5 Basic Tips For Canoe Rental

Before you dive in headfirst in the wonderful world of canoeing, you will need to make sure that you are properly equipped for a canoe trip. The cost of purchasing all of the needed equipment might seem off-putting to any beginning enthusiast. Renting the gear will allow you to dip your toes in the water at a fraction of the price. Read on for several tips on making the most out of your canoe rental.

1. The canoe

Most local equipment providers will have knowledgeable personnel who can advise you on what canoe to choose for your day trip. Your experience level is of great importance in this matter. Most beginners opt to go for recreational canoes, which are quite versatile. If it is not your first time paddling, you can give intermediate or advanced canoes a try.

Something to keep in mind is the number of people who will be in the canoe. You are most likely to have no more than two options – solo and tandem canoes. If you want a boat that can fit in more than two people, it is advisable to call the rental center first to make sure they have one.

The price of renting the canoe will depend on where in the world you are. Crowded destinations tend to come with higher rental prices. Another contributing factor is the duration of renting the canoe. Most places will allow you to rent per hour, per two hours, or per day. The longer you rent the canoe for, the more cost-effective it will be per hour.

2. Safety first

Life jackets and personal flotation devices are the most important piece of equipment you will need for a safe canoe trip. These will be mandatory for anyone who wants to rent a canoe or other water sports equipment. Luckily life vests usually cost less than $10 to rent per day.

Make sure to try out several PFDs when choosing the right one for you. They should feel comfortable, but not too tight. Ask the staff to help you find the right size. In most cases, you will need a standard recreational life jacket. Some activities, such as white-water canoeing, will require that you use a specialized personal flotation device.

3. Paddles

Paddles are an essential piece of equipment, and they are often included in the price of the canoe rental. There are different types, depending on the type of paddling and the body of water.

Recreational paddles are the most popular choice. Usually made from wood or aluminum, they are lightweight and easy to handle. They are excellent for beginners and come in a wide range of sizes, so you are bound to find them in your rental center.

In some rentals, you will also find specialized paddles. Double-bladed paddles are a great option for solo canoe enthusiasts looking for a relaxed day on the water. Day trip, expedition, and white-water paddles are made with durability and performance in mind. They tend to be more suitable for people with more experience.

4. Wear a helmet

Having a helmet on is crucial for white-water canoeing. If you intend to paddle in rough or choppy waters, you will most definitely need a helmet. It is advisable to wear one even if the water is flat because it might save you a lot of trouble.

There are many reasons why you should wear a helmet. Capsizing is a possible situation in all kinds of water. Depending on where you are paddling, you might stumble upon sharp rocks. It is always better to be safe than sorry. Luckily, the rental prices of helmets tend to be even lower than those of PFDs.

5. What to wear

Splashing and getting wet is a part of canoeing. If you are paddling in the colder months of the year, you will need warmer clothes. Wet suits are a particularly good choice as they will keep you warm even in the coldest of waters. They are especially useful for white-water canoeing or in the event of an overturn. You could most likely rent a wet suit from the canoe rental service.

If the weather is hot and sunny, you could go for a swimsuit with a layer of light clothes on top. This way, you will stay protected from the harmful UV rays.

Wrap up on canoe rental

Renting your canoeing equipment is a great way to try and see if canoeing is the sport for you. Make sure to prioritize safety and ask the staff if you have any questions. Having all of the proper gear will allow you to enjoy your canoe trip to its fullest.