Kayaking is an extremely accessible water adventure, but you don’t need to make your first trip into an epic expedition. A warm day, a calm stretch of water, a little preparation, and a few basic skills will have you launched and learning in no time.
Before you push off, get familiar with your gear, your route, and what to do if things don’t go as planned.
These 10 kayaking tips for beginners cover the essentials - from packing to paddling - including the basics of kayaking safety.
1. What should I bring on my first kayaking trip?
Properly fitted life jacket
A life jacket or personal flotation device (PFD) is a must to have with you, but it is also a must to WEAR. We stress “properly fitted”, because we want to ensure that you find a comfortable, secure personal flotation device that you will actually have on your person. It does you no good to have the life jacket on board but not on you when an emergency crops up. Make sure the buckles and zippers are fastened and it is snug but not restrictive. You should be able to paddle comfortably, and it shouldn’t cover your chin or face.
Drinking water and snacks
Kayaking is fun, but it also requires energy, especially at the beginner level. Bring water and snacks so you stay hydrated and properly fueled on the water. Energy and protein bars are a nice portable option for quick eating. Jerky, nuts, trail mixes, and squeezable nut butters also travel well and provide excellent energy.
Sun protection
Sun protection, such as sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and a dry layer are wise choices. The sun off the water can be particularly intense, so be sure to apply (and reapply) sunscreen. Wear sunglasses and/or a hat to protect your eyes. You could also invest in SPF-rated clothing for an extra layer of protection. Speaking of clothing, packing an extra layer of dry clothing is also a wise move.
Emergency communication
Bring a whistle (or flag or mirror) that can be attached to your PFD for alerting others on the water if you get in trouble. Taking your phone (in a waterproof case) is also a good idea for communication, navigation, and recording memories. Keep your communication devices accessible so you can reach them, not buried in a hatch where they are useless in an emergency. An extra paddle stowed on board is also wise. Whether you lose your pedal connection, snap a rudder cable, or watch your primary paddle float away, an extra paddle ensures that you are not stranded.
2. What should a beginner wear when kayaking?
Wear clothing that is suited to the water temperature, not the air temperature. And on every outing, prepare to get wet. Kayakers don’t expect to capsize, but they prepare for it.
Warm-weather outings
Quick-dry clothing and sun protection keep things comfortable. Choose layers so you can adapt to changing conditions. Avoid cotton as it leaves you chilled; it holds water and accelerates cooling. Swimwear, spandex, athletic wear, and rashguards are good choices for warm weather to wick away moisture. Waterproof footwear and a sun-shielding hat are necessary as well.
Cold-weather outings
In colder weather, lightweight fleece layers with a windbreaker or waterproof jacket over it are good options. Remember that you are dressing for the water temperature, not the air temps so check conditions and consider a wetsuit as the temperatures drop.
3. Where should a beginner go kayaking?
Calm and protected
A lake or pond with a gently sloping shoreline gives you room to practice without adding strong current, surf, or boat traffic to the lesson. Save challenging water for after you have developed the skill to handle it.
Good conditions
Check the forecast and local conditions before you launch. Pay attention to wind, thunderstorms, water temperature, and any site-specific hazards. Plan a day that will succeed not result in you coming home an exhausted, soaked-to-the-skin, and discouraged mess.
Short and manageable
Keep the first route or two short and permit yourself to turn around early. If the conditions exceed your skills, change the plan. The goal is a comfortable introduction, not an endurance record.
4. How can I stay safe while kayaking?
Wear your PFD
This bears repeating. Always wear your personal flotation device. Modern life jacket tech has lots of comfortable, effective options.
Paddle with a friend
Whenever possible and especially as a beginner, find a companion to paddle with you. Whether you share a tandem kayak or take out solo ones, it is always helpful to have a buddy along.
Share your trip plan
Leave a simple float plan with someone staying on land. A float plan should include the following:
- Who is going
- Where you will launch
- Expected route
- When you should return
- What they should do if you miss your check-in
Another important step in leaving a float plan is to let the person know when you are safely off the water. In other words, don’t miss your check-in.
Know basic rescue skills
As you learn, it is wise to practice rescue skills with a qualified instructor in controlled conditions. Make learning how to stop, turn, recognize hazards, and respond if you capsize a priority. A beginner lesson or guided outing can be a good first step.
Stay within your abilities
Don’t do anything to compromise your senses. Avoid alcohol. Stay alert. Recognize when you are approaching your limits and choose to stop. Don’t use “swimming distance” as a measure of safe distance. Even strong swimmers can need flotation and assistance after an unexpected capsize.
5. How do I keep my belongings dry?
Waterproof phone case
Because phones are excellent for navigation, communication, and photography, they are often a necessary tool when kayaking. Unfortunately, phones are not compatible with water. A good waterproof phone case is vital for protecting your cellular device.
Dry bag
Always pack with the expectation that your items will get splashed, sprayed, or even take an unexpected swim. For items that are not rated for a casual swim or full submersion, get a dry bag. There are all sorts of options from small packs to full duffles. A small bag for a few necessary items is a good way to start. Make sure that you understand the dry bag’s closure instructions so you don’t ruin items because of user error.
Unnecessary valuables
If you don’t need it, don’t bring it. Valuables are safer on land, so if it doesn’t serve a purpose, it is better off left behind. It won’t get ruined, and you won’t have to lug around extra weight.
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6. How do I get into and launch a kayak?
Launching a kayak may seem easy, until you’ve actually done it. Start at a calm, easy-access launch. Whether launching from a gentle slope or a dock, position the kayak so it is supported and floating. Keep your paddle within reach, and lower yourself into the seat carefully. Avoid sudden movements while getting settled.
Once you are in, adjust your seat and foot supports, if necessary, before paddling away. If you rent a kayak or take a lesson, ask the outfitter or instructor to demonstrate both entry and exit.
Slow and steady wins the race with kayaks. You don’t need flourishes; you need balance.
7. How should I sit in a kayak?
Sit upright with a relaxed posture, a slight bend in your knees, and your feet supported.
Adjust the seat and footrests so you feel secure without locking your knees and legs. You should be able to rotate your torso comfortably as you paddle.
Think “supported and ready to move”, not “braced for a roller coaster.” A comfortable setup makes it easier to focus on controlling the kayak rather than constantly rearranging yourself.
Take a moment to get this right before leaving the launch. Small adjustments are easier when you are not also trying to steer.
8. How do I hold a kayak paddle?
There are techniques you can learn to paddle a kayak. Hold the paddle with your hands about shoulder width apart and a relaxed grip on the shaft.
To check hand spacing, raise the paddle over your head. Your elbows should bend at roughly 90 degrees. Then lower the shaft into paddling position. This is a setup check - not a position you need to hold throughout every stroke.
For typical scooped blades, the concave face should be toward you during a forward stroke. If the blades are asymmetrical, the longer edge generally belongs on top.
Keep your grip relaxed rather than squeezing the shaft. Don’t white-knuckle it. A gentler grip means longer, more comfortable outings.
9. What paddling strokes should a beginner learn?
Start with the forward stroke, reverse stroke, and sweep stroke so you can move, stop, and turn.
Forward stroke
Place the blade fully in the water on one side of the kayak, near your foot. Rotate your torso as you move the kayak past the blade, then lift it out near your hip. Alternate sides and aim for smooth, controlled strokes.
Reverse stroke
Use this stroke to slow down, stop, or move backward. Basically, “reverse” the forward stroke. Have the blade enter the water near your hip (or further back) and pull the kayak back to the blade, lifting it out near your foot. Practice at low speed while you have plenty of room.
Sweep stroke
A sweep stroke helps turn the kayak. Move the blade through a wide arc rather than keeping it close to the hull as you would for a forward stroke. Practice turning in both directions before widening your arc.
10. What should I do after kayaking?
Check in
Closing out your float plan means telling the person watching for your return that you are safely off the water. Do that before the drive home distracts you.
Inspect equipment
Check the kayak and paddle for any damage. Empty your kayak. Make sure to gather all gear so you don’t leave anything behind. If you used a packing checklist, check it again as you unpack.
Dry gear before storage
Make sure all your wet equipment gets dried, especially before it is stored away. Lay out life jackets, paddles, kayak, dry bags, and any other items to ensure they get dry. Check the manufacturer’s care instructions if needed.
Take stock
Inspect yourself as well. Stretch and rejuvenate. Notice where you have strain or soreness so you can adjust for next time. Finally, assess the outing. Was the route comfortable? Did your seat need adjusting? Would a lesson make your next trip easier?
You don’t need to master everything on day one. Start small, build your skills, and give yourself plenty of reasons to look forward to the next paddle. Let Brooklyn Kayak Company be one of those reasons. Check out their line of beginner-friendly, sit-on-top kayaks that are ready to hit the water.
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