When planning a paddleboarding trip, good preparation determines whether your time on the water will be safe and enjoyable. This checklist will help you pack everything you need for a short paddle on a lake or a full-day trip down a river.
Essential equipment and the rental kit
If you rent your equipment from superinis.lt, you get the main items in one kit. You don’t need to worry about extra accessories, because the standard rental kit includes:
- An inflatable or hard paddleboard
- A paddle (you can optionally choose a hybrid paddle for 5 € or a carbon paddle for 10 €)
- A safety leash (the cord that connects your leg to the board)
- A fin
- A pump (if needed)
Before handing over the equipment, we always give a short briefing on how to stand, paddle and behave on the water correctly. For your safety, we recommend a life jacket, which can be rented additionally for 5 € (one-time fee).
Clothing and personal items
Choose your clothing according to the weather, but the main rule is that it should dry quickly. Cotton T-shirts and denim shorts are not suitable, because once wet they take a long time to dry and chill the body.
- Swimwear or quick-drying sportswear: a synthetic T-shirt, leggings or shorts.
- Sun protection: a hat (a cap with a visor), sunglasses with a strap (so they don’t sink if they fall off) and sunscreen.
- Footwear: in warm weather it’s best to paddle barefoot. If the shore is rocky or unfamiliar, water shoes are a good choice.
- Spare clothes: leave them in the car or pack them in a dry bag so you have something to change into after paddling.
Water, food and electronics
Even during a short paddle your body loses fluids, so drinking water is a must. For a longer trip, prepare high-energy snacks (nuts, dried fruit, bars) that don’t take up much space.
Your phone and other valuables must be protected from moisture. A special waterproof phone case or a larger dry bag works well. If you don’t have a bag of your own, keep your belongings dry to avoid losing them if you fall into the water.
Packing list by trip length
This table will help you pack quickly, depending on whether you plan to spend an hour or a whole day on the water.
| Item | Why you need it | Short paddle | Full-day trip |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paddleboard kit | Your main means of getting around | ✓ | ✓ |
| Life jacket | Safety in deep or flowing water | ✓ | ✓ |
| Drinking water | To prevent dehydration | ✓ | ✓ |
| Sunscreen | Protects against sunburn on the water | ✓ | ✓ |
| Waterproof phone case | Protects your means of communication from water | ✓ | ✓ |
| Snacks | To keep your energy up on a longer route | – | ✓ |
| Dry bag for your belongings | To protect spare clothes and food | – | ✓ |
| Towel and warm clothes | For changing on the shore after paddling | – | ✓ |
Transport and logistics
A deflated and packed inflatable paddleboard easily fits in the boot of any car. If you’ve chosen a hard board or want to transport a board that is already inflated, you’ll need roof bars. You can rent them from us for a one-time fee of 5 € for the whole rental period.
Before setting off, always check the wind strength and direction as well as the weather forecast. A strong headwind can make it much harder to get back to your starting point, so beginners are advised to paddle downwind or on calm water.
Tips for paddling with children
If you’re paddling with children, a life jacket is a must for them, regardless of their swimming skills. Make sure the child wears a hat and drinks enough water. For their first paddles, choose calm lakes without big waves or currents. Smaller children can sit at the front of the board while you paddle.
You can book all the equipment you need for a safe and comfortable day out on our rental page or by calling +370 685 96387.
FAQ
What is included in the paddleboard rental kit?
The standard kit includes a paddleboard, a paddle, a safety leash, a fin and, if needed, a pump.
Is a life jacket provided when renting a paddleboard?
A life jacket is not included in the standard kit; it can be rented additionally for 5 € (one-time fee).
How do I transport an inflatable paddleboard?
A deflated and packed inflatable paddleboard easily fits in a car boot. For hard boards, roof bars can be rented (5 €).
Will I get a briefing before paddling?
Yes, when you pick up the equipment at Žygio g. 90, Vilnius, we give a short briefing on safe behaviour on the water and paddling technique.
Read also: How to choose a SUP board, Where to SUP in Vilnius.