What should you wear on a canoe trip, and what needs to go in the boat? The good news first: you do not need much, and you probably have most of it at home already. What matters most is clothing that is allowed to get wet, sturdy shoes and a dry spot for your phone. Here is our complete packing list for a relaxed day on the water, whether on the Rur or the Heimbach reservoir in the Eifel.
The essentials in 30 seconds
You can quickly memorise or print this short packing list before your trip:
- Clothing that is allowed to get wet (sports or quick-dry clothing, no jeans)
- A change of clothes and a towel for afterwards in the car
- Sturdy shoes that stay on your feet and can get wet
- Sun protection: sunscreen, a cap, sunglasses (ideally with a strap)
- Drinking water and a small snack
- A waterproof bag, if you want your phone and car key with you in the boat
- In cool weather: a thin rain or wind jacket
The boat, paddle, life jacket and the briefing before you set off all come from us. You do not need to buy any equipment of your own.
Clothing: what to wear depending on the weather
The most important rule: do not wear anything that cannot get wet. Even without capsizing there is spray, and your feet and trousers tend to get damp when getting in and out.
On warm days, light sports or quick-dry clothing is enough, ideally with swimwear underneath. Avoid cotton and jeans, because wet cotton draws out warmth and dries only slowly.
On cool or rainy days it is better to dress in several thin layers and pack a thin wind or rain jacket. That keeps you flexible if the sun comes out after all.
For the time after the trip, a change of clothes and a towel always belong in the car. Dry clothes after paddling are worth their weight in gold.
The right shoes
Sturdy, closed shoes that stay on your feet and can get wet are ideal: old trainers, water shoes or trekking sandals with a heel strap. What to avoid: flip-flops are quickly lost in the water, and going barefoot is a bad idea because of stones and shells at the entry and exit points.
What absolutely has to stay dry
On the guided Rur tour you do not need one at all: you hand your things to the driver before the start and we bring them to the break and to the take-out. Only what you want with you in the boat belongs in a waterproof bag (dry bag) or a waterproof case. In a pinch, a well-sealed freezer bag will do. Anything you do not need on the water is best left in the car or with the driver.
Sun protection, drinks and snacks
On the water the sun is stronger than on land, because it is also reflected off the surface. So remember sunscreen, something to cover your head and sunglasses, ideally with a strap so they do not fall in the water when you lean forward. Bring enough drinking water and a small snack too, a cereal bar for example. One more note: alcohol belongs on land after the trip, not in the boat.
What we provide and what you bring
So you know what you do not have to worry about:
- From us: the boat, paddle, life jacket and a briefing before you set off. On the guided Rur tour we also transport your things to the break and to the take-out. You do not need any equipment of your own.
- From you: suitable clothing, a change of clothes, sturdy shoes, sun protection and drinks.
Plan half a day for the trip: the guided Rur tour starts at 11:15 and lasts around 4.5 hours (2.5 to 3 hours of it on the water). You can see exactly how the day works on our booking page. Prefer something completely calm? The Heimbach reservoir is perfect for families and beginners.
Frequently asked questions about the canoe trip packing list
What should I wear on a canoe trip?
Clothing that is allowed to get wet, ideally light sports or quick-dry clothing, no jeans. Add a change of clothes for the car and, in cool weather, a thin rain or wind jacket.
Which shoes do I need for a canoe trip?
Sturdy, closed shoes that stay on your feet and can get wet. Flip-flops or bare feet are not suitable.
What do I do with my phone on the water?
On the guided Rur tour you simply hand it to the driver and get it back at the break and at the take-out. If you want it with you in the boat, put it in a waterproof bag or a waterproof case.
Do I need to bring a life jacket?
No, we provide the life jacket and show you everything important before you set off. You do not need any equipment of your own.
Ready for your canoe trip?
With the right packing list, your day on the water will be relaxed and carefree. Pick a date and book your guided canoe tour on the Rur, or paddle in complete calm on the Heimbach reservoir. We take care of the boat and equipment, you simply enjoy the Eifel from the water.
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The popular guided day tour from Heimbach through Eifel National Park. Places are limited, so book online in good time.
View the Rur tour