| The following items are required by US law; other countries or territories may have different requirements | In addition, every paddler must have these items with them on WAKE trips | In addition, these items are recommended to be carried by a group, and in more challenging conditions or on longer trips |
| Whistle, loud enough to attract attention | Kayak with floatation in bow and stern | Strobe light for PFD |
| Pump | Spray skirt | VHF Radio, spare batteries |
| Sunset to Sunrise: 3 Night-use Pyrotechnic Flares, or one electronic SOS beacon | Appropriate immersion gear (dry suit, wet suit/jacket) | Spare Paddle |
| Sunset to Sunrise: white light (position light or head lamp) | Back-up communication, like cell phone, accessible and in waterproof case | Spare set of warm clothes in dry bag |
| | Appropriate head and hand coverings, plus spares | First Aid Kit |
| | Required Medications (sea sickness, pain relieve etc) | Map or other navigation aids |
| | Float Plan ("let somebody know...") | Compass |
| | | Tow Rope |
| | | Paddle Float |
| | | Safety Knife |
| | | Emergency Boat Repair Kit |
| | | Emergency Food |
| | | Poncho or Tarp ( to provide shelter during breaks) |
| | | Lighter/Matches in waterproof container |
| | | Emergency Shelter, for unplanned overnight stays |