This is a general guide on what to pack for kayaking. We know every trip and every paddler is unique, so let us know if you have questions. Remember: pack light and small where you can… whatever you pack you have to paddle!
Gear We Provide
Dry Bags
For all of our trips, guests are provided with 10 liter SealLine dry bags for personal items to go in the kayak with you. For our multi-day camping trips, in addition to the 10 liter bag, guests are also issued a 30 liter SealLine dry bag for clothing, toiletries, and other items. Note: While you’re on your trip, Outdoor Odysseys will hold your luggage and any excess items that you’re not bringing with you. On the morning of your trip, we work with you to sort everything accordingly.
Kayaks
We have been purchasing our fiberglass double kayaks from Northwest Kayaks, a local kayak manufacturer in the Seattle area since we opened our doors in 1987. Our plastic doubles which are used for our day trips are Boreal Esperantos.
Paddling Gear
All paddling gear is provided. We use NRS lifejackets, Snap Dragon spray skirts and Werner paddles.
Camping Gear
We will provide dry bags for all of your personal belongings on both day and overnight tours. We will provide you with one tent per every two people in your group. Solo travellers will receive their own tent. You may bring your own tent if it is small in packing size (6-7 lbs). If you own or can borrow a smaller sleeping bag and sleep pad, you should consider bringing these. The roll up Coleman-style sleeping bag is usually too big to fit in our double sea kayaks. Sleeping bags and inflatable pads are available for a marginal fee through Outdoor Odysseys (please reserve in advance).
Food & Cooking Gear
We take care of all food and provide all cooking gear. Guests may choose to bring their own snacks or specialty items.
Packing Tips
Bring a water bottle per person. Potable water is available at launch sites and campsites. Your guide will carry additional water to refill throughout the day.
Sun protection: hats, glasses, sunblock, long sleeves
Pack light but comfortably. All your belongings must fit in the provided dry bags.
Suggested Packing List
All trips
- Water Bottle
- Sun protection (any or all)
- Hat: Baseball or Wide-brim
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Bandana
- Footwear that can get wet
- Warm layer (preferably long sleeved)
- Wind/rain layer (just in case)
- Optional Items
- Knit hat/beanie
- Change of clothes
- Binoculars (preferably waterproof)
- Camera/Camera gear
- Eyeglass Tether
- Any personal medications
- Gloves: Bicycling or Paddling type
Camping gear for multi-day trips
Most gear is provided, but you may choose to bring personal items, provided they fit in the boats.
- Sleeping bag & pad (as compact as possible). Reserve rental bags and pads online while making your trip reservation. If you would like to reserve these items after your reservation has been made, please email us or call (360) 378-3533 before your trip.
- Headlamp or flashlight
- Toothbrush/Toiletries
Clothing for multi-day trips
It gets chilly at night by the water, so pack layers and warm options, even in the summer.
- Synthetic/wool Layers for Paddling and Damp Weather
- Undershorts or Swim Trunks
- Long-sleeve Top
- T-Shirt
- Socks (wool or poly is best)
- Underwear
- Long Underwear: Top & Bottom
- Fleece Jacket
- Waterproof-Breathable Rain Jacket
- Clothes for Camp – anything comfy
- Shirt
- Pants
- Shorts
- Socks
- Dry Shoes or Sandals for hiking/camp
- Optional Items
- Rain Pants
- Sleeping Socks