The Ultimate Kayak Camping Gear List 2023 – Everything You Need
You have so much to organize and plan before you go kayak camping that it can be downright challenging.
You may have spent 15-20 minutes trying to make a list, then spent quite a bit of time getting and packing kayak camping gear, paddled for a few more hours, and finally arrived at your location …… only to find that you forgot your sunscreen and whistle.
Little things are often the easiest to forget ….
Anyway, I’ve created this kayak camping gear list to make sure you don’t forget anything and have a safe and comfortable kayak camping trip. I’ve included all the basics and essentials, plus a few extra items for a fun day at the campground, and broken it down into categories for your convenience.
If we’re missing anything you think you should bring, please comment and let us know.
Kayak Camping Gear List
Kayaking Essentials
One of the first things to think about when preparing for a kayak camping trip is what you’ll need for the kayak trip itself.
In other words, let’s analyze the “kayaking” part before we move on to the “camping” part.
1.Kayak
First, you need a kayak. Don’t you? Otherwise, kayak camping is not going to happen.
You’re probably thinking, dude, you’re not kidding, right?
I would say yes. Choosing the right kayak is the most important step in kayak camping.
For beginners, You can check out: how do you buy the right kayak for camping?
I recommend feelfreeus brand kayaks: AVENTURA V2 125 W/ SKEG
It has a wide, a large accessible cockpit, padded comfort seats with an adjustable high back, and can support up to 350 pounds.
Perfect for kayak camping, the lighter weight also provides more glide on the water, improving the efficiency of those long-distance paddles.
I would also recommend MOKEN 12.5 V2
Its main advantage is the balance between fishing and camping. It allows you to enjoy the fun of fishing while camping. It supports a capacity of up to 400 lb.
The seat is incredibly comfortable for hours of paddling. Even though the boat is lighter than other fishing kayaks, it is still heavy, and loading it into an SUV with roof racks is difficult by yourself. But it’s not impossible, and once you figure it out, you can do it in under 10 minutes.
Here is also a youtuber making a video about buying a kayak, hope it will help you.
2.Paddle
Buying a kayak is an exciting experience, but you also need to choose a paddle that is a perfect match for your kayak.
If you still don’t know how to buy a paddle, check out: How to choose a paddle for kayaking.
I would recommend: FEELFREE DAY-TOURER PADDLE (FIBERGLASS)
The asymmetrical blades provide greater rowing efficiency and reduced torque for those longer rowing trips.
3.Emergency Paddle
You should have an emergency paddle – just in case!
This lightweight 42-inch paddle has a corrosion-resistant aluminum shaft and folds down to 20 inches. Its orange color and buoyancy make it an excellent emergency paddle.
4.Bilge Pump
When you’re kayaking, one thing is for sure – you don’t want extra water in the cockpit.
But even in calm water, without a trace of rain, even if you paddle carefully, even if you never fall out of your “kayak” – it will eventually build up.
That’s why you need a bilge pump, a compact device designed to efficiently remove water from the cockpit, and it’s obvious that it’s doing its job.
I recommend Perception Bilge Pump
It can move a lot of water quickly, water removal rate of approximately 1-Gallon per 13 to 14 pumps. Ideal for emptying a kayak after a roll or flip. It measures 4 x 21 x 4 inches and you will need to make sure it fits into the kayak’s storage compartment.
5.Kayak Seat
You’ve only been paddling for less than an hour and your lower back is already feeling very uncomfortable? If you keep paddling, the pain will stay or even get worse.
What’s causing it?
An uncomfortable kayak seat.
In addition to comfort, you can’t ignore the risks associated with poor posture. Your muscles and joints will be strained, causing persistent neck, back and shoulder pain.
Some good quality kayaks come with a comfortable kayak seat. And some inexpensive kayaks have regular seats, you need a kayak seat that is ergonomic for your health and comfortable for your enjoyment.
The Leader Accessory Deluxe Padded Kayak Seat is what I would recommend.
It is constructed of EVA foam, which provides great support, and has a breathable 21D polyester shell. Suffice it to say that this combination justifies the “Deluxe” part of the name.
It supports your back and buttocks with a high back that is padded, ergonomic and offers a lot of comfort during your trip on the water. With a removable waterproof storage pocket on the back that provides additional space for other small items.
6.Dry Bags
Another essential piece of kayak camping gear is dry bags.
These are the secret to keeping your essentials dry, including your wallet, gear, gadgets, and maps, as well as your clothes, food, sunscreen, and anything else that doesn’t like to get near water.
My recommendation is to stock up on a variety of dry bags because they come in different sizes and shapes. Most of these sizes, 5 – 10 – 15 – 25L, will fit your gear.
More importantly, the polyester material reinforced with a waterproof PU coating gives you the peace of mind that they will live up to their name as dry bags.
PRO TIPS: When packing, first see how big a dry bag will fit in the cockpit storage compartment. If it doesn’t fit in 25L, it’s not suitable for use.
For the small items you need to protect, such as your phone, wallet, and keys, I recommend a waterproof fanny pack. Not only will this bag protect your personal essentials, but it will also be easy to access.
7.Life jackets
No one wants to fall in the water, especially if you can’t swim. That’s when a life jacket can save your life.
I think I would recommend: Onyx Life Jacket
Because their higher backs allowed one to enjoyably sit in a kayak seat without having to slouch forward. It has a mesh drain with a whistle attached and a zipper assist loop at the bottom of the zipper. It is also a U.S. Coast Guard approved Type III life jacket.
8.Repair Kit
Repairing a dented kayak probably isn’t on your camping to-do list, but mishaps can happen. Rocky shores and shipping damage can leave dents, gouges, scratches, and holes in the bottom of your ‘yak.
So what’s the fix? How about the tried-and-true duct tape?
However, duct tape is only a short-term solution. Use a more specialized tool, such as this plastic boat repair kit, to apply an epoxy coating and stop the damage from getting worse. However, if the break is significant, it is important to seek help.
Kayak camping essentials
Now that we’ve got the kayak requirements down, it’s time for the camping packing list.
Whether you’re day camping or overlanding, there are a few items you’ll need to take with you, and I’ve highlighted them here. The two most important elements of a satisfying camping trip, comfort and shelter, are the focus of most of these items.
1. Tent
When it comes to camping equipment, how can you go wrong with a good tent?
I would recommend：Big Agnes Tiger Wall UL 2 Solution-Dyed Tent (Lightweight)
It weighs just 2 pounds 8 ounces. Remember how I mentioned in my backpacking post that if you want to follow the rules of lightweighting, the tent should weigh no more than 3 pounds? This tent is less than 3 pounds.
The tent is quick and easy to set up, the interior has room for two people to sleep, and there are mesh storage pockets for some small items.
If I had to say its drawbacks, well. It doesn’t come with a floorprint (for the price, you’d expect it to be included).
Legroom is sacrificed for light weight. With two people in the tent, you won’t have any extra room, so don’t try to pack a bag into the tent.
If weight reduction is your main goal, this may be the best option for you.
If you can accept more than 3 pounds of tent to carry to kayak camping, then I recommend: Sierra Designs METEOR 2 tent
It’s also affordable and very roomy for two adults compared to the equally ultra-small “ultralight” tent. If you can ignore the tent’s weight of over 3 pounds and just want livable space, this tent is a solid choice.
2.Portable Chair forkayaking
Dude, you need a chair to reward yourself for all your hard work (going to the campsite and setting up your tent).
I recommend the Cliq camping chair, which is easy and convenient to set up.
The chair weighs 3.5-4 lbs. It took about a minute or so to assemble the first time, just look at the assembly instructions, once you read those instructions it’s super easy and make sure you pull out all the extensions on the upper arms of the seat frame.
It’s not cheap compared to other camping chairs. At this price point, you’re going to have high expectations for durability.
3.Hammock
I’m not sure if you’re interested in a hammock, but I still offer it as a camping gear option (if you don’t want to bring a tent and the campsite happens to have the conditions to set up a hammock).
I recommend for you: Kammok-All-in-One-Hammock-Tent
I mentioned it in best hammock guide post, you can check it out. It contains bug nets and rainfly，you can easily use it in camping.
4.Sleep System
While tent camping is a great way to reconnect with Mother Nature, let’s face it:
Spending a long night on the cold ground can be exhausting.
That’s why you need sleeping gear.
Here’s what you need to get a good night’s sleep:
* They still have weight under the 3 lb rule.
Sleeping Bag – Sierra Designs GET DOWN 20°
It’s warm enough, with 550-fill DriDown™ insulation. This sleeping bag is said to be the perfect combination of warmth, packability and weight – whether you’re a 3-season backpacker or a beginner in other camping styles.
Sleeping Pad – Klymit Insulated Static V Sleeping Pad
It’s lightweight and very packable. I can say that the insulation was sufficient for the just below freezing weather we had.
Sleeping pillow – Klymit Drift Camping Pillow
The pillow itself is adjustable and has a zipper opening to add or remove memory foam to customize the amount of loft you want. I slept on it for a while.
5.Waterproof headlamp
The lack of readily available lighting is one of the weaknesses of a campground. The importance of not being left alone in the dark should go without saying.
So you can use a headlamp, often called a headtorch. This leaves your hands free for other camp activities. The GearLight LED Head Lamp, which has an adjustable headband and an amazing run time of 10+ hours, has my highest recommendation.
Kayak Camping Clothing Gear
One of the most important items to pack for a kayak camping trip is clothing. The season, climate, and terrain of the place you are traveling will all influence the clothing you decide to pack for your paddling expedition.
You also need to consider the type of physical activities you plan to do, as well as the level of safety and comfort you require. Add the following essential clothing items to your packing list:
1. Dry Clothing
Now remember what I said about dry bags being an extremely important piece of equipment for a good kayak camping trip?
Since you need a dry bag to keep your clothes dry, I sincerely hope you take my advice to heart. Certainly not on a kayak.
You can never be sure, but hopefully neither you nor your stuff will take an unexpected dip. Kayaks tip over, things happen, and splashing is basically a given.
Just in case, pack extra clothes and store them in a dry bag.
Pro Tips: Always include an extra T-shirt with your kayak gear; they make great pillows, towels, hats, etc.
2. Swimwear
Nothing compares to an early morning or late night swim while kayaking or camping. Pack something you can swim in if you’re planning on splashing around on your vacation.
Pro tips: Before you get in the water, check the temperature in the area.
3. Raincoat
You need to be prepared for the divine showers, as there is a chance that you may encounter one as you paddle across the lake. You can stay active and dry during the rains by packing rainproof clothing such as a raincoat, rain jacket and jeans.
4. Underwear
Underwear is a necessity on a rafting trip, unless you’re content to be on command the entire time. Bring enough underwear to get you through each day and to help you maintain proper personal hygiene for the duration of your trip.
5. Water shoes or sandals
Whatever makes you most comfortable is the ideal footwear for kayaking and camping. However, it’s wise to consider practicality by choosing footwear that can be used in and out of the water.
They need to keep your feet from slipping on rocks and sticks, and keep your feet dry in the cockpit.
6. Kayak Gloves
Paddling is a demanding workout for both your hands and your body. Invest in an excellent pair of paddling gloves to prevent uncomfortable, cold, and burned hands.
If you plan to perform camp tasks such as building, collecting, and processing firewood, you should also pack a pair of work gloves.
7. Synthetic or Wool Socks
Include at least two pairs of wool or synthetic socks in your kayak camping gear. Synthetic socks will keep your feet toasty when you’re in the water, while wool socks will keep your feet toasty when you’re sleeping, walking, or just hanging out at camp.
8. Hat
You also need a hat that absorbs UV rays and can block UVA.
I would recommend: Columbia Unisex Bora Bora Booney Fishing Hat
The fabric of this hat has good moisture-wicking properties, and the hat has an adjustable drawstring to keep it secure.
Kayak Camping Cooking Gear
You will need to do some camp cooking if you didn’t just pack things that can be eaten dry or uncooked. The following kayak camp cooking gear should be on your packing list.
1. Camping Stove
It doesn’t get much more basic than a portable camping stove when it comes to cooking. You’ll need one whether you’re cooking food or boiling water.
If you need to make soup/coffee/water on the stove, I recommend a more portable solution, such as an efficient single-burner camping stove like the Jetboil Flash Java Kit Camping.
The 100g fuel tank is included with the complete system in one package.
Only 1-2 people should use this, and making two cups of coffee takes about 10 minutes. The coffee needs to steep for five of those minutes. So don’t plan on getting coffee in three minutes. Although this is not primarily a cooking system, if you want to cook food, I would recommend this MSR stove kit.
2.Cooking Utensils
You’ll need some utensils, unless you don’t mind eating with your hands, which is convenient but messy. So you could just settle for a simple “spork” – a cross between a spoon and a fork – and call it a day.
Still, I thought you might find a few other cooking tools useful. So I looked around and discovered this useful Bulin Camping Cooking Set.
It includes a set of four bowls, two plates, a rice ladle, a soup spoon, a kettle, a frying pan, and two pots with lids, all made of anodized aluminum. A cleaning sponge is also included. The kit doesn’t take up much space because the different components fit together, which is the best part.
3. Mess Kit
Many camp cooking accessories only become important once you’ve had the misfortune of forgetting them at home. A mess kit comes to mind as an example.
A mess kit, for those unfamiliar with the term, is simply a set of basic equipment and eating utensils needed to cook and consume a basic meal when camping or backpacking.
I now use the UCO 6-Piece Camping Mess Kit.
This six-piece mess kit is simple, small, and inexpensive. It comes with a collapsible cup, plate, bowl, fork, and spoon with a built-in knife, as well as a lanyard to keep the kit secure.
You have everything you need for a quick dinner, I assure you.
4. Cutting board
A cutting board is necessary for food handling, otherwise cooking takes longer and uses more fuel.
I recommend the Fozzils Snapfold™ Solo Pack, which is collapsible and can be used as a cutting board and container.
If you think a folding cutting board is too soft, you can use a mini cutting board, which is just a 7″x7″ mini cutting board and 3cm thick.
5.Cooler
For any type of trip, whether by kayak or on foot, I’d say a cooler is a necessity. In addition to kayak camping, I recommend it for kayak tours and fishing trips.
You need a way to keep your food and drinks cold and fresh. A kayak cooler is the next best thing to carrying a mini-fridge.
But choose wisely.
A kayak cooler’s size, ice holding capacity and waterproof construction are all important factors. With that in mind, the Igloo 25-Quart Bike Cooler is more than adequate for most weekend camping trips.
6.Lighter & Fuel
Prepare the food to be cooked and you need to get the fire going before you put the food in the pan.
A lighter, preferably a waterproof and windproof one designed for outdoor use, such as this electric rechargeable lighter.
If you are using a camping stove like the MSR, you will also need to have extra fuel cans on hand for fuel refills.
Oh, and also:
Be careful not to let your campfire get out of hand. Keep the fire under control, make sure it’s completely out, and spread the cool ashes when you’re done.
7.Food
Some campers like to eat fresh foods such as fruits, vegetables, and meats, while others are satisfied with dry foods. You are completely free to bring any food you like on your rafting trip.
Just be sure to keep your food sealed in dry bags and keep your wet/fresh items separate from your dry items.
8.Condiments
Any condiments you feel the need for can be packaged in small bottles and labeled so you can immediately identify the name of the condiment.
9.Dish kit
Soap, a dish cloth or sponge, and steel wool should be included in your dish kit so you can scrub away tough stains or burnt food particles from your pots and pans. Make sure the dish soap you choose is biodegradable so it won’t disrupt the local ecology.
10.Litter Bags
Do you understand the principles of Leave No Trace? There are seven of them, but the basic idea of wilderness ethics is to spend as little time as possible harming the environment.
And among those seven principles is the need to dispose of garbage properly.
So you should properly dispose of food waste, non-recyclables, and other garbage. If you brought it with you, you should pack it up and take it with you when you leave the campsite.
Litter bags are required and you’ll need plenty of them.
Camping Safety Equipment
1. Kayak GPS / Map /Compass
Using the GPS on your cell phone or other GPS-enabled device to track and share your location is a fantastic idea. However, carrying a good old-fashioned compass and a paper map of the area will help you get your bearings if your equipment malfunctions or you lose it in the ocean.
With their help, you won’t get lost exploring your campsites or nearby waterways.
2.Whistle
A whistle can be used to signal for help or give people a sense of your direction if you become lost or in danger while kayak camping. This way you don’t have to lose your voice or wear yourself out yelling.
3. Two-way radios
It is a good idea for everyone in the party to bring radios such as walkie-talkies when kayaking together. This will allow you to communicate with each other if the group splits up in a remote area without cell coverage.
4.First Aid Kit
You should have a basic medical kit, it’s very important! I can’t stress this enough. Several over-the-counter medications, topical lotions, antiseptic wipes, bandages, gauze, and scissors are often found in first-aid kits. These items can all be used to treat allergies, aches and pains, inflammation, and minor wounds.
5.Bear spray
Being attacked by a bear while camping is probably not on your camping bucket list. If you are going into bear country, make sure you have bear spray with you at all times.
Bear spray disperses large amounts of concentrated gas quickly to deter a bear from attacking you.
6.Emergency beacons
While visiting some rural areas, you may not be able to get phone coverage. In situations where it is necessary to call for help, emergency communication devices are a more reliable alternative.
Search and rescue teams will be able to locate you quickly if they are able to send distress signals.
7.Cable lock and anti-theft mesh
While most kayakers who camp in remote areas don’t have their gear stolen, it’s always best to be cautious. You can secure your kayak with a cable lock to prevent it from being stolen and leaving you stranded far from civilization.
If you plan to take long hikes away from the campsite, a theft-proof net will protect your provisions.
Personal Kayak Camping Gear
Don’t forget to bring your personal items when you go kayaking. Here are some of the personal items you will need.
1.Sunscreen and lip balm
I can honestly say that I once confidently kayaked for an hour and a half without sunscreen and ended up with sunburned, red, dark skin.
Having learned my lesson, I now wear sunscreen whenever I go outdoors, whether in hot weather or on cloudy days with the possibility of rain in the summer. Choose a product with a high SPF – 30 to 50 – and reapply every three hours for maximum protection. And if the weather is dry, a lip balm will also provide maximum protection for your lips.
2. Bug Spray
I once got mosquito bites on my legs and arms in a wooded campground because I forgot my bug spray. Bug spray is so important. Spraying your tent area with insect repellent will help keep the bugs away.
3. Toiletries/Hygiene Items
Make sure you have everything you need to take care of your personal hygiene on your kayak camping trip. This includes your razor, face wash, toothpaste, dental floss, toothbrush, toilet paper, wet wipes, hand sanitizer, pads and towels.
You’ll also need a small shovel to dig a hole for your bathroom needs, or a poop kit if the regulations of the place you’re visiting require you to pack up your waste and take it with you when you leave.
4. Cell Phone Charger
Your cell phone is part of your rest time, but be careful not to run out of battery. Don’t forget to bring your charger and a power bank to charge your phone.
5. Sunglasses
Sunglasses are very useful to protect your eyes and face from the sun, so consider adding them to your gear list.
6.kayak camping plan
Make sure your plan includes the route you plan to paddle, the campsite you plan to use, and the time and date you expect to return. Leave one copy in your car or hotel room on the mainland, one with a friend, and one with a neighbor.
7. Fishing Gear
Bring your rods, bait, and other gear if you plan to fish while you’re on camping.
8.Camera and Binoculars
If you are a youtuber, the camera and gopro and its batteries are a must for you to bring, and the binoculars will allow you to quickly spot birds and the sights ahead.
9. ID and a small amount of cash
Your ID card can help others identify you in an emergency so they can get in touch with your loved ones if necessary. If you find a place to buy ice cream, beer or snacks while out paddling, cash will come in handy.
Camping Tools & Gadgets
All of the features in this unit are about functionality.
These camping gear and accessories will keep you safe and allow you to get the most out of your trip.
1. Multi-Tool
Knife, done. A screwdriver, yes. A bottle opener, check. Instead, you could put them all in a single tool-more specifically, a multi-tool.
Kayak’s camping gear focuses on its incredible versatility and space-saving qualities.
Up to 14 different tools, including pliers, a bottle opener, a saw, a hammer, a knife and more, can be combined in the RoverTac Multitool. A nylon case is also included.
So whether you’re chopping wood, pitching a tent, or fixing one of your appliances, you’ll have everything you need at your fingertips. When it’s time for beer, you’ll look cool with this upgraded opener.
2. Water Filter
Sure, most of the time there will be a supply point nearby, but what if there isn’t?
Every kayak camping trip requires access to fresh water, especially if you want to avoid the agony of contracting a horrible stomach parasite.
A water filter would be the ideal option to have clean drinking water. Because of its usefulness and effectiveness, the FS-TFC Portable Reverse Osmosis Water Filter is the best option.
You should also pack purification tablets, which can be used to quickly purify contaminated water by releasing chlorine and destroying most microorganisms.
In addition to hydration, remember that you’ll need water for cooking, dishwashing, and personal hygiene. And transporting water can be quite difficult: Water weighs about 8.34 pounds per gallon.
3. Power Bank
While getting off the grid is the goal, you don’t want to be completely cut off from technological advances. In an emergency, a charged cell phone (or other battery-powered communication device) can save your life.
If you plan to go kayak camping for several days, you can use a power bank or, even better, a generator to keep all your electronics fully charged.
The FlashFish 300W Solar Generator is an all-around option for any situation:
It is solar powered and has enough capacity to charge just about anything, including your smartphone, camera, GPS or headlamp. This makes it the ideal portable power station.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a first-time kayaker or a seasoned expert, this kayak camping gear list will lay the groundwork for a smooth trip – in short, we’ll save you the time of combing through your kayak camping gear planning checklist.
All you need to do is add or subtract a few items based on your specific needs.
I’ve also included a kayak camping gear checklist chart that you can download or view at any time.
