Tips & Advice
Prepare for the best canoe experience
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PREPARED = SAFE
Safety on the water
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Safety on the water
Lifejacket – your most important equipment
Life jackets should always be worn when paddling – regardless of weather or experience level. They are included in your equipment and are designed for comfort during long days on the water. Make sure they fit properly and keep them on throughout the entire trip.
Always paddle close to the shore
Stay close to the shoreline, especially in larger lakes like Värmeln. The wind can pick up quickly and waves can build up unexpectedly. If you are paddling near land, you can always get to safety quickly.
Stay in touch
Make sure your phone is charged and water-proofed. Sandvikengården has a phone service available 24/7 if you need help. Always notify someone at home about your planned route.
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Navigation & Maps
How do I find the right one?
When booking, you will receive a complete route description with maps for your chosen route. Lack of signage is common, but if you follow the map and route description, you should have no problems. Feel free to bring an extra compass as a backup.
Paddling rules on the water
The channels are narrow – never paddle multiple canoes in width. In rivers and near power plants, you should always paddle one canoe at a time. Keep your distance from motor vehicles and fishing equipment.
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Food & Water
Drinking water
Bring drinking water in a container or bottle. All cooking can be done with lake/river water that must be boiled first. Avoid using water directly from streams that pass near populated areas.
Meal planning
Plan the food for the entire trip. Dried goods, canned goods, and freeze-dried food take up the least space. Several of our trails pass through towns where you can stock up (e.g., Borgvik, Austmarka). Storm kitchens are available for rent as an optional extra.
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Clothing & Packing
What should I wear?
Adapt clothing to the weather and environment. Overalls work best – you can get warm in the sun and cold in the wind. Avoid cotton near the body; choose synthetic or wool that dries quickly. Good shoes with grip are important for overland transportation.
How do I pack properly?
Extra clothing should be waterproof packed in the pack bags (60 liters) included in the equipment. Pack what you need first on top. Distribute the weight evenly in the canoe – heavy in the middle, light at the ends. Don’t forget sunscreen and mosquito repellent!
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In bad weather
What do I do if the weather changes?
Bad weather is a common reason why a canoeing trip has to be cancelled. Get ashore and wait for better weather if it starts to blow. Use the tarpaulin as a rain cover. You can always contact Sandvikengården for pickup – call at least a day in advance so we can plan the time and location.
📞 Sandvikengårdens day care: We have a phone service available 24/7 (+46 (0)570-27 13 89) during the paddling season. Don’t hesitate to call if you need help – no matter what time of day it is.
PACKLIST
Packing list – don’t forget!
- Clothing (including spare clothing in a waterproof bag)
- Food and drink for the entire trip
- Sleeping bag & sleeping pad
- Personal hygiene products
- Sun protection & insect repellents
- Charged mobile phone in waterproof case
- Map/compass as backup
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