Canoeing

Regardless of the type of canoe you will use, make sure to always have a repair kit with you. This includes duct tape, sealant, hatch cover, wire, cords, putty, and other extras.

If you’re also camping, don’t forget to bring all the necessary equipment with you such as tents and sleeping bags (for overnight camping stays), pads, reservations, pillow, and extra bags. It’s also a good idea to bring a flashlight in case it gets dark and your phone runs out of battery.

In such conditions, cooking becomes almost inevitable, as canned food tends to be too heavy. Therefore, it's important to bring along gear such as a water purification method, a stove to cook on, and necessary utensils including a mug, plates, pots, eating utensils, and a bag to store them in.

As we'll be staying overnight, it's necessary to change out of wet clothing and into nightwear. Don't forget to pack extra underwear, shirts, and pants for lounging, as well as your bandana, base layers, and insulating layers in case of colder temperatures.

In the evening, it's important to have pastimes available, such as books or a Kindle, games, and possibly fishing gear if desired.

It’s important to dress for the weather, so feel free to wear a comfortable T-shirt and shorts in summer. You might consider wearing a wet or dry suit, paddling gloves, and neoprene footwear if the water gets colder.

Don’t forget to bring a hat to keep protected from sun’s harsh rays, and pack swimwear to have under your neoprene. Bring rainwear, a jacket and pants for paddling, and an extra change of clothes.

While on the water, don’t wear cotton, as it tends to soak up water and keep you cool. If the weather changes, always have a buff, cap, gloves, socks, insulating layers, and shoes at hand.

Capturing photos and videos is essential to preserve your memories, so it's important to bring the right gear. Be sure to pack a phone with a protective case and two-way radios for the first and last boats in your group.

In addition, don't forget to bring chargers, power banks, and extra batteries for all of these devices. A GPS watch or a GPS device itself can be helpful for navigation.

If you plan to document your trip with a camera, make sure to bring enough batteries, memory cards, and a waterproof, floatable case to protect it from the water.

It’s good to bring an ID anywhere you go for obvious reasons, while your credit card and some cash stored in a waterproof bag can help you to buy drinks and refreshments once you reach your destination. Keep your keys, permit, guidebook, and maps close as well.

Safety and hygiene are essential during any water activity, so it's important to bring the right gear. A first aid kit, whistle, and meds are must-haves for staying safe and preventing bites. Bring a repair kit as well as your contacts or glasses. To keep warm, make sure you have a space blanket and fire-starting kit too.

In terms of hygiene, bringing your own toiletries is necessary if you plan to stay on the water for more than one day. Be sure to pack your cream, sunscreen, lip balm, sunglasses, hand warmers, lighter, menstrual and urinary products, disinfectant wipes, toilet paper, bug spray, and towel.

Make sure to bring plenty of water with you to stay hydrated, as you’ll get thirsty from all the paddling. Some energy bars, trail mix, and fruit are also great snacks that you can quickly eat when making stops to take in breathtaking natural vistas, while sandwiches will act as a quick and filling lunch substitute on longer cruises.