Kayaking and camping come together to offer a fun challenge for your paddling skills. With the increasing popularity of kayaks, there are now many rental and purchasing options available.
They are usually lightweight plastic boats that have one seat and a cockpit where the legs go. They are easy to carry and transport, making them great for outdoor activities.
Camping out of a kayak can be relaxing or exciting, depending on what type of camping you want to do. You can choose to camp on land or in the water, so your options are versatile.
Some people choose to camp on land in their kayaks and make it a more casual setting with lots of room for things like fishing gear or tents.
Before you can camp out of your kayak, you need to equip it. The first step is to choose and buy a quality kayak. There are many brands and models to choose from, so do some research and get the best one for you!
Next, add some additional features to your new boat. These include mounting rails for gear, a rod holder, a swivel mount for a GoPro or camera, and an area for a light.
A very important feature is a leak detection system. These use either foam or dipsticks to detect water in the bottom of the kayak. They are easy to install and cost effective too!
After installing these features, check that all of your gear is secure and will not come loose during use or while paddling. Check back with the manufacturer to make sure all features are compatible.
These tips are helpful for both sea and lake kayaking, but especially for camping trips where you will be staying out longer.
Find a campsite
Once you’ve decided to go camping, the next step is to find a good place to set up camp. Ideally, you’ll find an established campsite that’s already equipped with tents, poles, tarp, and fire ring.
If not, you will need to find a flat surface that is free of sharp rocks and roots where you can set up your tent. Make sure it gets enough shade so you don’t get too hot and sunburned.
You can also opt to sleep in your kayak if you have enough room. Many people choose to purchase a decked-out kayak specifically for this reason.
Make sure that you keep your belongings dry so that you do not wake up and find all your stuff soaked due to rain. Invest in a waterproof bag or bin to help prevent this.
Bring plenty of water
Even if you are going on a short kayaking trip, make sure you have plenty of water. You will need water for you and your group to drink, to cook with, and to wash with.
If you are camping out of a kayak, you will not have much room for carrying water. Make sure to bring enough to last for the length of time you will be on the water.
It is important to keep in mind that even if it is a hot day, the water will be cooler, so you will need to balance the two.
Heather Malis points out that one gallon of water is about four pounds, so there’s a good way to gauge how much you’ll need.
Another tip: keep your empty bottles in your backpack upside down so they do not leak. This way you can also use them as dry bags.
Bring plenty of food
While you can go into a shore and gather food, having plenty of pre-packed food is better. You will need enough for you and your fellow camping kayakers for several days.
Besides, if there’s an emergency and you have to leave quickly, you will have the supplies to last you. Also, since you will be in a kayak, there is limited space so packing plenty of food is the best way to go.
Some suggestions of food are: dried fruits and nuts, granola bars, jerky, pasta with sauce, and tins of food like tuna or beans. You can also bring some heatable water bottles to rehydrate your food!
Camping outdoors requires a lot of energy so making sure everyone is well-fed is very important.
Bring camping equipment
While you can camp out of a kayak, it is not recommended unless you have extensive experience. Most people who camp out of a kayak do so using a spray skirt instead of a tent, in addition to other equipment to make it safer.
Many people use spray skirts as their cover rather than bringing a heavy tent. You can also use blankets or a sleeping bag in place of a sleeping pad and tarp in order to save space.
Using lightweight equipment will save you weight and space, allowing you to bring more food and water. Food is important when camping, especially for longer stays!
Before spending the night in your kayak, make sure to check the weather and water conditions.
Keep yourself clean
While camping in a kayak you can take a shower! Well, you can take a wash anyway. A wet wash is where you wash yourself using water and soap or shampoo.
Showers are not possible in a tent, so having the option to take a wet wash is nice. You will have to balance the need for water with the weight of the supplies needed to take a shower, however.
To have the ability to take a wet wash, you will need to have some waterproof storage for your supplies. A waterproof bag will do, but you may want something easier to handle in your small kayak.
A spray bottle with clean water and soap or shampoo is needed to get clean. Getting rid of body odor is very important when camping out of a kayak because it is your shelter.
Have fun!
Though this article has focused on the practical aspects of camping out of a kayak, the most important thing is to have fun.
By experimenting with different setups and trying new things, you will learn what works best for you and your kayak. You will also make new friends as you share tips and tricks at the lake!
If you have any questions or comments, please leave them below.
What Are the Benefits of Camping Out of a Cargo Trailer Compared to Camping Out of a Kayak?
When it comes to camping with a cargo trailer versus a kayak, there are distinct benefits to consider. With a cargo trailer, you have ample space for gear storage, ensuring a comfortable camping experience. You can bring larger equipment, like tents and cooking supplies, that might not fit in a kayak. Additionally, a cargo trailer provides better protection from the elements, making it a safer option for camping in varying weather conditions.
Learn how to roll your kayak
Once you have your gear, your kayak, and you’re ready to go, the next step is to learn how to roll your kayak.
This is an important skill to have as a kayaker. A roll is a way to right your boat after it has been turned over.
There are two types of rolls: the shoulder roll and the Eskimo roll. The shoulder roll is easier to learn so we will focus on that one.
While it may seem easy at first, it can be difficult to master the shoulder roll. You will need to practice on land and in the water until you get it right!
The key is to get your body positioned correctly and then push up with your shoulders to turn the kayak right side up.
Check out some videos on how to do a shoulder roll here.
Olivia is the Editor in Chief of Laienhaft – a website dedicated to all things outdoor and camping. If you’re looking for the best tent to take on your next camping trip, or need some advice on how to get started with recreational camping, Olivia has you covered.
