May you camp anywhere on a paddle trip?

Allemansrätten allows camping for a night or so on ground that is not a plot, field or protected, and does not disturb the landowner. Near houses you need permission, and in nature reserves and national parks special rules apply. Choose durable ground a bit from buildings and leave no traces.

May you light a fire?

Fire only where it is allowed and never during a fire ban. Use existing fireplaces, watch bans (especially dry summers) and put the fire out thoroughly. A Trangia stove is often a safer and simpler alternative.

Overnight camping from kayak and canoe

Q: Where do you land for the night?

Aim for prepared rest and camp sites, wind shelters or durable rocks and beaches in the lee. Land in good time before it gets dark or the wind picks up, and pull the craft well up so it does not drift away.

A multi-day trip where you paddle, make camp and wake by the water is paddling’s finest form. With a little planning and respect for nature and landowners, overnighting becomes both safe and legal. Here are the basics for camping from canoe and kayak.

Allemansrätten and camping

Allemansrätten lets you camp for a night or two in nature, provided you do not disturb and do not destroy. Keep distance from houses, avoid plots, fields and sensitive nature, and choose durable ground. If you want to stay longer or you are a larger group – ask the landowner. In nature reserves and national parks special rules often apply; read signs and our guide on Allemansrätten.

Pick the right camp

Look for prepared rest and camp sites, wind shelters or durable rocks and beaches in the lee. Land in good time – before it gets dark or the wind picks up – and pull the craft high so it does not drift when the wind turns or the water level changes. A place in the lee makes both cooking and sleep nicer.

Fire, rubbish and toilet

Fire only where it is allowed, use existing fireplaces and respect fire bans – especially in dry summers. A storm kitchen is often simpler and safer. Take all litter home, bury toilet visits a bit from water and leave the place nicer than you found it. That is the core of leaving no trace.

Pack smart for overnighting

In a canoe you can pack roomily; in a kayak you need more discipline and waterproof drybags in the hatches. Pack heavy low and in the middle, and keep sleeping kit and clothes dry in double bags. See our packing list for a full run-through.

Plan stages by ability and weather

Split the trip into reasonable day stages with a margin for headwind. Have a backup plan and a “latest ashore” time each day. Many of our paddle routes suit multi-day trips – find them and nearby places via the map.

Do a camp check before you stay

Check that the place is outside the hemfridszon and not on land that is farmed or easily damaged. Read signs and area rules before you put the tent up. If you have several tents or want to stay longer than a night or two, ask the landowner. Then it is clear who is responsible for the place and how toilet, fires and waste should be handled.