5 Tips for Packing a Multi-Day Kayak Trip
Planning a multi-day kayak trip means balancing adventure with efficiency. There’s an art to packing your kayak in a way that keeps your gear dry, your boat balanced, and your setup stress-free. Whether you're heading into remote wilderness or just down the coast, these five tips will help make the packing process smoother and your paddling more enjoyable.
1. Load Your Kayak Near the Water (And Watch the Tides)
There’s nothing worse than having to carry a fully-loaded kayak down a long stretch of beach. Before you even start packing, check the tide chart. If the tide is coming in, place your kayak a bit higher up the beach to avoid it floating off mid-pack. If the tide is going out, get as close to the water as you can — that way, you’re not dragging a 100-pound boat across wet sand. Timing your pack with the tides saves time and energy, especially first thing in the morning.
2. Use Small Dry Bags, Not One Giant One
Big dry bags seem convenient — until you try to cram one into a narrow hatch. Smaller dry bags (think 5–10 liters) are much easier to maneuver into tight spaces and allow for better weight distribution throughout the boat. Bonus: You can color-code or label them by category (sleeping gear, kitchen, clothing, etc.) for quick access at camp.
Waterproof items like beer, fuel, sandals, etc. can stay outside of the dry bag for easier packing.
3. Stash Tent Poles Separately
Tent poles are rigid and awkwardly shaped — not ideal for packing in a space that values flexibility. Take them out of their bag and slide them into the bow or stern of your kayak where the hull narrows. Then, stuff the remaining soft parts of the tent (body, fly, footprint) into a dry bag that can mold around the odd spaces in your hatch. It’s a great way to use every inch of available space efficiently.
4. Pack Heavy Items Low and Centered
A well-balanced kayak is a joy to paddle. Place heavier items like water jugs, food bags, and cook kits low in the kayak and as close to the cockpit as possible. This helps keep your center of gravity stable and improves handling, especially in rough water. Keep lighter items (like your sleeping bag or extra clothes) toward the ends of the boat.
5. Keep Essentials Accessible
Not everything should be buried in a hatch. Keep a small day bag or deck bag handy with essentials like snacks, sunscreen, a map or GPS, first aid kit, and a water bottle. If conditions change or you need to grab something quickly, you’ll thank yourself for having it within reach.
Final Thoughts
A well-packed kayak makes all the difference on a multi-day trip. With a little planning and the right gear strategy, you’ll spend less time fussing with logistics and more time enjoying the journey. Happy paddling — and may your hatches always stay dry!