What Do You Need for Overnight Kayaking?

When it comes to going out on the water to kayak, you will want to make sure you have all the right equipment to ensure you can enjoy the trip. It is important to understand what useful kayaking items you need in order to have a safe, enjoyable overnight kayaking experience. There are a few tips that will help you determine what you need to bring along with you.

Dry Bags

Dry bags are a necessary item to have on your list of outdoor gear. They are lightweight and can hold your essentials dry while you are out on the water. While they can be useful in many situations, they are best suited for kayaking. Fortunately, there are many different styles and sizes of dry bags available.

One of the first things to consider when purchasing a dry bag is its size. The higher the capacity, the more gear you can carry. Generally, 30 liters and up are ideal for multi-day paddle trips. If you are planning a single day trip, you might find that you only need a smaller dry bag.

Clothing

Whether you're a seasoned kayaker or new to the sport, it's always important to have the right clothing. It's a good idea to dress in layers so that you can easily remove or add clothes as needed. The right combination of clothes will help you stay comfortable, warm and hydrated throughout the day.

If you're planning to kayak in cold weather, you'll want to invest in a specialized wetsuit. They're available for a relatively inexpensive price, but they are worth the extra money if you're going to be in the water for a long time.

You'll also need a hat. A good hat will protect your face and scalp, as well as shield your eyes from the sun.

Sleeping Pad

If you're planning an overnight kayaking trip, then you need a good sleeping pad. Whether you're camping on a boat, in the woods, or in a tent, you'll need padding to keep you comfortable and warm.

Sleeping pads are available in a variety of materials, sizes, and designs. Depending on your camping style, you'll want to pick one that matches your weight and pack size.

Self-inflating pads are a great choice for backpackers and car campers. They're easy to tuck into your pack and offer a high degree of comfort. But they're also the most susceptible to punctures. For that reason, you'll want to choose an air pad that's made of a hard-wearing, closed-cell foam pad.

Deck Bags

One of the best ways to protect your equipment and keep it dry is to invest in a good dry bag. The right dry bag will provide ample space for your kayaking or fishing gear. There are several options to choose from, but each has its own special features and characteristics.

A quality dry bag will be watertight and durable. It should also have a heavy-duty material to hold up under regular use. Some of the top manufacturers include unique features in their bags, such as a roll-top closure system and purge valves. While they may cost more, they can help make your packing easier.

Permits

Whether you are putting in for the day or staying overnight, you need a permit to kayak in the Boundary Waters. These permits can be purchased at many popular entry points. You can also purchase them at a variety of local businesses.

Overnight kayaking permits come in three main categories. First, there is the quota permit, which is required for any trip into the BWCAW. The permit allows a group of up to nine people to enter. Groups of more than nine require a separate permit.

The other category is the self-issued permit, which can be purchased from kiosks at each of the BWCAW entry points. The fee is $10 per person for non-motorized day use.

Safety Precautions

If you're going to do some night kayaking, be sure to follow these safety precautions. They will help you stay safe and avoid injury.

The first step to staying safe on a night kayaking trip is to check the weather forecast. In fact, knowing the forecast is as important as checking the tides. A strong tide creates currents, which can make kayaking dangerous.

Another safety measure to wear when kayaking is a PFD. It might sound silly, but it can be very helpful in a situation where you get into trouble. You can attach a small light to your lifejacket's shoulder strap for better visibility.