Equipping a kayak for a small expedition

Here is some advice for correctly equipping your kayak for trips of up to 2 and 6 miles from the coast:

For a small one-day expedition up to 2 nautical miles from the coast (1 nautical mile = 1,852 metres), there is compulsory equipment and highly recommended equipment.
View a video demonstrating how to load your kayak.


EXPEDITION UP TO 2 NAUTICAL MILES FROM THE COAST:

Compulsory Equipment:
-Life jackets
-A towing rope with carabiner, at least as long as the craft length.
-An emergency paddle
-A bailer
-A grab line
-A light source for signalling (flash lamp, light stick)

Recommended equipment:
-Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sun cream)
-Emergency water and food
-Watertight bags and containers
-First aid kit and knife
-Neoprene boots

LOADING UP YOUR KAYAK FOR AN OUTING UP TO 6 MILES FROM THE COAST:

Compulsory Equipment:
Life jackets
-A towing rope with carabiner, at least as long as the craft length.
-An emergency paddle
-A bailer
-A grab line
-A light source for signalling (flash lamp, light stick)
-A compass,
-Three flares
-Audible signalling system (fog horn or efficient whistle),
-A nautical chart of the area sailed,
-A signalling mirror

Recommended

equipment:
-Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sun cream)
-Emergency water and food
-Watertight bags and containers
-First aid kit and knife
-A waterproof VHF radio, or one in a watertight pouch, mobile phone, GPS
-Neoprene boots