When you’re in your kayak, having the right equipment is essential for your safety and enjoyment of this unique experience.
Here are seven items you need to have on your kayak for the next time you head out onto the water.
1. Paddle
Whilst it’s obvious that you should take a paddle with you when you’re kayaking, it’s important that you get a paddle that’s of good quality.
You may have to pay a little more than you originally planned, but you’ll at least have something reliable that could last you a few years.
This paddle from NKX is a great reliable choice, even though it is quite pricey.
2. Compass
If you’re heading out into unfamiliar waters, a compass will help you get your bearings and stay safe.
What’s more, there are plenty of compasses that are available in compact sizes to make them easier to take with you.
This compass from Luminox is an affordable choice and can be used as an attachment to your watch.
3. First aid kit
You never know when you might pick up an injury while you’re in your kayak. While it might not be anything serious, you should always try and treat an injury as soon as you can.
Having a small first aid kit with you can help you treat minor issues and stay out on the water.
There’s a wide range of first aid kits available, but this kit from Life Systems comes in a practical size that you can easily take with you.
4. Helmet
A helmet is one of the main pieces of safety equipment you need when kayaking, and there’s a wide range of different helmets on the market.
The best thing to do is to attend a shop so you can try helmets on and find the right one for you. But there are plenty of options available online, too.
This kayaking helmet from Lomo is an affordable and reliable option. It also comes with open ear protectors that’ll make you feel comfortable and well protected but not too restrained.
5. Dry bag
When you’re in your kayak, there’s an inherent risk of your equipment getting wet. That’s why a dry bag can be so useful – not only can you keep all your kit in one place, but you can also keep it nice and dry.
There’s a wide range of dry bags available, and they come in a range of sizes. This bag from Feelfree is very useful and comes in 5-litre, 15-litre, and 30-litre sizes.
6. Buoyancy aid
Safety is always the most important factor when you’re in your kayak, and a buoyancy aid is a quintessential safety accessory.
While you may consider yourself to be a strong swimmer, having a buoyancy aid minimises your risk of drowning as much as possible.
This buoyancy aid from Palm is affordable and reliable. It also comes in a range of sizes, so you can find the right one for you.
7. Floating rope
While you may be an expert when it comes to kayaking, there’s always the possibility that you could end up stranded somewhere and need help being pulled to safety.
While you’ll most likely be able to avoid situations like this, having a floating rope will ensure that you can be pulled to safety should the situation arise.
Not only that, but floating rope is generally very cheap as well. This floating rope is available for less than £1!
Specialist kayak insurance from Insure4Boats
Once you have all the equipment you need for your kayak, it’s important to make sure you have the right insurance. Without it, you could be liable if you damage someone else’s kayak or if you break some of your own equipment.
With our kayak insurance, you can head out onto the water knowing you are completely protected.
Our insurance policies also come with the Ripe Guarantee. This ensures that when you take out one of our insurance products, you are guaranteed to receive great cover and exceptional service at the right price. Get an online quote within minutes today.
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