There are several important things to bring and fun things you can do in an inflatable kayak. Consider these options and you'll have a great time on the water!
Kayak Necessities
Kayaking safely is easy if you are equipped with the proper equipment. Although you won't need many items, you must bring a few essential items. The most important kayak necessities include a:
Life vest: To maintain the highest level of safety while floating in a kayak, you'll always need to wear a life vest. Any additional passengers you might have paddling along with you (either human or canine) should be wearing one too.
Dry bag: Dry bags are practical accessories that can protect all of your valuable items. You can store food, electronics, and clothes in one of the bags without any risks because the waterproof material and watertight closures will keep everything dry after water splashes into a kayak.
Traditional pump: A pump will help you inflate the kayak before each adventure. Depending on a kayak brand and design, you may not need to purchase a pump because it may already be included.
Bilge pump: When water fills a kayak, you'll need a bilge pump to extract it quickly. Waves can easily splash into a kayak if the water is rough. It can also fill a kayak when it's accidentally tipped over. If you're paddling primarily on flat water and can avoid these situations, you may not need to invest in this kind of pump. However, it's a convenient item to have in a kayak in case these situations happen.
Paddle: If the kayak you purchased didn't already come with basic accessories, you need a paddle. Paddles come in different lengths and styles, so be sure to consult sizing and use recommendations before you purchase one.
Helmet: The roughest kayak zones are locations around whitewater. If you are paddling in this type of environment, you should consider a helmet.
Fun Things to Do in an Inflatable Kayak
While out enjoying a day in your kayak, you may have opportunities to try different activities if you bring proper equipment. The main kayaking activity options worth trying include:
Photography: If you pack a waterproof camera or a camera in a waterproof case, you can snap photos of your surroundings as you float.
Fishing: Fishing is a favorite activity that people enjoy from a kayak. This particular vessel is a practical option for fishing adventures because it doesn't have a motor. The paddle that propels a kayak to various spots provides tactical benefits throughout a fishing adventure since it never generates loud noises underwater. As a result, fish are never driven away by scary sounds before a kayak reaches a fishing spot.
Picnics: Why not pack a lunch? You'll welcome the opportunity to get out of your kayak and stretch your legs at the same time. Keep your eyes peeled for great picnic spots along the shoreline while you paddle!
Camping: If you're feeling especially adventurous, pack for an overnight trip. Pitch your tent, cook over an open fire, and sleep under the stars! Just be sure you camp in a place where the law does not prohibit it.
These are just a few ideas. We bet you'll think of even more as you get out and explore in your inflatable kayak. Get out there, have fun, and be safe!