How much you need to prepare for a kayak trip depends on how long you will paddle and on the weather. When you rent a kayak in Stockholm from Långholmen Kajak, the kayak, life jacket, paddle, spray deck and map are always included. You can add a waterproof dry bag for your phone and wallet. Our staff also suggest a suitable route based on the day’s weather.

Short trip (0–2 hours)

• Clothes – dress as lightly as you can without getting cold; paddling keeps you warm. Synthetic sportswear is ideal as it breathes and dries quickly. Bring a windbreaker if it is windy, and swimwear if you fancy a dip.
• Water bottle – always a good idea, especially on hot summer days.
• Sunscreen and sunglasses – the sun reflects off the water and it is easy to get burnt. A floating glasses strap keeps your sunglasses safe.
• Plan your route – most people can paddle one of our popular Stockholm routes, such as the Figure of Eight around Reimersholme and Långholmen. On windy days our staff help you choose a sheltered route.
• Pack light – for a couple of hours you only need the essentials. Keep your phone in a waterproof phone case.

Longer trip (4 hours to a full day)

In addition to the above, we recommend:

• A change of clothes – nice to have if you get wet. For overnight trips, bring warm clothes.
• Rain gear – if the weather looks unsettled.
• Food and snacks – fruit and snacks you can eat on the water. On a day trip there is plenty of room; for overnight trips, pack carefully and choose compact food.
• Water – plan for about 3 litres per person per day.

How to pack a kayak

Put the heaviest items in the middle of the kayak so it tracks well. Use all the space – at the very front and back and in front of your feet in the cockpit. Pack anything that must stay dry in dry bags.

Packing list for overnight trips

• Tent, sleeping mat and sleeping bag
• Camping stove and matches
• Water (about 3 litres per person per day)
• Bilge pump and paddle float
• Spare paddle and paddle leash
• Tow line

Read more in our packing list for kayak touring and our guide to kayak rescue techniques.

How to find us

All rentals start at Pålsundskanalen on Långholmen in central Stockholm (nearest address Alstaviksvägen 3, nearest metro station Hornstull). Please arrive at least 10 minutes before your booking. Book your kayak in advance to be sure one is available – or join a guided kayak tour in English if you would like company on the water.

Questions before your trip? Contact us or ask our staff on site.