Imagine: you and your closest companions, stand up paddle boarding on an empty river, tuning in to the hints of nature. You’ve taken a couple of days to get away from the city and investigate earth. Truly, you read that effectively. A couple of days: plural. Taking a short-term SUP experience may appear to be overwhelming, and as it were, insane. But it is shockingly simple to pack and prepare. Here are some tips on how to best pack for the ultimate short-term SUP trip.
PREPERATION PHASE:
- Weather check – It is always better to check the weather beforehand as it will help you properly prepare for the excursion. Also it is not just a thing to do before the excursion but also should be done during it as weather can be unpredictable. It can quickly change so always check for latest forecasts.
- Research about the area – This will help you become aware of exactly what you are getting into. You can do this by having a talk with the locals, studying maps and researching online. Its always better to know before hand the type of water and terrain you will be dealing with as it helps you pack accordingly. Also you should map out a rough plan and tell it to someone who knows you are away. Also let em’ know of the time you will be gone. This communication can be really helpful in cases of emergencies.
- Prepare a list – Always sit and prepare a packing list and double check to make sure nothing is left out. There are certain items you don’t want to miss out on like your sleeping bag or maybe allergy medicines. Plan out the whole plan as to how long will you be gone and what other necessities will be required. Also prepare a small menu so that you know how much food to carry.
- Prepare packing gear – Now that you know of all the things/items you will need, next you need is gear and bags to pack all that in. There are different type of bags that will be required like dry bags to store your electronics and food, gear containers and deck bags. There can be a smaller bag for your snacks. Don’t forget to properly upholster all the bags to the board so that everything stays intact. And since all this will be carried on a paddle board, you don’t want to over pack.
- Pack Multiple Times – Before leaving, make sure that you repack your stuff. Packing once might fit everything in your bags but there are high chances that there exists another way. A way that is more space efficient. It may mean packing your snacks in a different bag to reduce the number of luggage or rolling your sleeping bag or apparel in a different manner. Keep trying until you think you have achieved the most efficient combination.
ITEMS:
Overnight equipment – A nice sleep can be really helpful on an excursion as it will help you regain energy. In cases where you plan to go to places prone to rain, it would be nice to pack a tent. It is advisable to split the sheets and poles as two people can fit in one tent. Sleeping bags can get cold if they somehow get wet, so make sure you carry a synthetic sleeping bag which will keep you warm. Some items to be carried are:
- Tarp
- Tent
- Sleeping mat
- Pillow
- Synthetic Sleeping bag
Water & Food – Paddle boarding excursions involve a lot of activity and moving, so it is important that you have enough nutrition and water so that your body does not lose strength. What and how much comes down to exactly how long you trip is, how much you are willing to carry and your personal preferences. If you don’t have the skills to light up fire, then carry a small gas stove. Although you will have plenty of water around you, make sure that you carry enough water to drink as the min rec intake is 3 liters a day. If your excursion is on a fresh water source then carrying a filter system will be great.
- Gas Stove
- Food
- Water filter
- Snacks
- Utensils
- Lighter
Hygiene – Keeping yourself clean and fresh will really help you have a smooth and great trip. It again is up to you as to how much you want to carry. Basic items like toothpaste/brush, toilet roll, soap towel should be carried along. You can also carry items like lotion, mosquito repellant, sanitizers if needed. Also make sure that the stuff you throw or dispose off is biodegradable.
- Toilet roll
- Toothpaste
- Toothbrush
- Towel
- Soap
- Mosquito repellant
- Lotion
Safety – This is the most important aspect of packing as it will really help you in emergencies and keep the whole trip safe. Having some basic safety items is a must. This can include a first aid kit, medicines, sunscreen, and phone and power bank. Other stuff is also required in cases you get lost like a compass, a knife, whistle, and headlamp. Also carry an SUP repair kit and extra duct tape.
- Compass
- First-aid kit
- Mini flare
- Map
- GPS
- Headlamp and extra batteries
- Whistle for each person
- Duct tape and SUP repair kit
- Sunscreen
- Phone with a waterproof case