Gear Hack: Making The Most of Your Personal Floatation Device / Buoyancy Aid
🛶 What makes us the right people to tell you about a PFD gear hack? That’s simple, we LOVE paddling! We go out as much as possible and the reason for this blog is that we wanted to give you as much information as possible, all in one place. The idea for this is that it gives you the best information (in our opinion) without having to spend hours reading a number of different blogs. We have bought all our own gear at full cost and this is not a paid promotion!
Exploring the waterways on a canoe trip is an exhilarating experience but where do you put everything?
In this blog post, we'll dive into some ingenious gear hacks that allow you to hang or put essential items on your PFD, keeping them easily accessible and secure during your paddling adventures. From small essentials to handy tools, discover how to make the most of your PFD's storage potential. Let's explore the art of maximising storage on your personal flotation device!
"Life jackets can save your life. But they can also save your loved ones from having to endure the tragedy of losing you." - Jordan Hanssen
We have tried on countless amounts of PFDs in shops and via online shopping, read so many blogs and spoken to fellow paddlers to get the best advice for us. Now we are sharing our thoughts and tips with you!
Your life jacket can be so much more than a life saving device - if you buy one with pockets, you can have things easily to hand!!
What’s the difference between what goes in and on a PFD?
🧐 The items that go in a personal flotation device (PFD) typically refer to smaller essentials that can fit in the pockets or compartments of the PFD itself. Whereas the essentials that you might attach to the PFD are on the outside of the fabric and exposed.
4 key things I always take in my PFD:
Lip balm to avoid lips, drying out and cracking - nothing more annoying than needing this and not having it. I bought a lip balm with sun protection as this is the item that never leaves my PFD and I’m happy with it.
Tissues for that inevitable runny nose on a cold winter paddle - take a toilet roll or a little pack.
Mobile phone for taking photographs and communicating. We tend to take close-up shots or selfies on our phones.
Spare carabiners for attaching gear to things like the canoe or can be useful in a rescue situation.
On the other hand, the items that go on a PFD are usually larger or bulkier and are attached to the PFD through various attachment points such as a lash tab or loops. These items may not easily fit inside the pockets of the PFD.
3 key things I always take on my PFD:
A Whistle for signalling for help in emergency situations or going through dark tunnels to let people know you are there. Love this item, it isn’t in the way and I use a carabiner latch (not locked) so if I need to take it off quickly, I can. Always think of those snagging risks and if what you’re doing is worth the risk.
A safety knife for anything unexpected that comes up, I love this item because it makes me feel safer but it is a snagging risk, so you need to way up the pros and cons of it. For me, the pros outweigh the cons because I know if I ever need it fast, it is right there and I have practised unclipping the knife from the sheath so it becomes a reaction rather than a thought. It’s time-saving for me which is what I need when fast decision making is required. You may wonder why I went for the more expensive titanium version rather than the steel version. Although I wanted something cheaper originally, I wanted to have a knife that lasted and the steel version is not suitable for saltwater. So, if you ever want to go sea-canoeing it would not be suitable, whereas, titanium is great for saltwater or freshwater. It cost me just over £100 but I thought if it lasts for 5 years or more that is £20 ish per year and around £1.60 per month. So I changed my mind!!
A waterproof flashlight for visibility and signalling (for night paddles and longer trips). This makes some people laugh but I love it, it lasts for something like 12 hours in the water and flashes up to one mile away. This makes me feel safer, just in case.
⚖ It's important to consider the weight and balance of the PFD when adding items to it, ensuring that they don't hinder you or compromise your safety. Always follow the manufacturer's guidelines and recommendations for the specific PFD model you are using.
Other items you could consider having in or on your PFD :
A compass and map for navigation.
Some adventurers wear a watch, although it is a snagging risk to attach this to a PFD. I tend to wear a watch on my wrist so I can keep track of time and log the activity.
Miniature First Aid Kit for aiding in an emergency scenario.
Satellite phone for emergencies and communicating with people, so they know you’re safe when you’re on a wilderness trip.
Energy, bar or food item that you can have when you’re out on the water when really hungry, perhaps your plans haven’t gone your way.
Suncream to prevent burns when it’s a hot sunny day.
Any rescue equipment like a throw rope.
PFDs will vary in how long they last, depending on how they are treated and how often they are used. When any wear or damage signs are identified, the item shouldn’t be used.
🚾 🚿 Handwash your PFD in freshwater after each use.
🏪 Store dry, away from direct sunlight and heat. If you have to leave in the sun make sure it is the right way around.
Stay prepared and safe on your paddling adventures with the right gear for your personal flotation device (PFD). Remember, what goes in and on your PFD can make a difference when it comes to safety and convenience. Keep essential items like a whistle within easy reach. Consider attaching larger items like a knife, strobe light securely to your PFD. Enjoy your paddling experience with peace of mind and a well-equipped PFD!
We're Tim & Claire, we love UK canoeing and are obsessed! Come and join us!
