In this article we reveal the ultimate SUP adventure checklist. Use this list to never forget any important gear while on your next paddling adventure!
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If there is one thing we are about at Atoll Boards – it’s an adventure.
With our sturdy inflatable boards, we are always looking towards that next horizon where we may see and immerse ourselves in the natural world.
With every adventure, our experience has grown.
And this has led us to be experts (somewhat) on what gear you need during a trip that will ensure your safety, keep you happy, and make your time on the water even better. This is especially the case if you plan on a multi-day excursion.
To this end, we have created a checklist of some of the most important pieces of equipment to take with you when you decide to venture into the unknown.
This is, of course, not a comprehensive list, and we will say to always use your common sense when thinking about your next trip. Each gear list will also depend on the type of paddling you’re expecting to do and the weather. This is just a general overview to get you started.
One last caveat – if you feel like anything on our list is unnecessary, reconsider! it’s always better to over-pack than it is to under-pack.
Let’s begin!
1. Atoll iSUP
Have we become predictable? Maybe. But we don’t care! The best piece of equipment you can have to increase your level of fun during an adventure is your ability to take your Atoll iSUP to places you might not have been able to explore.
Roll your board up into its convenient carry backpack and off you go! Or as we like to say: Pack in. Pump up. Paddle out.
2. Proper Clothing
Always dress for the season! If it’s cold – layer up. If it’s warm – bring sun protection in the form of breathable long-sleeve t’s. Again, the idea is to over-pack when it comes to clothing. A quick checklist would look something like this:
- Sandals or Flip-Flops for an easier time on and off your board
- Hiking Boots if you decide to do some hiking as well as paddling
- Socks – two or three pairs in case your main pair gets wet
- Bathing suit or board shorts if it’s warm enough
- Raincoat – for those unexpected showers
- Wide-brim hat to keep the sun off your face!
- Towel
- A wetsuit or preferably a dry-suit if it’s cold weather paddling you find yourself in!
3. Navigation
According to My Open Country, “approximately 2,000 people get lost in the woods every year. We all believe we’re not going to be one of those unfortunate souls…but none of us can ever be 100 percent sure.”
What’s the easiest way to avoid a survival situation just like this one?
Take a navigation tool with you. These can include:
- Compass
- Map of the area
- GPS Tracker
With any one of these you’re better off. With all three – you’re golden. We recommend taking all three.
4. Pulling an Overnighter?
You need somewhere to sleep and to stay warm! One of the best ways to remain safe from insects, snakes, and other land critters is by sleeping in a hammock. These days you can purchase a relatively cheap hammock that will work for sleeping overnight in the wild.
Along with that – a sleeping bag is a must! Depending on your location and the weather, we recommend getting a 0-degree sleeping bag as staying warm is always preferred to freezing at night. And it’s much safer!
5. Lighting
Avoid any dangerous low-visibility accidents by bringing along with you a waterproof headlamp and a battery-powered lantern. With this combination you’ll be able to maintain visibility at night when packing, setting up camp, or cooking. For these instances, the headlamp is especially necessary and a much-needed item on any SUP adventure checklist.
6. Food and Drink
How much you bring is completely contingent on how long you plan on being in the wild. As always – over-pack especially when it comes to your food rations. Be prepared for the worst so you don’t have to worry if it happens.
- Food (nuts and seeds, dried fruit, jerky, nut butter, dehydrated meals, etc.) There are some great companies that now produce high-quality food for camping – we highly recommend checking them out.
- Water Bottle/Bladder – This might be the most essential piece of your gear! Make sure you are bringing a bottle that can hold adequate amounts of drinkable water. Glass or Stainless Steel work best as you most likely will be exposed to heavy amounts of sun.
- Water Filter – just in case you have to find drinkable water in the wild.
- Dish Soap – for easy cleaning
- Cooking Set (pan, pot, stove, spork, mug)
7. Additional Essentials
- Cell phone with solar charger
- Sunscreen – a bad sunburn can make any trip miserable!
- First-aid kit – in case you experience any injuries
- Knife – always carry a knife with you into the wild, they can be one of your most useful tools.
- Firestarter – this can include a lighter, or any other spark-inducing tool like flint and steel.
- Rope or Bungee Cords
Once you are completely packed make sure you can handle the weight of your bag before heading out. If it’s too heavy, leave behind any non-essentials. And start slow! If you aren’t an experienced paddler or camper, don’t make your first trip a 20-mile excursion along the Colorado River. Camp in a spot close to civilization, don’t over-exert yourself, and don’t forget to have fun!
Conclusion
As you gain more experience, you’ll be able to pack according to your skill level and what you believe you will need to make your trip a happy memory. And not a miserable cautionary tale.
Start with this basic SUP adventure checklist and work up from here. As always, if you have questions or need guidance, our inbox is always open!
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