On top of all the extra stuff we are supposed to have in the boat, like an oar lock, plugs, ect... I carry the Boy Scouts, "10 Essentials" plus a Sven Saw, a gallon size bag of homemeade "tinder" and a really small dry bag with a change of warm, dry clothes. Also 100' of 550 cord, a tarp, and a roll of duct tape. Its an extra 5-10 pounds I dont mind rowing down river.

Only had to spend part of a night on a river once, but that was in semi-rural AK. No cell service. When I wasnt back by the time I said I'd be... It was all hands on deck to get me out.

Letting someone know your plan of attack, and what to do in case you dont return is a sound thing to do.