Kayak Accessories for Night Use

A variety of kayak accessories are available for use during the night. Read on for details on a few accessories which are worth considering...

WATERPROOF FLASHLIGHT: Using a flashlight or lantern which is waterproof will prevent it from being damaged if dropped or splashed. Some of these feature a hand crank, such as the Life Gear Water Light Pro (can be ordered from Wal-Mart's web site and picked up at a store). With a hand crank (a.k.a. dynamo) flashlight, you won't have to worry about failing batteries while using the kayak at night. A few waterproof flashlights also feature built-in FM or AM/FM radios.

NIGHT VISION: Many different night vision devices are available, including goggles, binoculars, and monoculars (which are like binoculars, but with only one set of lens to look through). These provide greater visibility while using a kayak at night, allowing you to see things you normally wouldn't. Some (usually less expensive) night vision binoculars do not have any electrical illumination; these do not require batteries like the others, but their night vision is only based on lenses which are designed to more effectively show light. A helpful feature for kayak owners of some night vision devices is a small built-in (or add-on) compass.

REUSABLE ICE PACK: If your kayak has a watertight storage compartment, a small reusable plastic ice pack can be used to keep a canned or bottled beverage cool on a warm night. Ice packs, which are made by brands such as Coleman and Rubbermaid, are inexpensive and convenient. They also won't make the compartment as wet as melting ice cubes do, eliminating the task of removing water from it. Unlike the other accessories mentioned here, this is only useful if you plan to kayak for a fairly long period of time.

WATCH/CLOCK: A lighted waterproof (or water resistant) watch or small clock will allow you to easily keep track of the time while kayaking at night, without the risk of damaging your regular watch. Some watches of this type can be found on eBay.com by searching for "water resistant watch light" or "waterproof watch light." A few models of these useful accessories can be purchased for under ten dollars, including shipping and handling costs.

The above-mentioned kayak accessories will make kayaking at night easier, safer, and more pleasant. In addition to eBay.com and Wal-Mart, some of these accessories are available at Buy.com, Amazon.com, and Sears stores.