Canoe Day Touring Checklist

Note: This list is intentionally extensive; not every paddler will bring every item on every outing.

For a printer-friendly version, click Print Checklist (PDF) at right.

Canoe basics

• Canoe
• Paddle (1 per paddler)
• Extra paddle
• Personal floatation device (1 per paddler)
• Extra PFD
• Seat
• Knee pads
• Yoke (with pads)
• ______________________

• Dry bags (for gear organization)
• Spray covers
• Weather/VHF radio
• Signaling devices (whistle, mirror, flares)
• Float bags
• Emergency floating throw line (w/throw bag)
• Bailer or bilge pump
• Sponges
• ______________________

Core gear

• Maps and charts in waterproof case
• Compass
• GPS
• Matches/lighter/fire starter in waterproof container
• Knife or multi-tool
• Two-way radios
• Cell phone in protective bag
• Multifunction watch
• Headlamp or flashlight (with extra batteries)
• ______________________

• First-aid supplies (see our First-aid checklist)
• Sunglasses
• Sunscreen
• Lip balm
• Water Bottles (filled)
• Water treatment method
• Backup water treatment (e.g. halogens)
• Energy food (bars, gels, trail mix)
• Beverages or powdered drinks
• ______________________

Clothing options

• Dry suit or top
• Paddling gloves or pogies
• Neoprene footwear
• Sandals
• Helmet
• Sun-shielding hat
• Hat or cap retainer
• Skullcap
• Bandanna or buff
• Wool/synthetic cap or balaclava
• ______________________

• Moisture-wicking T-shirt
• Moisture-wicking underwear
• Rashguard
• Swimsuit
• Shorts or convertible pants0
• Sun-shielding shirt (long sleeves) and pants
• Spray jacket or rainwear (jacket and pants)
• Synthetic vest or jacket (for insulation)
• Synthetic gloves or mittens
• Wool/synthetic cap or balaclava
• ______________________

Repair-kit options

• Sealant (such as Aquaseal)
• Bailing wire (copper, small roll)
• Nylon cord (or bungee cords)
• ______________________

• Putty
• Replacement nuts/bolts
• Duct tape
• ______________________

Other day gear options

• Lunch
• Energy food (bars, gels, trail mix)
• Beverages or powdered drinks
• Cooler (with ice)
• Camera
• Binoculars
• Duffels (to supplement dry bags)
• ________________________

• Insect repellent
• Toilet paper and sanitation trowel
• Permits and licenses
• Fishing gear
• Notebook and pen or pencil
• Credit card; small amount of cash
• Trip itinerary left w/friend + under car seat
• ______________________

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