The Most Important Things When Planning a SUP Travel
So, you’ve had a lot of fun paddling your SUP board in areas that are familiar to you and are looking to venture further afield? Here are some ideas for where you can find new spots and some key principles to plan your SUP travel!
Explore Paddle Trails
A great way to discover new paddling locations is by exploring established paddle trails. Many organizations have put together a large number of paddle trails and SUP travel plans. These trails include circular routes, out and backs, and linear trails, all searchable by difficulty and location. The great thing about these trails is that the planning for a SUP travel has been done for you! Parking info, hazards on the journey, and local amenities are all detailed in downloadable files.
Research Destinations Online
Just type any variation of ‘SUP’, ‘stand up paddle board’, ‘Destination’, ‘Location’, or similar words into a search engine and read what comes up. This approach can yield more locations than one could hope to paddleboard in a lifetime, but it has its flaws. You will need to make a judgment about how trustworthy the information is, especially in dynamic environments like the sea, where conditions can change rapidly.
Connect with Local Communities
Reach out to local SUP groups or communities for insider tips, recommendations, and potential group excursions during your SUP travel. Join online forums, social media groups, or SUP-related communities specific to your destination to connect with local paddlers. Attend local SUP events, races, or meetups to network with fellow enthusiasts and gain insights into the best paddling spots and conditions during your SUP travel. Reach out to local paddleboard rental shops or tour operators for guidance on recommended routes, safety tips, and equipment rentals. Consider hiring a local guide or instructor for a personalized SUP experience, tailored to your skill level and interests for your SUP travel. Volunteer for beach clean-up initiatives or environmental conservation projects organized by local SUP communities, fostering connections while giving back to the environment.
Emergency Preparedness
- Carry a waterproof first aid kit containing essentials like bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any necessary medications.
- Invest in a reliable communication device such as a waterproof mobile phone case, VHF radio, or personal locator beacon (PLB) for emergencies.
- Familiarize yourself with basic wilderness first aid techniques, including CPR and treating injuries commonly associated with paddleboarding.
- Pack emergency signaling devices like a whistle or signal mirror to attract attention in case of distress during your SUP travel.
- Create a SUP travel plan including your intended route, estimated time of return, and emergency contacts, sharing it with a trusted friend or family member before departure.
Accommodation Options
- Look for campgrounds near water bodies that offer paddleboard-friendly sites, providing easy access to launch points.
- Consider booking accommodations at waterfront resorts or lodges that have private access to suitable paddling areas.
- Explore vacation rentals or Airbnb listings with waterfront locations, enabling you to paddle directly from your doorstep.
- Check if there are any SUP-friendly hostels or guesthouses in the area, providing budget-friendly options for solo travelers or groups.
Final Preparations Before Your SUP Travel
You’ve seen a body of water and you want to go and paddleboard on it. Go for an adventure, but there are a few things to check first before you make a final plan for your SUP travel:
- Is recreational paddling allowed? Some reservoirs have dangerous hidden currents, and watersports may not be permitted.
- Do you need a license? There are over 100 canals, broads, and rivers that require users to hold a waterways license. Make sure to check if your destination is on this list.
- Do the conditions on the day match your skill and experience? For example, paddling on the sea for the first time with an underlying swell and offshore winds probably isn’t going to give the best experience.
By following these guidelines and tips, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable SUP travel adventure with your stand up paddle board!