Most people do not consider putting together a basic repair kit but it is well advised to do so. Not only does it make repairs possible it also makes the tools easy to find when you do need them. You don’t need to bring a toolbox and power saw but here are a few items that we have found useful to enable you to fix or hold together most of the gear people use.
This is simply a basic list for most situations. If you are involved is specialized activities or extended trips you may find it necessary to modify this list to suit you needs.
- Duct Tape &/or Aluminum Tape: The ultimate repair for all things out door. There is nothing that can’t be repaired with good old duct tape. For an even stronger hold than duct tape bring some aluminum tape, it’s paper backed and very sticky. I would say it’s better than duct tape when repairing hard surfaces such as boats.
- Brass / Snare Wire: This is the do it all wire. It’s great for temporary repairs to straps, thwarts, canoe seats, etc
- Stove Parts: Most stove manufacturers sell small repair kits for their stoves. Keep one of the along with the instructions on how to service your stove. Depending on your model a spare tank cap might also be advised.
- Sealers: Seamseal and AquaSealThis will seal up tent seams, boots etc. I one fixed an axe hole in my tent with this stuff – don’t ask how it got there!!
- Fastener Container: A small pouch with assorted nuts, bolts, screws and a few nails is handy. Don’t forget to add a couple of canoe seat bolts as they break more often than you might think.
- Adhesive: Nothing beats Gorilla Glue!!
- Multi-Tool: This is definitely a must have – these handy tools have everything from pliers, to wire cutters to files.
- Vise-grips (small): Vise grip, as I found out the hard way, are really handy to hold the nut while you tighten the screw with your multi-tool.
- Flashlight Parts: A spare bulb and maybe a couple of batteries for that flashlight in need.
- Patch Kit: For sleeping pads. Not a lifesaver but definitely a back saver.
- Sewing Kit: Needle & thread etc. The best are the ones you can get at hotel front desks.
- Plastic Wire Ties: Very strong and handy for a variety of temporary repairs. Avoid the dollar store variety as they tend to be brittle in the cold.
- Vinyl Patch sandpaper and Contact Cement: The next time you see a swimming pool liner in the garbage. Stop and cut out a 12” x 20“ square. In conjunction with contact cement it can used to patch a hole in a canoe that is just too big for duct tape.
- Fiberglass, ABS, etc Repair Kit: Something to consider when venturing into whitewater. Just remember to bring the right stuff for your boat.
- Tent Repair: Spare pole section, patches.
