Many people worldwide own their own kayaks and kayaking has become a favorite sport for all kinds of ages. With all the financial concerns everyone has, many might end up concluding that kayaking isn’t really practical and is a waste of time and money. They keep thier minds on all the various kayaking gear needed and the cost of travelling to find the best kayaking lakes or rivers and settle for another recreational sport instead. Is this factual? Exactly how much does kayaking cost?
*Your kayak- make up your mind on how the kayak will be used. For instance-exploring, fishing or simple recreation? Single or double? The price range of kayaks may be as high as $4000 for a brand new expensive model or as low as $100 for a second hand one. The Eddyline Whisper Double Sea Kayak for instance can be found online for $1,300 whereas a new Sea eagle 380X Deluxe Kayak for only $873.99. It’s simple to come accross a kayak within your budget as long as you have your purpose clear in mind.
* 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.
* Place- it really isn’t necessary to travel out of country just to find a venue to kayak. I have tried it on a simple river near home and still the view was beautiful! You can stop for a dip, take a peep at some caves and even dare taking a few rapids for that extra exitement. If you intend for Kayaking to become your family’s recreation, you surely would find a place just nearby your home. 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.
If you’re planning for kayaking to become a long-term hobby, it’s advisable that you spend on your kayak since that is basically the most expensive thing you’d be buying. Just don’t go beyond your budget.
Maintainence is the only thing you should be concerned of once you buy your kayak. You can save much on repairs by keeping your kayak on top shape. 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. Never purchase something not really needed. Don’t bargain on your safely though, ensure your safety equipment is complete and of high quality. The safety vest should be kept on always and a first aid kit kept somewhere on the kayak.
With that said, for all you who have been having second thoughts on kayaking, I personally would say “Go for it!”. It’s very refreshing.
