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10 Things You'll Need to Get into Packrafting

Ready to venture into new waters? Get the gear you'll need.

By: Rachel Bertsch + Save to a List

If you’ve ever paddled a long distance, you’ll know that there is no better feeling than being on the water in control of your own boat. Whether paddling buttery smooth waters of alpine lakes, watching whales breach a few meters away, feeling a surge of water as a nearby glacier crumbles, or battling the waves of an unexpected storm - each venture onto the water provides a different type of fun. I’ve been flat water kayaking for years and recently started to venture into whitewater. In January of 2018, I decided to take a packraft down to New Zealand and explore the beautiful backcountry of the South Island. I found pristine rivers that lead me through dense rain forests to wild coastlines, and from glacial valleys to arid canyons. I also discovered a sport worth loving that is beginner friendly.

See my full gear Kit here.

Any questions or comments - shoot me a message and follow me in real time @meandertheworld.

We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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