MUST HAVES FOR YOUR NEXT KAYAKING TRIP

When it comes to planning a trip it can be stressful. There are so many things that can go wrong, from airlines, hotels, meals and anything else you want to see or do along the journey. Many experienced travelers have learned to create daily itineraries and follow them to a tee, but for some, the last thing they want is a list of to-do’s on their time to relax. However, if you have a simple checklist to help you remember everything you need for your next trip you are less likely to run into unwanted stressful outbreaks. We all know that when you are traveling with family and friends things can get 10x more stressful due to so many people relying on you.

We wanted to create an article that would help you plan your next kayaking/canoeing trip here at Rileys Outfitter. This way you can spend less time listening to others complain and spend more time soaking in the breathtaking views around you.

Know Your Trip

One of the first steps to making your next kayaking/canoeing trip a success is knowing what to expect. How long is this float going to be? What kind of weather should you expect upon the way? What are the water conditions? All of these questions are great to be thinking about, and if you don’t know the correct answer or feel unsure don’t hesitate to give us a call and we can get you all the info you need. 

What To Pack

Now that you have gotten all of your questions answered its time to make your packing list. When you are thinking about the weather, remember it can change in a minute and it is best to be prepared for the worst case. That way you aren’t stranded and miserable floating down the White or Buffalo River. Packing a bag that has both, sunscreen and a rain jacket is your best bet for a comfortable float. If it is supposed to be a hot one a long sleeve shirt and a shady hat can be great for keeping you cool. 

Paddling, and being out in the sun can be physically draining. Having the right food and beverages can be key to helping you and others have a great trip out on the river. This is where know the duration of the trip comes into action. You might need to be prepared to pack a lunch and have plenty of drinks for a day of paddling. When thinking of drinks to pack in your cooler, make sure to add water to your list. You can have the occasional soda, but on those hot days out on the water, it is important to be drinking plenty of water to ensure a safe trip for everyone. Snacks that are low in sugar, and high in protein are great for activities that call for so much energy to be expensed. Things like beef jerky, trail mix, and sandwiches are great for supplying your body with what it needs on a long day of floating. 

If you and your family plan to fish along the trip don’t forget your rod and reel. You can purchase all your bait and lures here on site and we will even throw in a few free fishing secrets we have picked up along the way. Before you head out to Rileys Outfitter don’t forget to stop in town to grab your Arkansas fishing license and trout stamp if you don’t already possess one! 

Time to Float

This checklist can be used by anyone planning a float trip, no matter where they are headed. 

Thankfully, when planning a float trip with Rileys Outfitter that is all you need to worry about, we have the rest covered. We have kayaks and canoes to rent, each one coming with a life jacket and a trash bag, so you can help us keep these beautiful rivers clean. 

Feel free to give us a call and find out when our next float trips are available for your next family adventure!