How Costly Is Kayaking?
A growing number of people have kayaks resulting in people of varying age groups getting to view kayaking as a favorite pastime. Quite a number of people have drawn the conclusion that kayaking is very expensive and something not practical with all the financial pressures they’re facing. They keep thinking of all the kayaking gear you need for safety, the travel expenses you’ll have to get to the best kayaking lakes or rivers and settle for another recreational sport instead. So what are the facts? Exactly how much does kayaking cost?
*The Kayak- have in mind the kind of activity you intend to use the kayak for. For exploring, fishing or just recreation? Single or double? A used kayak may only cost around $100 whereas one from a branded shop will be as expensive as $4000. There is for example a used Eddyline Whisper Double Sea Kayak available online for $1,300 and a new Sea eagle 380X Deluxe Kayak for $873.99. Once your purpose is decided, finding a kayak that matches your budget will be quite easy.
* Your Gear- included would be some safety vest, clothes that cover most of your body, a first aid kit, rubber shoes and a water proof bag. These are very affordable especially online where an amount of $500.00 should do.
* Location- going abroad just to find a nice place to kayak isn’t actually needed. I have tried it on a simple river near home and still the view was beautiful! You get to see the caves, you can stop over and take a swim if you like and do some rapids for some thrill. For those who want kayaking to be a family activity, a river or lake just around the corner will be sufficient. However, if you’re more inclined to extreme kayaking with heart-thumping rapids then famous locations like Glacier Bay, San Juan Islands and Down East Islands are your best bet.
Honesly, your kayak would be the costliest item so if you want to become a kayak avid fan, it’s best you invest on the best kayak you can find.
After you get your kayak, the rest is simply maintaining it. The more you care for your kayak, the less money you’ll spend on repairs. How about your gear? Well, many gear for kayaking is really a ’show’ so to speak and doesn’t have much value so just keep that in mind before getting additional gear. If you find you don’t’ actually need it-don’t buy. Safety devices are the only ones that are a must and don’t try leaving out some to save. The safety vest should be kept on always and a first aid kit kept somewhere on the kayak.
I personally would encourage all those who want to try it out. Kayaking is an ideal hobby.
Tags: Boating, canoeing, kayaking, recreation and sports