A little preparation can make a kayak tour more comfortable from launch to landing. Pack for time outdoors, changing weather, and the chance of getting splashed—even on calm water. The essentials are simple: protect yourself from the sun, bring drinking water, wear clothes that can get wet, and keep personal items secure. Use this packing list as a starting point, then check your tour operator’s guidance for route-specific details and any gear they provide.
Protect Yourself From the Sun
Bring sunscreen that is suitable for outdoor activity, and apply it before you launch. Pack it in a small waterproof pouch so you can reapply during the tour without soaking the container. A brimmed hat and sunglasses add useful shade; secure both with a hat strap or retainer so a breeze or splash does not send them overboard.
Cover exposed skin with lightweight clothing when conditions allow. A long-sleeved shirt can help protect your arms, while a neck covering can shield the back of your neck. Sun protection matters on the water, where reflected light can reach you from below as well as above.
Dress for Water and Weather
Choose quick-drying clothes rather than cotton, which can stay damp and feel cold. A swimsuit, athletic shirt, and lightweight shorts or pants are practical options. Wear shoes that can get wet and stay attached to your feet, such as water shoes or secure sandals; avoid loose flip-flops that can slip off while getting in or out.
Check the forecast and dress for the air and water conditions, not just the temperature at home. Bring a light extra layer if the breeze may pick up, and consider a rain shell if showers are possible. Follow the guide’s recommendations about clothing and safety gear, especially when temperatures or conditions are variable.
Pack Water, Snacks, and Essentials
Bring drinking water in a reusable bottle with a secure lid. A small snack can help if your outing lasts long enough for you to get hungry; choose something easy to eat and pack away. Keep food and drinks in a dry bag or another splash-resistant container, and avoid bringing more than you can store safely.
Put your phone, keys, wallet, and any medication you may need in a waterproof pouch or dry bag. A phone case alone may not protect your device if it becomes submerged, so keep it secured and follow the tour operator’s storage instructions. Leave unnecessary valuables at home or in a safe place before launch.
Plan for After the Paddle
Pack a complete change of clothes, including dry underwear and socks, and leave it in your vehicle or another secure location if you do not need it on the water. A towel and a plastic or reusable wet bag make it easier to change and keep damp gear separate afterward.
Before the tour, confirm what equipment is included and what you need to bring yourself. Ask where you can store dry belongings and whether the route has any special requirements. If you are paddling with Wasatch Paddle Tours, check with the operator before your visit so your packing list matches the outing.
A good kayak tour bag stays simple: sun protection, water, suitable clothing, secure storage for essentials, and dry items for afterward. Check the forecast, follow your operator’s instructions, and skip anything you cannot safely secure. Pack the night before, then you can focus on the paddle and the scenery.