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Note: This post builds off my other blog post The ultimate backpacking packing list. I'd recommend that you give that one a read first! A lot of what's listed in the The ultimate backpacking packing list is applicable for packing for a canoe trip, however, there are a few important differences to keep in mind for a canoe trip. The first being that since you are not carrying everything on your back, you don't need to pack so lightweight - you bring all the s'mores supplies your heart desires! The second being that you'll need some different gear to ensure everything is water tight, in case the water is rough or you capsize.
Whether you're a seasoned paddler or a novice explorer, having the right gear can make all the difference in ensuring a safe and enjoyable journey. In this comprehensive guide, I've compiled the ultimate canoe trip packing list to ensure you're prepared for a 4-5 day excursion into the wilderness.
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Grab the PDF version of this ultimate canoe trip packing list. It comes equipped with fillable fields, making it easy to use digitally or print out. Feel free to reuse this checklist for all your future canoe trip adventures!
I’ve organized this list into the following general categories:
Essential Canoeing Gear
Canoe: The heart of your journey. Opt for a sturdy and stable canoe that suits your needs. If you can get your hands on one, ultra-lightweight canoes made out of fiberglass or Kevler are great if you have any planned portages along the way. They are not so great if you're planning on tackling white water on your trip. For that, you'll need a canoe made of something more durable like plastic. Here's an article on How to Choose the Best Canoe.
Paddles: Pack lightweight, durable paddles with comfortable grips. Consider having a spare, just in case. For regular flat water canoe tripping, my partner and I own these Grey Owl Paddles which we love. Typically, the rule of thumb for sizing is that the paddle should touch your chin when resting on your toes standing up. Check out this guide on How to Size & Choose a Canoe Paddle for more information!
Life Jackets: Safety first! Ensure each member of your party has a properly fitted life jacket. My partner and I have these MEC Fulcrum Guide PFD from MEC, which have tons of useful pockets for easy access to snacks, a map, your phone, etc.
Dry Bags: Keep your belongings dry by using waterproof dry bags to store clothes, electronics, and essentials. These lightweight dry bags from MEC are great, which you can use as stuff sacks inside normal duffle bags or backpacks. If you think you'll be canoe tripping a lot and would like to invest in some hard-core canoe tripping bags, you may opt for a heavy duty dry pack, like this one from MEC, which you can use instead of a duffle bag/backpacking + dry bags. For keeping a few things watertight and handy, I recommend this Nite Ize RunOff Waterproof Phone Case, which I use for my phone and a map and fits perfectly in a pocket in my lifejacket.
Other Safety Equipment: don't forget essential safety equipment for your canoe including bailor, throw bag and flash light. In some areas, you may also be obligated to keep a spare paddle on board to be compliant with safety regulations. To avoid potential fines, always check regulations before you go.
Clothing
Check out The ultimate backpacking packing list blog post for a more in-depth list of clothes I'll bring on a camping trip. This list below is more of an overview.
Quick-Dry Clothing: Pack lightweight, moisture-wicking shirts, pants, and shorts that dry quickly. **A post on my favorite camping clothes coming soon!**
Swimwear: A must for refreshing dips in the water during hot days.
Rain Gear: Be prepared for sudden rain showers with a waterproof jacket and pants.
Wide-Brim Hat/Cap: Protect yourself from the sun's rays while maintaining visibility. My favourite is the Class V Brimmer Hat.
Water Shoes: Sturdy, quick-dry shoes with good grip are ideal for rocky shores and wet landings. I typically bring a pair of Crocs, which are great for in the canoe and around camp.
Portage shoes (if required): Waterproof running shoes are great for canoe trips involving portaging. Salomon trail running shoes are my go-to as they have their "quick-lace" system which makes slipping them on and off a breeze.
Warm Layers: Nights can get chilly, so bring a warm fleece or puffy jacket with a wind-proof shell to keep you comfortable through rainy afternoons on the water or cool fall nights.
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Personal Gear
This part of the list is adapted from my previous blog post, The ultimate backpacking packing list. I won't delve into specific details or provide recommendations for each of these items since they are already covered in the aforementioned post.
Sleeping Bag: Choose a sleeping bag suitable for the expected temperature range.
Sleeping Pad: Ensure a good night's rest by using an insulated sleeping pad.
Pillow: I bought a small inflatable one years ago which has been a lifesaver! My recommendation: MEC Deluxe Pillow.
Medication
Toiletries: Consider downsizing into re-useable travel containers. These include: toothpaste, toothbrush, moisturizers, sunscreen, bug spray, hairbrush, lip chap, sanitary products, wet wipes, etc.
Headlamp
Portable Battery Charger
Water storage: I bring a 1L Nalgene and potentially another small one if it's going to be a long day.
Towel: you can buy camp towels which are small, thin, quick dry and extra absorbent.
Seat/chair: I bring a foldable butt pad for around camp and also for those long paddles! You may want to bring a foldable camp chair as well.
Sunglasses
Kitchen Ware: Opt for items which are light (plastic or thin metal). There are also some foldable or collapsible options out there for utensils, bowls and cups.
Multitool/Leatherman/Swiss army knife
Toilet Paper
Ziplock or small plastic bag for garbage (could also be a 'group gear' item)
Ear Plugs and Eyemask
Food and Snacks: Pack non-perishable meals, energy bars, and trail mix. Remember a can opener if needed.
Biodegradable Soap: To maintain Leave No Trace principles, use biodegradable soap for cleaning. CampSuds is my go-to brand.
Group Gear
Same as with the personal gear, this part of the list is adapted from my previous blog post, The ultimate backpacking packing list. I won't delve into specific details or provide recommendations for each of these items since they are already covered in the aforementioned post.
This is stuff that you will coordinate with your group and divide equally amongst each other to transport.
Tent: Opt for a lightweight, waterproof tent designed for easy setup. I recommend the MSR Hubba Hubba series or the MEC Spark series, both of which can be found here.
Water Filtration System: this can either be a personal hand pump, water treatment tabs, or a larger 3–4-liter gravity filtration system.
Stove plus any pot(s) or pan(s) you may need for meals.
Cooking Utensils, such as a spatula (if required).
Sat Phone/satellite communicator/locator: (if you'll be out of service on your trip) in case of emergency, it is beneficial to have something on hand which can contact park rangers or emergency contacts.
Map: a physical, waterproof map can be very useful or you can download an offline map on to your phone. If you use the latter option, just make sure your phone doesn't die.
First Aid Kit: items may include bandages for blisters, pain killers, allergy medication, Pepto-Bismol, Band-Aids, polysporin, alcohol wipes, medical tape.
Rope, Tethers, Carabiners: these will be needed to make a bear hang to hoist your food in a tree if there is no bear boxes available.
Bear Spray, if required.
Unique Canoe Trip Essentials
Canoe Cart/Dolly: For portaging between bodies of water, a canoe cart makes transportation a lot easier. In some cases, however, portages may not be suitable for dollies as the terrain may be unforgiving. Make sure you research your portage route beforehand and ensure it is worth lugging a cart along for your trip.
Dry Barrel/Canoe Pack: These specialized waterproof containers are designed for canoes and keep your gear safe during the trip. For food, I use this 30L canoe barrel, which is big enough for a 3-4 day trip for two people. It also comes in a 60L option which would be suitable for a longer trip or for more people. If there are portages in your trip, invest in a barrel harness to carry the barrel easily on your back. As mentioned above, if you would like to invest in some canoe tripping gear, you may opt for a heavy duty dry pack, like this one from MEC, which you can use instead of a duffle bag/backpacking + dry bags.
Tarp: A versatile item for creating shade, shelter, or an additional rain barrier. I recommend these Kelty tarps which are lightweight and strong.
Fishing Gear: Take advantage of the waterways by bringing fishing equipment if you're into angling. I don't fish so I have no recommendations here....
Repair Kit: Canoes can sustain minor damage. Pack a repair kit with duct tape, FlexTape or epoxy, and other essentials to manage unexpected damage to your canoe or other equipment.
I hope this helps those who are looking for some guidance for packing for a canoe trip! Do you have any questions for me? Is there something I missed? Comment below or contact me here.
A canoe trip presents a unique set of challenges and rewards compared to other outdoor adventures. By packing the right gear and following safety guidelines, you're setting yourself up for a journey that's rewarding and peaceful! So, grab your paddle and canoe and get out there!
Happy outdoors-ing!
The fulcrum PFDs are great. A good canoeing PFD (that doesn't chafe or limit your arm range of motion) is a must for multi-day trips!