Having a good kayak is important to paddle with confidence. Still, with the right kayak accessories and gears, you can double the fun and entertainment of your kayaking journey with safety, comfort and peace of mind. Having a good kayak is not enough. You also need kayaking accessories and gears to match your kayak and enjoy your adventure on the water. 

With the right kayaking gear and accessories, you’ll be assured of be safe, sound and enjoy 100% optimized ride on any type of water. Additionally, you’ll also have confidence in long-distance paddling and touring activities on the water. 

With that in mind, I have curated some 20 best kayak gear and accessories that you must have while on your kayaking trip or camping. Make sure you carry most of these accessories to an awesome kayaking ride.

20 Best Kayak Gears And Accessories 

1.Kayak Paddle Accessoires

Apart from a kayak, you need a good paddle for rowing that will help you with rowing and reaching your ideal kayaking spot in a quick time. This paddle, an important kayaking gear comes with a carbon fibre shaft and fibreglass blades that will give you effortless rowing and paddling experience on any type of water. It is extremely lightweight and weighs only 31oz.

It is suited for any type of kayaking adventure ranging from stand-up fishing, fly fishing, camping, touring, suring and a lot more. 

With thoughtful design both for convenience and storage, this kayak paddle has got 4 sections. You can easily fold it and keep it anywhere in your either in your garage or at home. 

The length of this kayak paddle is made by keeping both kayak width and paddler’s height in mind. It fits most people’s height with over 5.5″ with the common kayak width of 24″ to 28″ inch.

The game-changing feature of this kayak paddle is molding blades which makes it stiffer, while its seal design inside the shaft will keep your paddle from sinking even if it is fallen into the water.

2.Kayak Cooler 

The next important kayaking accessory is cooler. Whether out for kayak fishing or exploring the wilderness, a kayak cooler is something that you can’t miss out on. It is the most important kayak gear that will allow you to carry your food, beverages, drinks and another important edible item to enhance your kayaking journey. 

This kayak cooler by Yakhacker is a great combination of slim design, big space and high-density insulation material. It is 100% leakproof and works like charm to keep your food fresh or cold for upto 16 hours. You can keep your drinks within reach with the help of zippers that are attached on the cooler. 

It features a universal fit and is suited for all types of kayaks including sports kayaks, sit-on-top kayaks, and tandem or inflatable kayak as well. There is also an attached shoulder strap that will allow you to easily carry and transport it anywhere. 

3.Kayak Standing Rack

If you own a rigid kayak with loads of loaded accessories on it? Or, if you have a heavy-weight fishing kayak? You already know how complicated it can be to keep and store a rigid kayak. This is where our next kayak accessory comes into the picture. 

A kayak standing rack is a must-have gear, especially when you own a rigid kayak and struggling to keep it either in your home or in the garage. This kayak standing rack will allow you to keep 2-3 mid-size kayaks hassle-free with great support and protection. 

It is a free-standing rack that requires absolutely needs no mounting efforts. Simply place it anywhere in your home and affix your kayak on it with straps that come along. 

Although this is kayak gear, but you can also use it to keep wakeboards, longboards, surfboards, ski boards, hard paddle boards and cycle as well. 

It is made with powder-coated stainless steel storage construction material that makes it lightweight, durable and protected from rusting.

4.Kayak Rack For Car

A kayaking standing rack will help you with the storage of your rigid kayak. What about carrying and transporting heavy and bulky kayaks? Have you wondered how will you carry a kayak from home to shoreline and back home again? 

This is where our next kayak accessory comes into the picture i.e. kayak rack for the rack. A car kayak gear is a perfect gear that will allow you to hassle-free carry and transport your kayak from home to shoreline and back home again in your car, SUV or truck. 

This foldable J-style kayak rack is designed to save most places on your car rooftop and carry your kayak with extreme safety and comfort. The arms of this rack are loaded with soft cushioned material that will protect your kayak from getting any sort of damage, ding, dents and abrasion.

The top-rated features of this kayak rack are: foldable design, scratch reduction design, top-rated construction, multipurpose usage and universal installation design.

5.Kayak Fish Finder

If you are obsessed with kayak fishing then you already know the importance of a kayak fish finder. 

This kayak gear will help you in getting close to those big catches and take your fishing activity next level. This is one of the advanced kayak fish finders that features auto-tuning sonar and a phone-like menu to give you an easy user interface and smart usage options.

It gives you wide sonar coverage as compared to other traditional and age-old fish finders. This will help you to go on kayak fishing adventures on any type of water without worrying about location and distance.

A single transducer can be mounted on the transom, inside the hull, on the trolling motor or through a scupper hole. The fish finder or GPS is ideal for small fishing boats or kayaks with limited console space.

6.Kayak Life Jacket

When going for a kayak tour or adventure, safety should be your top priority. This is where our next kayaking gear i.e. kayaking life vest comes into the picture. This Onyx kayak vest is loaded with features and comes at great value. It has got 4 different pocket designs and functions to hold your gears and allow you to fish or kayak for longer.

In addition to zippered and chest pockets, this kayaking gear also features pliers and clamps. There are also six adjustment straps that will give you multiple fitting options.

The high back of this kayak vest will not come in the way of your kayak seat. It also features mesh for breathability that will give you stunning ventilation and backrest support. 

You can also use this jacket while on surfing, wakeboarding, boating or paddle boarding adventures.

7.Kayak Seat

The next important kayaking accessory is a comfortable seat. Although most kayak comes with a seat, they are sub-standard. So, if you are hunting for a professional and foam-based kayak seat, here it is. This seat is made with durable EVA foam and a high-quality 210D polyester exterior which set’s it apart from other kayaking seats.

It is designed very professional and practical with 4-way adjustable reinforced front and back straps that will allow you to affix this seat on the majority of the kayak type including boats, sit-in kayaks, fly fishing kayaks and a lot more. Speaking about its comfort, this seat is made with a comfortable high-back design to give your back the support it deserves.

In case, you are not satisfied with the quality of this seat you can also return it and get a replacement for same. Plus, it is also backed by 12 months of free-of-cost warranty to give you enough confidence for buying it. 

Some of the notable features of this seat are: adjustable straps, EVA construction, easy installation, compatibility with canoes, rowboats, fishing boats and more.

8.Kayak Trolling Motor

Are you fed of paddling? Do you want to take the speed of your kayak next level? If Yes, your next kayaking accessory is surely waiting for you. A kayak trolling motor is a perfect gear that will 10X the speed of your kayak and would help you to reach your destination on the water in a quick time. 

This kayak trolling motor is lightweight, portable and weighs only 4.85 lbs with a simple design. All these features make it high in quality and performance. Not only for kayaks, but this motor can also be used for canoes, boats, small dinghies and inflatable boats. 

Speaking about its design, this trolling motor has got 24″ shaft with an adjustable mount fitting that makes it easy to attach. It comes with a hand tiller with an extendable handle that makes steering easy. 

It comes with options for 44lbs or 54 lbs thrust and foot pedal controls included. The only downside of this trolling motor is that the bracket and battery are not included.

9.Kayak Anchor

The next kayaking gear will allow you to grab some peace out time on the water by stopping your kayak.  

It is a great combination of sturdy design and durable construction that will keep it protected from rocks or branches beneath the water. The rope is perfectly connected to the shacket on the bottom and the zip is tied on the top for hassle-free usage.

From kayaks for big guys to small and mini kayaks, this foldable anchor can be used for all types of watercraft. It comes with a 40ft rope, a stainless steel carabiner clip and protective nylon storage & carries a bag to prevent scratches to your kayak, SUP, or jetski.

You can also return this kayak anchor if you are not satisfied with its performance and quality. 

10.Kayak Dry Bag

The next kayak gear will allow you to carry your valuables, accessories and other kayaking equipment with care and 100% safety. This kayak dry bag is made fully waterproof with high-quality 500D PVC. It will offer reliable protection to all your belongings including your cell phone, fish finder, watch, sunglasses, snacks, beverages and food as well.

This dry bag is great for keeping all your kayaking accessories in one place without losing them apart. When not in use, you can simply fold it and store it anywhere in your home or inside your cupboard. 

The total carrying capacity of this dry bag is 20L which makes it suited to carry all your kayaking gear and tools. It comes attached with a shoulder strap that will allow you to carry and transport it easily. 

It is also backed by 5 years of warranty from the manufacturer’s side. 

11.Kayak Cover

Wondering how to protect your kayak off-season? If yes, you must use a kayak cover that will give superior protection to your kayak, canoe, fishing boat, rowing shell, paddle board or SUP on the beach, home or dockyard. This kayak cover is suited for all-season use and is made anti-snow, forst proof in winter, dust-proof and UV-proof in summer. 

It is made with 420D oxford waterproof fabric which makes it more durable and long-lasting. There is also an adjustable bandage which can be adjusted freely according to your kayak and provide you with good protection from rain, wind and waves.

12.Kayak Watch

Want to keep an eye on the time while kayaking? If yes, the next kayak accessory will help you with it. 

This GPS kayak watch is surely made for the toughest environment and constructed as per US military standards. It features a built-in 3-axis compass and barometric altimeter with a global navigation system that will help you to track your location when out for a long paddling adventure.

Apart from location tracking and GPS, this watch will also monitor your heart rate, stress and activity. It is also compatible with smartphones and allows you to make smart use of them like checking messages, and making or receiving calls. 

Battery life: Up to 14 days in smartwatch mode, up to 16 hours in GPS mode and up to 40 hours in battery saver mode. 

13.Kayak Spray Skirt

If you want to keep yourself high and dry while kayaking, a kayak spray skirt should be on your list. This is a perfect kayak gear that will keep you away from the splash of water. 

It fits most of the sit-in types of kayaks for recreational and other sports activities. It also fits the kayak with cockpit dimensions of Length 56-58″ X width 21-23″

With sticky edigin grips, this kayak gear becomes more durable and long lasting. There is also a water-resistant tunnel zipper allows hot air to vent out when unzipped and keeps you dry when zipped closed.

14.Kayak Pump

Do you own an inflatable kayak? If yes, I can understand your pain of how daunting it can be for you to inflate your kayak and set it up for your next adventure. 

Our next kayaking accessories and gear will help you to quickly inflate and deflate your quick at lightning-fast speed so you can enjoy more time on the water and spend less time setting your kayak. 

This electric pump by Outdoor Master is well built and sturdy.  It has gone through rigorous testing and has got CE certification which makes it worthy to buy. Made with durable and eco-friendly construction material, this pump will offer you a promising summer journey by inflating your kayak in less than 5 minutes.

It is also backed by Auto Shut Off technology that makes it extremely safe to use and you’ll also save a lot of your otherwise wasted energy while inflating and deflating the kayak. 

There is also an LCD display that will allow you to set your desired pressure and monitor it in real time. Trust me, with this pump, inflating your kayak will never be easier.

15.Kayak Battery

If you are having a kayak with trolling motor and a kayak with a fish finder, you already know the importance of a kayak battery. 

A portable kayak or boat battery will ensure that your electronic device, especially the kayak trolling motor and fish finder always stays in working condition. This portable OPL5 battery box comes with a quick connector, USB socket, 12v voltage indicator and lot more to meet your need.

The size of this battery is 16.8 x 13.5 x 10.6 Inches which makes it easy to carry on a medium to large size kayak. You can either keep it inside the cockpit or on the deck if you have a sit-on-top kayak. You can also attach it near the tankwell area. 

16.Kayak Rod Holder

If you have a knack for kayak fishing, then you need gear that will allow you to get the best catches of your life. A kayak rod holder is a must-have gear, especially if you want to take your fishing kayak game to the level of awesomeness. 

This is an advanced-level kayak rod holder that will allow you to fit your fly reels, boat reels, casting reels, bait reels, and spinning reels for fishing. It is a lighweight rod holder that is sturdily built and suited for fresh water and inshore fishing. It will easily fit into any mounting port and on any fishing kayak.

You can also rotate the head of this rod holder in any direction to get the best fishing angle. It also features a compact design & completely tool-less operation, so that you can mount it a quickie and take your kayak fishing next level. 

17.Kayak Fishing Reel

The next kayaking accessory is for those who love fishing. This casting reel by KastKing will help you with bass fishing, fly fishing and trout fishing effortlessly and allow you to get the best catches of your life while kayaking. It weighs only 7.3 ounces and works excellently on freshwater as well as saltwater types. 

It will give you up to 22 lbs of carbon fibre drag. The body of this reel is made with graphite and stainless steel material with ball bearings in a key location that makes it work smoothly and enhances its life.

The reel is also loaded with a braid fishing line and an aluminium two-tone spot that protects the braid line from slipping under extreme pressure. If you are not satisfied with the performance of this reel, you can also return it within 30-days and get your money back. 

18.Kayak Trailer

To make carrying and transportation easy, a trailer is another important kayaking accessory that you need. 

This trailer has a maximum load carrying capacity of 1170 lbs, meaning it can carry kayaks of all shapes and sizes ranging from small to big kayaks. In fact, it is also capable of carrying small and mini pontoon boats with weights upto 1400 lbs. 

The overall dimension of this piece is: 135in.L x 62 1/4in.W x 18 1/2in.H which makes it supremely compact and durable. 

The carrying and transportion of your kayak is done, you also fold this trailer and keep it anywhere in your home or garage. It is 100% space-saving product designed to give you the best. The trailer is also certified and exceeds all the road safety specifications and DOT requirements.

19.Kayak Canopy

Do you want to keep yourself protected from UV rays while kayaking during the hot summer? If yes, this kayak gear has got your back covered. This is a kayak canopy system that will shed you from UV rays, rain, dust and excessive wind while kayaking. 

You can easily mount it on your kayak, paddle board, solid SUPs, boat, wakeboard, surfboards and kiteboard as well.

The entire construction of this canopy system is made with durable oxford material and a strong aviation aluminium rod that makes it suited for long-term usage. You can easily mount it on small to large size kayaks easily.

It Folds compact and lightweight, very easy to install and convenient to carry with the storage bag. Fits most all Paddle boats using existing boat deck hardware or using easy owner-installed attachment components.

20.Kayak Tent

The last kayaking gear on this list is a tent that you would need if you are out for a long day kayaking camping or wilderness. 

This kayaking tent comes with an easy installation process. With its free-standing design and aluminium two poles, you can easily set it up in a breeze. Apart from kayaking, this tent is best suited for camping, hiking and mountaineering. 

The construction of this kayaking tent is done with polyester and aluminium material that makes it waterproof, UV resistant and durable for long-term usage. It is equipped with 8 zippers, storage pockets, gear loft, stakes and one doorway for easy peasy entry and exit. 

Following are the base dimension: 2’8 x 7’6, center height: 36″, total weight: 4 lbs. 1 oz. , Minimum Weight: 3 lbs.

FAQs About Paddle Boarding Gears