Canoe camping brings together the best of both worlds -- the immersion in nature that campers experience when backpacking, coupled with the convenience and comparable gear capacity of car camping.
What's not to like?
When it comes to canoe camping, you'll need the typical gear necessary for camping: tent, sleeping bag/bedding, cookware, food, coolers, survival gear, comfortable clothing and so forth. In addition, however, you'll need a few other items -- three of which we highlight below:
Dry Bags
Keep your items -- bedding, cell phone, keys, First Aid Kit, etc. -- safe and dry by packing them away in a dry bag. When used properly, these heavy-duty waterproof bags will keep moisture out, should you encounter a rainstorm or experience an overturned canoe.
Life Jacket
Even if you're a confident swimmer, you still need to bring along and wear a PFD (personal floating device) such as a life jacket. Accidents happen. It's better to play it safe than to be sorry.
Umbrella
For beginning canoeists, this is an oft-overlooked piece of gear. But bringing an umbrella on your canoe trip is just too good to pass up: It can protect you from the harsh rays of the sun, as well as keep you dry if rain starts to fall. And if you're wondering how you're going to hold an umbrella and paddle at the same time: There are hands-free, adjustable umbrellas specifically made for boats!
To the experienced canoe campers out there: What other essentials do you bring on each trip?
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