I like checklists. This way I don't forget anything. This is a list of items I take on a typical sea kayak day trip to the Pacific coast. While quite extensive, it represents the items that will help provide a reasonable margin of safety and comfort while traveling at sea.

PADDLE GEAR - A seaworthy boat capable of handling the predicted conditions is essential. Add float bags in each compartment to keep gear from rolling around and to keep your kayak afloat should you roll your vessel at sea. A neoprene sprayskirt will help keep the water out, and don't forget your kayak paddle with a spare just in case.... PFD and whistle (required by law in many areas), and a boater's knife.

CLOTHING - While dressing for immersion has always been the call, we need to look at dressing for comfort, as well. Having the skills and trained paddling partners to execute a quick Eskimo roll or rescue is far more important than dressing for multiple hours of immersion. The key to staying warm is layering. Outer layer: paddle jacket/pants, drytop/pants, or drysuit. Thermal layer: wetsuit/fleece top and bottom. Pack an extra thermal top and bottom in a spare drybag. Head protection: helmet, skull cap, fleece hat, sun or rain hat. For hands and feet: neoprene gloves and booties. For a quick warm-up or an unexpected emergency: raincoat or anorac with hood. LOGISTICS and NAVIGATION GEAR - Proper preparation requires a detailed float plan (leave with a responsible person), appropriate maps and tide information, weather information, nautical chart and waterproof chart bag, a compass, personal identification and a little currency.

SAFETY GEAR - For rescue purposes I bring along a bilge pump, paddle float, paddle leash, 4' deck leash, tow system, signal mirror, emergency strobe, a glow stick, and first aid kit concealed in a waterproof box or bag.

DAYHATCH/DECK BAG ESSENTIALS - A few other things that I like to have handy would be sun protection, a repair kit, food, hydration system and boater's sponge.

Without a doubt, all the safety equipment in the world will do little for me if I don't know how to use it properly. Training is essential, not only in the use of my gear, but in the seamanship and boating skills that will help keep me out of trouble.

Contributed by Steve Scherrer and Wilderness Systems.

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