Kayaking is one of the most thunderous water sports in the world right now. I don’t think if there is any place where kayaking is prohibited or an unfamiliar name. I have come across about this wonderful sport a few years ago, still, I took a lot of time to actually try it. I will put myself into the category of the beginners, and so, I will be giving a few tips about the do’s and don’ts of inflatable kayaking based on my experience. Kayaking is indeed a great sport, but can quickly turn into a life threatening event. Therefore, it is important to follow some tips before and during kayaking in order to ensure that you have sweet memories about the sport.

What are the Do’s?

1. As you are kayaking for the first time, you should go with your family or friends. If you want to do kayaking alone, then at least you can give them an estimated time for your return. In case anything happens, they can start looking for you without wasting any time.
2. You should have a pump and a repair kit with you at the time of kayaking. It is a rare chance that your kayak would be deflated or punctured, but you can’t take any chances in the water.
3. You have to fill your kayak to its full capacity because only then, it will float smoothly. If the kayak is half inflated, then you will experience all sorts of discomforts.
4. While loading your kayak, you have to make sure that the weight is evenly distributed in the kayak. Include your weight as well because I have seen people arranging all the tools and equipment without knowing that they are also supposed to sit in the kayak.
5. If you are looking to kayak in a river or an ocean, then just make sure that you don’t go too far from the shore.
6. Always keep a couple of water bottles with you, especially when you are kayaking in the sea or an ocean.
7. If it is possible, then keep a radio phone with you, just in case, you are in trouble and want to call somebody. Cell phones may or may not work in the middle of nowhere.
8. You should also carry all the signs and tools that are used when signalling for help.

What are the Don’ts?

1. The kayaks available these days are pretty tough, but I would suggest that you keep distance from the sharp edges and rocks in the water. You never know when a sharp object cuts your tough kayak and punctures it.
2. When moving your kayak down the stream, don’t disturb the wildlife. You can take pictures and adore the beauty, but don’t unnecessarily drag your leg into the nature.
3. While taking your kayak into the water, don’t drag it, as the sharp stones and gravel may cause damage before you even start the activity. Carry the kayak to the water and then, put it down.
4. Some people like to have a chilled beer or alcohol in the kayak, but don’t you do that mistake. Alcohol will dehydrate you and if the water is dirty, then you can be in a serious health problem.
5. Don’t face off the large waves, instead, turn sideways to lower the impact of the waves. If you hit the wave head on, then there are chances that your kayak may overturn.
6. If you are kayaking in the ocean, then keep your water bottle with you. If you have forgotten to take your water bottle, then don’t drink the ocean’s water, as it will cause severe damage to your liver and kidneys.
7. After reaching back from kayaking, don’t leave your kayak too closely to the shore. One big shore can pull the kayak back into the water.
8. I have seen people paddling way too hard and then, getting exhausted in the middle of the journey. Don’t do that mistake because then, the chances are there that you may drown in the water. Some people even sleep in the kayak, which is an awful thing to do, so try to stay awake and call for help.

Kayaking is fun, whether it is performed by a beginner or an expert. The key to a successful kayaking lies in the prerequisites that you follow. The do’s and don’ts that are mentioned above are based on my personal experience along with the experiences of many other kayakers. The main motive of providing all the do’s and don’ts is to omit the chances of errors. So, you should keep these points in your mind before going out for kayaking. I hope that you enjoy the sport without risking your life.