Wave Goodbye to Summer in Style
The final bank holiday of the year is here, which means paddlers up and down the country get to enjoy an extra-long weekend before autumn routines and shorter days take hold. For many, this is a chance to sleep in and stay at home, but, if you are reading this blog, we know you are the type of person who would much rather pick up a paddle and enjoy the last three-day weekend of the summer on the water.
Instead of letting the weekend slip by in a blur of tedious chores or pointless scrolling, why not turn it into a mini adventure? Imagine gliding across a calm lake on your SUP, exploring winding rivers by kayak, or heading to the coast for a salty splash. Paddling is the perfect way to switch off and soak up the last of the summer vibes. It’s fun, it’s active, and it leaves you with the kind of memories that make a long weekend feel truly special.
Adventures for Everyone
One of the things that make paddling so special is how versatile the experience can be. There is something for everyone, no matter your age, skill level or preferred style of adventure. Here’s a closer look at the types of adventures you can have, no matter who you’re paddling with:
Families: Paddling is a great opportunity for family bonding, with plenty of chances to experience the wonderful wildlife the UK has to offer. Additionally, paddling is a brilliant way to get kids moving and engaged with the outdoors and away from their screens. Packing a picnic to enjoy mid-paddle adds an extra layer of fun and adds an element of reward to spending the day working as a team on the water.
Couples: Many couples use the bank holiday weekend to enjoy a romantic getaway – perhaps to Venice or Paris, but a shared paddle can be just as magical. Glide quietly through calm waters at sunrise or catch the golden hour on a late afternoon SUP. Being on the water allows you to escape distractions, connect, and enjoy the simple pleasure of moving together through nature.
Friends and groups: This weekend, plenty of lads up and down the country will hit up pubs and bars – the same as every other bank holiday weekend. Why not opt for a change in settings? Bring a tent, a pack of beers and your vessel of choice down to your local lake and enjoy the sun with your friends.
Solo paddlers: Perhaps you are tired of making small talk with strangers and prefer to spend the weekend alone – at peace. Paddle boarding and kayaking are both great forms of meditation, allowing you to be at one with nature. Solo trips give you the freedom to explore at your own pace, try new techniques, or simply enjoy the calm of the outdoors without any distractions.
What do I pack?
Knowing what to bring with you when paddling is tricky – even experienced paddlers do not pack efficiently. If you are new to paddling, you may want to bring more items with you so that you are more comfortable and prepared for anything. Here’s a handy checklist to make sure you have everything you need:
Essentials:
- Personal floatation device
- Paddle
- Your chosen vessel - kayaks and SUPs are better suited for beginners, find kayaks at Asgard here, and paddle boards here.
- Waterproof bag for valuables - we recommend Aquaglide's 'River Crossing Travel Bag'
- Water bottle
- Suncream
- Towel
Optional:
- Fishing gear - recommended for use with fishing kayaks if you want to fish on the water however, if you don't have one, fishing on the bank is fine.
- Waterproof speaker for music (remember to keep the volume respectful for fellow paddlers)
Packing thoughtfully will let you relax and enjoy the day on the water without worrying about missing essentials. Remember, the goal is comfort, safety, and making the most of your paddling adventure.
Making Most of Your Experience
Packing well is only the first step – the next is making the most of your time on the water. Start your day with a simple plan: whether it’s exploring a new stretch of river, practicing a new paddle technique, or just finding a quiet spot to float and breathe, having somewhat of a plan ensures your day feels fulfilling. However, don’t feel tied to your plan – sometimes the best moments on the water are the spontaneous ones.
Once you’re on the water, the world is your oyster (no pun intended). If you are with friends or family, you may want to set challenges such as races or even a game of tag on the water (the latter is less beginner-friendly). No matter who you are with – or even if you are on your own – there’s plenty of ways to enjoy the water.
For solo paddlers, it’s the perfect opportunity to practice new techniques or, if you are a beginner, to get familiar with your board/kayak at your own pace. Take time to experiment with balance, turns, and paddling strokes without feeling rushed. Pause when you need to, float for a moment, and enjoy the peace and quiet that comes from being out on the water. Even short sessions of mindful paddling can leave you feeling refreshed, focused, and ready to make the most of the rest of your day.
Embrace the Season
Remember, it won’t be long until the sun sets at 5pm, so please remember to cherish the blissful summer evenings and make the most of the longer warmer days. This weekend, spend time embracing yourself in the calm, sun-kissed waters either by yourself, or with the people you love most. At Asgard, we believe that participating in water sports, whilst great, is just the vehicle to building connections – with the people you love, or with nature.
So, this weekend, wave goodbye to summer not with a sigh, but with a splash. Get out on the water, make the most of every sunny hour, and let the memories of your last summer adventure carry you into autumn.