5 Things to Pack for a Tampa Kayaking Trip with Kids
So you're thinking about taking the kids kayaking around Tampa? Solid plan...calm water, mangrove tunnels, the occasional dolphin sighting. It's one of the best ways to spend a morning as a family. But if this is your first time putting little ones in a kayak, a little prep goes a long way toward keeping the day fun instead of stressful.
Here's what to actually pack, based on what makes or breaks a family kayaking trip in this area (alligators included, don't worry, we'll get to that).
Pack water shoes, not sandals
Flip flops and mud are not friends. Water shoes stay on, protect little feet from oyster shells and rocks and save you the struggle when a sandal floats downstream. Cheap ones from any big box store work fine. Your kids will grow out of them in no time so there’s no need to spend a lot of money on them until their feet are done growing.
Grab a dry bag for anything you can’t afford to lose
Phones, keys, cameras...anything that needs to stay dry must go in a dry bag, not just a regular backpack. Kayaks tip, splashes are inevitable and a soaked phone is not how you want to end a nice day on the water. Make sure you secure it to the kayak in some way in case you do flip over.
Bring along more snacks and water than you think you need
Kayaking burns energy fast, especially for kids who are paddling for the first time. Pack more snacks and water than feels necessary. A hungry and thirsty kid in a kayak in the middle of a river is not a fun problem to solve. Just make sure you collect all of your trash so that it doesn’t blow into the water (and some places, like Rainbow River, won’t let you on the river with single-use/disposable plastic so check regulations ahead of time).
Pack sun protection that actually stays on (and bring bug spray too, just in case, because, well, it’s Florida)
Water reflects sun, which means everyone gets more exposure than they realize. A hat with a chin strap, sunglasses, reef-safe sunscreen reapplied every 80 minutes (which is SO much fun in a kayak) and a rash guard for younger kids (or everyone) will save you a rough night of sunburn regret. And don’t forget sunblock for your ears and the tops of your feet! Those easily missed spots are pretty painful if you forget (been there, done that).
Go with a realistic expectation about wildlife
If you’re heading out on the Hillsborough River, yes, there are alligators (and you might see sharks if you’re on the ocean). This isn’t a reason to skip it, though. Wild animals tend to keep their distance and giving them plenty of space keeps everyone safe and calm. And in many cases, it’s illegal to interact or pursue wildlife so allowing them to do their own thing keeps you out of trouble too. Depending on where you go, you may see gators, sharks, stingrays, manatee, turtles, dolphins, fish and wading birds. Seeing these animals as a visitor in their environment is one of the most incredible ways to enjoy our “backyard” and appreciate animals you can’t find anywhere else in the country.
It goes without saying (but I’m saying it anyway) that lifejackets should ALWAYS be something you have on board for everyone (and in Florida, they are required wearing for anyone in a kayak under 6 years of age, when the kayak is in motion). Safety first!!
Ready to find your spot on the water?
Hillsborough River and Weedon Island Preserve are two of the best family friendly spots around Tampa, but they’re only two of ten. If you’re looking for more places to take your crew, grab the free guide below.
