Following is a list of suggested items recommended for your safety and comfort while on your kayak tour. Sea Kayaks are basically watertight, although small amounts of water may leak through the rudder lines and hatches. In the event of rain or dropping gear in the water we try to keep things as water tight as possible.
To prevent your gear from getting wet all items should be packed in waterproof storage bags. The largest bag should not be larger than a sleeping bag or 30 litres - several small bags are best. We will provide one large and one small dry bag per person.
For sleeping bags the best method is to place a garbage bag inside your sleeping bag stuff sac (cover), then your bag inside the garbage bag. Sleeping bags inside dry bags are generally too bulky. Stuff sacs are also good for extra clothing. Stuff sacs can be purchased at most outdoor stores. If you have any concerns or questions about the list, don't hesitate to contact us.
Spirit of the West provides tents and sleeping mats for our scheduled tours. If you are arranging a custom tour we may need you to supply these items.
Sleeping bag - We suggest a synthetic bag, as opposed to down as down will not insulate when wet. If you are uncertain of how warm your bag will be bring a small blanket.
Small pillow - If you cannot go with out, small camping pillows can be purchased at outdoor stores. Soft, bulky clothing inside a t-shirt works well also.
Wetshoes - A pair that can get wet such as sandals,
beachshoes, neoprene booties, or rubber boots.
Hint: all our guides will be wearing rubber boots in cooler areas like Johnstone Strait or the West coast. A combination of sandals and rubber boots works best.
Camp footwear - A pair of runners or hiking boots are good.
Hat - A sun hat such as a baseball hat is a must. You may also want to bring more of a brimmed rain/sun hat and a wool or fleece hat for evenings or cooler days.
Sunglasses & sunscreen - A must for protection from sun and glare off water. Safety cords are also a good idea.
Towel and bathing suit - Not too bulky of a towel.
Medication - If you are bringing medication please ensure that ......1.The name and expiry date of drug is on container 2. You have the detailed instructions of dosage and frequency. 3. Pack in water and sun proof container. 4. You bring a full extra dosage of your medication in a separate container and leave with head guide,
in case you misplace or loose yours.
Personal items - Toothbrush, toothpaste, biodegradable soap, feminine hygiene products (non-perfumed items are less likely to attract bugs), hairbrush, etc.
Toilet paper - All paper that is used will either get burned or taken out. A suggestion is to bring several sturdy Ziplocs for used paper and feminine hygiene products. See 'sanitation' on the next page.
Zip loc baggies & several large garbage bags
Matches or lighter
Mosquito repellent
Small flashlight
Pocket knife
Water bottle - 1 or 2 water bottles. Bike bottles or Nalgene bottles work best.
Camera & film - In waterproof bag or case. You may use our dry bags.
Dry bags or garbage bags - We will provide one large & one small dry bag/person. Bring a few extra garbage bags for miscellaneous items.
Non waterproof nylon stuff Sacs - Ideal for using in conjunction with the garbage bags as they protect the bags from ripping. They can be purchased at many outdoor stores.
Gloves - Wool gloves work, the best for paddling is neoprene or paddling pogies (special paddling hand wear, a bit of a luxury and should be considered for longer West Coast or Johnstone Strait trips)
Munchies - Spirit of the West will provide ample food as well as snacks, but feel free to bring along any
favourite snacks.
Beverages - We supply a wide range of teas and coffee as well as juices. Wine and beer is up to you, they are great for filling up the pointy ends of the kayaks.
Fishing gear (optional) - make sure you have a valid B.C. fishing license. Pick one up the day before if possible.
Book or journal
Clothing should be suitable for the time of year bearing in mind that it could become cold and wet at anytime of year. Layering is the best way to regulate body temperature and maintain warmth. Avoid cotton (except for those hot days). Cotton has no insulation value when wet. An inner material that wicks moisture from the body and gives a comfortable dry feeling even while wet is the best first layer (Polypro, Lycra, Nylon, Polyester). A synthetic material such as fleece or pile makes the best second layer to provide warmth. Wool is also suitable.
Rain jacket & rain pants - For the unexpected nasty weather. To test your waterproofness jump in the shower and see if you stay dry!
Light windproof jacket - optional
Long pants - 2 pairs of fleece or warm comfy pants. Jeans are not recommended.
Lightweight long underwear - optional depending on time of
year.
Sweater - 1 heavy and 1 light wool or fleece
Long-sleeved non cotton shirt - 2
T-shirts - 2-3 depending on long your tour is.
Shorts - 2 quick dry nylon
Warm socks - 3 pair
Undergarments
An extra set of clothes that you may want to leave behind in the vehicle.
SANITATION IN THE WILDERNESS
The kayak cuts no grooves and leaves no scars, as it travels freely through the waters. However on land, with the increasing number of kayakers venturing into new territory and seeking the
un-traveled path, we must respect our surroundings and be aware of our impact on these environmentally sensitive areas. Spirit of the West makes every effort to ensure we leave our area as we found it.
Where do we wash? Are there toilets? These are some of the most common concerns but questions not always asked. All of our camping sites are in wilderness settings and therefore are basic and rustic giving a true wilderness experience. For those wanting to wash up, you have the option of using small streams, the ocean, or one of the fresh water lakes that we may visit. For washing in the lakes we do not suggest using any cleansing agents, but if you do please use biodegradable environmentally friendly brands. We can also arrange a warm sponge bath when desired.
Toilet facilities are not common in most wilderness settings, although some areas may have pit toilets. Your guide will generally designate an area or method that works best for each area. Our guides will go over these details before the tour and if you have any concerns while on tour please do not be shy to ask your guide. All paper and sanitary products are taken out - this is where Ziplocs are handy. Toilet paper can be burned or taken out. Sanitary products can be wrapped in newspaper and placed in Ziploc. We suggest bringing some hand soap or liquid disinfectant that can be purchased at pharmacies, this can accompany your toiletry bag.
