Water under the boat, the power of your paddle stroke and complete freedom - kayaking combines adventure and relaxation in a unique way. More and more people are discovering paddling as the perfect way to escape from everyday life and experience nature from a completely new perspective. It doesn't have to be an expedition through wild fjords - local lakes and rivers also offer beginners wonderful opportunities for their first paddle strokes. In this article, you'll find out everything you need to know to get started on your kayak adventure: from choosing the right boat and equipment to paddling techniques that will get you to your destination in a relaxed manner.
Table of contents
Which kayak types are suitable for beginners and travelers?
What equipment do I need for kayaking while traveling?
How do I plan a multi-day kayak tour as a beginner?
What should beginners bear in mind when kayaking?
How do I learn the right kayak paddling technique?
Conclusion
What types of kayak are suitable for beginners and traveling?
Choosing the right kayak can be quite confusing for beginners. After all, there are so many different models on the market! But don't worry, I'll help you decide.
Three types of kayak are particularly suitable for beginners:
Sit-on-top kayaks are true all-rounders for beginners. You virtually sit on the boat instead of in it, which gives you a secure feeling. Capsize? No problem! You simply fall sideways into the water and can easily get back on again. These boats are forgiving of beginners' mistakes and offer excellent stability. The disadvantage: you will definitely get wet on longer trips and the packing volume is limited.
Touring kayaks are the classics among touring kayaks. These boats offer good stability combined with decent speed and - this is the highlight for traveling - plenty of storage space! A surprising amount of luggage can be stowed in the watertight hatches. The slim shape ensures that you can also cover longer distances with less effort. For absolute beginners, however, they are a little more tippy than sit-on-tops.
Folding boats are the secret weapon for traveling kayakers. You can fold these boats up compactly and even transport them in the trunk of your car or on the train. Perfect if you don't have a roof rack or want to explore different waters on a trip. However, it does take some practice and time to set up.
Comparison of kayak types at a glance:
| Kayak type | Advantages | Disadvantages | Ideal for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sit-on-top |
|
|
Beginners, day trips, warm weather |
| Touring kayak |
|
|
Multi-day tours, larger waters |
| Folding boat |
|
|
Traveling with different waters |
Your decision should primarily depend on where and how you want to paddle. For calm lakes and leisurely day trips, an inexpensive entry-level model is perfectly adequate. However, if you are planning tours lasting several days, it is worth investing in a touring kayak with sufficient storage space.
Tip: Many providers offer test days where you can try out different types of kayak. This is worth its weight in gold before you make a major purchase!
What equipment do I need for kayaking when traveling?
When canoeing, the right equipment is not just a question of comfort, but above all of safety. Here you will find an overview of the most important equipment for your kayak tour:
Essential basic equipment:
- Life jacket: Your most important companion on the water - no discussion! Even if you are an ace swimmer, an unexpected capsize or a fall into cold water can get even experienced paddlers into trouble. A good life jacket should fit comfortably without restricting your paddling.
- Paddle: Your motor on the water. As a beginner kayaker, it is best to use a light double paddle with asymmetrical blades. A paddle that is too heavy will quickly lead to fatigue and can spoil your enjoyment of boating.
- Waterproof packsacks: For multi-day tours, waterproof packing is the top priority. Different sizes keep your equipment dry and keep your boat organized with different colors.
- Spraydeck: Indispensable in cooler temperatures or on open waters. It prevents water from sloshing into the boat and keeps you warmer at the same time.
- Outdoor clothing: The right clothing makes the difference between a pleasant tour and a shivering adventure. Forget the jeans - opt for quick-drying materials instead! Outdoor clothing should be breathable and robust.
Packing list for your first multi-day tour:
| Category | Equipment | Packing tips |
|---|---|---|
| Safety equipment |
|
ALWAYS wear your life jacket, never just carry it with you! |
| Paddle equipment |
|
A light paddle (less than 1000g) saves energy |
| Clothing |
|
Dress according to the onion principle! |
| Camping |
|
Prefer light, compact equipment |
| Food and drink |
|
Plan more water than you think! |
| Emergency kit |
|
Always stow away ready to hand! |
Particularly important: Electronics, a change of clothes and sleeping bag must be packed waterproof. A good rule of thumb: pack everything that must not get wet twice in a waterproof bag!
Pro tip: Distribute the weight in the boat evenly and place heavy objects in the middle of your kayak. This keeps the boat well balanced and makes it easier to maneuver.
One last tip: download the current weather forecast for your tour before you set off. The weather can change quickly, especially on larger bodies of water. Be flexible in your planning and always have a plan B ready in case wind or thunderstorms make your original route impossible.
How do I plan a multi-day kayak tour as a beginner?
Planning a multi-day kayak tour starts with a realistic assessment of your fitness level. As a beginner, you should take it easy - it's better to arrive relaxed than completely exhausted.
Distances and stage planning:
- Daily stages: 15-20 km per day for beginners on calm waters
- Paddling speed: Expect around 3-4 km/h (including short breaks)
- Buffer times: Always plan 1-2 hours buffer per day for weather changes
- Break times: A short break every 1-1.5 hours, a longer break every 3 hours
A good rule of thumb for beginners: It is better to enjoy a shorter tour than to complete an overly ambitious route under time pressure. Wind, current and weather can have a significant impact on the actual paddling time. It's better to have time for unplanned breaks or to explore exciting places along the way than to arrive completely exhausted.
Checklist for planning your tour:
| Planning step | To consider | Helpful tools |
|---|---|---|
| Choice of water |
|
Canoe guides, water maps, local canoe associations |
| Route planning |
|
Apps: Komoot, Outdooractive, tour planner of the canoeing associations |
| Overnight stay |
|
DKV camping guide (German Canoe Association) |
| Logistics |
|
Public transport connections, shuttle services of local canoe rental companies |
| Weather forecast |
|
Weather apps, water level apps |
When choosing a body of water, less is often more. Lakes or slow-flowing rivers are ideal for your first tours. Here you can concentrate on your paddling technique without being overwhelmed by currents or waves.
Popular waters for beginners in Germany include
- The Mecklenburg Lake District
- The Lahn
- The Altmühl
- The Spreewald
Speaking of overnight stays: make sure you clarify in advance where you are allowed to rest and camp. Wild camping is usually prohibited in Germany, but there are numerous canoe and water hiking rest areas, which often even have toilets and fireplaces.
Pack correctly - to keep the boat balanced:
Packing your kayak is crucial for stability and paddling fun. Remember that an incorrectly loaded boat is difficult to steer and will quickly capsize!
- Placeheavy objects (water, tent, stove) in the middle of the boat close to your body
- Medium-weight items (clothing, sleeping bag) in the areas in front of and behind the seat
- Light equipment (sleeping mat, light clothing) in the bow and stern
- Important items for on the go (snacks, sun cream, camera, water) within easy reach in front of the seat
Pro tip: Test-pack your boat before the tour to make sure that everything fits in and is well distributed. Only take the essentials - every gram has to be paddled!
One last important tip: download the latest weather forecasts for your tour before you set off. In the event of thunderstorms, you should go to the shore immediately and seek shelter. Be flexible in your planning and always have a plan B ready in case strong winds or bad weather make your original route impossible.
What should beginners bear in mind when kayaking?
As a beginner kayaker, there are a few golden rules that will not only guarantee you more fun on the water, but also increase your safety. The most important rule of all: don't overestimate yourself! Water is an element that deserves respect.
The 5 most important safety rules for kayak beginners:
- Never paddle alone! As a beginner, you should always be accompanied by experienced paddlers.
- Always wear a life jacket - without exception, even in calm water and good weather.
- Inform someone about your planned route and return time.
- Check the weather forecast and be prepared to abort your tour if wind or thunderstorms arise.
- Keep your distance from obstacles in the water (weirs, stones, driftwood) and never underestimate the current.
Water difficulty levels for kayakers:
| Grade | Grade | Description | Suitable for |
|---|---|---|---|
| WW 0 | Standing water | Lakes, no current | All beginners |
| WW I | Very easy | Slight current, small waves, no obstacles | Beginners with basic knowledge |
| WW II | Easy | Medium current, simple obstacles | Advanced beginners |
| WW III | Medium | Stronger current, waves up to 1m, narrow sections | Experienced paddlers |
| WW IV-VI | Difficult to extreme | Strong current, high waves, dangerous obstacles | Professionals only |
Choosing the right body of water is crucial for your first attempts at paddling. Start on a calm, manageable lake without strong winds. Here you can develop a feel for your boat without having to fight against currents or waves.
Before getting into the boat, you should familiarize yourself with the correct sitting position. An upright position with your legs slightly bent gives you the best control over the kayak. Your feet are supported by the footrests and your bottom sits comfortably (but not sagging) in the seat. Ideally, your knees should be in light contact with the side of the boat - this allows you to steer the kayak by shifting your weight.
Important for beginners: Learn how to get in and out of the kayak safely! When getting in, keep the boat parallel to the shore and get in from the shore side. Never get into deep water if you are a beginner.
An underestimated topic for beginners: the right sun protection strategy. On the water, you are exposed to the sun's rays twice - once from above and once reflected off the water. Apply plenty of sunscreen, wear sunglasses and a hat that won't blow away in the wind.
How do I learn the right kayak paddling technique?
The right paddling technique is the key to relaxed progress in a kayak. With good technique, you can paddle for hours without getting tired - and that's exactly what we want to achieve when canoeing!
Basic paddling techniques at a glance:
| Technique | Execution | How to use it | Common mistakes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Forward stroke | Insert paddle at the front, pull backwards parallel to the boat | Basic technique for moving forward | Using only the arms instead of the upper body |
| Bow stroke | Move the paddle in a wide arc from front to back | For tight turns | Too little reach forwards or to the side |
| Steering stroke | Keep the paddle in the water at the back and push it sideways | Course correction during the ride | Applying too much force to the paddle |
| Backward stroke | Insert the paddle behind the hip and pull forward | Stopping, going backwards | Not using the paddle far enough behind the body |
The basic stroke when kayaking is easier than you might think. Hold the paddle with both hands about shoulder-width apart. The paddle blades are at right angles to each other - this is called the "bend position". This means you don't have to keep turning your wrist.
This is how you hold the paddle correctly:
- Handle distance: About shoulder-widthapart- not too narrow, not too wide
- Hand position: The stronger hand grips the upper handle
- Blade position: Slightly tilted forward (for asymmetrical blades)
- Paddle height: When sitting upright, the paddle should be approximately at eye level
The movement does not start in the arms, but in the upper body. Imagine that your arms are just an extension of your torso:
- Insert the paddle blade far forward (at the height of your feet)
- Turn your upper body in the direction of the paddle stroke
- Pull the paddle backwards parallel to the boat
- Lift it back out of the water behind your hips
- While one side is paddling, the other hand pushes slightly forward
The 3 most common beginner mistakes:
- ❌ Paddling with your arms only - The power comes from the rotation of your upper body!
- ❌ Cramped posture - An upright, relaxed sitting position is important
- ❌ Paddling too long on one side - Switching sides regularly keeps the course straight
To paddle straight ahead, change sides regularly. If you notice that your boat is drifting to one side, you can correct this by making slightly longer or stronger strokes on the opposite side. With practice, your boat will run straight as if on rails.
Pro tip for beginners: Practice the basic techniques in calm water first. Only when you feel confident should you venture into more challenging waters. A paddling workshop can give you valuable tips and help you avoid typical beginner mistakes.
Conclusion: your introduction to kayaking adventures
Kayaking opens up a whole new dimension of travel: you glide silently through nature, reach remote places and enjoy the landscape from a unique perspective. With the right boat, the right equipment and a little practice, nothing stands in the way of your paddling adventure.
Always remember: safety first! Always wear a life jacket, choose waters that suit your ability and keep an eye on the weather. Careful tour planning with realistic stages ensures that you can enjoy your kayak tour to the full.
The beauty of kayaking: Your experience grows with every tour. What may seem challenging at first will soon become routine. And who knows - maybe you'll soon be planning your first multi-day expedition or venturing into more challenging waters!
So, what are you waiting for? Grab a kayak, a paddle and discover the world from the water!
