Cool Things To Put On A Kayak: 22 Amazing Kayaking Gear & Accessories

Even though having a quality kayak is necessary, this equipment alone will not guarantee an exciting and, most importantly, risk-free day on the water. You will require kayaking gear and accessories designed just for your brand-new boat.

That got me thinking: What are the best kayak attachments that may take your watercraft and kayaking vacations to an entirely new level? How can you tell the difference between kayak necessities and "bells and whistles" that aren't necessary but are nonetheless fun to have, and how can you rig your kayak so it has a little bit of both?

As a result, I got down, gathered all the materials, and put together this list of essential kayaking equipment for 2022. Make sure you have a look at it!

Top 22 Cool Kayak Accessories

1. Kayak Paddle 

Since I figured you wouldn't get very far without your kayak paddle, I thought we should get that question out first. After all, your primary mode of forwarding movement while kayaking will be using a paddle.

It's one of those essential kayaking gear that every paddler needs, with a personal flotation device (PFD)

It's been a while, but I recently transitioned to the AQUA BOUND Manta Ray Carbon Kayak Paddle, and I couldn't be happier with my decision. It has a lightweight design that provides some much-needed firmness with its carbon-reinforced blades, offers adjustable feathering, and breaks down into two sections, making it easy to store. Additionally, it has adjustable feathering.

In my roundup of evaluations for the finest kayak paddles, I've included a comprehensive buyer's guide and the fantastic kayak paddles I've already reviewed.

Oh, and to add one more point:

Do you know how to paddle a kayak?

You may get the most advanced kayak paddle in the world, but if you don't have the proper technique, it won't make much difference in how effectively you paddle your kayak.

2. Kayaks Life Jacket (PDF) 

It was difficult for me to choose between a paddle and a personal flotation device (PFD), as the item that deserves the first position on my kayaking gear list is the most critical item. As you can see, personal flotation devices (PFDs) finished in second place, but I quickly realized that I wouldn't be compiling this list in any particular order of significance.

Your list of essentials for kayaking can consist of a few items as a paddle and a life jacket for your kayak. Again, this is true (PFD), and that is all you require from a purely practical standpoint to get started.

Make sure you purchase and always wear a Type III Personal Flotation Device (PFD) at the top of the list of essential safety items for kayaking.

Consequently, when you have decided on a paddle, you should next select a kayak life jacket because you will require one. It is an essential boating equipment and a safety necessity mandated by the law.

It would help if you are looking for a well-made personal flotation device (PFD) with waist and shoulder straps that can adjust quickly and provides a good fit while not excessively tight. The Onyx MoveVent Dynamic Life Jacket is the one I'd suggest, but if you're looking for more options, you can always check out the roundup I did of the top kayak life jackets.

3. Kayaks Anchor (Kayak Fishing Gear)

Exploration and progress are integral to the kayaking experience, simply in our nature. But every once in a while, you'll come upon a location that is so stunning that you'll wish you could spend more time there.

Perhaps you've been fishing from a kayak and discovered the ideal location. It's also possible that you're tired of paddling and want to take a break to take the scenery for a while. Either way, you will require something to stop your kayak from slowly moving away from you as it drifts away.

In addition, a do-it-yourself kayak anchor, such as a large cinder block attached to a rope, will not do the trick.

You will want a suitable kayak anchor.

My preference belongs to the Complete Grapnel Anchor System, a kayak anchor system that includes a folding four-fluke anchor, a rope that is 25 feet long, and an in-line buoy with stainless steel fittings. It even comes with a bag that may use for storing.

However, you are welcome to review my comprehensive review of the best kayak anchors for further suggestions!

It is one of those kayak accessories that river kayakers and anglers who use kayaks need to have.

4. Kayak Trailer

Some of you have the luxury of forgetting entirely about kayak trailers. You're in the clear if you live near the water, have a kayak roof rack system installed, or drive a pickup truck that can be converted into a kayak mobile when the occasion calls for it, but what about the rest of us?

The answer is no.

Let me spare you the trouble:

It is impossible to transport a kayak by placing it on top of a sports vehicle or coupe, and it would help if you had a kayak trailer.

Remember, you should prioritize finding one with sufficient carrying capacity for a kayak trailer. This means that the trailer should be able to fit the size, weight, and quantity of kayaks that you will be transporting.

The Malone MicroSport XT Trailer is an excellent choice, in my opinion. It includes a frame that is resistant to corrosion, can hold up to 800 pounds, and can accommodate as many as four kayaks that are 19 feet long.

However, if you want more recommendations, look at my roundup of the OK kayak trailers!

However, if you want more guidance, look at my roundup of the OK kayak trailers! In that case, the kayak trailer won't be able to serve its purpose very well.

5. Kayak Roof Rack System

Some of you have the luxury of forgetting entirely about kayak trailers. You're in the clear if you live near the water, have a kayak roof rack system installed, or drive a pickup truck that can be converted into a kayak mobile when the occasion calls for it, but what about the rest of us?

The answer is no.

Let me spare you the trouble:

It is impossible to transport a kayak by placing it on top of a sports vehicle or coupe, and it would help if you had a kayak trailer.

Remember, you should prioritize finding one with sufficient carrying capacity for a kayak trailer. This means that the trailer should be able to fit the size, weight, and quantity of kayaks that you will be transporting.

The Malone MicroSport XT Trailer is an excellent choice, in my opinion. It includes a frame that is resistant to corrosion, can hold up to 800 pounds, and can accommodate as many as four kayaks that are 19 feet long.

The Malone MicroSport XT Trailer is an excellent choice, in my opinion. It includes a frame that is resistant to corrosion, can hold up to 800 pounds, and can accommodate as many as four kayaks that are 19 feet long.

However, if you want more recommendations, look at my roundup of the OK kayak trailers!

However, if you want more guidance, look at my roundup of the OK kayak trailers! In that case, the kayak trailer won't be able to serve its purpose very well.

6. Kayak Cart

Imagine you've reached your destination after loading your kayak into your brand-new kayak trailer or roof rack system, but there's still one problem.

What shall we do now?

Hard shells aren't precisely the lightest options available, that's for sure, and I think we can all agree on that. The larger your kayak is, the more difficult it will be to transport it to the water unless you are a hulking muscle mass.

This is when a convenient kayak cart with two wheels comes in handy:

Even though it's not technically a piece of kayaking equipment, a kayak cart is a fantastic way to transport your boat to the water, so you don't have to carry it yourself. Because they are compact and easily portable, these "devices" make it easy to put the kayak onto the frame and pull it to where it will be launched with minimal effort.

If you prefer to paddle in more isolated regions, investing in a TMS Kayak Cart with a capacity of 150 pounds, a folding frame, and large tires will make your life much more straightforward.

You might also be interested in reading the roundup of the finest kayak carts I compiled.

7. Kayak Storage Rack

Suppose you do not appropriately preserve your yak. In that case, it is possible to become warped, lose its color, develop mold, be stolen, or even be occupied by a family of raccoons. Your kayak is susceptible to damage from elements such as extreme temperature changes, ultraviolet rays, and dampness, as well as from Mother Nature.

When it's not in use, you can't precisely tuck it away in the closet or slide it under the bed like a standard piece of furniture. When I say "real," "actual," and "dedicated" storage, I'm referring to something like a kayak storage rack.

Be sure to look into purchasing the RAD Sportz Deluxe Freestanding Kayak Storage Rack if you own more than one kayak and have sufficient room on your floor. Padded arms, storage space for two kayaks, and the ability to be used indoors and outdoors make this a versatile storage option.

However, that is not your only possibility regarding ideas for storing your kayak. Perhaps a kayak storage rack fixed to the wall or one suspended from the ceiling is more your style.

Suppose you do not appropriately preserve your yak. In that case, it is possible to become warped, lose its color, develop mold, be stolen, or even be occupied by a family of raccoons. Your kayak is susceptible to damage from elements such as extreme temperature changes, ultraviolet rays, and dampness, as well as from Mother Nature.

When it's not in use, you can't precisely tuck it away in the closet or slide it under the bed like a standard piece of furniture. When I say "real," "actual," and "dedicated" storage, I'm referring to something like a kayak storage rack.

Be sure to look into purchasing the RAD Sportz Deluxe Freestanding Kayak Storage Rack if you own more than one kayak and have sufficient room on your floor. Padded arms, storage space for two kayaks, and the ability to be used indoors and outdoors make this a versatile storage option.

However, that is not your only possibility regarding ideas for storing your kayak. Perhaps a kayak storage rack fixed to the wall or one suspended from the ceiling is more your style.

Check out my comprehensive guide to the best ideas for kayak storage for more beautiful suggestions.

8. Spray Skirt

If you have a kayak with an open deck, a spray skirt will not be a beneficial piece of kayak equipment for you, so feel free to skip this one if you have a sit-on-top kayak. In light of this, you should include a spray skirt on your list of kayak needs if you have a sit-inside kayak, which will help protect you from getting wet.

When used for leisure activities, a spray skirt increases comfort by preventing one from becoming wet from precipitation and splashes. It enables you to perform rolls in whitewater kayaks and navigate rapids and waterfalls without difficulty. In addition, sea kayaking prevents your kayak from becoming flooded with water and keeps it floating in rough seas despite solid waves.

Check out the Seals Adventurer Kayak Spray Skirt if you want a spray skirt. This spray skirt is constructed of nylon and is designed to fit recreational and touring kayaks, and it is an ideal choice for paddling in moderately challenging situations.

Not only should the spray skirt fit you, but it should also fit your kayak. While we're at it, let's not forget that.

 9. Wetsuit For Kayaking

Have you ever heard the advice that kayakers should dress for the water rather than the weather?

When the temperatures drop, and you have both the water and the weather working against you, this is the essential kayaking rule. It becomes even more critical, considering it is already the most important rule.

Your first defense against the water should be a wetsuit, a specialized skin-tight full-body garment often constructed of thick neoprene.

It won't keep you dry. On the other hand, it will employ the tiny layer of water trapped between you and the suit as insulation to slow the rate at which heat is lost. And if the temps aren't going to be too low, you might be able to get away with just a wetsuit.

On that subject, have a look at the wetsuit known as the Hevto Guardian (I) Warrior:

It is a wetsuit that covers the entire body and is constructed of neoprene 3 millimeters thick and connected with two additional layers of nylon. It is designed to be worn in water between 50 and 67 degrees Fahrenheit.

Check out the roundup review of the best wetsuits for kayaking that I have written for more helpful recommendations.

10. Drysuit For Kayaking

When you think of kayaking, the first thing that usually comes to mind is a breezy day in the summer with the sun beating down on your skin. However, some of us still like kayaking during the colder months, provided we have the appropriate winter gear.

Switching from a wetsuit to a dry suit would be best when you are kayaking in bad weather, and the temperature is below 60 degrees Fahrenheit. This is because the wetsuit will not provide adequate protection against the cold.

A drysuit operates in a somewhat different manner, which is evident given its name:

Because it creates an airtight barrier around you, you won't get wet, and the layer of air inside will keep you warm. A drysuit is your best option when staying dry is directly correlated to your chances of survival; nevertheless, you will need to put a few layers of insulating clothing underneath it to provide enough thermal protection.

The Crewsaver Atacama Sport Drysuit is one of my very favorite drysuits. It is a three-layer, breathable fabric constructed into a front-zip drysuit with neoprene gaskets at the neck and wrists, built-in dry socks, and a drysuit liner. The front of the suit has a zipper.

Check out my roundup of the top kayaking drysuits for more helpful suggestions and recommendations.

11. Paddling Jacket

To add to the comments made in the previous paragraphs, "cold and wet" are not anyone's notion of a good time; nonetheless, you can still find people kayaking during the wintertime. I guess we're all crazy around here, huh?

In all seriousness, if you plan to go kayaking when the weather is expected to be chilly and windy, you should bring a paddle jacket and your kayaking gear.

Many know this article of kayaking gear names, including paddling jacket, spray top, and splash jacket, but its function is always the same: it protects paddlers from water spray.

It is an outer layer that shields against the wind and prevents water from penetrating further inside the garment.

Throw it on top of your wetsuit to provide an additional layer of thermal protection, and you'll be good to go, even if the weather isn't in the best shape.

The WindRider Paddling Spray Top is an incredible alternative to consider. It is constructed from PVC-coated nylon and features soft yet secure neck and wrist openings, Velcro adjusters, and a barrel lock waist closure to wear it more comfortably.

12. Kayak Shoes

People have been seen out kayaking while wearing tennis shoes, and some prefer not to wear shoes at all. Some people, believe it or not, kayak while wearing flip-flops, an entirely different category of inappropriate behavior.

To all I know, you could be one of them, but accept what I say because I have good reason to believe it:

One of the worst decisions you might make is paddling while wearing "normal shoes."

To begin with, it destroys the condition of the shoes, and two, it gives off an offensive odor when it's on your feet. And third, when getting into or out of the kayak, you risk slipping and harming yourself because of the uneven surface.

It is time to invest in a pair of neoprene boots or another type of on-water footwear explicitly designed for kayaking and other water sports.

The NRS ATB Neoprene Kayak Shoes are a fantastic illustration of what I have in mind for this footwear category. They are constructed of neoprene, are thick enough to keep your feet warm and comfortable, and are designed to provide grip across various terrains.

In my roundup of the finest shoes for kayaking, you will find even more fantastic options, in addition to a comprehensive buyer's guide.

13. Kayak Helmet

In various sports, wearing a helmet is considered essential safety equipment and is often required. And kayaking is one of them, regardless of whether or not this surprises you.

Wearing a kayak helmet may seem like an unnecessary precaution for a leisurely paddle on a calm lake.

However, if there is even a remote possibility that you would collide with rocks or logs while kayaking, you would be a fool not to purchase a helmet for your kayak.

Whitewater kayakers, I'm looking at you.

When it comes to kayaking helmets, often known as "brain buckets" (yep, that's what they're sometimes called), the Tontron Kayaking Helmet is one option that comes highly recommended:

It has a tough ABS outer shell, which will prevent damage to the brain in the event of a head-on collision, and a flexible EVA liner, which will cushion the impact even further. In addition, it features ear guards and 11 vents to ensure that it is breathable.

Check out my review of the best kayak helmet for additional exciting choices.

Wearing a kayak helmet when paddling is essential since it can prevent possibly deadly traumatic brain injuries and protect your pride. What else can I say?

14. Kayak Gloves

Paddling gloves aren't on the same level as a personal flotation device (PFD) or a paddle when it comes to being an indispensable piece of equipment for kayaking, in my opinion.

But having them is a plus, mainly if you frequently go kayaking in seas that are pretty cold or if you have a history of getting blisters from paddling for long distances. I do not doubt that an experienced kayaker would concur with me.

The problem is that your hands are the significant points of contact between you and your kayak paddle, and because of this, they endure considerable abuse every time you are out on the water. You name it; blisters, wounds, frostbite, the works.

To that end, have you considered purchasing a pair of kayaking gloves, such as the Brace Master Kayaking Gloves, for instance? With the high-quality leather palms, your hands will have something to look forward to, and you'll also have a better grip on the paddle due to this improvement.

Look at my review of the best kayak gloves to see if the Brace Masters is more or less what you're looking for; if not, you'll find many other options!

15. A Box Is Dry

When the water in your kayak rises to dangerous levels, no bowl of rice is large enough to save an expensive electronic item such as a fish finder, cell phone, GPS, or batteries.

If I didn't have a watertight dry box to put it in, I wouldn't even carry my lunch on board a kayak; I certainly wouldn't bring anything more valuable than that.

In light of the preceding, a dry box is essential kayaking equipment for every trip.

And before you can ask, waterproof dry bags work just fine for storing spare clothes and other items like that, and they can double as a makeshift throw bag. However, compared to a dry bag, a dry box will provide you with more organized storage space; however, you shouldn't try using it to save anyone!

My current setup includes the Plano Dry Box, which I have customized to protect the batteries of my fish finder from moisture, and I couldn't be happier with how well it works. Even while I haven't had the opportunity to test whether or not it is entirely waterproof just yet, it does prevent moisture from getting in, and that has been more than sufficient so far to assist in helping to extend the battery life.

16. Kayak Float Bags

Even though kayak float bags are just large bags filled with air and are nothing to write home about, they serve an extremely crucial purpose.

You might be wondering why an air-filled sack is such an essential piece of kayak equipment.

The solution can be found right there in the title. The kayak's buoyancy can be increased by adding these air-filled bags, also known as kayak float bags, which fit into the bow and stern compartments of the kayak. Bulkheads are typically located in these areas.

You could leave those spots unoccupied, and believe me when I say that I understand how ridiculous the concept of spending your hard-earned money on a bag that's just full of air sounds. However, if you do not use such space for storage, it is recommended that you fill it with air.

17. Kayak Bilge Pump

How do you plan to eliminate the extra water filling your kayak if it capsizes or when paddling through rough waves?

Permit me to provide an answer to that for you:

It would help if you had a kayak bilge pump, my friend. It is a piece of kayak equipment that is simple to operate and has the potential to save lives.

I mean, what are your other options? Are you going to use a bucket?

I guess I was wrong about it.

Even a tiny amount of water moving around in your kayak might be bothersome. Still, a more significant amount of water can influence the kayak's stability, jeopardizing your safety.

No matter the weather, you should always have a kayak bilge pump and, if possible, a bailing sponge when you go out on the water. Regarding kayaking safety equipment, this is the bare minimum you need. Include a single pump as one of your kayaking safety criteria. This is something that I strongly recommend doing.

I wondered whether the Seattle Sports Paddler's Kayak Bilge Pump could interest you.

It is lightweight, easy to keep underneath your kayak seat for rapid access, and neon yellow, meaning it will be difficult to miss in an emergency.

More highly recommended options on our page review the best kayak bilge pumps, including automatic pumps with high capacities.

18. Scupper Plugs For Kayaking

The excess water that could collect at the bottom of your sit-on-top kayak is drained away through the scupper holes, which are small holes found at the bottom. Only sit-on-top kayaks come equipped with this unique characteristic, known as self-bailing.

You can skip this step if you have a sit-inside kayak, but if you do not have such a kayak, you should seriously consider purchasing a pair of scupper plugs and kayaking devices that resemble bathtub plugs.

Under typical circumstances, you will almost certainly keep the scupper holes open most of the time. On the other hand, scupper plugs can be used to avoid the kayak's self-bailing capability, such as when taking in an excessive amount of water. This is when scupper plugs can be of great use.

Be cautious to ensure that the 0.75-inch molded nylon plugs included in the H2o Quality Kayak Drain Plug Pack are compatible with the scupper holes in your kayak before purchasing this brand.

Keep a kayak bilge pump available even if you utilize scupper plugs because you never know when you need it.

19. Sunscreen

You would believe that sunscreen does not quite qualify as "kayak equipment," and technically speaking, you would be correct in that assumption; however:

You are the target of the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays, which can cause skin cancer.

Long-term exposure to UV rays can have adverse health effects, such as accelerated aging, an increased risk of developing skin cancer, and eye damage. Even on overcast days, you still need to protect yourself from the sun by using sunscreen, even if it won't be adequate on its own. It would be best if you always used sunscreen. 

Formulations of sun lotion that are water-resistant and have an SPF rating of 30 to 50 are the ones you should prioritize purchasing. Not to mention, you need to reapply it every 40 to 80 minutes!

I can't say enough good things about Banana Boat Ultra Sport sunscreen, so you should try it. This broad-spectrum sunscreen with a sun protection factor of 50 gives protection from both UVA and UVB rays. In addition, it is intended for active people who can withstand sweat and water for up to eighty minutes, making it a perfect choice for sports outside, such as paddling.

20. An Emergency first-aid kit

If you were going on a camping trip, you probably wouldn't leave home without a first aid kit in your backpack. The situation is precisely the same when one goes boating, and it's the equivalent of having an umbrella or a spare tire:

Most of the time, you won't require it, but when you do, you'll be thankful that you have it on hand.

A wealth of information is available concerning the components that ought to be present in your kit. Although specific guidelines exist, no two paddling first aid packs will be identical. But there are some guidelines.

To a large extent, it is determined by where you intend to go, who you will be paddling with, and your experience level, amongst other factors.

If you are unsure how to assemble your own, you can purchase a pre-made first aid kit for paddlers, such as the WELL-STRONG Waterproof First Aid Kit. It comes in a bag resistant to water and contains 104 medical items of hospital quality.

21. Drinks Bottle

When you're working out, it's essential to stay hydrated by drinking water and plenty of it. Believe me when I say that kayaking may sometimes be a grueling workout.

Your water bottle will be your best ally for any outdoor activity where you risk not having constant access to clean, drinkable water, even though you need to raise your overall hydration level.

You could use disposable water bottles that are only good for one use, but we both know what kind of impact that would have on the environment. Plastic trash will inevitably wind up in the ocean no matter what you do with it; it doesn't matter if you dump it directly into the water.

Alternatively, why not give the Filtering Drinks Bottle by Brita a shot instead?

It lacks BPA and can replace about 1800 bottles used only once. Additionally, this water bottle has a built-in water filter that minimizes the amount of chlorine in the water with each sip.

Therefore, you are not only helping the world around you but also improving the health of your own body in the process.

22. Kayak Sail

I know that swinging your paddle all day long isn't a bother to you; the repetitive motions may sometimes almost feel like a form of meditation.

But when you travel greater distances in a kayak, let alone embark on a kayaking excursion that lasts for multiple days, you'll likely become tired at some point. And this is where the problems initially arise:

But if you don't put in the effort, your kayak won't move an inch, and you'll be trapped in nowhere. You're too tired to continue and would like to sit for a second there.

How does the idea of paddling across the sea in your kayak with the force of the wind sound

That's right; I'm attaching a real sail to your dingy little boat.

It's still kayaking – but better. Your ability to rely on and harness the strength of the wind to assist you in reaching your destination, along with the boost in speed that comes with it, adds a whole new degree of enjoyment to your outings. This talent also allows you to travel faster.

I am pleased to endorse the Rapid Up Kayak Sail Kit from ADVANCED ELEMENTS if you are unsure how or where to get started. This circular sail has an integrated spring frame, making it very easy to set up; once you release the tension on the edge, the sail will expand on its own, much like a pop-up tent.

And if the sail kit offered by ADVANCED ELEMENTS isn't quite what you're looking for – or if you want to learn more about kayak sails, check out this roundup for further suggestions!

Said it reduces the volume of space occupied by water and increases buoyancy.

In light of this, I recommend looking at the NRS Kayak Float Bags. They are constructed from 10-gauge urethane to offer dependable and leak-free performance and are designed to fit in the stern compartment of the kayak.

An Overview Of Cool Kayak Accessories In 2026

It's probably apparent by now, but not all of the items on my list of the finest kayak accessories are required to have a good time on the water:

Some of these are essential bits of kayaking gear to keep you safe. Depending on the environment in which you plan to paddle, this can involve wearing a personal flotation device (PFD), a helmet, and a kayak paddle. Other things, like gloves or a kayak cart, are available to make your time spent on the lake more enjoyable and comfortable.

When you place your orders, it is up to you to determine which kayak accessories you require right away, which things may come in handy in the future, and which ones you can completely do without.

My last piece of shopping advice is always purchase from recognized brands that provide excellent customer care and free shipping Monday through Friday.

Therefore, carefully shop your cool things to put on a kayak and, as always, keep yourself safe! Happy kayaking experiences!