What to Pack When Paddle Boarding: Essential Checklist

You need a personal flotation device, SUP leash, paddle, waterproof dry bag, sunscreen, water, and weather-appropriate clothing as your core paddle boarding kit. This guide covers everything from mandatory safety gear to optional accessories for UK paddlers.

Forgetting critical items can turn a relaxing paddle into a stressful situation. Pack smart and you'll spend more time enjoying the water.

Essential Safety Gear (Non-Negotiable Items)

Personal Flotation Device (PFD)

UK law doesn't mandate PFDs for paddle boarding in all waters, but coastguards and safety organisations strongly recommend them. Choose a belt-pack inflatable if you dislike bulky vests. They deploy when you pull a cord and sit comfortably around your waist.

SUP Leash

A coiled ankle leash keeps your board attached if you fall. In tidal waters or currents, this matters. Boards drift faster than you can swim. Coiled leashes work best for flat water. Straight leashes suit surf conditions.

Rescue Whistle

Attach a whistle to your PFD. Three sharp blasts signal distress. Your voice won't carry far across water, but a whistle will.

First Aid Kit

Pack a small waterproof kit with plasters, antiseptic wipes, and pain relief. Cuts from barnacles or rocks happen. A compact kit fits inside your dry bag.

Torch (If Paddling After Dusk)

White light visible 360 degrees meets maritime regulations. A waterproof headlamp works. Paddling in darkness without light breaks navigation rules.

Your Paddle Board Setup

Paddle Board

Inflatable boards need inflation to 15 PSI typically. Check your manufacturer specs. The Loco Motion Air offers excellent all-round performance for UK waters. Solid boards skip the inflation step but require roof racks or storage space.

Paddle

Adjustable carbon SUP paddles suit multiple users. Fixed-length paddles feel more efficient. Stand-up straight and add 25cm to your height for proper paddle length.

Fin(s)

Most boards use removable fins. Single fins track straight. Three-fin setups (thruster) add manoeuvrability. Carry your fin separately if it detaches.

Pump and Pressure Gauge

Electric pumps save energy. Manual double-action pumps work both on push and pull strokes. Check PSI with a gauge. Under-inflated boards perform poorly.

 

What to Wear Paddle Boarding

Warm Weather Clothing (Above 20°C)

Swimwear and Board Shorts

Quick-dry materials beat cotton. You'll get wet from paddle drips and splashes. Board shorts with secure pockets hold small items.

Rashguard or UV Protection Top

Long-sleeve rashguards prevent sunburn better than sunscreen alone. UPF 50+ fabric blocks 98% of UV rays. Water reflects UV upward, hitting areas you forget to protect.

Sun Hat

Wide brims shade your face and neck. Secure it with a chin strap or hat leash. Losing a hat to wind on water ruins the day.

Water Shoes or Sandals

Neoprene booties grip wet surfaces. Sport sandals with back straps stay on your feet. Rocky entry points demand protection. Barefoot works on sandy beaches only.

Cool Weather Clothing (Below 15°C)

Wetsuit or Dry Suit

Water temperature matters more than air temperature. A 3mm wetsuit suits water between 10-15°C. Dry suits keep you completely dry and work in colder conditions. Layer underneath dry suits.

Neoprene Accessories

Gloves prevent numb hands. Wetsuit boots insulate feet. A neoprene hood adds warmth in winter paddling.

 

Sun Protection Essentials

Apply SPF 30+ water-resistant sunscreen 30 minutes before paddling. Reapply every two hours. Mineral sunscreens (zinc oxide) resist water better than chemical versions.

Lip balm with SPF 15+ stops chapped, burned lips. Polarised sunglasses cut glare from water. Add a retention strap so they float if dropped.

Hydration and Nutrition

Bring 1 litre of water minimum for trips under 2 hours. 2 litres for longer sessions. Dehydration sneaks up on paddlers. Sun exposure and physical effort drain you faster than you think.

Energy bars, trail mix, or fruit provide quick calories. Avoid salty snacks that increase thirst. Electrolyte tablets help on hot days.

Drink holders that clip to D-rings keep bottles accessible. Screw-top bottles beat flip-tops on water. Spillage matters when your phone sits nearby.

 

Storage and Waterproofing

Dry Bags

10-litre dry bags hold phone, keys, wallet, and snacks. 20-litre sizes accommodate extra clothing and towels. Roll the top three times and clip the buckle for proper seal.

Waterproof Phone Case

Hard cases protect better than pouches. Touch-screen compatible models let you take photos without opening the case. Test in a sink first.

Deck Bags

These strap to D-rings on your board. Mesh pockets hold water bottles. Zippered compartments keep valuables separate.

Bungee Cord Systems

Most boards include bungee cords at the nose. Secure dry bags under these cords. Pull tight. Loose items shift and affect balance.

Personal Items and Valuables

Carry ID and emergency contact information in your dry bag. Waterproof document holders work well. Include any medical information responders should know.

Car keys go inside your dry bag, never your pocket. Magnetic key boxes under wheel arches get stolen. Lock valuables in your boot before paddling.

Small amount of cash helps if you paddle to a destination. Card readers fail. Cash doesn't.

 

Optional Gear for Enhanced Experience

Action cameras capture unique angles. Mount them to your board or wear on a chest harness. Check battery life before launching.

Waterproof Bluetooth speakers clip to boards. Volume limits respect other water users. Music enhances solo paddles but annoys nearby boaters if too loud.

Small coolers attach with bungees for longer trips. Cold drinks and fresh food improve full-day adventures. Soft-sided coolers weigh less than hard versions.

Repair kits for inflatable boards include patches and adhesive. A slow leak mid-trip becomes manageable with basic repair supplies.

Packing Tips for Paddle Boarding

Place heavier items near the centre of your board. Weight at the nose or tail makes paddling harder. Balance matters.

Secure everything properly. Items bouncing around create instability. Bungee cords, clips, and straps prevent movement.

Keep frequently-needed items accessible. Water and snacks should reach easily. Buried items require unpacking everything.

Pack light for short trips. Every kilogram you carry makes paddling more tiring. Minimalist approach wins.

 

Trip Duration Packing Guide

1-2 Hour Session Water, sunscreen, phone, keys, PFD, leash, whistle. Skip the cooler and extra clothing.

Half-Day Trip (3-5 Hours) Add snacks, extra water, towel, change of clothes, first aid kit, sun hat.

Full-Day Adventure Include all above plus proper meal food, electrolytes, backup clothing layers, repair kit, larger dry bag.

Conclusion

Start with the non-negotiable safety items: PFD, SUP leash, and whistle. Add weather-appropriate clothing and sun protection. Secure everything in waterproof storage. Adjust your kit based on trip length and conditions.

Most paddlers overpack initially then refine their system. After a few sessions, you'll know exactly what you need. Browse our complete range of paddle boards and accessories to get started. The water awaits—pack smart and paddle confidently.