If you are on any of our kayak trips or courses we provide all technical equipment and also have wetsuits and spray tops available if you don't have your own. However, you are welcome to bring your own kit including kayaks etc if you prefer.
Wet boots / trainers – You will need closed toe wet boots that will protect your feet against rocks if you end up in the river. You can buy kayaking wet boots or if not an old pair of sports trainers are perfect! Sandals are no good as they don’t give enough protection.
Sandals to air those sweaty wet feet on dry land!
Swim suit / trunks to wear under your wetsuit. It is also worth noting that if you plan on using a French swimming pool whilst you are here boxer short style swimmers are not allowed – they have to be trunks (the fitted ones)
Wetsuit - wetsuits are provided and available if you don’t have your own or are worried about weight in your luggage. However, if you have your own and prefer to bring it, a 3mm neoprene long john is fine.
Cag – splash tops are provided but if you want to bring your own cag a semi or full waterproof long or short sleeved cag is fine. The air is usually pretty warm in the Alps but the water is still cold as it is glacier melt.
Throwline, caribiners and sling for rescue purposes. These are essential for intermediate kayakers or for if you are planning on any independent kayaking whilst you are here. The instructor will always be equipped as well.
Thermals – are a good idea to bring to wear under your cag if it is a cool day. You will need thermals with a good wicking capacity. You can find thermals designed specifically for watersports nowadays.
Buoyancy Aid and Helmet – again these are provided but you are welcome to bring your own if you have an emotional attachment!!
Knife – it is always a good idea to have a knife handy for safety reasons. Again the instructor will have one but it is nice to be self sufficient. A knife suitable for watersports that you can easily attach (safely so it isn’t dangling!) or put in a buoyancy aid pocket is perfect. Make sure you put it in hold luggage if flying.
Dry bag to carry spare sweater, snacks, water bottle, and other bits and pieces to kayaking. This isn’t absolutely essential as the instructor will have safety stuff but it is quite nice to be self sufficient. Make sure you have a way of attaching it to the inside of your kayak (a caribiner and cord or sling)
Shorts and t-shirts and ¾ length trousers – this is a summer holiday!!
Warm layers. It can be cool at night however so a couple of fleeces or jumpers are worth having and some long trousers.
Sun screen – if you usually use factor 15 in the UK bring factor 30 for here and factor 50 for your face and neck. The sun is a lot stronger and lip salve with sunscreen
Mosquito repellent – there aren’t a lot of mozzies but if there are any they hang out near water!!
Sun glasses
Sun hat or cap
Camera, spare film or memory card and batteries! If you have a waterproof camera – perfect!!
Towels – most places don’t include towels as part of their linen and if they do, they are usually quite small, so if you like a big bath towel, please bring your own. Worth having an old spare towel for after kayaking and keeping a clean one for showers!
