 The relaxation of paddling a canoe down a meandering stream is hard to beat. Weekend canoe-camping trips are a great way to enjoy nature, get some exercise and leave the hassles of urban living behind. If you want to try canoe camping this spring or summer, the following checklist can help to assure a safe, comfortable and enjoyable trip: Life jackets. One per person, and they should be worn, not stored. Tents and sleeping bags. Dry storage bags. These are waterproof carry-all bags made especially for canoeing. The bags will hold sleeping bags, tent, clothes, food - anything you want to keep dry and neatly packed. Cooler. The size depends on your menu and needs (and the size of your canoe, of course). Most canoeists will tell you the bigger the better, within limits, because you can also pack other things such as cooking and eating utensils inside. Rain suits. Insect repellent and sun screen. First aid kit that includes salve or spray for sunburn. Matches (in waterproof container). Lantern, along with lantern fuel and extra mantles. Cook stove and appropriate fuel. Rope for a clothesline and many uses. Flashlight and extra batteries. Garbage bags. Remember, you don't want to leave anything behind. Burn or pack out all paper. Don't take any glass containers. Save yourself packing out beverage cans (and save space) by taking powdered drinks and mixing them in a plastic container. Fresh water for cooking and drinking. Take a couple of collapsible 5-gallon water carriers. Cooking and eating utensils. Food. Today's dehydrated dinners in waterproof containers are tasty and easy to prepare, but for two- or three-day trips, vegetables, eggs, milk and other perishables will stay fresh on ice in the cooler. Be careful with meat, fish and poultry. Cooking oil, seasonings, margarine and other condiments. Clothes. Dress for the weather and be prepared for seasonal changes; bring along a change or two of clothes. If much of your journey is in full sun, include a wide-brimmed hat. Finally, don't forget the fun things like a camera, kept in a waterproof camera bag, fishing equipment, a radio and anything else you want to enjoy on your canoe trip. All of this may look like a lot, but when packed properly (use the interior space of pots, pans, glasses, etc., for small items), there should be room left for you, too! Thanks to Jim White, and beOutdoors.com for their permission to reprint this article. Please bear in mind That beOutdoors.com has a copyright on this material. |
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