Re: [Paddlewise] Gear for first time kayak owners

I'm also a new kayak owner - fiberglass Cape Horn and have been reading and 
asking questions and trying to get the basic gear without breaking the bank.

FWIW, here's what I have so far.  Keep in mind that I paddle in North 
Carolina where overheating is a problem in the summer and the winters are 
relatively mild.

Kayak (fiberglass Cape Horn), paddle (Werner Camano), PFD (Lotus Strait 
Jacket).
Paddleboy 2-wheel cart for transporting kayak on land.
Car rack
Cockpit cover - to keep out dirt when driving or storing kayak.
Sprayskirt - I got all-nylon for keeping cool, but keeping water out when the 
things get choppy.
Insulated water bottle (which I will fill with ice, then top off with water) 
+ extra water.
2 drybags for change of clothing, camera, food/snacks, etc. One medium, one 
small.
Maps
Paddle float (made of 2 pieces of foam (from kayak shop) - put together with 
duct tape - I don't want to have to inflate a paddle float!)
Scooper and sponge for "water in the kayak" problems - bilge pump to follow 
shortly.
Need to buy a light - am following discussions on PW for which to buy.
Battery operated weather radio 
Long sleeve, fast drying top for sunburn protection.
Fast drying nylon shorts.
Water sport sandals
Long pants, turtleneck, fleece top, paddle jacket, sweatshirt, warm socks, 
sneakers to go in dry bag for emergencies.
Hat for sun protection.
Bandana to keep neck cool.
Suncreen
Chapstick
Tissues
Towel 

That's it for summer paddling in North Carolina.

Must buys before going out:  Bilge pump, light, compass, waterproof map 
holder.

For winter paddling in NC I plan to get:  a Farmer Jane wetsuit and ????  I 
will consult with local experienced paddlers to find out the typical cold 
weather gear in this area and will THOROGHLY research water temps on the 
lakes and at the coast so I'll know what I need to buy before even thinking 
about venturing out.

Any suggestions on what I'm forgetting (both for summer and winter paddling) 
are always welcome.

I'll be at Hilton Head Island, SC for a week of kayaking in June.  Although 
the ocean is definetly off-limits at this point in my kayaking life, I will 
be paddling in Calibogue Sound which is a large body of water and can get 
choppy with wind and currents.  I do plan to stay near the shore but want to 
be prepared.  I've read the book!!!! (Deep Trouble) and am suitably cautious 
as a result.

TIA,
Susan
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