June 29, 2022 7 min read

Whether you’re looking to explore a new coastline or just want to get out on the water, paddling with a SUP is a great way to travel.

Here are a few things to keep in mind when planning your next paddleboard adventure.

What Type of Travel Are You Taking?

When traveling with your SUP, the first thing you need to consider is what type of trip you’re taking. Are you going on a short weekend getaway or a longer excursion?

This will impact how you need to pack your board. If you’re only going for a few days, you can simply strap your SUP to the roof of your car. But if you’re going on a longer trip, you’ll need to invest in a SUP bag or crate.

This will protect your board from damage during transport. When packing your SUP, make sure to pad it well. Use foam or towels to cushion it and prevent it from shifting around.

Packing Your SUP for Ground Trips

Assuming you have a stand-up paddle board (SUP) and paddle, and a reliable means of transportation to your destination, the next most important thing you need to consider is how to pack your SUP for ground travel.

Here are a few tips on how to do so. Firstly, invest in a good quality SUP bag or cover. This will protect your board from dings, scratches and sun damage while in transit. Make sure your SUP is clean and dry before packing it away.

Deflate Your Paddle Board

standup paddleboarding

If you're planning on traveling with your paddleboard, you'll need to know how to pack it properly. Here are some tips to make sure your SUP arrives safely at your destination:

1. Deflate your paddleboard. This will make it much easier to transport and will also help protect it from damage.

2. Wrap your paddleboard in a soft, protective material. This will help keep it from being scratched or dented during transport.

3. Place your paddleboard in a sturdy, well-padded bag. This will help prevent it from being jostled around during your travels.

4. Make sure your bag is clearly labeled with your contact information.

Roll Up Your Paddleboard

Assuming you have a solid, inflatable paddle board, you'll want to start by rolling up your board. Start at the nose of the board and work your way towards the tail, making sure to tuck in any loose ends. Once your board is rolled up, you can secure it with SUP straps or a SUP bungee. If you're traveling with a hard paddle board, you'll want to start by removing the fins. Once the fins are off, you can lift your board and carry it to your vehicle. Most hard paddle boards come with a carrying handle or straps to make transport easier.

Attach Your Paddle to Your Paddleboard

If you're planning on bringing your paddleboard with you on your next vacation, you'll need to know how to properly pack it up for transport. Here are a few tips on how to do just that:

1. Start by attaching your paddle to your paddleboard. This will help keep everything in one place and prevent your paddle from getting lost during travel.

2. Once your paddle is attached, be sure to secure your paddleboard to your car. Many paddleboards come with straps and D-rings that make this process easy. If your paddle board doesn't have these features, you can use ratchet straps or rope to tie it down.

Secure Your Paddleboard to Your Vehicle

  1. Assuming you have a roof rack, the easiest way to tie down your paddleboard is with SUP straps.
  2. Start by placing the center of the board on the roof, with the nose facing the front of the car.
  3. Place the straps around the center of the board, and cinch them down so the board is secure.
  4. Then, loop the straps around the front and back of your car and cinch them down so the board can't move.
  5. Finally, check all the straps to make sure they're tight, and you're ready to go!

The Importance of a Good Bag

When it comes to packing an SUP for travel, the most important thing to consider is what kind of bag you will use. A good bag will protect your board from damage and make it easier to transport. There are a few things to keep in mind when choosing a bag for your SUP. First, you will want to make sure that the bag is big enough to fit your board. You should also make sure that the bag has straps or handles that will make it easy to carry. A bag with wheels can be helpful if you will be traveling with your board for a long distance. Second, you will want to consider what kind of materials the bag is made from. However, If you have a kiteboard, It is also important to pack other items such as kite leashes to keep your gear safe.

How to Wrap a SUP for Air Travel

When packing a SUP for air travel, be sure to use a quality bag that is designed specifically for standup paddle boards. This will help protect your investment and make sure it arrives safely at your destination. Here are a few tips on how to pack a SUP for air travel: 1. Use a quality bag that is designed specifically for SUPs. This will help protect your board and make sure it arrives safely. 2. Make sure your board is clean and dry before packing it. 3. Use plenty of padding to protect your board. This could include bubble wrap, towels, or blankets. 4. Make sure the bag is securely closed and will not come open during transport.

How to Pack an Inflatable Paddle Board for a Trip

Assuming you want tips on how to pack an inflatable paddle board for a trip: Inflatable paddle boards are an increasingly popular choice for watersport enthusiasts because of their portability and durability. If you're planning on taking your inflatable paddle board on a trip, there are a few things you should keep in mind to make sure it stays in good condition. First, avoid packing your paddle board in a bag that doesn't have any padding. This could cause the board to get damaged or even punctured. If you're using a hard case, make sure to put some soft padding, like a towel, in between the board and the case.

packing sup for travel

Final Thoughts

You’ve probably heard of the saying “the journey is the destination.” This couldn’t be more true when it comes to packing a SUP for travel. The process of packing your board, paddling to your destination, and then setting up camp is all part of the adventure.

There is no one “right” way to do it – it all depends on your personal preferences and the conditions you’ll be facing on your trip. Travelling with a paddle board can be a great way to see the world and get some exercise at the same time. So, with a little bit of planning and preparation, you can make packing a SUP for travel an easy and enjoyable experience.

Commonly Asked Questions

How to a SUP for travel?

To travel with a SUP, you will need to find a body of water large enough to paddle in and somewhere to store the SUP when you're not using it. You will also need to invest in some safety gear, like a life jacket and a paddle leash. To get started, practice paddling in calm water close to shore. Once you're comfortable with the basics, you can start planning longer trips on rivers or lakes.

Can I take my paddle on a plane?

Yes, you can take your paddle on a plane. Paddles are permitted as carry-on and checked baggage by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). However, there are a few things to keep in mind when traveling with a paddle.

two persons on sup

Paddles must be stored in a case or bag that can be placed under the seat or in the overhead compartment. Paddles with sharp edges must be stored in a hard case. Paddles that are longer than 62 inches must be stored in a checked bag.

Should I roll or fold my SUP?

The answer to this question depends on the specific situation that you are in. If you are in a situation where you are able to keep your SUP upright and stable, then rolling it may be the best option.

However, if you are in a situation where you are not able to keep your SUP upright and stable, then folding it may be the best option.

How much does it cost to ship a paddle board?

The cost to ship a paddle board will vary depending on the size and weight of the board, as well as the shipping destination. Typically, paddle boards range in price from $50 to $200 for shipping.

What extra accessories may I need when traveling with my paddle board?

There are a few extra accessories you may need when traveling with your paddle board. You may need a SUP paddle, a SUP leash, and a SUP bag or SUP storage bag. You may also need a SUP pump if you are inflating your board, and a SUP paddle board stand if you plan on displaying your board.

Author - Aleksandra Djurdjevic
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Aleksandra Djurdjevic          

Senior Content Creator

Aleksandra Djurdjevic is a senior writer and editor, covering surf, kayak and various watersports activities. She has previously worked as ESL teacher for English Tochka. Aleksandra graduated from the Comparative Literature department at the Faculty of Philosophy in Serbia. Aleksandra’s love for the ocean / rivers, getting out waves, season after season, seeking epic adventures across the globe helps her continue to be a top expert at CSG.


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