All the accessories you need for your Kayaking adventure
When it comes to kayaking, having the right gear can make all the difference out on the water. Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or just starting out, the right kayaking accessories can enhance safety, improve comfort, and generally make things a lot more fun. From essential safety equipment to handy tools and comfort upgrades, this ultimate list covers everything you’ll ever need on the water. Take a look below to explore the must-have accessories that will take your kayaking experience to the next level! If you want a quick checklist format instead, see our kayaking equipment checklist.
Jump to specific section:
- Quick Comparison Table
- Paddles
- Dry Bags
- Spraydecks
- Straps, trolleys & carts
- Safety & protection
- Paddle leash
- Kayak Anchors
- Pumps
Quick Comparison Table
Here's a quick overview of everything featured in this guide:
| Item | Summary | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Paddles | ||
| Abahub Adjustable Kayak Paddle | Adjustable three-piece paddle in two size ranges, great value for families and beginners | From £27 |
| Niphean SUP & Kayak Paddle | Dual-use SUP and kayak paddle in a 4-piece design that floats if dropped | From £37 |
| Intex 86" Kayak Paddle | TUV-approved budget paddle with ribbed spoon blades and 3-position feather adjustability | From £20 |
| Dry Bags | ||
| Ultra Dry Adventurer | Budget-friendly bag in sizes from 5L to 30L with a free phone pouch | From £14.99 |
| Unigear Waterproof Bag | 100% waterproof with the widest size range available, up to 55L | From £10 |
| Yak Kayaking Dry Pack | Premium Molle-system backpack built for serious paddlers | From £50 |
| YETI Sidekick Dry Case | Compact magnetic-closure case for phone and on-water essentials | From £40 |
| Spraydecks | ||
| Lomo Rebel Deck | Tough neoprene deck at a great price, extremely easy to fit | From £40 |
| Nookie Shock Spray Deck | Easy on/off neoprene deck that fits the vast majority of kayaks | From £59 |
| Yak KYU Spray Deck | Tear-resistant deck with a heavy-duty 25mm webbing release handle | From £41 |
| Straps, Trolleys & Carts | ||
| C-Tug Trolley | Best-in-class trolley that handles any terrain including deep sandy beaches | From £119 |
| Conwy Foldable Trolley | Flat-folding design with puncture-proof wheels, ideal for tighter boot spaces | From £40 |
| Gradient Fitness Shoulder Strap | Padded hands-free carrying strap for kayaks and paddleboards | From £23 |
| Palm Roof Rack Straps | Reliable hold-down straps for transporting your kayak on a roof rack | From £15 |
| Safety & Protection | ||
| Osprey Adult Buoyancy Aid | Certified 50N aid with a slimline profile for full freedom of movement | From £45 |
| Typhoon Yalu XT Buoyancy Jacket | British Safety Standards approved jacket with removable crotch strap | From £42 |
| Helly Hansen Rider Vest | Stylish certified unisex vest suitable for a wide range of water activities | From £34 |
| Life Jacket Mineral Sun Stick | Compact SPF 50+ zinc stick designed specifically for water sports use | From £12 |
| Sun Bum SPF 50 Spray | Water-resistant SPF 50 spray enriched with Vitamin E, lasts up to 80 minutes | From £18 |
| Paddle Leashes | ||
| RUK Kayak Paddle Leash | Simple coiled bungee leash with neoprene velcro to keep your paddle close | From £8 |
| Tbest Kayak Paddle Leash | Durable elastic tether with a stainless steel snap clip | From £10 |
| Kayak Anchors | ||
| BeGrit Small Boat Anchor | Lightweight 0.7kg folding anchor with rope, buoy and storage bag included | From £16 |
| Gradient Fitness Marine Anchor | 1.6kg folding anchor with marine-grade rope, works on any type of seabed | From £35 |
| Pumps | ||
| Intex Double Quick III Hand Pump | High-output hand pump that inflates and deflates on every stroke | From £10 |
Paddles
Your paddle is arguably the single most important piece of kayaking equipment — the wrong one will tire you out quickly and make every stroke feel like hard work. Key things to look for are shaft material (aluminium is durable and affordable; carbon fibre is lighter but pricier), blade shape (asymmetrical blades are more efficient through the water), and length (generally the wider your kayak and the taller you are, the longer the paddle you need).
Abahub Adjustable Kayak Paddle
If you're just getting started or want a paddle the whole family can share, the Abahub is a solid choice that won't break the bank. It comes in two size ranges (210–230 cm and 230–250 cm) so you can pick the right fit, and the three-piece detachable design means it packs down small enough to carry in a bag — handy if you're travelling to a launch spot. The feathered blades sit at a 60-degree offset, which cuts down wind resistance and makes paddling noticeably more efficient. The aluminium alloy shaft is tough enough for regular use, and the asymmetrical PP blades move cleanly through the water. At this price it's one of the best value paddles you'll find.
- Adjustable length: available in 210–230 cm or 230–250 cm
- Three-piece design packs down for easy travel and storage
- 60-degree feathered blades reduce wind resistance
- Lightweight aluminium alloy shaft
- Asymmetrical PP blades for efficient, clean strokes
- Available in multiple colours
Buy from Amazon.co.uk - From £27
Niphean SUP & Kayak Paddle
The Niphean stands out from most paddles at this price because it genuinely works well for both kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. The four-piece design breaks down even smaller than a three-piece, which is ideal if you're short on storage space or travelling with your kit. It adjusts between 78 and 86 inches to suit different heights and paddling styles, and one of its most practical features is that it floats — so if you drop it in the water mid-session it won't disappear. The aluminium alloy shaft keeps the weight down while the fibreglass and PP blade handles everything from flat lakes to rougher conditions. The 12-month replacement guarantee is a nice bonus at this price point.
- Dual-use for kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding
- 4-piece detachable design, adjustable from 78–86 inches
- Floats in water — won't sink if dropped
- Lightweight aluminium alloy shaft with fibreglass and PP blade
- Ergonomic non-slip handle for comfort when wet
- 12-month complete replacement guarantee
Buy from Amazon.co.uk - From £37
Intex 86" Kayak Paddle
If you want a no-fuss, reliable paddle at the lowest possible price, the Intex 86" is worth a look. At 86 inches fully assembled and just 3lbs, it's light enough that it won't tire your arms on longer sessions. The ribbed spoon-shaped blades are designed to give you a clean catch in the water and good pull-through, which you don't always get at this price point. Three positions of feather adjustability means you can dial in the blade offset to suit your paddling style, and the shaft is shaped to give you a solid, comfortable grip. It's TUV RL approved, so it's passed independent safety testing — reassuring for a budget paddle. A solid spare or first paddle for anyone just getting started.
- Ribbed spoon-shaped blades for good water catch and speed
- 3-position feather adjustability
- Fully assembled at 86" and lightweight at 3lbs
- Comfortable grip design on the shaft
- TUV RL approved — independently safety tested
Buy from Amazon.co.uk - From £20
Dry bags
Dry bags are an essential kayaking accessory for keeping your gear safe and dry while on the water. Whether you're stashing a change of clothes, snacks, or electronics, a reliable dry bag ensures your items stay protected from splashes and unexpected submersions.
As ever, there are many options available but I've shortlisted a few of the best ones you can get online so you don't have to do all the research yourself.
Ultra Dry Adventurer
If it's value for money you're looking for, you can't go wrong with the Ultra Dry Adventurer. It also comes with a separate dry pouch for your phone. Available in a number of sizes and colours
- Available in 5L, 10L, 20L and 30L
- Available in various colours including yellow, black, pink, orange and more
- Includes separate phone dry pouch - fits most phone models
- Perfect for Kayaking, Canoeing, Fishing and camping
Buy from Amazon.co.uk - From £14.99
Unigear Waterproof Bag
Next up we have another amazon favourite which has over 2,700+ reviews. This guarantees to be 100% waterproof and similar to the Ultra Dry Adventurer comes in multiple colours and sizes. And if you're looking for a larger size, the unigear comes in a 55L version. Again, you can't go wrong when it comes to value for money with this bag.
- Available in 2L, 5L, 10L, 20L, 30L, 40L, 55L
- Available in various colours including yellow, green, orange, black, grey and more
- Includes separate phone dry pouch - fits most phone models
- 100% waterproof
- Full welded seams for anti-tear and anti-leak
- Comfortable adjustable strap (or straps for the 40L+ version)
- Perfect for Kayaking, Canoeing, Fishing and camping
Buy from Amazon.co.uk - From £10
Yak Kayaking Dry Pack
Finally we have the more premium and well known brand Yak Dry pack. This dry pack is on the more expensive end for bags but not without reason. It's known as a Molle system backpack which is the current standard for load bearing equipment for NATO armed forces. You'll easily store a number of key accessories for your day out with peace of mind that they'll stay 100% dry in this bag.
- Available in 20L, 30L, 40L
- Comes in one colour
- Heavy-duty 500D PVC construction for maximum durability
- Unique Molle System
- Detachable shoulder strap for comfortable shoulder carrying
- Perfect for Kayaking, Canoeing, Fishing and camping
Buy from Amazon.co.uk - From £50
YETI Sidekick Dry Waterproof Case
Keep everything you need for a day on the water — out of the water. This compact waterproof case provides reliable protection for your essentials with innovative Hydroshield™ Magnetic Closure technology. Perfect for stashing your phone, sunblock, and snacks while kayaking, with the added versatility of being compatible with all Camino® and Hopper® products plus the Panga® Backpack.
- Waterproof protection with Hydroshield™ Magnetic Closure
- Perfect size for phone, sunblock, and snacks
- Compatible with YETI Camino®, Hopper®, and Panga® products
- Compact design ideal for kayaking adventures
Buy from Amazon.co.uk - From £40
Spraydecks
Lomo Rebel Deck
Very well regarded and at a great price point is the Lomo rebel deck. This tough neoprene spray deck comes with liquid sealed seams (this basically just means an adhesive is used where the the material joins to avoid leaks through the material) and a very durable perimeter shock cord, keep the deck in place in all conditions. They come in a variety of sizes but boast being extremely flexible and easy to fit. Reviews of this spraydeck often talk about the excellent value, quality and ease of fitting.
- Multiple Hip and cockpit sizes
- Available in one colour - black
- Release handle
- Liquid sealed seams
Buy from Amazon.co.uk - From £40
Nookie Shock Spray Deck
For a little more you can get the Nookie Spray Deck which reviews highlight the ease of getting on and off whilst still staying super strong. Again, seams are liquid sealed and its a very versatile deck fitting the vast majority of kayaks. A number of owners of this deck mention how they have had theirs for several years and used for both river and sea kayaking with good results.
- Multiple sizes
- Super easy to get on and off
- All seams glued, blindstitched & liquid sealed
- Strong but super stretchy 10mm shockcord
Buy from Amazon.co.uk - From £59
Yak KYU Spray Deck
The Yak KYU spray deck combines durability with performance, featuring a tear-resistant body construction that withstands demanding conditions. The strengthened nose section provides extra protection where it's needed most, while the customizable body tube and perimeter rim ensure a perfect fit across different kayak models. Safety is prioritized with a substantial 25mm webbing release handle for confident emergency exits.
- Tear-resistant rip-stop body construction
- Strengthened nose section for enhanced durability
- Customizable body tube and outer rim adjustment
- Heavy-duty 25mm webbing release handle
Buy from Gael Force Marine - From £41
Straps, trolleys & carts
C-Tug Kayak and Canoe Trolley
No more worrying about dragging your kayak around from the car to the beach. The C-Tug is best in class when it comes to taking the strain for you, whether you're heading across uneven terrain to rivers or deep sandy beaches, the C-tug can most likely handle it. With its lightweight and compact design, it can easily travel with you wherever you're paddling!
- Dismantles in a matter of seconds
- Adjustable to fit various shaped Kayaks
- Lightweight design
Buy from Gael Force Marine - From £119
Conwy Kayak Foldable Kayak Trolley
This flat folding Kayak trolley is lightweight yet capable of transporting the heaviest of kayaks. For easy storage it folds down completely flat with detachable wheels making it the perfect choice for those with tighter boot space. The cart comes with puncture proof wheels and a powder coated aluminium frame protecting it from ever rusting.
It also comes with a strap ready to go to make transporting easy and secure although worth noting some mention the need for a second to keep it super secure. Reviews also point to the smooth ride in transportation and as the wheels are not 'hard plastic' they are pretty quiet.
- Loading capacity from 50kg
- Weight 3.2kg
- Quick release puncture proof wheels
Buy from Amazon.co.uk - From £40
Gradient Fitness Kayak/Paddle Board Shoulder Strap
The Gradient Fitness Shoulder Strap is designed to make transporting your Kayak or board a breeze. Featuring a comfortable, padded shoulder piece that attaches easily to loops around your board or Kayak, this strap is perfect for all types of paddleboards and kayaks. The adjustable tri-glide pieces ensure that the strap fits any board width, while the reinforced custom metal hardware and padded buckles guarantee durability and prevent scratches. Ideal to take some of the weight with this hands free approach and portable design.
- Padded shoulder piece for a comfortable carrying experience
- Quick-release buckles for easy attachment and detachment
- Reinforced custom metal hardware for long-lasting durability
- Hands-free design with separate holders for paddles
- Compact and portable; folds into an included storage bag
- Perfect for kayaking, paddle boarding, and surfing
Buy from Amazon.co.uk - From £23
Palm Roof Rack Straps
Essential straps for securely transporting your kayak on your vehicle's roof rack. These durable straps provide reliable hold-down power for safe kayak transport.
Buy from Gael Force Marine - From £15
Safety & protection
A buoyancy aid is non-negotiable and should be the first safety purchase you make. Beyond that, if you're paddling on open water or coastal areas like the Solent, a handheld VHF radio is worth considering too, as it's the standard way to call for help if something goes wrong out of mobile range.
Osprey Adult Buoyancy Aid
The Osprey Buoyancy Aid 50N Jacket is a certified and reliable safety essential for kayaking, paddleboarding, and other watersports. Offering 50N of buoyancy and a slimline profile, it ensures freedom of movement and comfort on the water. Durable materials, adjustable shoulder and waist straps, and high-visibility yellow accents enhance safety and longevity.
Available in multiple sizes, it provides a snug, secure fit for various body types. Easy to care for—just rinse and air dry—this buoyancy aid is ideal for peace of mind during water adventures.
- Certified 50N buoyancy for safety and support
- Adjustable fit with high-visibility straps
- Durable, slimline design for unrestricted movement.
- Various sizes (XS, M/L, L/XL) depending on weight and chest size
Buy from Amazon.co.uk - From £45
Typhoon Yalu XT 50n Buoyancy Jacket
The Typhoon Yalu Wave XT Buoyancy Jacket is an excellent choice for water sports enthusiasts looking for a high-quality, affordable, and reliable buoyancy aid. Made from lightweight, hi-tech materials, it meets British Safety Standards (BS EN393:1994) and CE approval, providing 50N of buoyancy to keep you safe while Kayaking.
Featuring a front zipper for easy on-and-off access, adjustable straps, and a removable crotch strap for added security, this jacket ensures comfort, flexibility, and freedom of movement. Perfect for activities like Dinghy Sailing, Canoeing, and Kayaking, it offers a great balance of style and functionality.
- ISO approved with 50N buoyancy
- CE approved foam panels for comfort and buoyancy
- Fully adjustable waist and shoulder straps for a custom fit
- Quick-release front clasp for easy on-and-off
- Extremely lightweight and comfortable for all-day wear
- Removable crotch strap for added security
Buy from Amazon.co.uk - From £42
Helly Hansen Unisex Rider Vest Buoyancy Aid
The Helly Hansen Rider Vest Buoyancy Aid offers a stylish and secure flotation solution for a wide range of water activities. Designed for unisex use, this safety-certified buoyancy aid is perfect for yachting, jet skiing, surfing, paddle boarding, and more. With a front buckle and adjustable bottom hem, it stays comfortably in place, ensuring peace of mind while you're out on the water. Its breathable and durable design makes it ideal for activities like dinghy sailing, fishing, swimming, and snorkelling, offering both comfort and reliability. Enjoy more time in the water with this easy-to-use, quick-setup buoyancy aid.
- Unisex design, suitable for a wide range of users
- Safety certified for secure flotation
- Front buckle and adjustable bottom hem to keep vest in place
- Quick setup design for more time on the water
- Breathable and durable, perfect for multi-purpose use
- Great for dinghy sailing, fishing, swimming, snorkelling, and more
- Available in Ebony colour, size options 30/40
Buy from Amazon.co.uk - From £34
Life Jacket Mineral Sun Stick - SPF 50
Perfect for kayaking adventures, this pocket-friendly mineral sun stick delivers bulletproof SPF 50+ protection. The compact handheld design fits easily in your kayak gear, while the non-greasy formula glides on smoothly without causing eye stinging. Professional athletes rely on this fragrance-free stick for all-day protection, and it's clinically approved for sensitive skin, making it ideal for long days on the water.
- 100% mineral SPF 50+ protection with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide
- Compact, pocket-friendly design perfect for kayak storage
- Non-greasy formula that won't sting eyes during water activities
- Water-resistant and suitable for all skin types
- Made from 100% recycled plastic packaging
- Fragrance-free and cruelty-free formulation
Buy from Gael Force Marine - From £12
Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Sun Cream Spray
Perfect for extended kayaking adventures, this premium sun protection spray delivers superior broad spectrum UVA/UVB SPF 50 protection while nourishing your skin. The continuous spray formula makes it easy to apply even while on the water, and the water-resistant formula lasts up to 80 minutes - ideal for those longer paddling sessions. Enriched with Vitamin E for antioxidant protection and moisturizing elements to keep your skin healthy and hydrated during sun-intensive days on the water.
- Broad Spectrum UVA/UVB SPF 50 protection
- Enriched with Vitamin E and moisturizing elements
- Vegan, gluten-free, and cruelty-free formulation
- Water-resistant for up to 80 minutes
- Continuous ultra sheer/dry touch spray for easy application
- Free from Oxybenzone & Octinoxate - reef friendly
Buy from Amazon.co.uk - From £18
Paddle Leash
RUK Kayak Paddle Leashes
The RUK Kayak Paddle Leash is a practical and affordable solution to keep your paddle secure on the water. Designed with simplicity and durability in mind, it features a coiled bungee that stretches and recoils seamlessly without hindering your paddling. The leash comes with sturdy nylon clips that resist rust and corrosion, making it ideal for both saltwater and freshwater use.
The paddle attachment uses velcro with neoprene for a snug, slip-free grip. Reviewers praise its sturdy fittings, effective design, and ease of use, noting it stays out of the way while paddling. For its price and reliability, it’s a must-have accessory to avoid losing your paddle, saving both hassle and expense. Suggest getting 1.5m as some comments the 1.3m isn't quite long enough.
- Two sizes available 1.3m and 1.5m
- Velcro strap for paddle
- Can also be used on rods and nets that need securing
Buy from Amazon.co.uk - From £8
Tbest Kayak Paddle Leash
The Tbest Kayak Paddle Leash is a durable and lightweight safety tether designed to keep your paddle secure during kayaking, fishing, or SUP activities. Featuring a strong velcro strap and a high-quality stainless steel spring clip, it provides a reliable attachment to your kayak and paddle.
The elastic cord allows free hand movement, while its versatile design makes it useful for securing rods, nets, or other gear. Reviewers praise its sturdy construction, effective shock cord length, and dependable snap clip, making it a highly recommended addition for peace of mind on the water.
- Multi-use for kayaking, fishing, surfing & SUP
- Velcro strap for paddle
- High-quality stainless steel spring clip
Buy from Amazon.co.uk - From £10
Kayak Anchors
BeGrit Small Boat Anchor
The BeGrit small boat anchor is a great little anchor for your kayak, canoe or small boat. At 0.7kg it’s light and tough, made from rust resistant carbon steel with a 4 fluke grapple design that works on sand, weed or rock. Easy to use – just fold out the flukes, lock them in and your good to go. The kit includes everything you need – 10m rope, buoy, hook and storage bag so it’s easy to carry and store. Perfect for peace of mind whether you’re taking a break to snack or securing your spot against the tide!
- Compact and foldable for easy storage
- Durable, rust-resistant galvanized steel
- Comes with rope, buoy, hook, and bag
- 718 5-star reviews on amazon
Buy from Amazon.co.uk - From £16
Gradient Fitness Marine Anchor
The Gradient Fitness 1.6 kg folding anchor is a compact and reliable choice for keeping your kayak, paddleboard, or jet ski steady. It folds down to a convenient 30 cm x 8 cm size and comes with a padded storage bag to prevent scratches. Designed for any environment—sandy, muddy, rocky, or weedy—it’s rust-resistant and includes 7m of marine-grade rope, a stainless steel snap hook, and a PVC buoy.
Owners who reviewed this anchor love its durability, ease of use, and ability to hold steady even in windy conditions, making it ideal for fishing, SUP yoga, or relaxing on the water.
- Compact, foldable, and easy to store
- Rust-resistant with marine-grade rope and buoy
- Secure and reliable for various water conditions
- 3,230 5-star reviews on amazon
Buy from Amazon.co.uk - From £35
Pumps
Intex Double Quick III Hand Pump
High-output hand pump that inflates and deflates on both up and down strokes. Comes with 4 different nozzles for versatile use with all Intex items and athletic balls.
- 3.3L/cycle high output capacity
- 4 nozzles included for different applications
- Inflates and deflates functionality
- Compatible with all Intex products
Buy from Amazon.co.uk - From £10
Final Thoughts on Kayaking Accessories
If you're just getting started, you don't need to buy everything on this list at once. For a first session on the water, whether that's on the Solent, a local river or a lake, three things matter most: a paddle you can actually use, a dry bag to protect your phone and keys, and a buoyancy aid. The Abahub adjustable paddle is the best value starting point for most people. Pair it with the Unigear dry bag for versatile waterproofing on a budget, and the Osprey buoyancy aid for certified safety without bulk.
From there, a paddle leash is cheap insurance against losing your paddle in a current, and a kayak trolley becomes essential the moment you're carrying your boat any distance from the car. The rest of the list is worth working through over time as you get more time on the water and start to notice what you actually need.
Buy quality where it counts: buoyancy aids and spraydecks. You can afford to start budget on everything else.