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Luggage and packing tips for canoeing on the lake district

Below we provide helpful luggage and packing tips for canoeing on the lake district.

Basic camping equipment

  • Tent
  • sleeping mat
  • sleeping bag

Clothing for the canoe trip

  • Jacket
  • Long and short trousers (e.g. trekking trousers)
  • T-shirts, sweaters
  • Swimwear, bath towel
  • Rain gear (trousers and jacket)
  • Headwear, sunglasses
  • Underwear, stockings
  • Change of clothes, change of shoes
  • Sturdy footwear or sandals (that can also be worn in water)
  • Possibly paddling gloves (to prevent blisters)

Hygiene items for the canoe trip

  • Toiletry bag, towels, washcloths, soap, shampoo, toothbrush, toothpaste, comb/brush
  • sunscreen
  • Small travel first-aid kit, insect repellent, lip balm, plasters, tissues
  • Toilet paper, bags/garbage bags

provisions for the canoe trip

  • Food, drinks, ready meals, spices
  • Stove, cartridges/spirit, pots, cooking spoon, water container, can and bottle opener
  • Cutlery, cup or mug, plate, sharp knife, cutting board, water bottle
  • Dish towel, dish soap, washing bowl, dish brush

Useful items for the canoe trip

  • Maps (you will receive a water hiking map for your tour from Kanatu), flashlight, pocket knife, candle, lighter/matches
  • Writing utensils, money, mobile phone
  • Camera, binoculars
  • Eyeglass strap for securing the glasses
  • Clothesline, clothespins
  • Sewing kit
  • Seat cushion
  • First aid kit
  • Possibly a tarp (as sun or rain protection)

Instructions for packing the canoes

Proper packing is crucial for a relaxed and safe canoe trip . Careful preparation will not only improve your boat's handling but also increase your comfort on the water.

Less luggage, more driving pleasure

The general rule is: take as little luggage as possible and concentrate on the essentials for your time on the water. A lightly loaded canoe is much easier to maneuver and remains more stable.

Pack luggage in waterproof bags only.

Make sure all your luggage is packed in waterproof containers. Use suitable dry bags or barrels for this purpose. This also applies to:

  • Tent
  • Sleeping mats
  • Clothing
  • Electronics

This is how you reliably protect your equipment from splashes and rain.

Distribute weight correctly in the canoe

  • For good handling, an even weight distribution in the boat is particularly important: Distribute the luggage evenly from front to back.
  • If in doubt, the boat may have a slightly heavier load at the stern.
  • Additionally, ensure an even distribution from left to right.

Incorrect weight distribution can make the canoe unstable and make steering more difficult.

Heavy luggage goes on the bottom

To optimally support the stability of your canoe, heavy luggage should always be stowed as low as possible in the boat . A low center of gravity ensures:

  • better water position
  • improved stability against tipping
  • smoother driving behavior

How to properly pack closed kayaks 

Closed kayaks have integrated, waterproof hatches, making them ideal for longer kayaking trips..

Make optimal use of luggage compartments

The hatches of closed kayaks are often slanted and tapered. To make the best use of the available space, it is recommended to divide your gear into the smallest, most flexible packages possible. Large bags waste valuable storage space because they don't conform well to the shape of the hatches.

Our tip:

  • It's better to use several small packing bags.

  • Soft luggage is preferable

  • Fill cavities in a targeted manner

Secure luggage safely on the deck

If additional storage space is required and luggage needs to be transported on deck, the following applies:

  • Use only waterproof dry bags.

  • Always secure luggage with a sturdy strap.

  • Ensure a secure and non-slip fastening.

Matching accessories at Kanatu

You can get dry bags and tension straps for your kayak tour directly from Kanatu or you can check out our online shop .

How to pack Canadians properly 

Canadian are completely open boats, which offers the advantage of easier luggage storage. However, to ensure your luggage is optimally protected, you should observe a few important basic rules.

Always pack luggage in waterproof bags

Since the canoe has no enclosed hatches, your luggage is directly exposed to spray, rain, or the risk of capsizing. Therefore:

  • Pack all luggage in waterproof bags.

  • Use sturdy barrels or pack bags .

  • Secure sensitive equipment additionally

Secure non-floating luggage

Luggage that does not float on its ownshould always be secured to the boat.

Recommendation:

  • Secure pack bags and barrels with straps

  • Check fastenings regularly

  • Distribute weight evenly in the boat