Kayak Survival Kit
 

Don't think you need a kayak survival kit? Think again. Even if you're just going out for an afternoon trek across the bay, you never know what's going to happen out there.

The weather could take a drastic change, for example, or you could be capsized by a rogue wave, or you could have equipment problems and get stranded in a remote location. And as the old saying goes, it's better to have a survival bag and not need it, than need one and not have it (or something like that).

Now these kayak survival kits go by several names: bailout bags,
safety kits, survival bags, etc. And we're not just talking about a first aid kit and a cell phone here. A well equipped survival kit should include the following items:

A handheld marine radio (with weather bands)
A handheld compass
Waterproof matches
Fire starter
An emergency blanket
A first aid kit (marine variety)
A small fishing kit (line, hooks, bobbers, plastic worms, etc)
Several flares
A flashlight with extra batteries
An emergency strobe light
An air horn
Duct tape
30 foot length of nylon rope
A GPS unit (optional)
Emergency food rations -- energy bars, food sticks, etc
Sunscreen
Bug repellant
Toilet paper (not optional)


Now I know this sounds like a lot of gear to be hauling around. But you'd be surprised with how much equipment can be stowed in a good 6x12" or 8x14" dry bag. And remember, a good dry bag serves the dual purpose of adding a little extra flotation to your touring or recreational kayak.

You can always add to or subtract from the above list. But just remember: a good kayak survival kit isn't a luxury, it's a necessity. Like the old commercial says: don't leave home without one (or something like that).


 

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