Please take the time to carefully read through this Canoeing Packing List. A lot of research and refining has lead us to the ideal packing list below. Every item on the list is​ necessary equipment and clothing for you to experience a safe and comfortable 

canoe trip. It also means that we request you do not bring additional equipment​ as it will contribute to a heavier and slower trip experience. Before departure, all equipment will be approved by instructors to determine that it meets or exceeds our

requirements.

 

A good place to begin looking for any missing items from your list is your friends or family then look through any of your local thrift stores. If you still need items, some outdoors stores with knowledgeable staff are: MEC, SAIL, and Adventure Guide. When you arrive we will issue you a canoe pack, a sleeping pad and ground sheet. Your canoe pack will fit all of your personal clothing and equipment along with some group gear. Coldwater also has a small selection of equipment and clothing that we let students

rent or borrow if they are missing items. If you wish to borrow an item please make sure to contact us at least 2 weeks prior to the trip to make sure we have what you are looking for and reserve it for you.

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Clothing 

We divide our backcountry clothing into three main categories: base-layer, mid-layer, and outer layer. Using this layering system allows clothing items to be worn together or separately, achieving optimum body temperature control. Please do not bring any cotton products on this trip. When wet, cotton offers no insulation, draws heat away from the body, and takes a substantial time to dry. Instead, find synthetic (polyester ‘fleece’, polypropylene, capilene, nylon, lycra...) or natural fibres (wool, leather, canvas). These materials dry faster and maintain insulation when wet. To reiterate: NO COTTON ​​​

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LAYERING SYSTEM

Base Layer

The inner-most layer is critical because it's in direct contact with your skin. Base layers should transport moisture away from the skin and disperse it to the air or outer layers where it can evaporate. Because water is a good heat conductor, damp garments draw precious heat away from your body. Cotton holds water, while synthetics and wool allow moisture to pass through. The best base layer materials are synthetics (polypropylene and polyester) and wool. These are light and strong, absorb very little water, and are quick to dry. Base layers should fit snugly without being constricting.

 

Mid-Layer

The mid-layer provides insulation and continues the transportation of moisture from the inner layer. To slow heat loss, this layer must be capable of retaining the warmth generated by your body. Wool and synthetics are well suited to this. Additional features, such as pit zippers and full-length front zippers, allow venting and are optional. As with the inner layer, this layer should be snug but not constricting.

 

Outer Layer

The outer layer protects you from the elements and should allow air to circulate and excess moisture to escape. Since we travel through environments that are prone to severe weather, a waterproof (coated) rain jacket will be adequate. A shell made of a breathable and waterproof fabric will protect you from wind and rain, and allow water vapour to escape.

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Clothing

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