Packing

Pack light.

Choose clothing that you can put on and take off in layers.

Bring "sample" sizes of items, it will significantly downsize your duffle.

Choose a paperback rather than a hardcover book.

Waterproof your gear with two layers of plastic plus an outer protective layer of nylon or canvas.

Put inside a canvas or nylon duffle bag to protect the plastic from tears, punctures, and abrasion.

Use several small waterproof bags, such as zip-locks when having limited space in a canoe.

Tie with a bow-knot that can be easily released in the event of a capsize.

Do not use bow or stern lines for tying gear.

Camping

Leave a trip itinerary with someone.

Plan a route that meets your interests, wilderness skills, and time available.

If you are part of a large group, split up and travel separately to reduce the noise and visual effect you have on other visitors.

Make camp early enough in the day to ensure finding a developed campsite.

Camp only at developed campsites identified by their steel fire grates and latrines.

Keep a clean campsite and hang your food pack

Do not keep food in the tent.

Keep campfires small.

Burn only dead, downed wood.

Put your fires dead out whenever you leave the site.

Download or Print this Canoe Camping Checklist

Get a printable version of this checklist in your preferred format: PDF, Word, Excel, or print directly from your browser.

Who it's for

This Canoe Camping Checklist is for anyone who wants a simple, practical way to get things done without missing steps.

Avoid forgetting - keep all your Canoe Camping essentials in one place (external memory)
Save time - start from a proven Canoe Camping structure instead of a blank page
Stay on track - track progress, come back later, and keep momentum
Coordinate with others - share the list and divide responsibilities
Learn the process - follow the steps in a sensible order, even if it's your first time

How to use this Canoe Camping Checklist

Save Canoe Camping Checklist to your free Checklist account so your progress is saved and synced across devices.
Customize it in the app: remove anything that does not apply, then add your own details for Canoe Camping (dates, sizes, addresses, notes).
If others are involved, invite them to collaborate and divide responsibilities.
Work through the list: check items off as you go, and set reminders for time-sensitive steps.

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