It doesn't get much more adventurous than paddleboard camping, just you, the essential pieces of kit for survival and the great outdoors. It combines both the enjoyment of paddleboarding with the serenity of camping outside under the stars. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or SUP enthusiast looking to take your paddleboarding to the next level, paddleboard camping is an activity that allows you to explore the lesser traveled places in a unique and memorable way. Here we run through the reasons it has captured the hearts of outdoor enthusiasts worldwide, and why (if you haven't already) you should give it a go!
The experience
Paddleboard camping offers a pretty unique experience that allows you to escape the constraints of traditional camping. By using a paddleboard to get to your camping location, you can choose remote and picturesque spots that are inaccessible by foot, boat, or car. It allows you to explore the untouched coastline, hidden coves and get unbeatable views. Imagine waking up to the sound to the sound of water lapping gently against the shoreline knowing there's not another human within a 50km radius! Paddleboard camping opens up a world of possibilities for those willing to embrace a more uncommon form of the voyage.
Gear and preparation
When planning a SUP camping trip, you’ll need to invest in the right gear and use some careful planning for a successful trip. You’ll need to use a paddleboard that can accommodate the weight of yourself and your camping gear. Touring boards such as the Endurance paddleboard were designed especially for carrying excess gear and overnight trips. The deck pad is even shaped to accommodate a bivy sack so you won't need to worry about finding a perfectly flat, rock-free surface! Inflatable paddleboards also work well as they typically can accommodate heavier weight ranges, however, you will lose some paddle performance. Dry bags are a must for keeping your belongings safe and dry. These can be attached to the board with bungee tie-downs or gorilla nets.
Planning your route
It’s important to spend some time planning a route and researching possible places to camp in advance. Look for sheltered bodies of water where conditions are less likely to be changeable and areas that have ample opportunities for making a campsite. Try making your journey even more rewarding by visiting destinations with natural attractions, wildlife sightings, and serene landscapes. It's also important to familiarise yourself with local regulations, permits, and safety guidelines before setting off on your adventure, and always check the weather forecast and water conditions before you go!
Safety considerations
Although paddleboard camping is an exciting experience, safety should always be a priority. Familiarise yourself with your equipment before you go and make sure you understand how to read weather and tide charts. You should always wear a personal floatation device (PFD) when paddleboarding, especially on long trips to new destinations. A lot of PFDs have integrated whistles, you should check yours and if not, invest in a good one and keep it attached to your PFD so it is with you at all times. Let someone trusted know your itinerary and expected return date so they can raise the alarm should you be gone longer than expected. A satellite communication device is a great item to have in your safety gear, especially if you are venturing out of signal. Remember, safety should always be the top priority when embarking on any outdoor adventure.
Leave no trace
You may be heading out to more unexplored areas to camp with your paddle board, but the same camping etiquette applies where ever you stay. Whatever you pack in should be packed out, and where possible leave a place more pristine than you found it. Minimize your impact on wildlife and vegetation by maintaining a respectful distance and refraining from disturbing natural habitats. We can ensure that paddleboard camping remains an eco-friendly and enjoyable activity for future generations by adopting sustainable practices.
Paddleboard camping can really open a new path to discovering some really unique and unforgettable places. We urge you to give it a try, sleep under the stars and enjoy the simple pleasures of minimalistic living!
Paddleboard Camping
Exploring the Great Outdoors on a SUP
It doesn't get much more adventurous than paddleboard camping, just you, the essential pieces of kit for survival and the great outdoors. It combines both the enjoyment of paddleboarding with the serenity of camping outside under the stars. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or SUP enthusiast looking to take your paddleboarding to the next level, paddleboard camping is an activity that allows you to explore the lesser traveled places in a unique and memorable way. Here we run through the reasons it has captured the hearts of outdoor enthusiasts worldwide, and why (if you haven't already) you should give it a go!
The experience
Paddleboard camping offers a pretty unique experience that allows you to escape the constraints of traditional camping. By using a paddleboard to get to your camping location, you can choose remote and picturesque spots that are inaccessible by foot, boat, or car. It allows you to explore the untouched coastline, hidden coves and get unbeatable views. Imagine waking up to the sound to the sound of water lapping gently against the shoreline knowing there's not another human within a 50km radius! Paddleboard camping opens up a world of possibilities for those willing to embrace a more uncommon form of the voyage.
Gear and preparation
When planning a SUP camping trip, you’ll need to invest in the right gear and use some careful planning for a successful trip. You’ll need to use a paddleboard that can accommodate the weight of yourself and your camping gear. Touring boards such as the Endurance paddleboard were designed especially for carrying excess gear and overnight trips. The deck pad is even shaped to accommodate a bivy sack so you won't need to worry about finding a perfectly flat, rock-free surface! Inflatable paddleboards also work well as they typically can accommodate heavier weight ranges, however, you will lose some paddle performance. Dry bags are a must for keeping your belongings safe and dry. These can be attached to the board with bungee tie-downs or gorilla nets.
Planning your route
It’s important to spend some time planning a route and researching possible places to camp in advance. Look for sheltered bodies of water where conditions are less likely to be changeable and areas that have ample opportunities for making a campsite. Try making your journey even more rewarding by visiting destinations with natural attractions, wildlife sightings, and serene landscapes. It's also important to familiarise yourself with local regulations, permits, and safety guidelines before setting off on your adventure, and always check the weather forecast and water conditions before you go!
Safety considerations
Although paddleboard camping is an exciting experience, safety should always be a priority. Familiarise yourself with your equipment before you go and make sure you understand how to read weather and tide charts. You should always wear a personal floatation device (PFD) when paddleboarding, especially on long trips to new destinations. A lot of PFDs have integrated whistles, you should check yours and if not, invest in a good one and keep it attached to your PFD so it is with you at all times. Let someone trusted know your itinerary and expected return date so they can raise the alarm should you be gone longer than expected. A satellite communication device is a great item to have in your safety gear, especially if you are venturing out of signal. Remember, safety should always be the top priority when embarking on any outdoor adventure.
Leave no trace
You may be heading out to more unexplored areas to camp with your paddle board, but the same camping etiquette applies where ever you stay. Whatever you pack in should be packed out, and where possible leave a place more pristine than you found it. Minimize your impact on wildlife and vegetation by maintaining a respectful distance and refraining from disturbing natural habitats. We can ensure that paddleboard camping remains an eco-friendly and enjoyable activity for future generations by adopting sustainable practices.
Paddleboard camping can really open a new path to discovering some really unique and unforgettable places. We urge you to give it a try, sleep under the stars and enjoy the simple pleasures of minimalistic living!
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