What To Bring Kayaking – Complete Gear Checklist 2025

I'll never forget my first real kayaking trip to Lake Travis. I showed up with nothing but a borrowed paddle and confidence – only to realize I was missing literally everything else I needed. After getting sunburned, soaked, and genuinely uncomfortable, I learned the hard way that proper gear makes the difference between a miserable slog and an epic adventure.

Fast-forward eight years and hundreds of paddling trips later, I've dialed in exactly what to bring kayaking for any situation. Whether you're planning a quick two-hour paddle or a multi-day expedition, this complete gear checklist will ensure you're prepared for whatever the water throws at you.

Quick Pre-Trip Checklist

Before we dive into the details, here's what every kayaker needs, regardless of trip length:

Essential Item	Why You Need It	Can't Forget
USCG-approved PFD	Required by law, saves lives	✓
Paddle + Backup	Your engine – without it, you're stuck	✓
Whistle	Emergency signaling	✓
Sun Protection	Sunburn on water is brutal	✓
Dry Bag	Keep essentials dry	✓

Essential Kayaking Equipment

1. Personal Flotation Device (PFD)

Non-negotiable. Federal law requires a USCG-approved Type I, II, III, or V PFD for every person on board. I've tested dozens of life jackets over the years, and comfort matters more than you think – you'll actually wear one that feels good.

The best kayaking life jackets focus on mobility for paddling. Look for high armholes and a short torso cut. I personally use an NRS Chinook – it's been through everything from calm lake paddles to Class III rapids without restricting my stroke.

Pro tip: Try before you buy. A PFD that rides up or chafes will sit in your garage instead of saving your life.

2. Paddle (Plus Backup)

Your paddle is your lifeline. I learned this lesson when my carbon fiber blade snapped on a windy day in Galveston Bay – suddenly that "backup paddle is overkill" attitude evaporated real quick.

For choosing the right kayak paddle, consider your height, kayak width, and paddling style. Carbon fiber is light but expensive. Fiberglass offers great performance for the price. Aluminum works fine for beginners but gets heavy on long trips.

Always carry a backup paddle. Even on short trips. Period.

3. Safety Equipment

Whistle: Attached to your PFD. Sound carries much farther than your voice over water.

Bilge Pump: For sit-inside kayaks. The best kayak bilge pumps can clear water fast when you need it most. I've used mine exactly twice in eight years, but both times it prevented a swim to shore.

Navigation: Compass and/or GPS. Your phone works until it doesn't. Understanding basic kayak navigation keeps you heading the right direction when fog rolls in unexpectedly.

What To Wear Kayaking?

Clothing Essentials

Dress for the water temperature, not the air temperature. This is the most important clothing rule in kayaking. That 75°F spring day feels great until you capsize in 55°F water and hypothermia becomes a real threat.

Base Layers:

• Quick-dry synthetic materials or merino wool
• Never cotton – it kills when wet
• Long-sleeve shirts protect from sun and wind

Outer Layers:

• Rain jacket for wind and spray protection
• Lightweight and breathable when paddling hard
• Full-zip for ventilation control

Bottom Half:

• Quick-dry shorts or pants
• Board shorts work great in warm weather
• Neoprene in cold conditions

Footwear

Water shoes or neoprene booties. Rocky launches will shred bare feet, and you'll appreciate the grip when loading your kayak. I use Astral Loyaks – they drain well and actually look decent off the water.

Skip the flip-flops. They'll float away at the worst possible moment.

Sun Protection

The water reflects UV rays right back at you, creating a double-dose of sun exposure. After one memorable second-degree sunburn on Lady Bird Lake, I never skimp on sun protection.

Must-haves:

• Broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen (waterproof)
• Wide-brimmed hat with chin strap
• Polarized sunglasses with retainer strap
• Lightweight long-sleeve shirt

Storage and Dry Bags

Dry Bag Essentials

Dry bags keep your gear dry – revolutionary concept, right? But not all dry bags are created equal. I've had cheap ones fail spectacularly, soaking my phone and car keys in the middle of nowhere.

Size recommendations:

• 10L bag: Phone, keys, wallet, snacks
• 20L bag: Extra clothes, food for day trips
• 35L+ bag: Camping gear for overnight trips

What goes in dry bags:

• Electronics (phone, camera, GPS)
• Extra clothing
• Food and snacks
• First aid kit
• Anything you can't afford to get wet

Look for welded seams, not sewn. The top kayak gear upgrades include quality dry storage – it's worth the investment.

Kayaking Checklist For Beginners

If you're new to kayaking, start with this simplified list:

Absolutely Essential

• [ ] USCG-approved PFD
• [ ] Paddle + backup paddle
• [ ] Whistle
• [ ] 10L dry bag
• [ ] Sunscreen and hat
• [ ] Water (1 liter minimum)
• [ ] Snacks

Highly Recommended

• [ ] First aid kit
• [ ] Multi-tool or knife
• [ ] Bilge pump (sit-inside kayaks)
• [ ] Phone in waterproof case
• [ ] Extra clothes in dry bag

Nice to Have

• [ ] Cooler for drinks/food
• [ ] Waterproof camera
• [ ] Folding chair for breaks
• [ ] Bungee cords for gear

Food and Water

Hydration

You'll dehydrate faster on water than you think. Sun, wind, and exertion combined with not realizing you're sweating creates a perfect storm. I bring:

• 2-3 liters of water for full-day trips
• Sports drinks for long/hot paddles
• Electrolyte tablets – lighter than sports drinks
• Insulated bottle keeps drinks cool

Snacks and Meals

Easy-access snacks:

• Energy bars
• Trail mix
• Fruit (bananas travel well)
• Jerky
• Sandwiches in waterproof containers

For longer trips: Store food in hard containers or dry bags. A small cooler fits perfectly in most recreational kayaks and keeps perishables safe.

Weather-Specific Gear

Cold Weather Kayaking

When water temperatures drop below 60°F, cold water safety becomes critical:

• Drysuit or wetsuit (drysuit preferred)
• Neoprene gloves and booties
• Warm hat that stays on when wet
• Thermos with hot drinks

Hot Weather Essentials

Summer paddling in Texas taught me that heat is just as dangerous as cold:

• Extra sunscreen for reapplication
• Electrolyte replacement
• Light-colored, long-sleeve sun shirt
• Plenty of water (more than you think)
• Shade source (umbrella or pop-up shelter)

Windy Conditions

Wind over 15 mph makes paddling exponentially harder. When conditions are marginal:

• Spray skirt for sit-inside kayaks
• Windproof jacket
• Extra energy (you'll burn more calories fighting wind)
• Conservative route planning

Multi-Day Kayaking Packing List

Overnight kayaking opens up incredible possibilities, but gear requirements jump significantly. Here's what I pack for 2-3 day trips:

Camping Essentials

• Lightweight backpacking tent
• Synthetic sleeping bag (dries faster than down)
• Sleeping pad
• Backpacking stove and fuel
• Lightweight cookware

Extended Trip Additions

• Water filtration system
• Comprehensive first aid kit
• Repair kit (duct tape, cable ties, patches)
• Maps and backup navigation
• Emergency shelter/bivy

Remember: proper kayak security becomes crucial when camping – lock your boats or sleep near them.

Emergency and Safety Gear

Basic Safety Kit

Every kayaker should carry these emergency essentials:

• Whistle (attached to PFD)
• Signal mirror
• Emergency phone in waterproof case
• Basic first aid supplies
• Emergency blanket

Advanced Safety Gear

For remote or challenging waters:

• Personal locator beacon (PLB)
• VHF marine radio
• Flares or signal devices
• Comprehensive first aid kit
• Emergency shelter

Understanding kayaking safety rules and regulations isn't just about compliance – it's about staying alive.

Gear Storage and Organization

In-Kayak Storage

Deck rigging secures frequently-used items like water bottles and snacks. Bungee cords hold down larger items but allow quick access.

Hatch storage keeps gear dry and secure. Pack heavy items low and toward the center for better kayak stability.

Pre-Trip Organization

I pack everything the night before, using this system:

1. Immediate access: Water, snacks, sunscreen, keys
2. Mid-trip needs: Extra clothes, lunch, first aid
3. Emergency gear: Backup paddle, repair kit, safety equipment

Transportation Essentials

Getting your kayak to the water safely requires proper transport gear:

• Quality roof racks or trailer
• Tie-down straps (cam straps preferred over ratchets)
• Bow and stern lines for highway speeds
• Safety flag for overhanging loads

Transporting kayaks in pickup trucks requires specific techniques and equipment to prevent damage and stay legal.

Technology and Electronics

Essential Electronics

• Phone in waterproof case
• GPS device or app
• Weather radio
• Headlamp with extra batteries

Photography Gear

• Waterproof camera or case
• Extra batteries/power bank
• Floating strap for camera
• Microfiber cloth for lens cleaning

Modern kayaking apps provide weather, navigation, and safety features that enhance every trip.

Seasonal Considerations

Spring Kayaking (August)

• Layer for temperature swings
• Rain gear (spring storms are common)
• Allergy medication if needed
• Bug spray for shoreline stops

Summer Extremes

• Maximum sun protection
• Extra water (1.5x normal consumption)
• Insulated storage for cold drinks
• Afternoon thunderstorm awareness

Fall Paddling

• Warmer layers as temperatures drop
• Dry suit when water temps fall below 60°F
• Shorter daylight considerations
• Hypothermia prevention gear

Winter Adventures

• Full cold-water immersion gear
• Emergency signaling devices
• Thermos with hot drinks
• Conservative route planning

Beginner Mistakes to Avoid

After teaching dozens of new kayakers, here are the most common packing mistakes:

Over-Packing

The mistake: Bringing everything "just in case" The reality: Overpacked kayaks handle poorly and tire you out faster The fix: Start minimal, add gear as you gain experience

Wrong Clothing Choices

The mistake: Cotton clothes and flip-flops The reality: Cotton kills when wet, flip-flops float away The fix: Synthetic materials and secure footwear

Inadequate Sun Protection

The mistake: Thinking you won't burn on the water The reality: Reflection doubles UV exposure The fix: SPF 30+, hat, sunglasses, cover-up

No Backup Plans

The mistake: Assuming everything will go perfectly The reality: Equipment fails, weather changes, accidents happen The fix: Backup paddle, emergency gear, conservative planning

Gear Maintenance and Care

Proper kayak maintenance extends gear life and prevents mid-trip failures:

Post-Trip Care

• Rinse everything with fresh water
• Dry thoroughly before storage
• Inspect for damage or wear
• Clean and organize gear for next trip

Regular Maintenance

• Check PFD zippers and buckles
• Inspect paddles for cracks or wear
• Clean and condition neoprene gear
• Test electronics and replace batteries

Advanced Gear for Experienced Paddlers

Once you've mastered the basics, consider these upgrades:

Performance Enhancements

• Carbon fiber paddle for weight savings
• GPS with mapping for navigation
• VHF radio for marine communication
• Compass for backup navigation

Comfort Upgrades

• Premium seat for long trips
• Adjustable footrests
• Insulated drink system
• Quick-access snack storage

Experienced paddlers often explore kayak modifications to customize their setup for specific needs.

Building Your Gear Collection

Don't try to buy everything at once. Build your kit gradually:

Start With Safety

1. Quality PFD – your life depends on it
2. Reliable paddle set – primary plus backup
3. Basic safety kit – whistle, first aid, emergency gear

Add Comfort Items

4. Dry bags for gear protection
5. Proper clothing for your climate
6. Sun protection essentials

Expand for Adventure

7. Navigation tools for longer trips
8. Camping gear for overnights
9. Advanced safety equipment for remote areas

What Not to Bring?

Some items seem logical but create problems:

Glass containers – They break and sink Cotton towels – Heavy when wet, slow to dry Valuable jewelry – Easy to lose overboard Excessive gear – More stuff = more problems Inappropriate footwear – Flip-flops and loose shoes

Region-Specific Considerations

Saltwater Kayaking

• Rinse everything thoroughly post-trip
• Corrosion-resistant gear
• Tide charts and timing
• Marine weather forecasts

River Paddling

• Quick-dry everything (you'll get wet)
• Secure all gear (rapids happen fast)
• River-specific safety training
• Water level awareness

Lake Kayaking

• Wind awareness (lakes get choppy fast)
• Distance planning (farther from shore = bigger consequences)
• Temperature monitoring (big water stays cold longer)

Understanding different types of kayaks helps you pack appropriately for your specific boat and paddling style.

FAQ

What should I pack for my first kayaking trip?

Start with the essentials: USCG-approved PFD, paddle plus backup, whistle, dry bag, sunscreen, water, and snacks. Focus on safety gear first, then add comfort items as you gain experience.

How much water should I bring kayaking?

Plan for 1 liter per 2-3 hours of paddling in moderate conditions. Hot weather, intense sun, or strenuous paddling requires more. I typically bring 2-3 liters for full-day trips.

Do I need a dry bag for short kayaking trips?

Yes. Even on short trips, you need somewhere dry for your keys, phone, and wallet. A 10L dry bag handles essentials and costs less than replacing a waterlogged phone.

What's the most important gear for kayaking safety?

Your PFD is non-negotiable – it's required by law and saves lives. After that, a backup paddle, whistle, and basic first aid kit form your core safety foundation.

Can I bring my phone kayaking?

Absolutely, but protect it properly. Use a waterproof case or dry bag. Your phone can be crucial for emergency communication and navigation, but only if it works when you need it.

Should I pack differently for cold weather kayaking?

Yes. Cold water kills faster than cold air. Prioritize immersion protection with wetsuits or drysuits, and pack emergency warmth like space blankets and hot drinks.

How do I know if I'm overpacking my kayak?

If your kayak sits noticeably lower in the water, feels sluggish, or difficult to maneuver, you're probably overpacked. Start minimal and add gear gradually as you learn what you actually use.

What food should I avoid bringing kayaking?

Skip anything that spoils quickly without refrigeration, creates messy cleanup, or requires extensive preparation. Stick to simple, portable foods that taste good even if they get a little wet.

Do I need different gear for different kayak types?

Yes. Sit-inside kayaks need bilge pumps and possibly spray skirts. Fishing kayaks benefit from rod holders and tackle storage. Choosing the right kayak size affects how much gear you can safely carry.

When should I invest in expensive gear?

Start with adequate safety equipment first – never compromise on PFDs or emergency gear. Upgrade comfort and performance items as you paddle more frequently and identify specific needs.

Final Thoughts

After thousands of miles in kayaks from Texas lakes to Alaska fjords, here's what I've learned: the right gear doesn't make you a better paddler, but it sure makes every trip more enjoyable and safer.

Start with the safety essentials, build your kit gradually, and remember that the best gear is what actually works when you need it. Your first trip doesn't require a thousand-dollar gear haul – it requires smart preparation and conservative planning.

The water's waiting, and with this checklist, you'll be ready for whatever adventure calls your name. Pack smart, paddle safe, and enjoy every moment out there.

See you on the water!