11 best things to pack for a kayaking adventure
Make a paddle a pleasure by packing the right gear... here's what you need for a kayaking holiday.
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With summer around the corner, thoughts turn to the water. A kayaking adventure requires a quick-dry kit to keep you warm, dry and protected from the elements whether you’re on the ocean or paddling on a picturesque inland waterway in Tasmania. Start your prep with these water sport essentials.
Dove Lake, Crade Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, Tasmania
Nestled deep in the central highlands of Tasmania in the shadow of Cradle Mountain, this picturesque lake offers kayakers the chance to put themselves into one of the most famous wilderness vistas in Australia. Last year local tour company Cradle Mountain Canyons began taking guided tours on the lake in timber kayaks – they were specially built using endemic King Billy pine in an effort to bridge the past and present. Tours run between November and April, so what better time to book a trip down south than now?
Kathmandu two-layer rain jacket, $180
Invest in a high-quality spray jacket that’ll keep you dry while you kayak. The Andulo Rain Jacket is waterproof and windproof, and features two front zip pockets for your belongings.
Billabong cap, $50
I can’t imagine an outdoor adventure sans this hat. The All Day Surf Cap won’t blow off, for one thing, because it has an adjustable chin strap to keep it in place. It has a removable legionnaire flap to protect the neck and is made from a quick-dry material that includes recycled bottles.
Sea to Summit dry bag, $65
Avoid a soggy sandwich or wet camera by packing them in a dry bag. The Sea to Summit Evac 13L Compress is waterproof and also sports four compression straps so that you can keep water and air out, plus keep your belongings safe inside.
Abysse rash guard, $180
The theme is nature, and you’ll fit right in with this single layer, long-sleeve rashie in a green shade called Palm Rib. Cropped with a scoop neck, The Poppler comes with matching bottoms (if you want them), dries quickly and is chlorine resistant.
Sharkskin Everywear shoes, $99
Made with breathable mesh and with drainage holes to get rid of water, these reef shoes with anti-slip sole will also change the game the next time you find yourself on a slippery surface or walking over rocky terrain on your way to the water.
Kodak Pixpro waterproof camera, $349
Capture every memory with a camera specifically designed for underwater and overwater activities. Kodak’s PIXPRO WPZ2 can withstand depths of up to three metres, is equipped with a 16.15-megapixel sensor (that’s good) and can record in 720p HD video (also good). Its LCD screen makes it user-friendly, so even a beginner can work wonders.
Dock and Bay towel, $45
Damp, heavy towels are no fun. Enter: my new favourite quick dry towel. Dock and Bay’s collection dries faster than your standard cotton towel, is made from 100 per cent recycled bottles, is lightweight and folds into a small pouch. It won’t weigh you or your dry bag down and you’ll look good post-dip.
Strava sports app, free
Strava is perfect for all things kayaking, canoeing, surfing and rowing. Get insights into your training habits and progress, plus find route suggestions based on your preferences.
Fitbit Inspire 2, $149
Keep track of your Strava workout with a Fitbit smartwatch that can handle depths of water of up to 50m.
Rayban Erika sunglasses, $207
Protect the eyes with this limited edition pair of Raybans and worry not about compromising on your fashion choices while you paddle the day away.
Cygnett Aquaguard waterproof phone case, $25
A waterproof phone pouch is a godsend on any water sport adventure and this one gets bonus points because you can wrap it around your arm without it clanging against your chest mid-paddle.
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Originally published as 11 best things to pack for a kayaking adventure
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