Planning For A 3-Day Canoe Trip: A Checklist

If you've never been on a multi-day canoe trip, you might not know what to bring with you. Well, this checklist is going to help you out. You don't want to show up under prepared and end up having a miserable experience. Likewise, you don't want to overload yourself and bring a bunch of stuff that's not necessary.

Things You Don't Need To Bring

  • Life Jackets and Oars

If you are renting a canoe from an outfitter, instead of bringing your own to the river, then you won't need to bring oars. The rental place will supply the correct oars. They will also provide life jackets. Sometimes there will be an extra fee for life jackets. The only caveat is if you already own new, comfortable life jackets. In this case, feel free to bring them because they might be better than the ones the rental place offers.

  • Elaborate Cooking Equipment

Some people go overboard with camping cooking. It's one thing if you're driving to a campsite, but if you need to pack your gear in a canoe, then you should forgo elaborate pots, pans and stoves.

Things You Will Need To Bring

  • Pop-Up Tent

You will need to sleep somewhere. A small pop up tent is perfect because it is easy to set up. The tricky part of pop up tents is folding them back together. You should make sure you know how to fold up the tent before you take your trip. Here is a good illustrated guide that will explain the process.

  • Camp Shoes and Water Shoes

Camp shoes are the shoes you'll wear when you're at camp, on dry land. Water shoes, or sandals, should be used when you're in the canoe. When you are bringing your canoe into land you might have to get out and pull it in. Also, if you hit rapids on the river, water can splash into the canoe and get your shoes wet. Water shoes should be breathable and have textured bottoms.

  • Neoprene Waders And Fishing Gear

If you're planning on fishing, then you want to get neoprene waders and bring along a collapsible fishing pole. A small tackle box will sit in the canoe, but a full size fishing pole might take up too much room.

Neoprene waders are essential for fly fishing. The water might not seem cold, but if you're standing waist deep for hours then you definitely need protection to avoid things like trench foot.

  • Washable Cutlery and Food

Bring a small set of washable plates and forks. You should also bring nonperishable food. Canned food works well because it is both waterproof and doesn't require refrigeration.


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