Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to your questions on our SUP expeditions.

FAQ

Below we have collected the most frequently asked questions.

What should I wear to paddle in? 

There is no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothes. In Sweden you hear this all the time. In other words, if you wear the right clothes, you won’t be bothered by the weather. Functional clothing is designed to make exercise and outdoor life more comfortable. For longer outdoor activities, you need clothing that wicks away sweat, keeps you warm and protects you from moisture. Perhaps it will be both hot and rainy? Or maybe wind and a cool night? Dress according to the classic layer-on-layer principle. Then you can quickly scale up or down, take off or put on clothes. And bring a good waterproof layer! Do not bring a wetsuit or neoprene clothes! Paddling in a wetsuit for over hours in the summer will make you sweaty and uncomfortable.  Once you cool off your sweat will make you colder than if you paddle dry.

We will send a recommended packing list with suggestions on what clothes to bring. Also, a premium 60 liter dry bag from Yster SUP will be shipped to you once the final payment is made. It will help you size your packing.

What’s the food like?

One of the most common questions out there! Meals will vary. We have a mix of homemade dinners and Scandinavia’s best hiking meals.  Lunches are simple picnics eaten in beautiful spots. Hearty breakfasts such as oatmeal and granola will keep you going through the day. You will also have a chance to sample Swedish delicacies at cafés we discover along the way.  You won’t be disappointed and surely not hungry.

What if I have special dietary needs?

Of course we can accommodate vegetarians and vegans! In fact, we are firmly committed to minimizing our environmental impact, so meat is a limited component in our menus.  Most other dietary requirements and allergies can be catered for – please put your needs in the expedition booking form and we’ll be in touch to discuss your needs.

What’s expected of me on the expedition?

Expeditions require a participatory mindset where we follow a “one for all and all for one” approach. We care for each other, pitch in when needed, and approach the expedition with a positive attitude. We expect you to manage your own board, both on and off the water, and to pitch your tent. With empathy for each other we will all have a great time together.

The conditions will be challenging at times and you need to meet some requirements, see requirements for the Lake expedition, requirements for the River expedition and requirements for the Archipelago expedition

What do I need to bring?

Most everything is provided for you. However, you do need to bring your own clothes and personal items, a water bottle, and a sleeping bag suitable to 5 degrees Celsius. Carabiners are always useful to attach things like sandals, water bottles, wet bathing suits to your board. A positive attitude needs to come with you too!

What are the groups like?

We keep our groups small (6 to 10 participants) to promote an intimate experience. Our SUP experience varies from seasoned expeditioners to less experienced wild campers, however everyone needs to be a confident paddler. We encourage solo travels to participate because as soon as you meet your expedition team you are no longer solo! We enjoy a mix of nationalities and have some great discussion around the campfire.

Is there an age limit?

18 years

Can I bring pets?

No, we might encounter wildlife such as beavers, moose, osprey, pike, and trolls, and we do not want to disturb them in their natural habitat.

How can I maintain my personal hygiene on expedition and what about toilets?

Our expeditions take you out into nature, we try to get off the beaten path, connect with the water and with each other. We camp, sometimes in complete wilderness and sometimes at more formal spots with some limited facilities. Showers will be few and far in between but we warmly embrace the Swedish tradition of summer bathing. Bring biodegradable soap/shampoo and rinse off in nature’s bathtub. You’ll never run out of water. Toilets will vary from flush to outhouses to…taking a walk with a spade. We advise you to bring your own toilet paper. Wet wipes also come in handy for quick clean for all parts of the body. Don’t forget a ziplock bag to carry your waste with you to the nearest collection point. Any questions or concerns feel free to reach out.

What if I get sick during the tour?

During our expeditions, your health and safety are paramount. Our guides are not only experienced in paddling and camping, but they’re also well-versed in first aid, ensuring that immediate assistance is available for any minor ailments or injuries. One of the remarkable aspects of our tours is that even though you might feel like you’re in the middle of nowhere, you’re never far from civilization. Our carefully crafted itineraries ensure that we have access to healthcare facilities if needed. Rest assured, while immersing yourself in the wilderness, you’re never far from the support and care you deserve. 

What can I expect from the guides?

Each expedition has an Expedition Lead and Expedition Guide who work as a tight team. Our Leads/Guides navigate the expeditions and are responsible for your safety. They are experienced adventure and SUP individuals who we have hand-picked for their skills and positive attitudes.  The guides also prepare the meals, organize campfires, and are available for physical and emotional support. 

What’s the weather/conditions like? 

On an expedition we can experience sunny hot days, rain and wind, and cool nights. Coming prepared with the right clothes and the right mindset means that you are ready for everything. Our experienced guides will ensure you have the best possible experience in that day’s conditions. This means we might vary routes to account for wind direction or incoming weather.  PS: If you check the weather forecast the day you pack, be aware that it’s notoriously wrong ☺

What currency does Sweden use?

Swedish krona, SEK. Tap-to-pay with card och smart phone is the most common way of paying. Cash is not used.

Can I bring my own SUP board?

No, because we need to make sure that the boards are capable and suitable for the conditions in which we are paddling. Our boards from Yster SUP have been tried and tested multiple times in the world’s longest and toughest paddles race – Yukon1000. Read more about the Yster SUP 14’x28″ Linear boards here.

FInd out more on TotalSUP:

 

What if I need to cancel my booking?