How to Plan for a Backcountry Camping Trip Using an Inflatable Boat with a 9.9 Motor
BACKCOUNTRY


Backcountry camping is an incredible way to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and truly immerse yourself in nature. But when you combine backcountry camping with an inflatable boat powered by a 9.9 motor, it opens up an entirely new world of adventure—especially if you're looking to access remote spots that aren't accessible by foot or canoe.
Before we begin, here is a list of PROS and CONS to backcountry camping with an inflatable boat and motor:
PROS:
Potential to explore areas that are too far away to get to by canoe/kayak
Potential to take more people with you (most inflatable boats could handle 3 to 4 people but be sure to check weight limits)
The possibility to take daily boating excursions
In case of weather events, Inflatable boats could handle choppy conditions better than canoes or kayaks
Potential to pack more stuff to take with you
Less physical exertion needed to get to campsite
The possibility to get back to your car more quickly in case of an emergency or to pick up supplies
Inflatable boats could be moored easily on a sandy cove or gradually sloping, smooth rocks
CONS:
There is extra packing required for the boat and equipment
Risk of boat punctures
Risk of motor hitting a rock or getting clogged by weeds
Difficult (if not impossible) to portage from lake to lake
Limited exercise
Cost of gas
If the pros outweigh the cons and you decide to give it a shot, this guide will help you plan the ultimate backcountry trip with your inflatable boat and motor.
1. Choose Your Destination Carefully
First things first, you’ll want to pick a location that’s both scenic and practical for a boating and camping adventure. Make sure the waterbody you plan to navigate is accessible to motorized boats and suitable for an inflatable boat. If you're looking at a lake or river, check local regulations to ensure there are no restrictions on boat types or motor sizes. A 9.9 HP motor is generally allowed in most places, but it’s always a good idea to confirm beforehand.
Also, be sure that the your destination has a boat launch and a safe and secure parking spot for you to leave your car while you're out exploring.
Research maps, online forums, and local municipal or federal websites to find out about water levels, weather conditions, and any seasonal concerns. This will help you pick the best time of year for your trip and ensure you avoid any potential hazards like strong currents or low water levels.
2. Test Your Gear
Before heading out into the backcountry, give your inflatable boat a test run. Set it up, inflate it, and check for any leaks. A small leak can turn into a big problem in the middle of your trip, so it’s essential to ensure the boat is in perfect condition.
Take the boat for a short spin on a local body of water to get used to handling it with the motor. The 9.9 HP motor should be easy to manage for most people, but it’s good practice to understand its power and responsiveness before you’re far from shore.
Additionally, make sure your boat is properly outfitted with safety gear such as a life jacket, oars as backups, a patch repair kit, and a waterproof throw bag. Even if you’re experienced, accidents happen, and being prepared is key.
3. Plan Your Route and Campsite
When you’re planning your route, think about both your entry point and your exit. The beauty of using a boat is that you can cover a lot of ground, but you also need to account for the time it will take to paddle or motor to your campsite. Plan the distance and keep in mind that motorized travel can be faster, but it can also require more fuel than expected.
Consider the wind and current when planning your route as well. If you’re heading upstream, it will take more effort, so plan for a longer travel time. Conversely, traveling downstream might be easier, but don’t forget to check if you’ll have to navigate any obstacles or portage areas.
For your campsite, try to choose a spot that’s accessible but not too exposed. Many backcountry lakes and rivers have designated campsites, but if not, look for flat, dry ground near a safe place to dock your boat. Make sure you're not too close to the water’s edge, as flooding or rising water levels could pose a risk.
4. Pack Smart
When you’re camping from an inflatable boat, you have to be strategic about what you pack. Since you’ll be relying on the boat to carry all your gear, it’s essential to prioritize lightweight and compact items.
Camping Gear: Opt for a small, lightweight tent, sleeping bag, and a compact stove. A portable, lightweight stove that runs on propane or butane can help you prepare hot meals at camp without taking up too much space.
Food and Water: Pre-pack meals like freeze-dried food, snacks, and easy-to-make dishes. You won’t want to carry too much water, so be sure to pack a portable water filter or purification tablets.
Clothing: Be prepared for variable weather. Layering is key, especially in backcountry environments. Bring a waterproof jacket, thermal layers, and a hat. Don’t forget a dry bag for storing anything you want to keep safe from water exposure.
Fishing Gear (optional): If you plan to fish while camping, bring along light tackle and a fishing license if required. Many remote areas offer fantastic fishing opportunities.
Safety Gear: In addition to your life jacket, pack a first-aid kit, a headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries, a fire-starting kit, and a multi-tool.
5. Fuel and Maintenance for the Motor
A 9.9 HP motor isn’t too heavy, but it still requires some preparation. Bring enough fuel for your trip, factoring in both the distance you’ll travel and any contingencies (like bad weather or the need for longer detours). A 9.9 motor typically consumes between 1-2 gallons of fuel per day at moderate speeds, but this can vary based on usage. Check to see if the body of water you're visiting has a marina which sells gas as this may alleviate many of your problems with fuel.
Make sure to check the motor’s oil level and do a basic tune-up before your trip. Having spare spark plugs, extra fuel filters, quick start spray, and an extra prop are wise precautions, as motor issues in the backcountry can quickly derail your plans. You can also bring a small tool kit to handle any minor mechanical issues.
Ideally, an additional trolling motor would come in handy in the event that the boat motor doesn't run, as paddling an inflatable boat is a lot more onerous than paddling a kayak or canoe.
6. Be Prepared for Emergencies
Even with the best planning, things don’t always go as expected. Ensure you have a solid emergency plan in place. Share your route and expected timeline with someone back home and check in regularly if possible. A satellite phone, SPOT device, or emergency beacon can help you reach help in case of an emergency, especially in areas where cell service may be spotty.
Having a good map and compass, or a GPS device, is critical for navigation, particularly when traveling in remote areas. Make sure you know how to use your navigation tools and are familiar with key landmarks.
7. Leave No Trace
Backcountry camping means leaving no trace of your visit behind. As you explore the wilderness by boat, be mindful of your surroundings. Keep noise levels down, avoid disturbing wildlife, and be conscious of your impact on the environment.
Pack out everything you bring, including food waste, trash, and toilet paper. If you’re staying in an area without established toilets, bring along a waste disposal bag (such as a WAG bag) to pack out human waste. Respect the land and water so others can enjoy the beauty of nature too.
Final Thoughts
A backcountry camping trip with an inflatable boat and a 9.9 HP motor offers a unique and rewarding way to explore remote wilderness areas. The key to a successful trip lies in thorough planning, preparation, and understanding the gear you’re using. With the right mindset and the right equipment, you can enjoy a beautiful adventure while staying safe and responsible in the great outdoors.