The number one key to canoeing is to be prepared. If you have the supplies you will have a wonderful time. Here are some things to keep in mind when you plan the canoeing trip.


The two most important things to bring are sunscreen and bug spray. There is nothing more miserable than burning to a crisp and this will happen with the sun reflecting double off the water. To be eaten alive by mosquitoes will make your trip a disaster. If you apply bug spray this will save you from itching the entire trip.


Another key to enjoying the trip is to have enough liquids on hand. Bottled water should be the first thing to fill the cooler. Stay away from bringing thick drinks like juices or sugary drinks like kool-aid. These do not quench the thirst as well as light drinks like water and Gatorade.


Everything that you bring should be in sealed plastic bags. Sandwiches, chips, desserts, sunscreen, bug spray, and towels should be secured in plastic bags. The reality that your canoe may tip should be present in your mind. Sometime it cannot be helped with even the best canoers.


Stay away from bringing food that needs to be really cold. Salads with mayonnaise are a no-no. They will spoil easy and are hard to keep cold. Anything that you must use utensils to eat should be avoided. When you are canoeing the trip will be anything but fancy. Avoid unnecessary garbage and bring bags for the garbage you do create.
There are many things to check before you leave the shore when you are canoeing. First, would be the pick up arrangement. Make sure that you and the business agree on the time that you will meet. Find out is there is an extra charge if you are late in returning. Businesses often pick up canoers in two different ways. Some drive you to the lift off point and you canoe back to the rental area. Others will meet you at a certain site and drive you back to your vehicles. The only problem with the latter one is that you often arrive early or late and must wait on them to pick you up.


Make sure that before you push off from shore you have two oars per canoe. Also, double check that everyone has a life jacket. Once this is confirmed, kick back and enjoy!! Remember be safe and cautious and all will come back satisfied and extremely worn out!!