Kayaking as relaxation, exercising on water, or fishing, every serious kayaker needs the right gear to make the sailing as smooth as possible. Many of the things in this list are made to keep you and your belongings safe and comfortable, but how do you know what you need exactly? Undoubtedly, every kayaking trip is specific to each individual, so which type of gear do you really need?
In order to answer that question, I’ve created a simple guide that will explain how to pick the best gear for your kayak based on your needs, preferences, and possibilities.
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Kayak accessories to make your trip complete and enjoy on the water even more
Kayaking is a popular sport, so it’s only normal that the market is flooded with a plethora of accessories for your kayak. From paddle board kayak seats to bags and kayak plugs to fishing kayak accessories, you truly have it all.
How to Choose Your Kayak Accessories – Buying Guide
Kayaking is a popular sport, so it’s only normal that the market is flooded with a plethora of accessories for your kayak. From paddle board kayak seats to bags and kayak plugs to kayak fishing accessories, you truly have it all.
But how do you choose what’s right for you? Surely things like kayak life jacket and paddle leashes and other important paddling gear are needed for safety, whereas accessories like rudders are optional. But even the optional items are able to change your kayaking experience giving you a different experience and making it so that you take a new angle on this sport. Some of these kayak accessories will immensely transform your regular kayak cart into a speed machine that can get you anywhere.
However, before you ready that credit card for some online shopping, there are 4 main factors to think about before you take anything into consideration.
The Durability
Before you buy anything related to your kayak, its durability is one of the most important things to look at. Just think about it. You are spending a lot of time in water (maybe even saltwater), and that takes its toll on the object. So you have to be sure that the product(s) will stand the test of time.
This is why buying the highest-quality accessories will make sure that it lasts.
Additionally, consider the fact that you will continuously be outdoors with all the elements present. The sun eats away low-quality plastic, the wind, and the rain too, and on top of that, you have the transport of your kayak and your accessories each time you go to the water and back.
You are going to be moving around a lot, mainly from your home to the water. You are also going to be moving across uneven terrain. When you are moving your kayak from your vehicle to the water or lifting it to portage across a dry piece of land, you do not want to have to be careful about what you are doing. You want your kayak accessories to stand up to some knocks here and there.
If you are planning on buying some electronic accessories, look for products that are marine or military-grade. Also, waterproof is great but water-resistant is a must – but we will talk about later on more in-depth too.
Also, the material that this product is made of. For instance, aluminum is pretty strong, and it’s lightweight on top of that. Then, quality PVCs and plastics are fantastic too since they can resist the sun and the water without any problem. Look for materials that are thick enough to take impact while still remaining functional.
You want something which can hold up to impacts, abrasions, and knocks. So, just take the time to find kayak accessories which are built to last, and always remember that a little more money spent when you are buying an accessory means less money spent in the long run.
The Size
While the quality and the affordable price are essential too, what’s the use of a product that you cannot fit into your kayak or that’s too small to be of any use?
The size aspect is also vital when it comes to transporting your gear along with the kayak. Basically, you will need to be able to transport your kayak and all the accessories in as few trips as possible. So, the dimensions and the weight play a significant role here too.
You should make sure that the product is compatible with your kayak. And, think about the weight it is going to add to your kayak, and how it is going to change the size and shape of your kayak. You may be able to get your kayak into your car with no problems, but when there is a rod holder attached, can you still do that? Can you still lift the kayak in the same way?
With sizes, it’s especially important to pay attention to online shopping from another country/continent because their metrics may vary. You could be expecting one thing while the casual size can be way off.
Ease of Use and Installation
Depending on how much you have paid for your kayak, it may or may not come with a variety of accessories already attached to it. Whatever the case may be, and you still want to add a few extras, consider the tools and skills that you will need to secure and actually use each product you buy.
Each accessory comes with an installation guide, so for the best experience with it, you should follow the instructions or find a tutorial online that will help you with mounting.
Speaking of the installation, finding the right spot for your product is super important because you don’t want it getting in your way, but you also don’t want it to be far from reach when you need it the most.
For instance, when installing an anchor on your kayak, you should find a spot that’s easy to reach from a sitting position. The same applies to the rod holder. They should be in your way and make it difficult for you to transport your kayak or safety paddle, but they should be close enough so that you can drop an eye and reach them whenever there’s a catch.
Lastly, remember that if you have no place to install your accessory, then there is no point in buying that product.
Also, I understand that some of the needed gear may be a bit more expensive, especially if you have just bought your kayak and you need a bunch of new accessories right away, but think of it as a smart, long-term investment that will pay off.
And the reason why I’m saying this is that frequently people are tempted to buy something second-hand so that they save money. This is sometimes a good idea if what you are buying is fully functional, but why I advise against it is because manufacturing techniques are continually improving, and new gear is designed to be used as efficiently as possible and can offer way more than what older products can.
So, basically, there cannot even be a comparison in functionality.
Weather and Water-Resistance
I’ve talked about this a little bit where I mentioned durability, and I believe these two segments are closely related to one another.
Namely, kayaking or paddle boarding or any gear related to water sports should be made resistant to weather and water and should be protected in the best way possible.
For instance, if you use a GPS or a fish-finder, you definitely want to protect them inside a waterproof case. No matter how high-quality they are and they claim to be waterproof, they need a casing if they wish to have it for a long, long time.
There is a significant difference between waterproof and water-resistant. For instance, if your container is water-resistant, and it falls into the water, water will get in and ruin your device. So, you can only guarantee the safety of your belongings if the container is waterproof, too, with watertight seals on the edges.
Also, for those bags or containers that hold your belongings, do not forget to get a leash attached to it so that even if it falls into the water you can pull and retrieve it right back up fast.
And speaking of waterproof things, I wrote a whole piece on what to wear when kayaking. Be sure to check it out so that you equip yourself with the best-suited clothes for the most enjoyable experience on the water.
The best kayak accessories
Now that I have cleared some things around kayaking accessories, here is the following gear you most likely will need on board.
MARCHWAY Floating Waterproof Dry Bag
This is a heavy-duty, durable dry bag that will protect all your precious belongings from the water. One of the things I liked the most about this dry bag is its size. You don’t have to have so much storage space onboard or a huge kayak to fit it.
It is 20 liters, and its 100% waterproof, sand-proof, mud-proof, and snowproof.
The best part about it was when I was trying it out in the water and discovered that if you fill it with air partially, it will float on the surface of the water. This way, you won’t lose anything to the bottom of the lake or river, and you can always get to your things quickly.
Another great design is the welded seams. I like how they are much better than the glue seams of other bags I’ve tried before.
TMS Canoe & Kayak Cart Trolley Carrier
Don’t be surprised by its compact size. This kayak cart trolley is the real deal when it comes to safely transport your kayak or even canoe.
It is built to carry up to 150 lbs and up to 12 feet in length, which means that it can really fit any kayak out there along with its canoe accessories.
The best part about it being so versatile and practical are its 9.5″ tires. They are thick enough so that they can carry you through rough terrains and sand with ease.
Additionally, it folds to an even smaller tool that you can carry anywhere with you into the trunk of your car. Assembly takes seconds, which makes any beach or shore reachable.
It is made of an aluminum frame with stainless steel elements that make this cart stand the test of time. Based on my experience with it, it truly is a must-have kayak gear.
COR Board Racks Wall Storage Sling
I have an entire piece on storing your board written, and depending on the type of kayak you have, you may or may not be able to use the same storage racks for your kayak too.
So, I’ve decided to include on in this list simply because storing their kayak for many people is a headache. This system is very functional yet relatively simple and robust and will keep your kayak safe and sound in the offseason.
It’s strong enough to keep all your accessories, too, with it two heavy-duty nylon straps that wrap around your kayak and lift it off the ground. This way, all you need is a free wall, and you don’t even have to have a particular storage spot somewhere in your house.
It’s a super-lightweight design that has a carrying pouch so that you can store it away when you no longer need it.
When it comes to storage systems, I guarantee you this is the most practical one.
Jet Logic A-2 Complete Folding Anchor
For those fishing in moving waters or in windy days, this folding kayak anchor is a must-have. Whether you are an angler or a river paddler, staying still in one spot despite the current is very easy with this Jet Logic A-2 anchor.
With it, you can keep a steady line in mud, sand, gravel, and rocks no matter what weather conditions you are in at that particular moment.
If you have read any of my other articles on anything related to water sports, you know that I love being practical, and simplicity is my best bud! So, the reason why I love this system is its small weight (about 1.5 kilos) and its padded nylon storage case so you can carry it with you and store it safely anywhere.
It won’t take a large storage space even though it has an impressive 25-foot long marine-grade rope.
Seattle Sports Paddlers Bilge Pump
Whether you go fishing or kayak recreationally, I present you with this super-functional pump that’s so easy to carry anywhere with you. No matter the weather, you don’t want to get wet and capsize, so it’s better to be safe than sorry.
This pump is only 360 grams, which is almost how much my phone weighs, to be honest, so not having one would truly be a miss!
You can have it under your kayak seats or near your feet, and you won’t even know it’s there. Plus its neon yellow color is a potentially life-saving characteristic.
It is designed with an easy-grip molded handle so you can very conveniently pump water out of your boat whenever you need to.
I mean, why shy away from a rough surf or wet weather when you can enjoy any condition while kayaking by carrying this super-functional pump?
To be honest, this is probably the one most crucial piece of equipment for all of you who love solo kayaking out in the open waters.
Nylon Bungee Deck Loops Tie Down Pad Eye
If your kayak didn’t come with a bungee system, this 10 piece Nylon Bungee system could change that in a heartbeat!
It’s super practical and can install easily by screwing the loops into any kayak—this way, you give it a robust bungee net for secure storage of your kayak gear.
The entire system is made of high-quality stainless steel screws and nuts which work well with the exceptionally-durable nylon loops.
With the convenient kayak fishing accessories, no matter how much gear you want to pack for your kayaking trip, you can take it all with you without worrying about weighing you down or losing anything.
Kayak Paddle Leash with a 2 Rod Leash Set
Every pro kayaker you ask will agree that no matter what you do in the water, you will need more than one leash for your kit at one point.
This set comes conveniently with three leashes, which is perfect for fishermen if you ask me.
You can use one leash to attach your carbon fiber paddle while the two others can hold your fishing rods or any additional light gear.
What’s great about this piece of equipment is that is has a fixed elongation, so you don’t have to worry about overstretching it or losing elasticity. Plus, each stretches to up to 50cm, and by combining them together, you get quite a long leash.
Sport-Brella Versa-Brella All Position Umbrella
Fishing in a mindful, relaxing activity, but the sun can be a pain more often than we would like to admit. Luckily, the Sport-brella is here to the rescue!
It is only a kilo in weight, and with its unique design, it offers a 360°, 4-way swivel so that you can stay fully covered in the shade no matter where the sun is.
This way, all those long days of fishing can become way more comfortable. How would you install it? This is my favorite part! It installs by clipping itself to any surface. How awesome is that!
You can now kayak in any conditions without breaking a sweat over the weather because of the UPF 50+ protection in any direction.
H2o Paddle Drip Rings
I know my fellow kayakers will side with me on this. Is there anything more annoying than getting your sleeves wet while lifting your kayak paddle from the water? No, there isn’t!
These clippers put an end to the agony of spending your day with wet arms all over by providing a barrier between you and the drips. How convenient, right?!
Made of high-quality PVS material, these kayak paddles come in two and are a game changer!
Seattle Sports Universal Scupper Plugs
The next great thing in kayak accessories is the kayak plugs.
They come in five different rings, and their super-flexible design can fit into any scupper; and the excellent part about them is that they glow in the dark so you can always find your way around even during night paddles.
You get two in a single pack, so you don’t have to worry about losing one.
Shoreline Marine Emergency Survival Whistle
A survival whistle is one of those must-haves while on board for all the obvious reasons. And while all whistles are lifesavers, this one isn’t your ordinary whistle.
The whistle by Shoreline Marine has a high pitched noise-making system regardless of the conditions.
You can be wet or dry, and you will still be heard even in the roughest conditions. Plus, it comes in bright orange, which adds to the visibility and easier discovery of your kayak.
It also comes with a neck lanyard so that you can always carry it with you without even noticing it is there until you need it.
Wildhorn Inflatable Snorkel Life Vest
By law, when you are kayaking, you still need to have a life vest even though you don’t have a motorboat. This is a mandatory piece of equipment that saves lives.
This is why, along with the survival whistle, both are extremely important to have at all times.
This life vest is inflatable and extremely easy to put on. With its ergonomic design, it is lightweight and easy to carry on you at all times without even noticing.
What I love most about this vest is that it does come in 4 different sizes, which means you can indeed find what matches your built and actually feel comfortable in such a practical piece of equipment.
With front and back ventilation, this life vest is incredibly breathable and provides a cushion against bumps and bruises.
When it comes to durability, it has a robust and durable zipper, which is approved by the US Coast Guard as a high-quality feature.
Additionally, you can very quickly inflate or deflate this snorkeling vest in seconds! The secure lock valve is easy to open and close, fast to inflate, and secure while you’re active. Its ergonomic position allows you to adjust buoyancy on the fly. If you want less buoyancy, simply unlock the valve and press down to let the air out. Perfect if you’re going to dive to get a closer look at marine life. When you are back on the surface, you can inflate the vest in seconds to your desired level.
Shoreline Marine Deck Plate Kit
You just cannot have enough dry bags, believe me when I say it!
This Shoreline Marine Kayak Deck Plate is a full dry bag that can also be installed as a permanent storage unit in your kayak. How cool is that!
If you want to install it as such (which I highly recommend), it comes with all the tools you need and instructions and truly requires minimal cutting.
It has a strong pull tab, and the high-quality water-resistant material ensures your belongings stay dry no matter what!
Garmin eTrex 10 Handheld GPS Navigator
Garmin, without a doubt, is the leading GPS device manufacturer with hundreds of devices designed and hundreds of thousands sold worldwide.
The eTrex 10 is no exception to the quality that Garmin works with.
It has four different variations, which include a color display and expandable memory, a barometric altimeter, and 3-axis compass, and a geocaching bundle on top of the base model.
All the variations have a 2.2-inch screen in an IPX7 waterproof body, which is a fantastic feature since you’ll be using it in water primarily.
The reason why this device is so practical and straightforward to use is because of the long hours it can operate on. Namely, this Garmin GPS for kayaking runs on just two AA batteries for up to 20 hours.
This means you can stay the whole day in water without needing to carry any batteries extra.
No more getting lost in the water with this super-functional device.
YakPads Gel-filled Paddle Saddle
It’s one thing to kayak for an hour or two, and it’s another to traverse through water for 10+ hours.
During your long kayaking trips, you need the first-class comfort so that you can stay focused on your course and paddle without a blink.
This is why I bring you this super comfortable seat cushion that makes your back and behind absolutely cozy. Imagine sitting in your favorite spot on your couch at home, just 10 times better!
As for mounting, you can easily strap it onto your existing kayak chair with its strong tabs.
It is made of non-slip materials, which ensures that it won’t move around while you are paddling or pedaling through the water.
What I love the most when I first tried it was its gel-filled core. This is something similar to those memory foam mattresses, so it will mold around your body shape for increased comfort and stability.
With this cushion, you can increase your endurance in the water by two-fold and can paddle longer than you thought possible!
Hot Seat Comfortable Kayak Seating
Apart from this cozy baby here, we have the Hot Seat comfy kayak seating made of lycra foam that gives you the utmost support while keeping you comfortable.
The 3.5cm thick pad can be permanently fastened with its double-sided tape so that it doesn’t move anywhere while you paddle, pedal, or move around in your kayak.
Also, because of the double-sided tape, you can stick it anywhere you want so that you can add traction for rougher waters.
It also adds to proper posture and back health by forcing your body into an ideal posture position for paddling with its slight tilt forward.
Inno Canoe/SUP Locking Carrier
Transporting your kayak to your desired location on your vehicle has never been more comfortable with the Inno Kayak carrier.
If you already have a rack, this carrier will transform it into the ultimate kayak carrier regardless if your rack is the ordinary circle or square rack.
It is designed with an ultra-durable strapping system, which ensures that your kayak stays on the roof no matter the road you drive on. With its tried and true ratcheting system, this really is one of the safest carrier systems out there.
It also has a unique rubber-coated stainless steel strap so that you can securely fasten the kayak for any potential wind or other rough elements.
It’s important to note that with all its fastening elements, it will not damage your kayak in any way because all straps are padded and soft so that you can easily transport your kayak to your favorite spot.
West System G/flex Epoxy Adhesive Repair Kit
No matter where you sail or what you do in your kayak, there will come a time where you need the plastic boat repair kit. Basically, everything you need to quickly fix your kayak is included in the box, and it is packed in a convenient set with manuals that guide you through the step by step instructions.
All your dings and dents can be easily and quickly repaired on your kayak or boat, so you don’t have to worry about kayaking alone.
Plus, as all these accessories, this kit is very lightweight and small in size, so you can easily fit it into your day-to-day gear.
I Make Decals™ Sticker Die-cut Decal Sticker
Why not show your passion for kayaking with this fun decal sticker?
You can stick it anywhere you like because it can be removed later on without any residue left behind. It is waterproof and can stand the test of time.
Your car, laptop, or bags can carry it to show what your favorite hobby is and to match with other kayak-loving people too. Plus, it can also stand as a reminder for you to go out in the water more often!
What Kayak Accessories should you buy?
Many people come up to me and often ask what the basic set of kayaking gear is that it would make their trips more comfortable and safe.
To be perfectly honest, unless I talk to them in-depth as to what they are doing when out in the water and when they are kayaking, I wouldn’t be able to tell them exactly.
I mean, it all depends on yourself individually. However, if I had to make up a list, then there would be the following gear and kayak accessories:
- If your kayak is without pedals, then you will need to buy a paddle so that you can move in the water. If you don’t know how to decide on which paddle to purchase or you simply don’t know how-to, here’s a comprehensive article on all things paddle-related.
- The next thing would be a buoyancy aid when in your kayak. Above in the list, you have a PFD or personal flotation device, but no matter which one you go with, you should pick one that’s very comfortable because you will need to wear it all day long. Make sure your PFD is comfortable enough around your shoulders and allows for good movement, but it still feels snugly and tight, and it fits well.
- If you are going through whitewater or kayaking in high-traffic water areas, then the additional step towards kayaking safety would be adding a helmet.
- Next would be the pump. You are in the water, so it’s only normal that some water can enter your kayak, which is why having a pump to pump it out is very useful. However, check first, because you might already have a kayak that’s designed to let any extra water out. If not, then the lightweight pump from the list above would be your best bet!
- If you don’t want to deal with a pump to keep water out of your kayak, then a spray skirt should do the job! You wear the skirt around your middle, and then when you get into your kayak, you attach the outside of the skirt to the kayak. This way, it seals you in the cockpit and stops any water from getting in.
- Getting back in your kayak can be a pain sometimes if you fall out. This is when a paddle float comes handy. You can simply slip the float over one end of your paddle and inflate the float. Once the float has been inflated, you place the float in the water and the other end of the paddle on the kayak. You can then use this to hoist yourself back into your kayak. When you are looking at paddle floats, look for one which is easy to inflate and can be used multiple times.
- You need a kayak trailer! A Kayak trailer is designed for transporting kayaks. It typically has a series of tie-down points or cradles that allow you to securely strap your kayaks to the trailer, preventing them from shifting or moving around during transit. Some kayak trailers also have built-in storage compartments for paddles, life jackets, and other gear, making it a convenient and efficient way to transport your kayaks to and from the water. Kayak trailers come in various sizes and capacities, so you can choose the one that best fits your needs and the number of kayaks you want to transport.
Kayak gear FAQ
What accessories do you need with a kayak?
• Personal flotation device (life jacket)
• Paddle
• Deck lines or bungee cords
• Dry bag or waterproof storage container
• Bilge pump
• Spray skirt (for whitewater kayaking)
• Footwear that can get wet
• Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
What should you not wear while kayaking?
Clothing made of cotton, such as jeans and a cotton T-shirt, should be avoided while kayaking as cotton retains water and can make you feel cold and heavy if it gets wet. Quick-drying synthetic materials are a better option.
What do kayakers wear to stay dry?
Kayakers can wear special dry suits, which are designed to keep you completely dry even in wet conditions. Alternatively, you can wear a waterproof paddling jacket and pants. Some kayakers also prefer to wear wetsuits, which provide warmth in addition to some water protection.
Is kayaking a cheap hobby?
Kayaking can be a relatively inexpensive hobby if you start with a basic kayak and essential accessories, but as you get more into it, you can easily spend more money on gear and equipment.
Can you add accessories to a kayak?
Yes, you can add accessories to a kayak, such as fishing gear, rod holders, GPS units, and custom seats. Some kayaks also have the option to install a rudder or skeg to help with tracking and maneuverability.
How many miles can a beginner kayak in a day?
The amount of miles a beginner kayaker can cover in a day will vary depending on their skill level, fitness, and the type of water they are paddling on. A general rule of thumb is to start with shorter trips and gradually build up your endurance.
How do you add stability to a kayak?
• Paddle with a proper technique
• Use a kayak with a wider beam and a rounded bottom
• Load the kayak evenly and keep the weight low and centered
• Use outriggers or stabilizing pontoons
• Take a kayaking lesson or course to improve your skills
What accessories do you need to kayak?
Essential accessories for kayaking include a personal flotation device (life jacket), paddle, deck lines or bungee cords, dry bag or waterproof storage container, bilge pump, sun protection, waterproof first aid kit (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen), and footwear that can get wet.
What should a beginner wear kayaking?
A beginner kayaker should wear synthetic, quick-drying clothing that provides sun protection, such as a long-sleeved shirt and pants. A hat and sunglasses are also recommended, along with shoes that can get wet, such as water shoes or sandals. In colder weather, a wetsuit or drysuit may be necessary to keep you warm.
What do I need for first time kayaking?
For your first time kayaking, you will need a kayak, a paddle, a personal flotation device (life jacket), and a helmet (if kayaking in rapids or rough water). You may also want to bring a dry bag or waterproof container for personal items, a bilge pump in case the kayak takes on water, and sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen).
What should you have when kayaking?
When kayaking, you should always wear a personal flotation device (life jacket), bring a paddle, and have a plan for self-rescue in case of an emergency. You should also bring along a dry bag or waterproof storage container for personal items, a bilge pump, sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen), and footwear that can get wet.
How can I make kayaking more fun?
• Find a scenic or interesting location to explore
• Plan a picnic or overnight camping trip on the water
• Kayak with friends or join a paddling club
• Take a guided tour or kayaking lesson to learn new skills
• Try fishing or bird watching from your kayak
What are the three golden rules to paddling in a kayak?
• Always wear a personal flotation device (life jacket)
• Always have a paddle and a plan for self-rescue
• Always be aware of your surroundings and the conditions of the water you
are paddling in.
Who makes kayak?
Many companies manufacture kayaks, including Perception Kayaks, Dagger Kayaks, Wilderness Systems, Old Town Canoe and Kayak, and Dagger Kayaks.
Are kayaks worth the money?
Whether kayaks are worth the money will depend on how often you plan to use them and the type of kayaking you want to do. Kayaks can range in price from a few hundred dollars for a basic recreational kayak to several thousand dollars for a high-end touring, sea kayaks for sea kayaking or whitewater kayak. If you plan to kayak frequently and for many years, a kayak can be a worthwhile investment.
Is inflatable kayak better than hard shell kayaks?
Inflatable kayaks or hard shell kayaks? This depends on your specific needs and preferences. Both types of kayaks have their own advantages and disadvantages.
Kayaking accessories Conclusion
All in all, I believe that covers the needed kayak accessories for your adventure trips anywhere, anytime. Of course, if you have other favorites that you cannot do without, do not hesitate to drop me a suggestion in the comments down below, because any tips and tricks would be much appreciated by my fellow paddlers and me.
In the meantime, I’d love to connect with you on my Facebook and Instagram accounts for more cool tips and recommendations on paddle boards and kayaks.
Review written by: Tom
Hi! My name is Tom. During the year I try to be on a paddle board as much as possible. By reading this blog you'll stay updated on everything I test on the water :)
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