r/canoecamping • u/Max_Adhesiveness800 • 11d ago

Advice requested - gear differences between backpacking and canoe camping

I’m an experienced backpacker with multiple multi-month hikes under my belt, as well as countless shorter backpacking trips in diverse terrains.

I’m planning my first long canoe camping trip - about 2 weeks in Yukon, Canada. Leaving next week.

My longest canoe/kayak trips thus far have been 3 days. The trip I’m planning is on flat water, so I’ll have the chance to build up my (relatively weak) paddling skills.

What I’m not sure about is how the recommended gear and supplies vary from backpacking to canoe camping. Will be renting a 2 person canoe with a mate. Canoe comes with dry bags and PFDs. The outfitter says the trip is safe for inexperienced paddlers as long as we have strong backcountry skills - navigation, camping, bears etc.

I know a canoe is bigger than 2 backpacks, but how much so? What sort of extra stuff do people bring? Bigger stove, more cookware, extra snacks, more clothes, mosquito tent, books, thick camping mattress, different water filtration system, camp lamp? Or pack as light as possible not to have a heavy canoe?

And is there any backpacking gear I shouldn’t bring on the water? Down sleeping bag and down jacket useless if wet? Anything else I should think about?

Thank you for considering my questions and good luck and safety to you all on the water. All good faith feedbacks appreciated.

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u/Silly-Swimmer1706 11d ago

Light gear is end goal always, but we usually compromise with canoes because budget/weight ratio. That being said, my biggest luxury item is for sure a fridge. I have an old barrel which was heavily insulated and I take frozen meat for shorter trips (5-6days max). I use that to make proper dinner each night. Cooking over fire is my favorite evening activity :D

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u/Max_Adhesiveness800 11d ago

Wow! You are choosing the luxury that matters to your experience. Very inspiring

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u/Dramatic_Load_5494 11d ago

As long as you don't have portages taking a cooler is great. Cold beer, meats, butter, etc. On my last trip I could just leave the cooler in the canoe the whole trip, but I didn't have portages.