2014 isn’t over yet but I’ve already taken more than 40 planes and drove couple thousands kilometers to go kayaking this year. I have just had a rough time at the slalom World Championships and it forces me to look back and reflect on what I’ve been doing earlier this season.

While looking back I realized I had an amazing year so far. I love kayaking and I feel blessed to be able to live the life I’m living. I have to admit though that I had a couple of hard times on the water and that some of my kayaking trips were way better than others. This is why I’ve been asking myself What makes a perfect kayaking trip ? What are the common characteristic to my favorite kayaking trips ?

Your state of mind

You’re here to have a good time, be stoked on the river !

The people

Having people you love around you is without doubt the most important thing to have a good time. If you have a good crew you’re going to have a good time even if things don’t go the way you wanted. On top of getting on well with everyone in the group it is important to trust the people you paddle with and know that they will do all they can to get you out of trouble if something goes wrong.

The place

It doesn’t matter if it’s class II or class V, if it’s a beautiful canyon or a road side urban river, if it’s your local river or if you had to travel for 3 days to get there. Just make sure that you wanna be where you are, and ready to make the most of it.

Your plan

It’s better to have a bit of a plan to make sure you get to the river but if you try to organize and control everything, you will stop yourself from making last minute plans (and these are usually the best !!!). Make sure you can easily change your plans according to the conditions.

The Locals

If you can hook up with some local paddlers go for it ! The paddling community is usually very friendly and most people are usually very happy to take you down their own river. They will show you the lines, the secret spots and they also know the good places to have a drink or some food at the end of the day !

Be curious and open minded

When you go on a trip there is always more than just the kayaking so if you can go respect the area, go explore it, do other activities, meet the people, learn about their culture…

Your expectations

Don’t expect too much, and let yourself discover the river and its rapids. If you set goals for  yourself make sure they fit your abilities. If you spend your whole trip failing, you might not have a good time.

Your gear

Having good condition gear helps. If you’re cold, if your paddle break or if you have to empty your boat 20 times during the river run, you might not enjoy it at the fullest but it’s not as important as the previous things.

 

Don’t take yourself too seriously and have fun

 

Paddle Hard

Do your best and push your limits, you won’t regret it !

 

I’ve probably forgotten a few other things which such as beers, campfires, good jokes…so feel free to add some more ideas !!!

Wish you all a good time on the water.