Kayaking Tips and Information to Know for Your Next Trip

For many travelers, one of their iconic images of an exploration outdoors may involve kayaking on glassy waters of rivers and lakes. They may imagine the bow of the boat knifing through the shimmering light of the sun and the mist. If this is something that calls you and your adventurous side is being awakened, then kayaking is something that you should consider.

If you research and prepare thoroughly, you may find your first experience to be enjoyable and fun. You can check resources for kayaking tips like a blog for kayaking beginners to know more about boats and things to bring during the trip. Other ways that you can start are the following:

Borrow a boat from a family or friend. If you have a friend that is a seasoned pro in kayaking, then consider yourself lucky. You may want to take a trip and tell stories at the same time while he teaches you the basics.

Rent the Boats. You may want to go to an outfitter or shop that rents kayaks. Some will transport the boat wherever you are, and you’re only required to get the minimum instruction and gear. The on-the-water outfitters are your ticket to an affordable entry into this kind of leisure and sport.

Join Tours. Some tours will offer you full packages where you get the boats, gears, lessons, and paddles. They will teach you the fundamentals, and you can enjoy a hands-on experience of your local lakes or parks. There are local tourers that can introduce you to more difficult terrains or exotic localities, so be sure to grab the chance.

Sign up for an Official Class. Classes are similar to tours, but they are your best options if you don’t have any experience with kayaking at all. They are usually taught by professors who are experts themselves, and they will give you more in-depth information. This is ideal if you are serious about the whole process. Learn more about kayaking on this site here.

Clothing and Gears

Some of the essential gears are the following:

• Personal Flotation Device that are coast guard-approved
• Clothes that perfectly fit you
• Paddle that is just the right size for you
• Bilge pumps
• Spray skirts for calm and warm days, but these are optional

Proper clothes are the following:

• Shorts that are not made from cotton or swimwear that is non-binding
• Long-sleeves or shorter ones with rash guards as a top
• Footwear made from neoprene
• Hat that shields you from the sun
• Lightweight vests or fleece jackets depending on the weather
• Rain or spray jackets with pants

What to Bring

• Lots of water
• Snacks for long lake tours and food that gives you energy
• Sunglasses, sunscreen creams, lip balms
• Whistles use for signaling
• First-aid kits
• Headlamps in case you decide to go back at night
• Watch for checking the time
• Dry bags that will protect your essential items

Adjusting the Kayak Boat

Well-adjusted boats are more comfortable and stable to paddle. It’s better to make the adjustments while you are still on dry land, and you should focus on three things, which are the following:

You should be snug on the seat. If you can fine-tune your seat’s angle or seatback, adjust it to a level where you’ll feel comfortable. If you are going to go fishing, you may want to sit in a more upright position for more control, power, and balance.

The footpeg is where the balls of your feet should be. Ensure that they can provide a slight bend to your knees for a comfier position. Some of the footpegs were made to be adjusted. They can slide or be tilted depending on the way you’re going. It’s often easier for many people to get out of the kayak when they rely on the slide of the pegs. Learn more about the health benefits of kayaking here: https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/healthyliving/canoeing-and-kayaking-health-benefits.

Launching the Kayak

• Carry the boat to a point where you plan to launch. Ensure to set it in shallow water first, and it should be perpendicular to the shoreline.
• One of the paddle blades should be in front of the cockpit and under the deckline.
• Stand on the kayak
• Sit and slide both feet into the boat
• Grab the paddles and use them to move the kayak and get past the incoming wakes and waves.

Holding the Paddle

Start with grasping the paddle on both hands. Make sure that the shaft is centered when you place it on top of your head. The elbows should be bent at a 90-degree position.

-The paddle blades should be in line, and if you notice that the blades are offset from each other, then adjust the paddles through the twist settings or push-buttons.

-The longer edges of each blade should be on top. Ensuring that you have the correct position of the blades will help you to move more smoothly on the water.

-Place your knuckles on top of the shaft, so they correspond to your paddle blades’ top.

-Relax and ensure that you have the right grip. Your index finger and thumb should resemble an “o” shape. This is to ensure that you have a relaxed grip all throughout. Gripping too hard will be unnecessary, and you may become too tired afterward.

There are other strokes and safety precautions that you need to know. But learning the basics and going out on a kayaking trip with your friend can let you learn more about this leisurely activity. You may want to join sporting events when you are already an expert in kayaking. Practice and start with the basics for a more fun experience. – Travel Feeder