Touring SUP: Preparation for Long Stand-Up Paddling Tours

Stand-up paddling is all the rage. Touring SUP in particular inspires outdoor fans who like to cover longer distances on the water. Whether on calm lakes, leisurely flowing rivers, or along the coast: SUP touring combines sporting activity with experiencing nature, slowing down, and adventure. But if you want to be out on the water for longer, you need to be well prepared. In this article, you'll find out how to prepare yourself physically, technically, and practically for longer SUP tours. As a professional SUP surfer, our SUP expert Valentin will give you the most important tips for equipment and preparation and reveal how you can travel safely on a touring SUP, even as a beginner.

Man in wetsuit and buoyancy aid stands on a paddleboard in a stream.

What Is Touring SUP?

Touring SUP (stand up paddling) describes longer paddling tours on the water—whether on rivers, lakes, or the sea. In contrast to the all-round board, touring boards are narrower, longer, and offer better directional stability and more speed, making them ideal for:

Day trips with distances from 10 km
Multi-hour paddling sessions;
Multi-day tours with luggage.

Touring SUP is perfect for anyone who wants to experience nature, challenge themselves athletically, or simply escape from everyday life on the water.

Touring SUP for Beginners: What You Need to Know

Longer SUP tours are a real nature experience that even beginners shouldn't miss out on. Because although touring sounds like something for professionals, it's not. "If you've already done a few tours on a classic board and now want to go further out, then a touring SUP is just the thing for you," explains SUP expert Valentin. "Even though it might sound complicated, it's not." If you feel confident on the SUP and want to go on longer tours, nothing stands in the way of your adventure on the water. With the right setup, a solid basic technique, and tips from our expert, you'll have everything you need for your first touring SUP tour.

Preparing for Touring SUP: Technique, Planning & Safety

"Preparation is everything. So you can really get the best out of your tour," recommends Valentin. How does that work? Here are his top tips for preparation:

Man on a SUP board in a river, wearing a wetsuit and life vest.

Plan Your Route Realistically

Perhaps the most important thing to do before you get on the water: look at your route. "How long is it? Where can you get into the water—and where can you get out again in an emergency?" are questions that you should answer, according to expert Valentin. You should also plan the way back: "Where do you want to turn round? And do you have enough energy for the second part? Good planning saves you energy—and gives you confidence on the way," advises Valentin. When it comes to the length of the route, we recommend between 10 and 15 kilometres per day for beginners. For advanced cyclists, 30 to 40 kilometres.

Man in a life vest and cap, carrying a paddleboard and paddle by a river.

Check the Wind and Weather Forecast

Wind and weather are extremely important on the SUP and can determine how strenuous your tour will be. The SUP pro recommends: "Check the forecast in an app, but also observe the water surface on site." This can also be relevant when planning your route: "Especially in the afternoon, the wind can pick up or shift—then you're suddenly paddling against it."

Man paddleboarding on a river, wearing a black wetsuit, life vest, and cap.

The Right Stance

"Even if you're already familiar with classic SUP, touring SUP requires a stable but relaxed stance," says Valentin. "Get on the board over shallow water, first on your knees, then stand up in a controlled manner—note that the board is narrower." On the SUP board, your posture should look like this: "Stay upright but relaxed: knees slightly bent, feet hip-width apart, looking forwards. The non-slip deck pad gives you additional stability. "

Man in wetsuit and life vest paddling a blue paddleboard on a river.

Pay Attention to Your Technique

On long tours, a clean, efficient technique is everything. Valentin explains what your paddle stroke should look like: "The paddle stroke starts at the front—at about foot height and close to the board, so that you're travelling straight ahead. Then pull back evenly—from your upper body, not your arms, to save energy."

His tip: "Find a rhythm that helps you stay efficient: One - dip, two - pull through, three - transfer. Touring means paddling evenly, calmly and in a controlled manner—not frantically. If you find your flow, you'll get further with less energy."

Man in wetsuit and life vest carrying a paddleboard in a mountainous landscape.

Train Your Stamina Beforehand

One thing Valentin has learnt from his many years of experience on the SUP: "If you also train your stamina on land—with running, cycling or simple workouts—you'll last longer on the water. It really pays off." What this means for you: regular training sessions outside of the SUP are worthwhile.

Smiling man in cap and life vest, sitting by a blue paddleboard by the river.

Plan Breaks

Touring SUP is all about the experience. You don't have to get to your destination particularly quickly, but can simply enjoy yourself in between. This requires breaks that you can use to refuel: "Find a quiet spot, drink enough and protect yourself from the sun. There's enough space for everything you need in the two storage nets at the front and back of the board, and it's ready to hand."

Smiling man in a life vest and cap, sitting on a paddleboard in the water.

Keep an Eye on Your Progress

After the tour is before the next tour. That's why Valentin advises: "Reflect after the tour: how far did you get, how did you feel? Track your routes to help you assess your progress—and you'll learn what works for you."

Touring SUP Equipment: What You Need for Long SUP Tours

"What you need doesn't differ much from a trip on a classic SUP," says expert Valentin. Nevertheless, there are a few differences and recommendations that you should bear in mind when choosing equipment for your touring SUP:

Man in life vest and cap holding a blue paddleboard by the water.

The Touring SUP

The shape of the Touring SUP differs from a normal SUP, as the SUP pro explains: "It is longer and narrower than a classic all-round board. The tapered nose allows the board to glide smoothly across the surface of the water. This is particularly important on longer distances, as it allows you to paddle more efficiently and cope better with wind and waves." Nevertheless, a touring SUP offers a surprisingly stable water position thanks to its volume and length—ideal for day or multi-day tours with luggage. Valentin's tip: "Touring SUPs usually need a little more pressure than wide all-round boards—so that they remain stiff and glide well through the water."

Man in black wetsuit and life vest, carrying a SUP board with a paddle.

The Right Clothing

In contrast to a short trip on the lake, you should adapt your clothing for touring SUP: "If you're travelling for longer, function counts: a wetsuit protects you from wind, waves and changing weather—but still gives you full freedom of movement when paddling." Don't forget sun protection and headgear when it's warm.

Man in black wetsuit preparing for paddleboard, board in water

The Paddle

Since you want to cover a certain distance on a touring SUP, you need a good paddle. Valentin recommends: "For longer tours, it's best to set your paddle a little longer than for a classic SUP (approx. 17-22 cm longer than your height)—this will allow you to glide more smoothly over the water and require less power."

Man in wetsuit and life vest preparing for stand-up paddleboarding on a river.

The Leash

The leash, i.e., the connecting line between you and the board, is a key safety element that you should not do without when touring. "Especially in windy conditions, currents or over longer distances, the board can drift away very quickly if you fall into the water," warns Valentin. The leash ensures that you keep your board with you at all times—and can hold on to it in an emergency.

Smiling man in black cap and neoprene vest, holding an orange water bottle.

Food and Water

Remember: When touring SUP, you'll be out and about for quite a while. You should therefore have enough water and snacks with you. Nuts or muesli bars are ideal for providing you with quick energy and giving you new power for paddling.

How to Get Started with Touring SUP

Longer SUP tours are a real experience—provided you prepare well. With the right board, realistic planning, safe technique, and well thought-out equipment, nothing stands in the way of your first touring tour. Whether it's a day trip or an adventure with a tent: your SUP can be your ticket to freedom—paddle off and discover your surroundings from a new perspective!

Man in black cap and neoprene vest sits in grass, looking to the side.

Profile of Water Sports Expert Valentin

Name: Valentin Illichmann

Age: 26 years old

Profession: Professional SUP Surfer

Sports background:

2017: German SUP champion;
2nd Place at the European White Water Championships
Has now established himself at the top of the world through many national and international competitions

This is what makes Valentin special: Valentin's passion is water sports. He enjoys SUP, kayaking, and snorkelling. Thanks to his many successful competitions, he has made a name for himself both nationally and internationally in the scene.

Frequently asked questions about the Touring SUP

A touring SUP is longer, narrower and has a tapered nose - this makes it glide better through the water and is more efficient for longer distances. An all-round SUP, on the other hand, is wider, more stable and ideal for shorter trips or beginners.

Yes, touring SUPs often offer a stable water position despite their narrower shape. If you feel confident on the all-round board and have already done a few shorter tours, switching to a touring SUP is an ideal next step.

Most touring SUPs require between 15 and 20 PSI to achieve optimum stiffness and glide. Always check the manufacturer's specifications and use a good pressure gauge to check.

Preparation includes endurance training such as jogging, cycling or cross-training. Paddling technique and balance can also be practised - ideally in combination with short pre-tours to familiarise yourself.