SUP Day Trip Checklist [Printable PDF]

Comprehensive Paddle Board DAY TRIP Checklist

Time for a day trip adventure with your paddle board. Before your go take a look at this list to help you decide what to take.

Some tips…

Use dry bags to strap your gear on your paddle board. You can use smaller dry bags or stuff sacks inside the large bag to compartmentalize your gear. Place heavy items on the bottom of the bag. Place anything you may need quick easy access to, like snacks, on top.

If you are taking a hard cooler I suggest strapping it behind you so you can use it as a seat on breaks.

Pack light. Don’t take heavy stuff you don’t need. Lighter is better when paddling all day.

Plan your trip. Try and figure out how long it will take to get to your destination and back. Bring a headlamp or deck light in case you run late.

Leave a trip itinerary with a friend.

Bring food & water. Stay hydrated.

Paddle Board DAY TRIP Checklist

This list is meant to be comprehensive. It will give you an idea of what gear you may want to take. You would never want to take all this gear with you on a day trip.

Essentials

  • Paddle Board
  • Fins (with pins)
  • Hand pump (inflatable)
  • Paddle
  • Board leash
  • PFD
dry bag to keep your gear dry on a sup day trip

Options

  • Paddle leash
  • SUP carry shoulder strap
  • Maps and charts in waterproof case
  • Compass
  • GPS
  • NOAA Weather Radio
  • Matches/lighter/fire starter in waterproof container
  • Knife or multi-tool
  • 2-way radios
  • Cell phone in waterproof bag
  • Solar cell phone charger
  • Multi-function watch
  • Headlamp or flashlight 
  • First-aid Kit
  • Emergency mylar blanket
  • iSUP Repair Kit
  • Extra fin
  • Bungee Cords
  • Dry bags (for gear organization)
  • Weather/VHF radio
  • Emergency signaling devices (whistle, mirror, flares)
  • Float bags
  • Emergency floating throw line (with throw bag)
  • Polarized Sunglasses with lanyard
  • Sunscreen
  • Lip balm
  • Water bottles (filled)
  • Water treatment method 
  • Energy food (bars, gels, trail mix)
  • Beverages or electrolyte drinks
  • Swim Fins
  • Snorkel Mask
cooler with food for a item in the paddle board day trip checklist
  • Lunch/Dinner
  • Cooler (with ice)
  • Camera
  • Go Pro
  • Binoculars
  • Small backpack for hike
  • Stuff Sacks (to supplement dry bags)
  • Insect repellent
  • Toilet paper and sanitation trowel
  • Permits and licenses
  • Fishing gear
  • Notebook and pen or pencil
  • Credit card; small amount of cash
  • Trip itinerary left with friend + under car seat
sun hat for a paddle board day trip

Clothing

  • Dry bag for clothing
  • Wetsuit
  • Neoprene jacket
  • Dry suit or top
  • Paddling gloves
  • Neoprene booties or water shoes
  • Sandals
  • Helmet (whitewater)
  • Sun hat
  • Skullcap
  • Bandana or buff
  • Fleece cap or balaclava
  • Moisture-wicking T-shirt
  • Moisture-wicking long sleeve Tee
  • Moisture-wicking underwear
  • Rashguard
  • Swimsuit
  • Shorts
  • Sun-shielding shirt (long sleeves) and pants
  • Rain jacket and pants
  • Fleece jacket
  • Synthetic gloves