Kayak Accessories - Some Essential Kit

Many people considering taking up kayaking are put off by having the mistaken belief that it is an elitist sport and they would not be any good at it.

This is of course nonsense and just about anybody can have a go at kayaking with out the need to have an instructor teaching them first. Furthermore you do not need to have a licence or pass any test and buying a kayak especially a used kayak will not necessarily dent your wallet as much as you would think. For instance you can buy a decent entry level inflatable kayak for just a couple of hundred dollars.

However you do need to be aware that kayaking can be dangerous even on the gentlest of rivers so you should always be aware of your own capabilities and what kayak accessories you will need to get you out of trouble should the situation arise.

Here I will list some fundamental kayak accessories that you will need to have before you venture into the water.

Life Jackets
The first piece of kit on your list should be a life jacket or buoyancy aid regardless of whether you are a good swimmer or not. If you become fatigued or fall in while paddling this kayak accessory will literally save your life. Although tempting to by online always buy your life jacket or buoyancy aid from a kayak dealer to ensure you get the expert advice and the life jacket can be fitted properly.

Kayak Paddle Leash
Again another essential kayak accessory as it easy to unexpectedly lose your paddles and if you are in a strong sea current or fast flowing river your kayak paddles will be long gone without a leash leaving you stranded and at the mercy of the current.

Mobile Phone
Nearly everyone has a mobile phone and this should always be taken with you on your kayak journeys. To protect the phone you can buy a waterproof bag which will float and keep your phone dry should you drop it into the water.

Bilge Pump
If your kayak travels have taken you a fair distance out to sea or you are paddling a wide river and have unfortunately capsized there will be a good chance your kayak would have taken on water. In this instance having a bilge pump to hand will be a very welcome element of your kayak accessories as it will enable you to bail out the water. Similarly if you are paddling an inflatable kayak it would be a good idea to have an electric pump to keep your kayak inflated until you can get to safety should your inflatable kayak sustain a puncture. Obviously the electric pump will be needed to be kept in a water tight bag that floats.

There are many more kayak accessories to consider taking along on your kayak journeys but the above are by far the most vital kayak accessories to have on board.