How To Stay Cozy When Paddling This Fall

The autumn months usher in all the coziest things. It’s sweater weather, pumpkin spice season, and there’s hot cider and vibrant foliage at every turn. This is also one of the best times of year to kayak, canoe, and SUP board. You can even bring this cozy fall ambience with you when you paddle if you know how to plan properly and what to pack.

To help create cozy paddling experiences this fall, choose your route wisely, focusing on protected and scenic waterways. Wear comfortable and quick-dry fabrics, and always pack an extra set of clothes in a dry bag. Bring an insulated thermos with soup or hot cider, and pack a picnic with fall favorites. Remember to protect your hands and feet, and bring friends and family to make your seasonal paddling experience even more special.

There’s something magical about paddling in the autumn. There are new smells, colors, and feelings that you don’t experience any other time of year. But with the moody weather and dropping temperatures, it’s important you know tips and tricks for staying comfortable (instead of miserable) while paddling in this season. Below is a list of the best ways to ensure you have a warm and cozy experience on the water this fall.

10 Ways To Have A Cozy Paddling Session This Fall

1. Choose A Scenic Route

One of the best ways to capture the cozy fall vibes while paddling in the autumn is to choose your route wisely. If you live somewhere with colorful foliage, cultivate a route that features fall colors as much as possible.

The autumn months are also a great time to view wildlife. Choose routes that hug the coast, as they offer you the best chance to view wildlife through the trees. Routes that follow the shoreline also tend to be safe and calm, which allows for a more tranquil journey.

2. Pack A Thermos With Soup Or Hot Cider

There are few things more emblematic of fall than hot apple cider and warm pureed soups. Enjoying these seasonal favorites on the water is a great way to embrace the season. The key is to pack an insulated thermos or two, so you can enjoy them at optimal temperatures.

Hot cider is not only delicious, but it will also help keep your core temperature warm, and is also a delicious way to stay hydrated on the water.

3. Paddle In Midday Sun Whenever Possible

Paddling in the autumn can be quite cold, especially as the season progresses. One easy way to combat these declining temperatures is to paddle in the afternoon, especially on sunny days.

Since you don’t need to worry about summer crowds, paddling in the afternoon is usually quite serene. The warm temperatures and sun in the middle of the day make fall paddling safer. The warm light is also quite beautiful during this time of year, which makes for great photos.

4. Avoid Windy Days

Fall is known for strong and unpredictable winds, which make water adventures more dangerous and challenging. Check the weather before embarking on any fall paddling adventure.

Choose days with pleasant weather and minimal wind. Alternatively, opt for protected paddling locations, including calm lakes, lazy rivers, and well-protected bays. Calm waters allow you to enjoy the beauty of this season without having to battle choppy waters and strong winds.

5. Bring Friends Or Family Along For The Journey

Paddling with people you love always makes for a memorable experience.

Fall features holidays like Thanksgiving, and is also the start of the general holiday spirit. Choosing to paddle with friends and family this time of year is a great way to make stronger connections with the ones you love.

6. Bring Fall-Themed Paddling Snacks

One of the best ways to get into the spirit of fall is to enjoy some fall-themed paddling snacks. Nowadays, you can find pumpkin-spiced everything. In addition to this emblematic flavor, there are tons of healthy fall snacks you can enjoy, from dried cranberries and pumpkin seeds to fresh apples and fall-themed protein bites.

7. Dress In Layers

Fall fashion is known for laying, both in and out of the water. Just as you pack a scarf, gloves, and a hat when you venture into the world in the autumn, you must pack ample clothing layers when paddling in the fall.

This season has temperatures that shift quickly and dramatically. Having easy-to-remove layers of clothes ensures you stay comfortable and warm throughout your paddling session.

8. Don’t Neglect Your Feet And Hands

In addition to layers, you must remember to keep your feet and hands cozy and warm when paddling in the fall. Cool water temperatures, dry air, and strong winds can cause pain in your extremities if they are unprotected.

Opt for wind-resistant gloves and neoprene socks to keep your vulnerable extremities comfortable, so you can focus on enjoying the splendor of the outdoors.

9. Opt For Warm, Comfortable, And Quick-Dry Materials

When paddling in cooler waters, the fabrics you wear on the water become very important. You should never wear cotton, as it will not insulate you if it gets wet. Instead, opt for warm and quick-drying materials like fleece and other synthetics.

Since fall is the season for comfort, look for comfortable and soft fabrics. This will help you embrace all the cozy vibes this season brings.

10. Enjoy A Picnic Ashore On A Break

If you want to have the perfect fall day while paddling, then pack a picnic. Fall’s unique flavors are as important as the colors and atmosphere this season brings. This season has no shortage of special foods, from squash and pumpkin dishes to turkey, harvest salads, and iconic desserts.

Instead of taking a boring paddling break, treat yourself to an autumn picnic at a scenic location. This is the perfect way to embrace the best aspects of this season. Best of all, you can eat guilt-free since you will burn lots of calories on your journey.