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 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 pants
- Sun-shielding shirt (long sleeves) and pants
- Spray jacket or rainwear (jacket and pants)
- Synthetic vest or jacket (for insulation)
- Synthetic gloves or mittens
- ______________________
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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