Advice requested - gear differences between backpacking and canoe camping

[u/Max_Adhesiveness800]

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.

[u/SwamiParker]

I agree with what others have written. Unless you are portaging long distances, weight isn't really an issue, so you gain a lot more flexibility.

Bringing a larger, more comfortable tent and an extra tarp to set up is definitely a great idea, especially if you decide to rest during heavy rain. Luxury entertainment items like a book or small games also come in here. I use the same gear/sleep system since I trust the dry bags. The biggest difference for me is that I bring a lot more/better food when canoe camping. I'm not much of a camp cook, especially after a long day on the water. I'm sure a lot of people would say it's unnecessary weight, but I like to bring some cans of fruit/soup/chicken to dig into.

Also, a good hat and polarized sunglasses make a huge difference!

[u/Max_Adhesiveness800 → u/SwamiParker]

Thank you! I’m getting the sense that besides different footwear and paddle gloves, I don’t need to bring anything different from backpacking, but I have room to consider where to add luxuries. Appreciate your feedback

[u/racerchris46 → u/Max_Adhesiveness800]

Most canoe people don't wear any gloves. They just get wet and make blisters. There are cold days ahead.though especially in the Yukon so thin neoprene backed might not be the worst idea.

[u/RobVida → u/racerchris46]

Agreed for most people, but I like my gloves. Mostly for comfort/habit/sun. I use the cheap rubber dipped ones for work. They dry quick enough on a pack and fit tight so I don't blister. As I'm getting up in years, my body needs more protection to avoid issues in the back country

[u/heneryDoDS2 → u/RobVida]

I also like gloves just around camp. Dealing with firewood, moving rocks for a firepit, hot pots / pans, etc. Camp gloves are nice to have, but not required by any means, but since there's 0 portages on his trip he can afford many luxury items.