Lightening your load is just one step toward doing more paddling, more often. You will be more organized, load up faster, be able to make quicker getaways and squeeze in more and better weekend trips. Once you’ve got your gear dialed, follow these time-management tips to streamline your prep time.
1. Make a where-to-go list
Spend less time dithering about where to go. You’ve made a list of what to bring, now make a list of places to go.
2. Keep it local
Put aside the epic two-week journeys. Have a list of local camping spots you can paddle to for a one- or two-night weekend.
3. Plan Wednesday
Wednesday’s the day to lay plans and arm-twist your friends, so you can…
4. Pack Thursday
Thursday night after work is packing time, so you can…
5. Paddle Friday
Take advantage of long summer nights to paddle for your first camp. Leave from work, hit the water, and treat yourself to a sunset paddle. Your weekend trip will feel twice as long if you spend that extra night out.
6. Organize the garage
Easier said than done, but spend as little time as possible finding and sorting your gear. Get a system.
7. Keep the pantry full
Food planning and shopping is the thing that will slow you down the most, especially if you’re rushing to the grocery store on your way out of town. Keep a stash of pre-packed non-perishables (pasta, oatmeal, coffee, tea, etc.) with your camping gear. If you dehydrate your own food, dry and bag extra for future trips. Then you just add the fresh ingredients and you’re on your way.
8. Take less stuff
Remember, go light! Camp chairs, charcoal, and three sets of clothes will just slow you down. Pack like a backpacker: take only what you really need, plus the bottle of whisky and a good book. Then there’s less stuff to futz with in camp and more time to admire the view.
9. Go solo
Got flakey or busy friends? Bob really wants to go, but he has tuba practice on Saturday morning? Paddling solo can free you from the search for the perfectly coordinated schedule. It takes some self reliance, but the rewards are many and deep.
10. Butter up your boss
Haven’t you been working late a lot? Hey, don’t you have a meeting with someone out of the office Friday afternoon?
This article originally appeared in Adventure Kayak Magazine, Early Summer 2008. Download our free iPad/iPhone/iPod Touch App or Android App or read it here.
