fbpx

Kayak Travel Tips with Jim Coffey

Chile's Puesco River; Photo: Kelsey Clark

Scroll

Whether escaping the northern hemisphere winter or just looking for an adventure, you may find yourself contemplating a paddling trip to Central America, South America or Mexico. Before you go, it’s important to consider logistics such as how to travel with your kayak, where to stay, how to arrange a shuttle, and whether you should pay for a guided trip or make the arrangements yourself. In our Kayak Travel Tips series, NRS ambassador Jim Coffey talks you through the details of planning an international kayaking trip.

The first episode of this Travel Tips series explains what you need to consider when choosing an international kayaking destination, keeping in mind what type of trip will suit you and your paddling needs best.

The second episode discusses the different transportation options paddlers have for traveling with kayaks while visiting another country.

From various airline weight and size restrictions to lost-luggage prevention, episode three of Kayak Travel Tips offers tips and tricks when packing for an international paddling trip.

Episode four shares advice on how to pack more paddles while accruing fewer baggage fees, as well as padding this precious cargo.

We’ve covered preparation and transportation, packing and protecting your paddles, but without a boat, your international paddling trip isn’t going to provide much stoke. Episode 5 discusses the ins-and-outs of flying with your boat.

Sometimes navigating your destination can be just as tricky as pre-trip prepping and departure. But follow these simple tips in Episode 6 and you’ll go from baggage claim to your local accommodation in time for happy hour.

There are two crucial components to a successful start to a foreign paddling adventure: securing a local contact and having a solid paddling crew. From offering advice on current water levels to finding the best driver, a local contact will take the guesswork out of preparing for that first put-in. And a solid crew of paddlers will ensure a great adventure holiday.

If you travel long enough, you’ll inevitably have a run-in with Murphy. It’s all about the adventure. Episode 8 suggests preliminary steps to take to ensure all your gear and documentation is in order if disaster strikes or in the event something gets lost or stolen.

Preparing for an international trip isn’t all about the packing and the paddling. And the prep doesn’t stop when you land. The second-to-last episode reminds travelers to get necessary shots, take precautions against local infectious insects and to start slow when tasting all the local cuisine.

The final episode raises the first question of planning an international kayaking adventure: Do you do it yourself or go with an established local outfitter? Learn the pros and cons for each solution to better choose what’s right for you.