Canoeing Checklist

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  • Preparation
  • Know-how
    Get lessons on how to canoe before hand; they're really invaluable.
  • Clubs
    There are plenty of these to join, and they are great sources for tons of information.
  • Experience.
    There is only one way to get this, and that is practice, practice, practice!
  • Teachers
    There are plenty of instructors out there, but make sure that they are certified, and First Aid certified, too.
  • Equipment
    Investing in a canoe can mean some money at first — but the long-term payoff is worth it.
  • Gear
  • Paddles
    You will need at least two pairs; one to use, and the other as a back-up pair.
  • Canoe
    This is obvious, so make sure you pick one that you like, and will use.
  • Life jacket
    When on the water, you must always have at least two life jackets or personal flotation devices on board a boat. No discussion on this one.
  • Accessories
  • Extra paddles
    While two sets of paddles are usually enough, some canoeists want a third set.
  • Throw ropes
    These are useful to pull yourself into the dock, or pull someone out of the water, if needed.
  • Knife
    Use the knife for a number of different things, including cutting the rope or trimming repair patches.
  • First aid kit
    Do not go anywhere without this, and keep it fully stocked.
  • Whistle
    Ensure that it works, and if something happens, use it to get others' attention while out on the water.
  • Repair kit
    On the odd chance that your canoe is damaged, have a kit with the necessary items to fix it.
  • GPS
    For those who are navigationally challenged, have a GPS handy to ensure arrival at the correct spot, using the right route.
  • Compass
    For those areas where GPS doesn't function, use this to guide you in the right direction.
  • Map
    Combine this with the compass or GPS to get you to your final destination.
  • Case
    This would be something that maps and anything digital could be put into, in order to prevent damage.
  • Things to Take
  • Towels
    Don't forget these! You'll use them for many different things, including drying your wet head.
  • Dry bags
    Use these for carrying wet clothes, shoes and more.
  • Boxes
    Clean and dry, these will be needed to store things in while in the canoe, and while going back and forth to the canoeing site.
  • Sunscreen.
    Water reflects the sun, and sun can burn, so bring some sunscreen with you!
  • Hats
    Pick a hat you like, and that will provide some decent protection from the sun so that you're not squinting all the time, and you have a bit of shade.
  • Sunglasses.
    These are a great thing to help cut down on eye strain, so wear them, and relax!
  • Drinks
    Have some sort of bottled drinks with you, just in case you need them; water would be great.
  • Food
    If you're only going for a day, pack a small simple meal or two. Otherwise, pack a bit more.
  • Camera
    You will certainly want to take some pictures of the scenery; just make sure you have a good dry container to keep the camera in.
  • Safety Tips
  • Weather
    Pay attention to it, and if it starts to go bad, get out of the water.
  • Stay properly hydrated
    Drink liquids that won't dry you out — water is best.
  • Itinerary
    Have a set itinerary so that someone is expecting you at a specific time.
  • Staying together
    If you're canoeing in a group, trying to guide each other in a pack helps. You can use radios to stay in contact, too.
  • Place to meet
    If you should happen to break up as a group, agree to meet in a specific spot, then do so.
  • Search and rescue
    Who is going to do what if that itinerary isn't met, who's getting called, and when should be planned in advance.

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Presented by:

Kimberly French

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Details

For the outdoor enthusiast, canoeing is a popular pastime. And while it's impossible to stay dry during a canoeing trip, it is entirely possible to stay safe. Proper planning and some thoughts towards safety make this easy to do. First and foremost, know the ins and outs of how to canoe. If you don't, take the time to learn. Choose a body of water that you will be able to navigate easily. Bring people with you who are well-skilled if you are not, and learn from them. Practice as often as you can, and use the best equipment you can find. Most of all, enjoy yourself.

Who it's for

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

  • Avoid forgetting - keep all your Canoeing essentials in one place (external memory)
  • Save time - start from a proven Canoeing 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 it

How to use this Canoeing Checklist

  • Save Canoeing 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 Canoeing (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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