Kayaking requires a functional kayak, rowing paddles, and a body of water. Here are a few things that can make you enjoy any time spent on the water.
a) Wear Gloves.
It helps to protect your hands while rowing your kayak. Blisters can occur on your hands when there is moisture on the paddle’s handle. They also retain hand dryness and provide a firm grip on the paddles. Kayaking gloves can help.
b) Regular Application of Sunscreen.
Apply sunscreen as many times as you can to avoid getting sunburn or blisters on exposed body parts. There’s a possibility that you might get skin cancer and aloe versa can’t help you to ease the pain.
c) Purchase A Personal Flotation Device (PFD).
A requirement is life-jacket as it can save your life if the kayak capsizes and it is important to get one that fits perfectly. It should have a snug fit, but not too snug that it would restrict your breathing. When in a seated position, the PFD should be steady and not move around. Most life-jacket models have pockets for storing items and a built-in whistle in cases of emergencies.
d) Secure Your Items.
Kayak tipping or capsizing is an inevitable occurrence. Either the river’s current increases or you take a sharp turn. Even an expert kayaker experiences these problems at times. Properly tie your gear and other items down to prevent them from getting away. Most kayaks have in-built compartments for storage.
e) Enjoy All Nature Has To Offer.
I highly suggest that don’t play your own music while cruising down. Let the sounds of nature give it to you. They could be made by birds, leaf rustling, fish, or other animals around. And enjoy the natural beauty that surrounds you. Kayaking is the best way to experience it.
f) Get Comfy.
You should always get a seat that will be comfortable as you might spend long hours on the water. Nothing could be worse than having a sore or strained back after kayaking. For kayaks with inbuilt seats, adding a cushion gives better support to your back. A comfy seat makes for a better kayaking experience.
g) Pack A Change of Clothes and Shoes.
Often, a kayaker gets wet, even if they get splashed by the rowing of the paddle. Driving or walking while wearing wet clothing can be uncomfortable, so it is recommended that you pack a change of clothing. They can be handy if you get soaked.
h) Carry Extra Bottles of Water.
Prolonged exposure to the sun can lead to dehydration which is why carrying extra water bottles is particularly important. You can quickly exhaust the water you’re with if you didn’t pack enough. As a rule, you should drink one or two bottles of water every ten to fifteen minutes that you spend on the water.
i) Pack A Waterproof Bag.
If there are valuables such as your phone, keys, or any other item that you want safely kept, you should store them in a waterproof bag before stashing into the kayak. This is if the kayak doesn’t have a built-in storage space. You can purchase this bag at a sporting goods store.
j) Always Be On Alert.
Obstacles on the water can appear out of anywhere so make sure you keep your eyes and ears open to quickly detect any of them.
k) Double Check All Your Gear.
This is particularly important as you don’t want to pack faulty gear. Make sure there are no holes in the vessel, the life-jacket isn’t torn or ripped, the seat isn’t peeling, and the paddle doesn’t have splinters or peels.
l) Carry A Pair of Binoculars.
These can help you enjoy the views of nature better such as wildlife, trees, waterfalls, etc. It is recommended that you get a pair of binoculars that is waterproof, durable, portable, and has scratch-resistant lenses.
m) Always Stretch Your Body After A Kayaking Trip.
Sitting upright for long periods can lead to a stiff back and neck, so it’s advisable that once you get on the shore, you stretch properly to reduce the possibility of having aches or cramps. You can do them before kayaking just to make sure you get relax your body before leaving.
n) Have A Good Knowledge of Water Safety Practices.
The water can get disturbed at times so it’s in your best interest to learn how to save yourself in the event the vessel tips or capsizes. If that happens, you’ll have a few minutes to get yourself back on top.
o) Pack A Roll of Duct Tape.
This can come in handy if there’s an emergency like your paddle handle breaking or fishing rod hook detaching from the rod. If you can’t tie down some of your gear because they’re too small, you can simply apply duct tape to keep them in place.
p) Carry A Physical Map or Compass.
Most times, you might be kayaking in a place with no cellular reception so the GPS or Maps application on your phone might not work. It’s not advisable to carry any electronic devices on the water so a compass will help you remain on course and save you if you get lost.
q) Constant Contact With Others.
If you’re travelling in a group, you will need to travel close to each other. The recommended distance is within one’s earshot, or if there will be further distances, you might purchase walkie-talkies for each vessel to use.
r) Check The Weather Update Before Heading Out.
Ensure you check all the weather conditions before heading out on the water. Trying to manipulate your kayak when there is a light drizzle isn’t too difficult, but if there is a heavy downpour, it will be extremely difficult.
Conclusion
Kayaking is a fun, enjoyable, and relaxing way of spending one’s day. With these tips, you can enjoy the day better.