Family Fun with Inflatable SUPs - Tips for Enjoying Water Sports Together in the UK
If you want to spend time on the water with your family, check out our collection Inflatable paddleboards for kids. These boards suit young paddlers and group outings well. Inflatable stand-up paddleboards make it easy for everyone to join in on rivers, lakes, or coasts around the UK. They pack down small for travel and set up fast. This guide shares practical advice to help you get started and stay safe while building good times together.

Pick the Best Boards
Start with boards that fit your group's needs. Go for ones that are wide and steady to help beginners balance. Look for options with enough space for riders and gear. Many families choose boards around 10 to 12 feet long for all-around use. These handle light waves or flat water without trouble.
- Boards with soft deck pads give better grip and comfort.
- Grab handles make it simple to carry or pull someone back on.
- Bungee cords on the front hold bags or snacks securely.
For kids, shorter boards like 7 to 8 feet work best. They are light and easy to control. Try the Loco Kids Amigo Air Inflatable Paddleboard for young ones. Families often pick versatile models such as the Inflatable Surfing Paddle Board Loco Shred Air or the Loco Aztec Air Inflatable Paddle Board. These hold weight for pairs and stay stable.
Focus on Safety
Keep things secure from the start. Everyone should wear a buoyancy aid that fits right. This helps if anyone falls in. Attach a leash to your ankle so the board stays close. Pick a coiled leash for flat water to avoid snags.
Plan your spot ahead. Choose calm areas like lakes or slow rivers for first tries. Check weather and tides before you go. Avoid strong winds that push you out. Tell a friend your plans and when you expect to return.
Take a lesson if you're new. Practice in shallow spots where you can stand. Kids might start sitting or kneeling to build confidence. Always watch for boats or swimmers nearby.
Paddle Side by Side
Group paddling strengthens bonds. Begin in safe water to learn basics. Line up boards and move as a team. Or link them into a raft for rest breaks.
Talk as you go to stay in sync. Help each other with turns or speed. Praise small wins, like staying upright longer. This builds trust and fun.
For pairs, one adult can steer while a child sits up front. Switch roles to share the work. Calm UK spots like canals offer great places for this.
Try Water Games
Add play to your trips. Simple games keep everyone involved. For example, set up a relay where teams paddle to a point and back.
Play tag on boards, chasing without falling off. Or hunt for items along the shore, like shells or birds. Yoga moves on stable boards challenge balance in a light way.
Follow the leader to copy moves. Or toss a soft ball between boards. These ideas suit all ages and make days memorable.
Capture the Moments
Time on the water creates stories to share. Snap pictures of smiles and splashes. Note favorite parts at the end of the day.
UK spots like coasts or lakes provide beautiful backdrops. Return to the same places to see progress. These shared trips build a habit of outdoor time.
In the end, inflatable SUPs open doors to family time in nature. With good gear, safety steps, group efforts, and play, you'll make the most of UK waters. Grab your boards and head out for your next trip.
Leave a comment