Every paddler has their secret stash of gear tucked away in the day hatch, those small but mighty items that quietly keep a trip running smoothly. The day hatch is a bit like a paddler’s fingerprint. Some keep it neat and minimalist, others treat it like a floating junk drawer full of “just in case” treasures. Either way, what’s inside usually tells a story, a mix of habits, experience, and lessons learned the hard way.
Over time, my own day hatch has changed a lot. Items come and go, but everything in there has earned its spot. Some things were added after a close call, others borrowed from smart friends who’ve been there before.
Here’s what you’ll usually find in mine...and much more!
. A small first-aid kit: Just the essentials for small scrapes, blisters, or headaches. It’s amazing how often a simple bandage can save the day.
. A couple of energy bars: Hunger always sneaks up at the wrong time.
. Repair tape and tools: Those little miracles that fix everything from a wobbly foot peg to a stubborn skeg.
. Warm layers: A hat, gloves, and a light shell. The ocean changes moods fast and being warm keeps you focused.
. Sunscreen, lip balm, and sunglasses, small comforts that make a long day on the water much more pleasant.
. My two thermoses, lunch ready to go, perfect for whenever and wherever hunger strikes.
. An extra bottle of fuel for my stove, no need to dig through the rear hatch for the big one at the last minute. I always keep a small bottle handy, just in case I’m running low.
And then there’s my favorite piece of gear that also lives in my day hatch, a little 5-litre dry bag I jokingly call my purse...not a ditch bag! It’s the one I always grab when we land, whether it’s for a lunch break on a quiet beach or just a quick stretch on an island. Inside that bag lives all the small essentials I don’t want to be without: a fish hook and line, a notepad with a pencil and eraser, car keys, wallet, phone, medication, and a bit of cash for those unexpected stops along the coast. There’s also toilet paper, a lighter, matches, and a fire starter, the makings of comfort when nature calls or when a little warmth makes the moment better. I tuck in extra batteries for my electronics and a spare SD card for the camera, because the best photo opportunities always seem to show up when the memory card is full. And of course, a few extras always find their way in, a snack, a small knife, maybe a forgotten lip balm from the last trip.
It’s not fancy gear, but it’s reliable. When I land, I just grab that little bag and go, everything important is dry, organized, and ready. That kind of preparation might not look like much, but it brings a surprising amount of peace of mind.
Packing your day hatch isn’t about being overly cautious; it’s about being ready for the small stuff, so it stays small. A good day hatch setup turns problems into footnotes and keeps your focus where it belongs, on the joy of being out there.
Every paddler’s day hatch tells a story: the miles you’ve covered, the mishaps you’ve fixed, the clever ideas you’ve picked up from others. Mine’s no different, it’s a floating reminder that preparation is just another way of taking care of yourself and your paddling buddies.
So, what’s in your day hatch? What’s that one odd or clever item you always carry, the one that’s saved your trip more than once?
Share your must-haves in the comments, you never know who might pick up a new idea for their next paddle.
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