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San Juan Islands Packing List

Below you can find all the goodies you’ll need to bring for this trip, along with our pro-tips from years of traveling around the world!

Feel free to pack all of your gear in a normal suitcase as you will repack your needed gear in dry bags that will be provided for you once you arrive at Friday Harbor.  Your luggage will stay safely locked up.  

You will be provided with 2 dry bags - a 20L dry bag for clothes, etc and a smaller 5L dry bag for smaller personal items that will fit into the kayak seat with you.

 
 

It’s All About the Quick Dry

Kayaking in the open waters means you’re going to get wet! You will be exposed to all the elements out in the wide open. The weather can change quickly, so we recommend having quick dry layers accessible. Quick dry means materials that are non-cotton and that absorb moisture from your skin, which helps keep your body warm even in inclement weather.

Base Layer

  • Undergarments- preferably quick dry: Our general rule of thumb is to pack one more than the number of days on your trip

  • Synthetic long underwear bottom or leggings (1): Generally speaking we wear shorts in the kayak because its more comfortable and your legs will get wet, however these can be worn if you’re feeling chilly or at bed time if you don’t wear them on the kayak.

  • Long sleeve synthetic top (1): This would be to wear at night for warmth while sleeping or as an extra layer

  • Socks (2): Synthetic or wool for hiking and sleeping

Mid Layer

  • Quick dry shorts (1): Expect for your legs to get wet! This is why we recommend shorts while kayaking. These shorts could also be worn on hiking days or around the campsite.

  • Pants - preferably quick dry (1): Generally be used at camp as an extra layer in the evening or cooler morning time

  • Short sleeve quick dry tops (2): We like to wear a tank top or short-sleeve underneath a long-sleeve button up sun shirt while on the kayak.

  • Long sleeve button up sun shirt: We like button up shirts because they offer a lot of flexibility to wear as a warm-layer or sun protection while on the kayak.

Outer Layer

  • Long sleeve mid weight fleece or light weight down jacket (1): Use for extra layer of warmth at campsite at night and while sleeping.

  • Waterproof rain jacket (1): We love having a waterproof rain jacket on this trip! While on the kayak you can use this for wind and rain/water protection as well as for an extra layer of warmth either on the kayak or at camp.

 
 

Accessories

  • Water shoes or sandals with heel strap (1): You will be launching your kayak from the beach so expect to be walking in water.

  • Ball cap or wide brimmed hat for sun: We provide a Root ball cap, so you don’t necessarily need to bring one.

  • Sunglasses

  • Warmer hat for cooler nights

  • Non-cotton lightweight gloves or mittens for at night: Could even use while kayaking for extra protection from the sun to avoid burnt knuckles!

  • Buff: A buff is a very versatile accessory that helps protect you from the sun, wind, and many other elements.  It can also be used as an extra warm layer for your head & ears, a neck gaiter, a pony tail holder or headband, and a face covering for very windy days. Click here to browse their website!

 
 

Gear

**Please note that kayaks, paddles, life-vests, and kayak skirts will be provided for you as well as tents, sleeping bags, sleeping bag liners, and sleeping pads.

  • Reusable water bottle

  • Headlamp/small flashlight

  • Kula cloth: We love the Kula Pee Cloth to keep you fresh while going in the great outdoors.  Click here to browse their website!

A Note About Traveling with Your Gear

We highly recommend carrying on your luggage in case of scenarios of lost or delayed luggage.

Pro-tip: Wear your gear while traveling!  Wearing your gear not only saves packing space, but can also help break them in more.

Personal Items

  • ID

  • Copy of flight itinerary

  • Copy of travel insurance info

  • Some cash in smaller bills for any incidentals

  • Credit cards

  • Sunscreen and lip balm w/ SPF

  • Insect repellent (Deet is recommended)

  • Toiletries: Bring your preferred toiletries, below are a couple items to keep in mind

    • Throughout your trip there are no showers

    • There are no flush toilets or sinks however there are sheltered pit toilets and spouts near the camping shelters with drinkable water.

    • Dry shampoo is always a good option

  • Prescription medications (kept in original containers)

  • Personal first-aid kit: including anti-itch cream for bites, pain medications, band aids, blister care, etc

 
 

Optional Items

  • Kayak/biking gloves: If you’re concerned about getting blisters on your hands kayaking or biking gloves can be helpful.

  • Comfortable light weight hiking shoes: You will be doing some light hiking throughout the trip. Covered shoes can also help with warmth at night.

  • Camera (fully charged) and optional extra batteries

  • Swimsuit

  • Notebook and pen will be provided by Root

  • Paperback or digital book for down times.  You can always download a book onto your phone to save space.