The Quick List:
Necessary:
Complete extra change of clothes (to be left in car)
Shoes that can get wet
Clothes that can get wet
Rain gear
An extra layer
Sunscreen
1 liter of Water
Lunch/snacks
Waterproof container/bag
Things that are not required but could be nice to have:
Sunglasses
Hat
Binoculars
Gloves
Pack all food and extra layers/clothing in a dry bag or waterproof container
Please avoid bringing fishing poles as we will not have time for fishing and poles often get stepped on or broken in the canoes. Please do not bring cameras or electronics unless you are comfortable with the idea that they may be submerged in water. There will be a staff member taking some photos during the trip.
The List Explained:
Complete extra change of clothes
Complete change of clothes (that includes underwear and socks) to leave in the car/with the pick-up person. This is so the camper doesn’t have to drive home wet in the event that the canoe tips.
Shoes that can get wet
Sandals, water shoes, or old runners would be great for this. Flipflops are not the best as they can fall off when getting in and out of the boat and be lost in the river. Waterproof shoes such as hiking boots are not suggested. They are often heavy which makes it hard to swim in the event that the canoe tips.
Clothes that can get wet
This refers to clothes that will dry quickly (i.e. not jeans). We don’t recommend a swimsuit as there will be no intentional swimming times during the trip and they can make the lifejacket uncomfortable. If you do choose to wear one, please bring clothes to wear overtop.
Rain gear
This can be a raincoat or a poncho. Make sure it is advertised as waterproof, not water-resistant. Rain pants can also be nice but are not required. Ensure this is packed at the top of the bag so it is easily accessible.
An extra layer
This can be a long-sleeved shirt, base layer, or a sweater. Even on warm days, the wind can be chilly. It is also nice to have an extra layer during the lunch break and campers usually get chilly when not paddling.
Sunscreen
This can be applied beforehand. The bottle does not need to come on the river.
1 liter of Water
Campers can bring more if they want but not less. Hydration saves lives.
Lunch/snacks
Pack the amount that the camper usually eats and then a bit extra. Appetites can increase on the river. Also, it’s just always a good idea to bring extra food when venturing into the wilderness. Please be aware that Salem Acres would like to provide a peanut-free environment. We ask you choose snacks/food accordingly.
Waterproof container/bag
Ensure that everything coming with the camper is in a waterproof container. You can purchase a dry bag from stores such as Canadian Tire or MEC for around $20 depending on size. You can also store everything in a garbage bag. It is not suggested that you use a grocery-store plastic bag as they often have small holes and can’t be tied tight enough to prevent leakage.
