Viskan — Packing Checklist

3 paddlers · single sit-in touring kayaks · ~5–6 days self-supported · early August · lots of portaging, low rocky water. Tick per person unless marked [group]. Dress for cold-water immersion, not the sunshine.

On-water safety

• PFD / buoyancy aid — worn at all times
• Spray deck (essential for the sea leg + wind/rain)
• Paddle + [group] 1–2 spare split paddles
• Bilge pump + large sponge
• Paddle float
• Whistle (on the PFD)
• Bow & stern lines/painters + 2–3 carabiners (lining rapids, lifting)
• Knife, accessible (for cutting rope / wire strainers)
• Helmet — optional; cheap insurance when lining near bigger rapids

Group safety [group]

• Throw bag ×1–2 (15 m)
• Comprehensive first-aid kit
• VHF radio or PLB / satellite messenger (strongly recommended for the sea leg)
• Repair kit: duct/Gorilla tape, marine/hull repair tape, multi-tool, cable ties, spare cord, spare hatch cover/seal, dry-bag patches

Navigation

• Phone with offline maps downloaded (whole valley) + the route/map file
• [group] Paper backup map + compass; laminated route card
• Power bank(s) — enough for 5–6 days
• Headlamp + spare batteries
• Watch (sea-leg wind-window timing)

Clothing (immersion-ready)

• Thin wetsuit or paddling top/thermal layers (dress for water temp)
• Neoprene booties/shoes (constant wading at low water)
• Rain jacket + rain trousers
• Warm mid-layer (fleece) + warm hat + gloves
• Full dry camp set sealed in a dry bag — never let it get wet
• Sun hat, sunglasses w/ retainer, high-SPF sunscreen, lip balm
• Blister plasters, anti-chafe cream (wet sitting = chafing)

Camping & sleep

• Tent(s) — free-standing, good mesh (midges)
• Sleeping bag (comfort ~5 °C) + inflatable mat
• Buff/beanie for sleeping

Cook & water

• Stove + fuel + lighter/matches (waterproofed)
• Pot, mug, spork, knife; small cutting board
• Water capacity 3–4 L
• [group] Filter/purification (backup only)
• Trash bags — pack everything out

Dry bags & packing

• Several medium dry bags (carryable by hand across portages — not one giant heavy one)
• Cockpit day-bag (snacks, water, phone, sunscreen)
• Dedicated dry bag for electronics + first aid

Food

• ~3,500–4,000 kcal/person/day (portaging is work)
• No-cook breakfast + lunch/snacks, one hot dinner
• Resupply en route (Borås, Kinna/Skene, Veddige) — no need to carry all 5 days at once

Personal

• ID + card/cash (waterproofed), EU health card
• Toiletries, quick-dry towel, biodegradable soap, hand sanitiser, TP (zip-lock)
• Mosquito/midge repellent + after-bite
• Personal meds (tell the group about allergies)

Golden rules: PFD always on · spray decks + practised rescues before the sea leg · pack light (a lighter boat floats over more rocks) · keep one dry set of clothes sacred.