If you’re not sure what to take on an overnight kayak camping trip then this kayaking packing list is going to help you figure out the gear you actually need.
In this post, I’m sharing the kayak gear and basic essentials you need to have a good time. If it’s your first time planning an overnight trip on a kayak, you’ll find a lot of recommendations on paddling gear that will last you a long time.
I’ve also included a free printable overnight kayak trip checklist in this post so that you don’t forget anything while you’re packing for your self-planned or guided tour.
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5 Tips For Kayak Camping
- Research camping spots in advance. Use apps and detailed topographic maps to identify potential landing spots. It’s a good idea to look for flat, dry areas near the water, away from steep banks or cliffs.
- Pay attention to weight distribution. Pack your heavier items, like food, fresh water, and cooking supplies, as close to the center of the kayak as possible to keeps the boat’s center of gravity low and stable.
- Check weather conditions. Understanding the local weather patterns will help you pack accordingly.
- Understand tide charts. Get to know what the water levels are doing to help you plan route for padding with the current and avoiding strong currents, especially on coastal trips.
- Think compact. Space is limited in a kayak, so choose camping gear that is lightweight and can pack down small.
Planning a trip to Alaska? Get started with my Alaska Travel Guide
Kayaking Checklist: The 5 Big Essentials
Kayak and Paddle
You can’t go kayaking without a kayak! This foldable kayak, which makes it really easy to carry it around (say goodbye to roof racks). It’s super lightweight at 28 lbs, less than half the weight of a traditional kayak. This means you can hike to some cool alpine lakes with this kayak on your back.
You’ll also need a kayak paddle, this one breaks down into four pieces, so it stows easily inside the box while disassembled. If you’re going on a longer trip, you may consider bringing a spare paddle.
Check Price: Oru Kayak | REI | Amazon
Water Resistant Backpack
The key to packing for a kayak trip is to try and pack as lightweight as possible. A smaller backpack will ensure you don’t have as much space to stuff gear into.
I love this Patagonia 32L backpack. I have the older version of it and I take it everywhere. The best thing about this pack is it’s heavily water resistant so you don’t need to carry a rain cover with you. It’s also just super durable, which means it’s going to last you a long time.
Camping Tent
Tents can take up a lot of space and weight. I’ve always used the NEMO Hornet 2, but it’s no longer available. This NEMO tent is a similar option for an ultralight 2-person tent that will keep you dry on your kayak trip.
It also comes with a dual-stage stuff sack which allows you to split the weight of the tent and tent poles with your partner, making it much easier to stow away in your kayak.
Don’t forget your tent repair kit!
Check Price: REI | Backcountry | NEMO
Sleeping Pad
I’ve been using this women’s sleeping pad for many years now and it’s still in excellent condition. This sleeping pad is super lightweight and the regular size only weighs 15.8 ounces.
One of my favorite things about this sleeping pad is that it’s super easy to blow up and pack away. It also has Extra Thermolite® insulation which will keep you nice and warm.
Check Price: REI | Backcountry
Sleeping Bag
The next essential that you need on your kayaking checklist is a sleeping bag. The NEMO Forte 20 Sleeping Bag is a 3-season sleeping bag made with 80% post-consumer recycled content. NEMO also offers a lifetime warranty on this sleeping bag!
Check Price: REI | Backcountry | Amazon
Kayaking Essentials: Safety Equipment
Personal Flotation Device
Whether you’re planning to use recreational kayaks on a lake or take up whitewater kayaking, the Kokatat Hustle PFD will keep you safe on the water. This personal flotation device has a great fit and will stay out of the way when you’re paddling. It also has just enough pockets to stash your keys or snacks.
Check Price: REI
Bilge Pump
A bilge pump makes it easy to remove unwanted water from your kayak. This bilge pump will pump out 8 gallons per minute and has a full-length foam float so it won’t sink if you accidentally drop it in the water.
Check Price: REI | Backcountry | Amazon
First Aid Kit
A first aid kit is part of The Ten Essentials and you’ll definitely want one on your overnight kayak trip. The Adventure Medical Kits Ultralight/Watertight .7 Medical Kit will give you some peace of mind while out on the water.
GPS & Satellite Phone
When you’re planning a multi-day trip, a GPS will help you locate yourself and find your way back. The Garmin inReach Mini 2 is a 2-way satellite communicator and lets you text, share your location, or call for help, even in areas without cell phone reception.
Keep in mind that you will need a subscription plan to send and receive satellite messages on this device. If you plan on traveling, double-check if the area you are visiting prohibits the use of satellite communication devices.
Headlamp
I love using a head torch around camp so I can free up my hands to cook or read. I’ve been using a Black Diamond Storm headlamp for a few years now. It’s really bright and has easy to change settings including full strength in proximity, distance, dimming, strobe, and color modes.
Depending on your kayak trip, you may want to bring a waterproof flashlight.
Check Price: REI | Backcountry | Amazon
Bear Spray
I live in Alaska so I always carry bear spray. The Counter Assault Bear Deterrent Spray deploys a high-volume, atomized blast of concentrated spray to deter a bear attack. It sprays up to 32 feet and will completely empty in 7 seconds.
Check Price: REI | Backcountry | Amazon
Kayak Cooking Gear
Cooking Stove and Fuel
I can’t tell you how much I love my Jetboil Flash Cooking System. This camp stove boils 16 fl. oz. of water in 100 seconds! It’s insane how fast it is. It’s a great item to bring if you only want to pack freeze-dried meals or need some hot water for your morning coffee.
It’s easy to carry as everything fits inside of the cup including the stove and your 100g fuel canister. I would keep some matches or a lighter with you just in case the igniter doesn’t work.
Check Price: REI | Backcountry | Amazon
BearVault Food Container
When you’re kayaking in bear country, you want to make sure you don’t keep any food or strong smelling items inside of your tent to lessen the chance of bear vs. human conflict.
The BearVault BV450 Food Container will secure four days of food for the solo backpacker or a weekend’s worth of meals for two. Store it at least 100 yards downwind of your campsite.
Water Reservoir
Most backpacks have a slot for a water reservoir. It’s convenient to have one if you have to portage your kayak. I use this 3 Liter CamelBak reservoir, which came with my CamelBak.
PRO TIP: You can get rid of access air in your water reservoir by turning it upside down, and squeeze out the air while holding the mouth valve open.
Check Price: REI | Backcountry | Amazon
Reusable Water Bottle
Even if I’m carrying my water bladder, I always carry a 32 oz Nalgene Water Bottle with me. I like to do this because it’s a lot nicer to drink from a lid rather than a hose.
Water Filter
Having a water filter will allow you to get water from nearby streams or lakes, and will allow you to carry less water on your back. The Platypus GravityWorks Water Filter System will filter 4 liters of potable water in just 2.5 minutes!
Check Price: REI | Backcountry | Amazon
Camp Mug
A camp mug is a must for any adventure. The mug I usually take camping is no longer available, but I like the look of this steel collapsable mug. It holds 475 ml and is designed so you can comfortably hold hot or cold beverages!
Check Price: REI
Camp Bowl
My favorite piece of backpacking cooking gear is my Sea to Summit camp bowl. This bowl is collapsible and lays completely flat. This saves so much room in your kayak. Also, it’s super easy to clean out.
Check Price: Backcountry | REI | Amazon
Camp Utensils
I used to get food all over my hands while I was eating from freeze-dried meals. Then I got this camp spork and it’s amazing how much the extra length helps to avoid that mess.
You can also get it as a 2-piece cutlery set, which comes with a matching knife, so you can cut things like bagels or avocado. Both of these are made out of aluminum and super light to carry.
Check Price: REI
Coffee Maker
Easily make drip coffee in the outdoors with the GSI Outdoors Ultralight Java Drip Coffee Maker. The legs on the coffee maker clip to your mug and make it so that the cone stays out of your freshly brewed coffee. At 0.4 ounces, it’s seriously the best addition to your overnight kayaking gear.
Food Storage Bag
I like to keep my food organized by using food storage bags. I like to use odor-proof resealable bags for packing camp food and reusable silicone bag for sandwiches or snacks.
Kayak Clothing: What to Wear
Waterproof Boots
Keep your feet warm and dry by wearing waterproof boots while kayaking. XTRATUF Boots are a classic Alaska boot. They’re comfortable, versatile, and slip-resistant.
Merino Wool Socks
For an overnight kayaking trip, I pack two pairs of socks. I’ll use the extra pair to sleep in and they can be used as a backup if my other pair gets wet. I love wearing the Darn Tough Women’s Micro Crew Midweight Sock.
Check Price: REI | Darn Tough | Backcountry
Sandals
Camp sandals are the best, especially when your only other shoe option is rubber boots. I love Chaco sandals. These are the most supportive and comfortable sandals ever, and you can also wear them with socks!
Neck Gaiter
The lightweight Buff CoolNet UV+ Insect Shield Multifunctional Headwear lifts sweat away from your skin, offers UV protection, and keeps bugs away so you can stay outside longer. This is really useful when you’re in areas with a lot of mosquitoes.
Check Price: REI | Backcountry
Rash Guard
A rash guard is perfect for kayaking and dries fast. Not only is the CARVE rashguard super comfy but it’s also super cute.
Moisture-Wicking Pants
The Patagonia Maipo 7/8 Stash Pants are stretchy, durable, and dry quickly. It always feels colder on the water and these pants will keep you warm.
Fleece Sweater
The Patagonia Better Sweater Fleece Jacket is a great mid-layer to bring on your overnight kayaking trip. I love how light it is and how easy it is to pack. I love being able to switch out of my dirty clothes and into some cozy camp attire!
Rain Jacket
The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Jacket is a rain jacket that will actually keep you completely dry. It’s also great as a windbreaker. The jacket has roomy front zippered pockets and pit zips. You can also stuff the jacket into its own pocket, which makes it easily packable.
Check Price: Patagonia | REI | Backcountry
Rain Pants
The REI Co-op Essential Rain Pants are made with a 2.5 layer waterproof and breathable fabric. Lower zips let you vent your legs and zippered side pockets will hold your snacks. They also pack down into their own pocket.
Check Price: REI
Kayaking Accessories
Sun Hat
This sun hat is water resistant and has a UPF rating of 50 to protect you against harmful UV rays. The chin cord will keep it from blowing away and the sizing strap in back cinches the hat in place for a personalized fit.
Check Price: REI
Dry Bags
One of the most important things to pack for your kayaking trip are dry bags. These will keep your essential gear safe from the elements ,whether on land or sea. This lightweight dry bag features durable, waterproof construction and a roll-top closure to keep your things safe and dry. For kayak packing, it’s better to get a few smaller bags than one large one.
Check Price: REI | Sea to Summit
Binoculars
Whether you need to scope out wildlife, water ahead, or portage signs, these Nikon binoculars are super lightweight yet powerful.
Portable Charger
If you love taking photos like me then you’ll need to charge your phone or camera. The Goal Zero power bank is an extremely durable portable battery back that will give you multiple charges.
Ear Plugs
Ear plugs are essential for me. I hate it when I can’t sleep when someone else is snoring or I hear something outside of my tent. This ear plug set comes with a small storage container and make a great choice for any light sleeper.
Check Price: Amazon
Microfiber Towel
Dry off with an REI Co-op Multi Towel Lite. The extra-large towel is big enough to wrap around your body and small enough to easily pack away.
Check Price: REI
Inflatable Pillow
Sleeping with a pillow while you’re out in the backcountry really brings the comfort of your home. The Sea to Summit Aeros Ultralight Pillow weighs only 2.1 ounces! It’s super easy to inflate and will only take you a few breaths.
Check Price: Sea to Summit | REI | Backcountry
Sunglasses
Protect your eyes from the sun with a good pair of sunglasses. The goodr OG Sunglasses come in a ton of fun colors and if you go for the polarized lenses then the UV400 protection blocks 100% of harmful UVA and UVB rays.
Check Price: REI | Backcountry
Mosquito Headnet
I’m so glad I brought a mosquito head net with me on my last kayaking trip because I hate mosquitoes! They were unavoidable and kept buzzing in my ear. This is a small piece of gear that goes a really long way and your friends will definitely be jealous of you!
Check Price: REI | Backcountry | Sea to Summit
Bug Spray
Sawyer Jungle Juice Insect Repellent protects exposed skin areas against mosquitoes, chiggers, fleas, gnats and ticks. You’ll be glad you packed it.
Check Price: REI
Kayaking Toiletries: Good Hygiene
Backcountry Wipes
Refresh yourself with a quick wipe bath with the Sea to Summit Wilderness Wipes. These are a great item to have in your kayaking toiletries kit. These wipes are soft on your skin and don’t leave any sticky residue behind. You’ll also love these when you’re camping on your period.
Check Price: REI | Backcountry | Sea to Summit
Backcountry Trowel
It’s important to follow Leave No Trace Principles and having a backcountry trowel will help you do that. This trowel is lightweight yet strong enough to dig a hole for your bathroom needs.
Sunscreen
Sun is reflective on the water, which is even more reason to keep your skin protected. I always protect my face with CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30. I love this stuff and its part of my normal skin care routine.
Check Price: Amazon
Chapstick
My lips always get chapped while I’m out adventuring so I like to carry Burt’s Bees Moisturizing Lip Balm. This lip balm is made with Beeswax, Vitamin E and a hint of peppermint oil.
Check Price: Amazon
Pee Cloth
The Kula Cloth is a reusable antimicrobial pee cloth. You can clip it to the outside of your backpack for easy access when you need to pee. The best part of having a pee cloth is that you don’t have to carry as much toilet paper with you, making it a positive impact on the environment.
Check Price: REI | Kula Cloth
I hope you enjoyed learning about what kayaking gear to pack for your next overnight kayak trip. You can access my kayak packing list below.
Happy kayaking!
Download Your FREE Overnight Kayak Checklist
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Is there anything you would add to my overnight kayak trip packing list? Share them in the comments.
