Whether you’ve been out paddling before or you’re brand new, it’s always good to have a refresher on planning for an adventure! So to help, we’ve put together our top 6 things to consider when planning a paddle adventure! Take a look, absorb and get planning your paddle!

Canoe, kayak or stand up paddle board?

Let’s start at the very beginning… what will you be paddling? It’s easy to get carried away in the nitty-gritty, but this is a really important point because what you’re paddling will have a knock on effect on the rest of the adventure. Going canoeing? That might mean a slightly different route with less portages and different clothes to what you would wear kayaking or SUP’ing. So have a think about what you’re paddling first. Check out our quick wrap up of the advantages of each craft in the article HERE.

Where do you want to have your adventure? 

Slow-flow rivers, canals and lakes make excellent locations for a day-paddle. If you’re looking for something a little longer, or maybe over a few days, look at places where there are a cluster of places to paddle, like the Lake District or Norfolk Broads, for example. Our Paddle Trails are a great way to get started and give you all the information you need for planning a paddle adventure! Some waterways in the UK require a waterways licence. This is included in our Paddle UK membership, read about this and all the other benefits HERE.

Think about the past, present and future weather… 

You don’t just need to think about the weather you will encounter on your paddle (but you do need to consider that too). Think about the weather in terms of practicalities. If it’s sunny, take extra water and a sun hat and sunglasses (full guide to paddling in the summer HERE). Frosty? Wear extra layers, take some gloves and a wholly hat. Long paddle? Take extra food too! Is the weather likely to change on your journey? You also need to think about what the weather has been like too though. If there’s been a lot of rain or snow recently, river levels might be high. Equally, if it’s been really dry and hot, some rivers might be running low. The river level checker is a must-check before you head out!

Pack and plan! 

As mentioned above, pack for the journey and plan ahead. The more effort you put into your planning, the better your adventure will be! Alongside clothing and food considerations, you might also want to think about maps or navigational equipment depending on the adventure you’ve planned, dry bag with supplies and a waterproof phone pouch for emergencies!

Paddling with buddies is always more fun. 

Not only is it more fun to paddle with pals, but you are also a lot safer when you have someone to paddle with. Why not link up with local social clubs through things like Facebook? If you can’t persuade a friend, there’s always plenty of people in groups like Women’s Paddling Community or Slightly White Water who are up for a social paddle. There are also clubs all around the country that are welcoming new member, use our easy tool to find your local club. 

Don’t forget to make memories (and capture them if you can!)

Most importantly, paddling should be fun. So enjoy your adventure, whether it’s a little paddle down the canal, or one of the epic challenge routes we have, smile and enjoy the journey. And don’t forget, if you take some photos on your paddle, tag us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!