a kayaking trip depends on how far out you plan to go and for how long. It also depends on the weather conditions which can change drastically especially when you are on the ocean.
You need to be prepared for the dangers of the ocean when kayaking. Pack essential gear to prepare to face the elements. A Life Jacket is important because even those experienced in the ocean can get pulled under by riptide, currents in the ocean are very strong. A wet suit is a great addition, to keep you comfortable, along with a spray skirt for your kayak, comfort is key but hypothermia is a real danger when out on the ocean. Dry bags are essential, a signaling whistle ( for any emergencies that may arise), a headlamp, and of course a paddle.
When going kayaking in the ocean there is a lot of dangers you can be facing. Kayak’s roll and you don’t want to be stuck inside it when it does. You need to consider the weather you will be facing when you go out, and the forecast of ocean waves. If you access the weather before departing, take your skill level in mind, and pack appropriately, you are ready to begin your kayaking adventure. The items you take of course depends on all the factors above, below are some listed suggestions for most circumstances.
TIP: Make sure to wear and pack sunscreen, the sun bouncing off the water amplifies it. You don’t want to burn.
LIFE JACKET (PFD)
PFD stands for personal flotation device, make sure to wear your life jacket (PFD), especially when you are a beginner. A lot of people underestimate the ocean. Plus there are so many shapes, sizes, and styles there is no reason for them to feel frumpy or not suit your taste. Getting the correct fit should be your biggest concern, you’d hate to slip out or not be able to fasten it. Adult sizes go by measuring the circumference of the broadest part of your chest, children sizes are based on weight.
You can get PFD’s which inflate when you need them, making them more comfortable than the standard. However, they do require maintenance are you have to replace the carbon dioxide cartridge regularly.
Can you prevent a shark from attacking your kayak? Find out here.
WET SUIT / DRY SUIT
Consider wearing a wet suit when kayaking in the ocean. Especially when it is cold outside and the waves are a bit rough. You will be splashed with water and hypothermia is a big danger when out on the sea. For even colder water consider layering a dry suit on top of the wet suit. Also, you may need to pack some sort of rash guard to keep from chaffing.
SPRAY SKIRT
To keep water out there is another device that can help keep you comfortable, a spray skirt. A spray skirt wraps around you and the opening in your kayak which you sit. It can help keep water from soaking you, especially handy when it’s cold. When buying a spray skirt make sure to test the fit first, the fit of both you and your kayak.
You can purchase them made with Neoprene, which is great for super cold conditions. However, if you flip your kayak they are hard to get out of. Nylon is another option, better for moderate conditions and usually, they come with shoulder straps. You can also purchase combination spray skirts.
DRY BAGS
A durable waterproof bag is essential to store your things. These are important to keep water from soaking dry clothes or ruining any electronics you bring along. You may want to consider taking along multiple dry bags, one for food, whatever you don’t want wet you need to plan ahead for.
PADDLE
A good paddle along with a spare is important. Because what good is a kayak without a paddle. Also, if you are prone to losing your paddle consider a paddle leash to keep your paddle always close. When finding an appropriate paddle for yourself take into consideration your height as well as the length of your kayak. Basically, the taller you are the longer your paddle, and the same goes for the size of your kayak, the bigger the kayak the bigger the paddle.
Also, you want to consider the blade of the paddle. Low-angle paddles are ideal for relaxed kayaking. High angle paddles are for when the waves are high and intense. Carbon fiber blades are light and they hold their shape, making each stroke count. But they are the most expensive option. Fiberglass blades are mid-range, and plastic/nylon blades are your cheapest least efficient, and sometimes snap in half.
There are so many types of paddles. You can get a paddle with a bent shaft to make your hands more comfortable. Overall, make sure to do your research and find what suits the adventure you take.
SIGNALING WHISTLE
When kayaking you want to keep an eye out for bigger boats. Avoid them as much as possible, since they might not see you. Signaling whistles may help you signal ships at sea. They also come in handy for a multitude of emergency situations that may arise while kayaking.
HEADLAMP
If you are going to be kayaking for extended periods of time make sure to pack a headlamp. The last thing you want is to be on the ocean at night and not see where you are going. That’s how you end up getting lost, and you don’t want to end up lost on the ocean.
Kayaking can be dangerous on rivers and especially so on the ocean. Make sure to prep for your trip as best you can. Supplies are what will help keep you safe along with whatever research you have done or any skills you may have accumulated. A quick additional safety tip would be to let someone who is on land where you are kayaking.
Check to see if there are any specific rules for kayaking in that area.
Also, make sure to check the weight your kayak can handle, before heading out. You don’t want to end up packing too much. But always make sure you have those essentials, paddle (consider a spare too or/and a paddle leash), life jacket, a wet suit, dry bags, a signaling whistle, and headlamp. Pack food and water too, and really additional items depends on how far out you are going for how long.
Please note: This blog post is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal or medical advice. Please consult a legal expert or medical professional to address your specific needs.