Canoeing Checklist

Preparation

• Know-howGet lessons on how to canoe before hand; they're really invaluable.
• ClubsThere 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!
• TeachersThere are plenty of instructors out there, but make sure that they are certified, and First Aid certified, too.
• EquipmentInvesting in a canoe can mean some money at first — but the long-term payoff is worth it.

Gear

• PaddlesYou will need at least two pairs; one to use, and the other as a back-up pair.
• CanoeThis is obvious, so make sure you pick one that you like, and will use.
• Life jacketWhen 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 paddlesWhile two sets of paddles are usually enough, some canoeists want a third set.
• Throw ropesThese are useful to pull yourself into the dock, or pull someone out of the water, if needed.
• KnifeUse the knife for a number of different things, including cutting the rope or trimming repair patches.
• First aid kitDo not go anywhere without this, and keep it fully stocked.
• WhistleEnsure that it works, and if something happens, use it to get others' attention while out on the water.
• Repair kitOn the odd chance that your canoe is damaged, have a kit with the necessary items to fix it.
• GPSFor those who are navigationally challenged, have a GPS handy to ensure arrival at the correct spot, using the right route.
• CompassFor those areas where GPS doesn't function, use this to guide you in the right direction.
• MapCombine this with the compass or GPS to get you to your final destination.
• CaseThis would be something that maps and anything digital could be put into, in order to prevent damage.

Things to Take

• TowelsDon't forget these! You'll use them for many different things, including drying your wet head.
• Dry bagsUse these for carrying wet clothes, shoes and more.
• BoxesClean 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!
• HatsPick 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!
• DrinksHave some sort of bottled drinks with you, just in case you need them; water would be great.
• FoodIf you're only going for a day, pack a small simple meal or two. Otherwise, pack a bit more.
• CameraYou 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

• WeatherPay attention to it, and if it starts to go bad, get out of the water.
• Stay properly hydratedDrink liquids that won't dry you out — water is best.
• ItineraryHave a set itinerary so that someone is expecting you at a specific time.
• Staying togetherIf 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 meetIf you should happen to break up as a group, agree to meet in a specific spot, then do so.
• Search and rescueWho is going to do what if that itinerary isn't met, who's getting called, and when should be planned in advance.