Have you ever desired to head out into the wilderness on your own? It is certainly not for everyone. For one thing, if you have never canoed before then it is advisable to get some experience first.

For your first solo canoe trip, make it a short one. Plan to spend one night on your own. In addition, make it a short paddle too. Leave a map of your route with at least one person. Also, tell some people when you expect to be back and where you plan to camp for the night. If possible, take a satellite phone or signal flares for any emergency.

One of the keys to a successful trip is the planning. Make a list of everything you need to take with you. Study your map beforehand as well. Are there any portages along the way? If so, will it limit the amount of supplies you take with you? Some people like to take only enough for one trip on the portage. Others prefer to take whatever they need to enjoy themselves, even if it means two trips on each portage. It is up to you. Just remember, if you take it, you have to carry it.

Some essentials that you will need on your trip include matches or water proof fire starter. An excellent product is fire paste, which is water proof and lights very easily. You will also need a good sharp knife along with a multi tool of some sort.

Do not forget the proper attire as well. Check the weather forecast before leaving on your trip. Rain gear is essential, nothing ruins your trip more than being wet and cold. Depending on the season, it is wise to dress in layers. That way if you get too warm you can always remove a layer.

Obviously, a tent and sleeping bag is a necessity. Proper protection from mosquitoes and black flies is essential as well. Depending on the time of year, you may need a bug jacket or bug hat along with the necessary bug spray.

If you are an angler, then you will want to take a fishing rod and some light tackle. Some of the best fishing spots in the world are accessible by canoe and you would be quite disappointed if you forgot your fishing pole as you paddled through a deep out of the way pool.

Nutritious snacks help to keep your energy up as you paddle and portage along on your trip. Chances are you will not have any ice with you, so avoid taking any food that will spoil. Plus, you will need a sturdy rope to hang your food in a tree at night to keep it away from the animals.

There is a lot of planning involved if you want to have a safe, enjoyable trip. Once you have had a successful one night solo canoe trip, you will likely want to plan a longer trip. Solo canoe trips are a great way to get away from it all. If you are a photographer, writer or artist it can be very inspirational.