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As an veteran canoer from Northern Minnesota, I have learned a lot of lessons the hard way but also learned a lot from more veteran wilderness experts around me. First, start with the basic elements of life, water and food, and work your way to necessities of comfort and navigation, fire, maps, and emergency supplies. First and foremost, though, be sure you have a good way to store all of these items so they don't get lost or waterlogged in the event of an accident.

Duluth Pack: Being from Minnesota and having spent weeks at a time away from civilization in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area, I would say that your most important item is a Duluth Pack (yes, named after Duluth, MN). Now, these might go under different names in different areas but here is what they are: tough, sturdy canvas backpacks with highly adjustable straps (because you will need to tighten them as you go through your food supplies). Most importantly, however, these are designed to fit a heavy-duty black garbage bag inside that keep your clothes dry. Every time you pack your gear, before and during your trip, you should put everything in this garbage bag liner, roll down the top and tuck in the sides as you roll it. With this done, you can finish strapping up your bag. I've had Duluth Packs be completely submerged for minutes after a spill on a river with nothing inside getting wet. Be sure to secure them to your canoe (but even if they get loose somehow the air inside the bag usually keeps them afloat for a bit).

Water: if you'll be going out for a longer journey you'll need to determine how potable (drinkable) the water is you'll be relying on. If it is mostly OK, you can use pills in or simply trust it directly. Still, always scoop from the top of the water and the middle of the water body if possible to get the cleanest water. If the water is going to be moderately alright, you can bring along filtration systems. If the water could be downright dangerous, you will have to boil it.

Food: the more dried food the better, but make sure to include dehydrated fruits to remain healthy on your trip. Some things, like sausage and cheese, are semi-perishable but can still last a long time - the first week of your journey, etc... Peanut butter, granola and any packaged or canned foods will work well too. Your best bet is to go to a place like REI and see what they are selling for camping trips, then go somewhere else and buy it for cheaper!

Fire: it depends upon where you are but you may or may not be

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