SUP touring packing list – everything for longer adventures in 2025
Share
Are you planning your first multi-day SUP tour or do you want to optimize your SUP packing list for upcoming adventures? Packing right for longer SUP touring makes the difference between a memorable experience and a trip that becomes a fight for survival on the water.
Longer SUP tours require significantly more planning than day trips. You need to be self-sufficient for days, deal with weather changes, and have backup solutions for everything from navigation to emergency medical care. At the same time, the weight limit on your SUP is critical – every extra kilo significantly affects performance and stability.
With over 18 years of experience in the SUP industry, we at Kona Sports have seen what mistakes can turn dream adventures into nightmares. We've also learned which touring SUP essentials really make a difference when you're far from civilization with only what you can carry on your paddleboard.
This complete packing list gives you 22 critical items organized into categories that ensure you have everything you need without overpacking. You'll get weight priorities, smart packing techniques, and pro tips. Whether you're planning a weekend trip to the archipelago or a week-long expedition, this guide will ensure you're optimally prepared.
Table of contents
- Safety equipment
- Navigation & communication
- Food & water
- Clothing & protection
- Repair & maintenance
- Comfort & rest
- Smart packing tips for SUP touring
- Frequently asked questions about SUP touring packing
Safety equipment
Safety gear is non-negotiable for sup touring and must be prioritized over any comfort items. These five essentials could save your life when something goes wrong far from help.
☐ 1. Professional life jacket with emergency pockets
A quality life jacket designed for longer trips with pockets for distress signals, knife and food/snacks with good energy. Unlike day trip life jackets, touring models need extra functionality and comfort for days of use. Make sure it is approved according to Swedish standards and has reflectors for visibility.
☐ 2. Emergency communication - satellite buoy or PLB
Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) or satellite messaging system for emergencies when mobile network is unavailable. These devices can send your exact location to emergency services even from the most remote areas. Test the function before departure and ensure the battery is fully charged.
☐ 3. Waterproof first aid kit
Comprehensive first aid kit in a waterproof package focusing on common touring injuries: cuts, burns, sprains and hypothermia. Include over-the-counter pain relievers, allergy medicine and any personal medications for several extra days.
☐ 4. Signaling and visibility
Signal mirror, orange smoke signal cartridge, bright spotlight flashlight with extra batteries and loud whistle. These tools help rescue workers locate you in an emergency. Reflective tape or light markings on SUP and equipment increase visibility in low light.
☐ 5. Backup navigation that does not require a battery
Compass and waterproof paper maps of the entire route and surrounding areas. GPS and mobile phones can break, lose battery or lose signal. Analog navigation is your ultimate backup when electronics fail. Learn to use a compass and map.
According to According to the Swedish Lifesaving Society , inadequate safety equipment is the most common cause of serious accidents on longer water trips.
Navigation and communication
Navigation and communication keep you on course and in touch with the world around you during your SUP touring. These systems work together to ensure safe progression and the ability to get help when needed.
☐ 6. GPS with offline maps and extra battery
Handheld GPS or smartphone with offline map apps and a rugged waterproof case. Download detailed maps for the entire route plus surrounding areas before you set off. Bring extra batteries, a power bank or solar panel for charging. Mark important waypoints such as campsites and water supplies.
☐ 7. Mobile in waterproof cover with backup power
Smartphone in a professional waterproof case with buoyancy and power bank for several days of use. Even when there is no mobile network, the phone can function as a GPS, camera and emergency beacon. Save important phone numbers offline and inform your home contact about your route and schedule.
Food and water
Food and water for sup touring require a balance between nutritional content, weight, volume and durability. Planning must cover both normal needs and emergencies when the trip turns out to be longer than planned.
☐ 8. Water purification and backup supply
Water purification system (filter + purification tablets) for safe drinking water supply from natural sources. Bring starting water for the first day plus emergency reserve for an extra 24 hours. Map out water supply points along the route in advance. Purification is easier than carrying all the water, but make sure the purification system works reliably.
☐ 9. High-calorie touring food with a long shelf life
Freeze-dried foods, nut mixes, energy bars and concentrated meals that can withstand temperature changes. Plan on 2500-3500 calories per day depending on intensity and body temperature. Prioritize foods that do not require a lot of water to cook. Bring 20% extra food for unexpected delays or increased energy expenditure.
☐ 10. Kitchen and cooking equipment
Compact gas burner with spare gas cartridge, lightweight cookware and basic kitchenware. Choose equipment that works in windy weather and on unstable surfaces. Make sure you can cook both hot meals and just heat water for freeze-dried food.
☐ 11. Waterproof food storage
Protect all food from water, moisture and pests with waterproof containers or drybags. Organize food into daily portions for easy access without opening the entire food pantry. Hard containers protect delicate items while soft bags save space.
Clothing and protection
Clothing for sup touring must handle Swedish weather conditions from strong sun to sudden cold and rain. The layering principle with functional materials is the key to comfort and safety.
☐ 12. Base in quick-drying material
Merino wool or synthetic materials that wick moisture away from the body and retain warmth even when wet. Avoid cotton, which retains moisture and loses insulation. Bring an extra set for changing after wet days. This is your most important comfort layer for the entire trip.
☐ 13. Insulation layer for cooling and rest
Lightweight down jacket for unexpected cold weather. Choose models that pack compactly. This layer is critical for body heat when you are not actively paddling or when weather changes that lower the temperature quickly.
☐ 14. Outer shell against weather and water
Waterproof/breathable jacket and pants for rain, wind and splash water. Choose models with ventilation openings and an adjustable fit over other layers. The shell layer protects you from the weather and allows you to continue paddling safely even in bad conditions.
☐ 15. Sunscreen
Sun hat with neck protection, UV protective glasses and sunscreen with high SPF for reflection from water.
☐ 15. Hat and mittens
It often gets cold at night and is also good for unexpectedly cold weather.
Repair and maintenance
Repair kits can make the difference between continuing your tour or ending it abruptly when equipment breaks down and you're far from help. These tools cover the most common problems that arise during longer tours.
☐ 16. Comprehensive SUP repair kit
Professional repair kit with patches for major damage, strong waterproof tape, special glue and air pump. Also include valve repair parts and tools for fin adjustments. Practice repair techniques at home before you need them in the field. A larger repair kit weighs a little extra but can save the whole trip.
☐ 17. Multitool and spare parts
Multitool with knife, pliers, screwdrivers and scissors plus spare parts for critical equipment such as screws and lanyard components. Choose stainless steel material that can withstand salt water.
☐ 18. Backup paddle and safety line
Extra paddle (may be cheaper/heavier model) and spare safety strap and safety lines for equipment. A broken paddle needs to be replaced immediately for safety. Safety lines prevent critical equipment from being lost in the tumult or strong wind. These backup systems cost a little extra weight but provide enormous security.
Comfort and rest
Comfort and rest affect both the safety and enjoyment of your SUP touring. A well-rested paddler makes better decisions and reduces the risk of accidents caused by fatigue or discomfort.
☐ 19. All-weather sleep system
A lightweight sleeping bag adapted to the expected temperatures plus an insulating sleeping pad and backup blanket. Choose equipment that packs compactly but provides real comfort after long days of paddling.
☐ 20. Protection and organization on land
A lightweight tarp for protection from rain and wind plus a compact chair or seat cushion. These items transform any camp into a comfortable base. The organization of the camp significantly affects both safety and recovery.
☐ 21. Personal hygiene and well-being
Biodegradable soap, toothbrush/toothpaste, toilet paper and personal hygiene items in waterproof containers. Also bring small items that will boost your morale: a book, game or music player. Mental well-being is critical during longer trips when challenges accumulate.
Smart packing tips for SUP touring
Weight and volume optimization is critical. Every extra kilo is immediately noticeable in performance and stability during long paddling days.
Weight distribution and placement: Place heaviest gear low and centered on the SUP for optimal stability. Light gear can be placed further forward or back. Use the SUP's D-rings strategically to secure cargo and provide access to frequently used items.
Waterproof organization: Use color-coded dry bags for different categories of gear. This saves time and prevents the entire pack from getting wet if one bag leaks. Double-pack critical items like electronics and extra clothing in separate waterproof systems.
Accessibility and safety: Place frequently used items like maps, snacks, and safety gear in easily accessible pockets. Secure all equipment with ropes - nothing should blow away or be washed away in a capsize. Practice packing at home to optimize the system.
Weight-saving strategies: Choose multi-function items when possible (phone as GPS/camera/flashlight). Remove unnecessary packaging and relabel into smaller containers. Divide equipment into groups when possible. Every gram counts over long distances.
Backup: Have backups for critical systems but avoid duplicates of comfort items. Distribute backups in different dry bags so that one loss doesn't eliminate all options. Balance risk against importance for each category.
For professional packing advice and evaluation of your setup, Contact our touring experts who have experience with longer expeditions.
Frequently asked questions about SUP touring packing
How much weight can I safely pack on my touring SUP?
A general rule for sup touring is not to exceed 70-80% of the SUP's maximum weight capacity with paddler and pack combined. For a typical touring SUP with a 150kg capacity and a 75kg paddler, this means a maximum of 45-50kg of pack. More than this will negatively affect stability and performance. Weight distribution is just as important as total weight - concentrate your weight centrally and low on the board.
How do I pack so my gear doesn't get wet?
Use a waterproof backpack and dry bags. Double pack electronics and extra clothing in separate waterproof systems. Use silica gel sachets to absorb moisture in electronics storage.
Do I need special training for longer SUP touring?
Yes, longer SUP touring requires both physical fitness and technical skill. Build distance gradually and practice packing/balance. Develop navigation skills with a map and compass. Practice rescue scenarios and learn to repair equipment.
How do I plan my first multi-day SUP trip safely?
Start with 2-3 day trips in familiar areas with access to help and backup planes. Choose sheltered waters without strong currents or heavy boat traffic. Plan shorter day trips (15-25km) to allow time to set up camp and rest. Inform family or friends about the trip and where you are going.
A well-planned SUP packing list is the foundation for safe and successful touring adventures that create lifelong memories instead of horror stories.
As we at Kona Sports always emphasize: "Stand up people. Stand up life."
For touring paddlers, it means embracing the adventure with good preparation and respect for nature. The right packing and equipment makes all the difference.