MDC offers float trip hacks to make river time easier

By My Courier-Tribune

There are a few weeks left before school and families are looking for adventures still to enjoy.

Social media is full of “life hack” videos so the Missouri Department of Conservation came up with a few “float hacks” to make life easier on your next canoe or kayak trip.

Sand and gravel in your shoes driving you nuts?

Hack No. 1 — Wear hiking socks with your water shoes or sandals.

Going on an overnight trip and need your cooler to keep food and drinks ice cold?

Hack No. 2 — Make block ice ahead of time by filling half-gallon milk jugs ¾ full of water – the squarish shape is space efficient, and you have water to drink after it melts.

Need an easy way to walk your canoe through shallow or tricky water?

Hack No. 3 — Attach a nylon dog leash to the front or back of the canoe. The nylon rope is tangle resistant and usually comes with a loop handle and a swivel snap – making it easy to attach to your boat. Then hold onto the leash and let the water help guide the boat.

Need a long-term, inexpensive way to keep gear dry?

Hack No. 4 — Take a five-gallon plastic bucket and replace the lid with a waterproof snap and twist lid (available at most home stores). Replace the handle with a “marine” handle made of thick nylon rope for easy hauling and a sporty look. Bonus: Doubles as a camp chair!

No wood at

your campsite?

Hack No. 5 — Bring a few fire logs, like Duraflame. They are easy to pack, easy to light and last for hours.