Important Items to Bring Along When Paddling in Boundary Country

Paddle boarding is one of the most versatile water sports one can take up.

Setup and maintenance of paddleboards is simple, as is learning how to paddle. Balance can be tricky, and there’s important technique with regards to paddling, but most people are enjoying the water within minutes.

From the bustling tree-lined Christina Lake to the remote solitude of Jewel Lake, paddling is an iconic Boundary Country experience. Whether you’re planning an overnight excursion or renting a paddle board for the first time, Woodfin & Co. recommends you bring the following items along for your trip.

“Important Items When Paddling” is part of Explorer’s Guide to Boundary Country, an ever-expanding resource published by the Midway Advance online and in print. Explorer’s Guide equips you with a complete toolkit to maximize fun, discovery, and safety across all seasons and activities throughout the region.

Hat and Sunscreen: In the water, you are exposed to ultraviolet rays from the sun. Above the water, UV rays are reflected back at you, implying the effect. Bring sunglasses, a hat with broad coverage, and a rash guard—or at least wear plenty of sunscreen and reapply often.

Rope and Anchor: With a nautical rope and healthy anchor, you’ll be able to park your paddle board just about anywhere on the water. If you are multiple paddlers, bring some heavy-duty bungee cord (ideally with carabiner clip ends) to connect boards and create a raft.

Water Shoes: Water-specific footwear can provide excellent grip on the paddle board—as well as slippery rocks—and allow for ample off-board exploration with an easy transition from water to land. They also offer the foot valuable protection from all manner of physical nuisance.

Dry Bag and Towel: While on the water, things tend to get wet, even when we’re careful. A quality dry bag will safely store valuable goods for the trip, while a towel helps us keep dry the rest.

Flotation Device: You are required by law to have a lifejacket or Personal Flotation Device on board for each person on a watercraft, including human-powered craft such as paddle boards. And the reason is simple: like a motor vehicle seat-belt, it’s an obvious life-saver.

“Most recreational boaters who die on the water each year in Canada are not wearing flotation devices, or are not wearing them properly,” states the marine department of federal institution Transport Canada, noting that a sudden fall into cold water “can seriously affect breathing, nerves, and muscle strength.” It won’t happen to you or yours, of course—but preparedness never hurts.

Water and Snacks: While paddling is not typically a high-intensity activity, you are bound to get thirsty, and staying hydrated will assist greatly with keeping all-important balance and focus on the board. Snacks for fuel keep us happy and moving.

Happy paddling!

This content is provided by Woodfin & Co, a Great Canadian Wellness brand based in Boundary Country, BC.