Category: Expeditions & Trip Reports

An expedition is a journey or excursion undertaken for a specific purpose. There is no distance or time restriction to an expedition. So, one could argue that a day-paddle or day-hike could be an expedition if it was undertaken for a specific purpose. Sometimes we tend to focus just on the water; the reality is water is the tie that binds us and the confusion is what vehicle you use to find your happy place. Wind power, to human power, to engine power, the choices are as bountiful and beautiful as the stars in the Milky Way. “The best type of kayak is the one that fits the water, fits the body and fits the purpose of why the paddler is on the water” March 1, 2011

Kayak camping is like backpacking just without the knee pain.

Presently Sean and I are working on the logistics of a thirty day “mid life crises” expedition. We are keeping the details secret due to the uniqueness of this adventure. And there are ever changing factors that we need to deal with. The timelessness and forward thinking aspects of our “mid life crises” kayak expedition will broaden the imagination of future generations of young adventurers, explorers, and scientists. — Jeff 2024

Below are many posts that will help inspire you to create your own kayaking adventure.

Everyone in your group will bring something different to the kayak expedition experience. That might be leadership on the river, cooking skills, even a sense of humor can be an asset. The group should ideally all be around the same ability level too, so you can all take care of each other.

If you are managing the trip solo, you may need to work with a local or a professional guide to organize permits.

Skill Training: does everyone in the group have paddling and safety skills suitable for the grades of water you will be undertaking?

Five traps to avoid to stay safe: Familiarity, Commitment, Expert Halo, Conformity, Scarcity. https://liquidrhythmkayaking.com/2009/05/10/paddlers-sometimes-take-avoidable-risks/

Pack the right equipment: You will need all your standard safety gear and first aid items:
• Do you need any special medications?
• Will you need cooking equipment?
• Will you need camping equipment?
• Will you need to carry water purification tablets or a filter?
• Will you need spare clothing?
• How will you keep everything dry?
• Will you need a satellite phone or GPS beacon for emergencies?
• Who has copies of your FLOAT Plan?