What a kayak camping trip involves
Kayak camping means paddling to a campsite with your gear stored in the kayak. Compared with canoe camping, space is tighter, so most people pack much like backpackers (see camping vs backpacking): compact, lightweight and carefully chosen. The broader planning ideas for paddle trips are in our guide to canoe camping trips, and many of them apply to kayaks too.
Kayak choice and capacity
Not every kayak suits camping. Look for:
- Enough storage. Sea and touring kayaks usually have sealed hatches. Sit-on-top kayaks often have open deck space and tank wells, which can hold gear in dry bags.
- Stability. Wide, stable boats are more forgiving for beginners.
- Capacity. Check the manufacturer’s weight rating and remember it includes you and your gear.
- A comfortable seat, since you will be in it for hours.
Sit-on-top kayaks are often recommended for calm-water trips because of their stability and open storage. Sit-inside touring kayaks typically offer better protection from spray and more sealed storage. If you are renting, ask the outfitter what they recommend for overnight trips.
Planning a first route
- Start small. One or two nights on sheltered water is a good first trip.
- Check campsites ahead. Know where you can legally camp and whether you need a permit or reservation. Check rules on fires and food storage.
- Look at wind, tides and current. These affect how long a paddle takes and how safe a crossing is. Where tides apply, learn how to read tide tables, or ask local paddlers.
- Plan shuttles. For point-to-point routes you need two vehicles, a paid shuttle, or a loop route.
- Plan landing spots. Know where you can get ashore if conditions change.
- Keep days modest. Paddling with a loaded kayak is slower than you might expect.
Core gear list
- Boat gear: kayak, paddle and a spare, life jacket, bilge pump or sponge, and a paddle float or other self-rescue gear if appropriate to your boat.
- Shelter and sleep: compact tent or tarp, sleeping bag, sleeping pad. Backpacking tents for beginners covers compact tent choices.
- Clothing: quick-dry layers, rain jacket and pants, hat, a dry set for camp, and extra warmth. Dress for water temperature.
- Food and water: easy-to-cook food, such as dehydrated meals (see drying food for backpacking), a small stove and fuel, and a way to treat water.
- Navigation and communication: waterproof map, compass, and a phone in a waterproof case. Consider a marine radio or satellite messenger for remote areas.
- Safety: first-aid kit, whistle, headlamp with spare batteries, and basic repair items.
Packing a kayak
- Use dry bags everywhere. Even sealed hatches can leak, so putting items in dry bags is a good habit.
- Heavy items low and near the middle, close to the cockpit, so the boat stays balanced.
- Light, bulky items toward the ends. Sleeping bags and clothing fit better in the bow and stern.
- Think about shapes. Soft, compressible bags fit through hatch openings and fill awkward spaces better than rigid items.
- Keep essentials within reach. A deck bag or day hatch can hold snacks, sunscreen, a map and a rain jacket.
- Secure anything on deck with bungee cords or lines so it stays put in waves.
- Pack with trim in mind. The kayak should sit level in the water. Test it before you leave.
Color-coded dry bags help you find things quickly: one color for bedding, another for clothing, another for kitchen items. For the same principles applied to a larger boat, see packing a canoe for camping.
Safety on the water
- Wear your life jacket every time you are on the water.
- Tell someone your route, campsites and expected return.
- Check the forecast, wind and water conditions, and be willing to change plans. If storms threaten, follow the advice in thunderstorm when camping.
- Dress for immersion in cold water, not just for air temperature.
- Learn and practice self-rescue and assisted rescue in safe conditions. A course with a qualified instructor is the best way to do this.
- Paddle with others when you are new to overnight trips.
- Avoid long open-water crossings until you have the skills for them.
Landing, camp and leave no trace
Choose a landing spot that is sheltered, with gentle slope and no hazards. Lift or carry the kayak above the high-water line, particularly where tides or dam releases can change levels, and secure it against wind. Camp on durable ground, follow local fire and food-storage rules, and pack out all trash.
Kayak vs. canoe camping
Kayaks tend to be faster and handle wind better on open water, but hold less gear and are harder to load. Canoes carry more and allow comfort items, but can be harder to control in wind and have more open space where gear can get wet. Either can work for a first trip if you choose calm water and plan conservatively.
FAQ
Can beginners go kayak camping?
Yes, with a calm route, short days, appropriate safety gear and ideally some instruction or a guided first trip.
How much gear can a kayak hold?
It varies by boat. Check the manufacturer’s capacity and test-pack before the trip.
Do I need a sea kayak?
Not necessarily for calm, sheltered water. Open water and exposed coasts call for boats and skills suited to those conditions.