What to Bring Paddle Boarding

What to bring paddle boarding is a top question of SUP Newbies everywhere! Before you dare to venture to whitewater or even just learn in calmer lakes, preparation starts at home.

Here are five things you cannot live without while paddle boarding:

The Ultimate Paddle Boarding Adventure Checklist:

1. Protection

Safety is the first and foremost priority of any adventure, sport, or general well-being. Paddle boarding is not exempt from that rule.

Whenever venturing out to places you are less familiar with and that could perhaps be a bit more testing for you, you always need to be packed and prepared for anything that might or could happen. Injuring yourself is unlikely, but it’s possible for example to get cuts from rocks or branches if you fall in, depending where you are. 

So, pack a first-aid kit, complete with your necessary medication. This is especially essential when you’re taking a longer expedition that lasts more than a day. In that kit, remember to include a flashlight and a small army knife for protection.

Another key safety essential that is an absolute must when you are deciding what to bring paddle boarding is a personal floatation device. You can find smaller ones that aren’t so restrictive when paddling, but also one that you can tie around your waste and then inflate if needed. Check out some recommendations for PFDs that are particularly suitable for paddle boarding.

Now, that safety is checked off the list. Let’s get to the more exciting gear! 

Pro Tip: For more adventurous trips, visibility is key! So bring a rescue whistle and headlamp too. Just in case.

2. The Perfect Board & Gear

Depending on what type of adventure you’re planning, you’ll need your own unique set of gear. Paddle boarding has so many to offer and choose from. So, you can take the time to discover what fits you and your lifestyle.

Of course you may well already have your own board but if you don’t or if you’re hiring one, there are a few things to think about. You could opt for a touring board, an all-around one, or even choose between a hardboard vs. an inflatable board. The key is to do your own research before buying or hiring one. 

As a beginner, a safe bet is to start with an all-around inflatable board that is the right size for your body though if you have good balance, a touring board is a good bet for longer journeys as it tends to be faster in the water. Check out the basics of the different types of paddle board if you are a beginner and are yet to buy a board.

Aside from the board, the other most important gear is, of course, the paddle. The other essentials that should be part of your most basic kit are the board leash and the fin (don’t forget the pins for them!).

Other bonuses are to include extra fins and a repair kit. You may also want a dry bag (waterproof bag). There are several things you may not have thought about which could go in here – find out what to take in a dry bag.

Pro Tip: If using an inflatable, don’t forget to bring a pump or you won’t be going anywhere!

3. Food and Water

This aspect is not always essential, especially if you’re only taking a quick trip or doing your first lesson. But if you plan to camp or go on longer expeditions, this would be absolutely needed. You don’t want anyone going thirsty or hungry. Especially, when you find yourself in more remote areas. 

For water, people opt for water bottles or even a hydration pack that would be easier to bring. For food, you can choose to bring dry snacks, packed properly in a waterproof bag. If you need actual meals, campers usually bring fire starters and camping cook sets. 

Believe me, one granola bar might be the thing that would keep you and your friends sane throughout!

Pro Tip: Bring a small water bottle even on shorter trips. You don’t want to be dehydrated in the middle of so much undrinkable water.

4. The Right Clothes

When you are thinking what to bring paddle boarding, the right clothes are a must. Dress for the occasion!

Depending on where you’re going to have your adventure, you can choose to wear swimming trunks in warmer water in the tropics or just hot weather elsewhere if you know the water is not too cold.

But a wet suit or even a dry suit is necessary on top of this for colder water in the lakes of Alberta or other northern countries, such as the UK in colder months. You can even bring layers if you’re deciding to paddle board in even colder countries!

Wetsuits are a bit of minefield if you are new to them – here’s an excellent wetsuit guide that goes through all the different types, size options and more.

We also suggest wearing bright-colored rashguards for visibility. This will also help keep you from getting too warm with the sun shining directly on you. Remember that less skin being exposed will help with sunburn! 

To top it all off, any water shoes or sandals with a grip can protect your feet from the different rough terrain that you may encounter. 

Pro Tip: Bring SPF! Sunscreen and Lip Balm. The sun’s after-effects tend to hurt. 

5. Tech and Gadgets

Now, this is the fun part. When you’re on your paddle boarding trip, you’re going to want to capture the once-in-a-lifetime moments you will gain! Whether that’s for your stories or to keep for your future kids to see, you need to make sure your items can capture the beautiful moments of paddle boarding. 

From remote areas only accessible through swimming or paddle boarding to your first time getting on the board, you’ll need the right waterproof gadgets to document a good time! You can use a GoPro that is already waterproof and shockproof with paddle mounts and even a GoPro floaty which prevents it from sinking. You can also keep your phone safe by using a waterproof case like Lifeproof or Otter. 

Pro Tip: Bring a solar charger for emergencies!

You’re ready to go!

So, now that know what to bring paddle boarding, you’re packed and ready, and you can enjoy the trip of a lifetime! 

But remember to be an essentialist! Bring too much and you’ll drain your energy lugging all the heavy baggage. Bring too little and you won’t be prepared for anything. So, just keep with the basics and venture into the water! 

Welcome to the world of paddling!

Check out Ultimate Guide to Paddling Part 2: Learning to Paddle Board