Headed out for a day (or even just an hour) on the water? Here’s what you should always have on your board!
SAFETY FIRST
The most important and invaluable thing you can take with you on the water (not matter what water you’re on) is a lifejacket! We don’t like to think about it but great days can turn south really fast and a lifejacket can be the one thing that get you to the next day.
It’s not always the most convenient but there are options now that are a simple waist belt and take up next to no room!
Always have a whistle! Attach it to your life jacket (/belt). If the water you’re on is patrolled, they will ask if you have one. Also a great item to keep in your hiking pack!
First Aid Kit: No matter what water you’re headed out on to, it’s best to be prepared for worst case scenario. Have a kit with (including but not limited to) bandaids, tweezers, alcohol wipes, tensor and most importantly a silver blanket. It doesn’t take up much room and could also be a life saver.
Patch Kit: It you have an inflatable board, it’s a good idea to keep your patch kit on you!
BONUS: Headlamp and/or flashlight
PRACTIALITY
Get yourself a dry bag! You will not regret it! They come in a variety of sizes and colours and actually keep your stuff dry!
Microfibre travel towel: They do the trick but take up way less space in your dry bag.
Waterproof phone case: Depending on your paddle, you can have your phone close for photos without worry of it hitting the water and if you want a technology free paddle, it’ll be double protected in your dry bag.
SMALL ESSENTIALS
The obvious ones are sunscreen, water, food, a hat or some way to cover your head/back (that microfibre towel can do double duty here) and layers in case of a change in weather.
The less obvious essential is rope. You never know if you might need a tow. It doesn’t have to be a lot and if you’re going in a group -even just one person having it could end up being handy!
