Canoeing and Paddling the Yukon and Teslin Rivers
Ideas about gear that you may want to consider
Toiletries - a tasty treat for wild animals
Being a stern paddler, Gary likes this homemade toiletry holder. It has pockets on both sides and hangs nicely over a thwart. Items not to forget are: sunscreen, sunburn lotion, lip balm, biodegradable soap, and handiwipes (also known as "instant showers"). Try to get items that are scent-free so there will be less chance of attracting animals. Never bring food or toiletries into your tent.
Cookware - bring just what is needed
Unless you have health objections, use aluminum and coated cookware. Stainless steel and iron are too heavy and titanium is too expensive. We use a large pot to boil water over an open fire to conserve fuel. Aluminum and stainless can develop pinholes when used for an extensive period over and open fire.
Knives - mostly used for lifting pots
Hands down, if you only bring one knife, bring a Leatherman type pliers knife. Make sure it has scissors and an awl with a hole for sewing. This handy tool will be used for everything from taking pots off the fire to making emergency repairs on a blown tent zipper. What it will not do is heavy cutting chores like shaving wood for starting a fire. A belt knife is need. Carry both. You will not regret it.
Mosquito repellent - not as bad as their PR might suggest
It is sad to say, but nothing works as well as DEET. The best type is the pushup stick kind (pictured). There is no need to spray bug dope all over creation. You may keep the bugs off but you will also melt your camera, synthetic clothes, and sunglasses. The stick type can place protection exactly where you need it. A bite relief pen of some type is handy. While some use headnets, we have found that they are more of a nuisance than a help. Mosquitoes are not as bad as some say. If they are heavy, go somewhere else. Some summers they are almost nonexistent.