How to Pack for a Canoe Float Trip

Packing for a canoe float trip can be tricky if you haven't been before. Most likely, you will be in the canoe all day and then camping overnight at a campground. Some people canoe the next day, too and then spend another night in their tents or campers. The important thing is to think about how long you will be gone and the different types of activities you will participate in. Read on to see how to pack for a canoe float trip.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• tent
• cooler
• duffel bags
• clothes
• food
• toiletries
• swimming suit
• mosquito repellent
• flashlight
• citronella candles
• water
• lawn chair
• bungee cords
• sunscreen
• shower shoes
• toilet paper
• sleeping bag
• dry food container
• matches

How to Pack for a Canoe Float Trip

1. Make a list of everything you think you will need. Look at the list provided with this article to get started. This may not be a complete list, but it is a good start. Remember, you are out in the wild, so don't bring scented lotions or perfumes because these attract bugs. Bungee cords are a must have to keep your dry foods containers shut and free from raccoons as well as to keep your coolers in the canoes if you tip over.

2. Pack your duffel bag first. You will need basic summer clothes and your swimsuit. It may get chilly at night, depending on where you live or which month you are going in. So, bring a sweatshirt. Pack your pillow and sheet inside your sleeping bag and then roll it up. Don't forget to bring towels, soap, shower shoes, toilet paper, and a flashlight for trips to the bathroom if you are staying at a campground.

3. Fill a dry food container. A dry food container can be a large plastic bin with a lid that fits securely and is able to have a bungee cord pulled over the top of the lid. The dry food container will have supplies such as bread, buns, chips, crackers, plates, napkins, cups, and so on.

4. Put cold food in your cooler, and don't forget your beverages! If you are planning on drinking beer or wine on the river, remember that many states do not allow glass containers on the water, so you will need to buy plastic beer bottles or transfer wine to plastic containers. Fill your cooler with ice, and you are ready to go on your canoe float trip.

5. Pack your car, grab your map, and take off for a fun canoe float trip. Don't forget to put important things in your car such as your tent, firewood (if you are bringing your own), tiki torches, lawn chairs, and any other large objects such as a card table. Most of all don't forget your food, swimsuit, and sunscreen! Packing smart for a canoe float trip is the first step to having a successful trip!

Tips & Warnings

• Bring a cheap lounge chair with you in the canoe, so you can put it on your seat and lean back on it during the day. Your back will get tired if you have nothing to lean against. Some lawn chairs can fold into three parts, and these are the ones that can be secured to the canoe's seat, so you will be comfortable while you are riding in the front of the canoe.
• The sun is hot! You are in a metal boat! Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat.

Resources

• Margo Dill's website

[russellcox]

on 2/18/2009 This is good information. I live in the Missouri Ozarks and love floating. It's a way of life here. I'm glad to see someone is writing about canoeing on eHow.