If you’re thinking of taking a canoe trip and want to know what to pack, this canoe trip packing list has everything you need for a comfortable, safe journey! We'll discuss what you should pack for an overnight canoe trip, how to prepare for a long canoe trip, give you a backcountry canoe trip checklist, and some extra pointers for help preparing for a canoe trip.
Believe me--you want the mosquitos to be the worst part of your experience when going on a multi-day canoe trip. As someone who started participating in a Sea Scouting program in Alberta at the age of 8, I’d like to pass along the Scout motto: Be Prepared.
Download Canoe Trip Packing List
Canoe Trip Packing List
Backcountry Canoe Trip Packing List
You can run off schedule and have breakfast for dinner or add in an extra little hike or swim to your trip, as long as you come prepared with everything on your canoe trip packing list. It’s always a good idea to have a ditch kit on your person if there’s a possibility of getting separated from your group, or you’re running higher class water.
Canoe (or any kind of paddling) trips bring the unique challenge of wanting to constantly be surrounded by water, while never getting wet. Getting wet in itself is not the end of the world but when it starts to get dark, wet means cold and cold is never good when you’re in the backcountry.
Keep anything in this canoe kit that would be useful in emergency scenarios. You can check the forecast as much as you like but it always pays to bring an extra layer when paddling in an area where the weather changes so frequently. This canoe trip packing list will help make sure you don't forget anything important.
The last good bit of advice I can give you is don’t forget the keys for your shuttle!
Basics to Pack for Canoeing
You probably don't need a checklist for these core items you want to pack on every canoe trip, but it's always good to double check!
Waterproof Canoe Trip Gear Storage
Keep in mind that you not only need to transport this gear in your canoe, but you have to store it during your trip as well. Plan to hang your food and other smelly items overnight when in bear country! You also won’t get very far without straps to keep your canoe secure on your roof before starting your trip.
If you have to portage (carry your gear over a section of land) then you will need to consider that packing configuration as well. If you are using canoe barrels, a barrel harness can be your friend over longer distances.
If you're wondering how to pack a canoe barrel, sort your gear in dry bags inside so you don’t have to dig to find what you’re looking for, especially for separating clothes and food. Dehydrated food packs down lighter to save space and is less likely to make a mess.
Recreational Barrel Works Barrel
$108.95
Recreational Barrel Works Barrel Review Features an air-tight plastic lid, metal snap-closure and two durable external folding handles. **$30 shipping charge on all Barrels** Features Lever-Lock Closure LidTwo external side handlesReplacement Parts Available 20L Flat bottom stable for use on… Read More
NRS Tuff Sack Dry Bag
$34.95
NRS Tuff Sack Dry Bag Review With the NRS Tuff Sack Dry Bag, you just drop your gear in the bag, fold down that watertight closure and forget about it. Professional outfitters around the globe rely on the NRS Tuff… Read More
Weather/Season Specific Canoe Trip Gear
Don’t forget to file a trip plan! Leave your trip itinerary with a friend and keep a copy under the front seat of your vehicle in the event of an emergency.
Sexwax Face Stick Sunscreen
$14.99
Sexwax Reef-Safe, Vegan Formula, Face Stick (SPF-50+) provides exceptional "IN SURF PROTECTION" wherever it is applieed. Paraben Free Broad Spectrum protection from both UVA and UVB rays. Water Resistant for up to 80 minutes… Read More
NRS HydroLock Map Case
$37.95
No more soggy charts. No more maps flapping in the wind. The NRS HydroLock Map Case helps you navigate with ease. Just fold your map to the right section, seal it inside, secure it to your boat, and go! Four… Read More
Canoe Repair Essentials and Core Overnight Items
Remember you should be prepared to be lost, wet, or cold at any point on your canoe trip. You should have the necessities accessible to you if any of these things were to happen. Also consider bringing a ditch kit (Jaylife fanny pack, repair & 1st aid).
How to Pack for a Canoe Trip
Before you start packing your canoe, keep in mind what you want to be easily accessible. Canoe trip gear you need to access quickly should be kept close to you. Heavy of overnight gear should be packed in the middle of the canoe to keep it balanced.
Anything you're OK getting wet or don't need as much, can sit up front in the canoe in the splash zone.
Canoe Trip Packing List Summary
Whenever you head out canoeing, it's important to be prepared and packed with the right gear for the length of your canoe trip. If you're planning an overnight canoe trip then you need to have a long list of essential items. We hope these packing lists help you remember all those important items so you don't pull up to the river or lake and realize you forgot something you need!
Download Canoe Trip Packing List
Shop AQ Outdoors Canoe Collection
Other Canoeing Articles
Canoe vs Kayak: Which is Better for You?
How to Choose and Size a Canoe Paddle
AQ Outdoors Contact
Edmonton: (p) 780 463-4892 (e) info@aquabaticsedmonton.com
Calgary: (p) 403 288-9283 (e) info@aqoutdoors.com
