Here are some tips to make paddle camping an enjoyable outdoor experience

Baja Dry Bag
Baja Dry Bag

Where to go

Any public land with water is a good start, but there are some truly impressive rivers and lakes a short driving distance from Chattanooga. One such trail is the Alabama Scenic River Trail, covered extensively in the camping guide further in this issue of Get Out. Check out the nearby Tennessee River Blueway as well for an excellent source of paddle camping right in our backyard.

photo Sea to Summit X-Set 21

WHAT TO TAKE

Sea to Summit X-Set 21Made of collapsible, heat-resistant silicone, this set will allow you to save on space while not skimping on supplies: It comes with a 1.4-liter pot, a mug and a bowl.ZPacks 20 DegreeZPacks makes some of the lightest gear, in this case while managing one of the best warmth-to-weight ratios out there. Plus, the temperature, length and width of this bag are all customizable. To cut down on the amount of dry bags you need, line the inside of the stuff sack with a heavy-duty garbage bag.Baja Dry BagOne of the most durable bags on the market, this bag will stand up to whitewater trips and spills. The dual strip seal means even if your bag is tossed into shallow water, your gear should be protected, and if you leave some air trapped inside, it will easily float.

You've been camping. You've been paddling. And a few days out - some on water, some on land - sounds appealing. So how do you go about doing it? Well, what you don't do is just throw everything you'd like to have with you into your kayak and head out on the water without a plan.

If you normally go car camping, you've probably gotten accustomed to bringing extra amenities with you. Paddle camping is more like backpacking, though. You've got limited weight and space; all you're going to have on your outing is what you bring with you. Here are a few tips on maximizing your kayak or canoe for the trip.

Make sure you plan ahead

If your trip is longer than one night, you'll have to think to the future. What distance will you be traveling? What are the expected weather conditions? Where are you planning on setting up camp? These are all questions you need to have answered before you venture forth, since you'll most likely be in a fairly remote place with no real access. Meaning what you bring is what you get. Another big question: Will you be going alone? Going with a group means you can divide the weight of your gear evenly, perhaps making the actual paddling easier.

Cut weight wherever possible

This is like a backpacking trip, so pack for one. Leave heavy pots and dutch ovens at home; aim for lightweight camp stoves and only as much fuel as you'll need. The same applies to tents, sleeping rolls, utensils and food. Something to keep in mind: Food boxes can be burned, and cans can be crushed, thus minimizing the space you'll need as you progress. Obviously, only you know what you'll need to be comfortable and enjoy your trip, but your boat puts a big limitation on what you can bring. Whether you've got a touring or whitewater kayak will heavily influence what can come aboard and make the trip.

Don't trust "waterproof"

Camping like this means planning for the worst, and water will inevitably make it into your craft. Even the most waterproof hatch on your boat will eventually slip up, and no one wants a wet, lake-dampened sleeping bag. Planning for eventualities such as this will ensure your trip is much more enjoyable. Organization here is key: Organize bags based on content, prioritizing your food and fire starters. Tip: Garbage bags can double as dry bags as well as serve their intended purpose.

Keep your boat balanced

Even if you've packed all the right gear and got it under weight, if you pack your craft poorly, an accident will be bound to happen. Try to make sure you've evenly distributed the weight of your gear in your boat - both front-back and left-right, with heavy items at the bottom of the boat and closer to midship. Failing to do so could ruin the paddling portion of your paddle campout.

photo ZPacks 20 Degree

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