Day Paddling Checklist (Canoeing)

By REI staff

Choose items that match your trip plans and the weather

The Basics

• Canoe
• Headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries and bulbs
• Paddle (1 per paddler)
• Personal Flotation Device (1 per paddler)
• Sunglasses
• Sunscreen
• Food
• Weather radio
• Drinking water

• Signaling devices (whistle, mirror, flares)
• First-aid kit
• Emergency throwline
• Pocket knife
• Plastic bags
• Map/charts in waterproof case
• Matches/firestarter in waterproof container
• Dry bags
• Compass

Canoeing Clothing

• Quick-drying pants/shorts
• Rain gear (jacket/poncho and pants)
• Quick-drying swimsuit
• Spray jacket/pants
• Canoe pogies or neoprene gloves
• T-shirts
• Sun/rain hat (with wide brim)
• Long-sleeve shirts

• Bandanna
• Wicking long underwear (top and pants)
• Fleece or wool hat
• Fleece or wool vest
• Fleece or wool gloves/mittens
• Fleece or wool sweater/sweatshirt
• Fleece or wool pants
• Waterproof outermitts

Footwear

• Wool or synthetic socks
• Tennis shoes
• Wicking liner socks

• Sport sandals
• Hiking boots/shoes
• Knee-high rubber boots

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