About the Nordic Packraft Roundup

The Nordic Packraft Roundup is an annual, volunteer-run gathering that brings together the growing community of packrafters from across the Nordic countries—Finland, Sweden, and Norway. Each year, the event takes place in a different country, providing an opportunity to explore new landscapes, connect with fellow adventurers, and strengthen the Nordic packrafting scene.

Born out of the Swedish Packrafting Meetups, the first official Roundup was held in 2019 and has since become a central event for packrafters in the region. The focus is not only on sharing experiences and discovering new rivers, but also on promoting river safety, self-reliance, and mutual support within the packrafting community.

The Roundup is built around a simple, social concept: a multi-day basecamp in a campsite or outdoor setting where participants can meet, share meals, and enjoy each other’s company. All river outings are self-organized by participants, who form their own groups and take full responsibility for their own safety and decisions on the water. The organizers do not lead trips or provide guided tours—this is a gathering, not a commercial event.

Run entirely by volunteers and without profit, the Nordic Packraft Roundup is about creating space for connection, learning, and adventure—while helping the Nordic packrafting community grow stronger, one paddle stroke at a time.

.

Our Core Values

At the heart of the Nordic Packraft Roundup are three essential values that guide everything we do: river safety, inclusion, and nature preservation.

1. River Safety

Since the very beginning of the Roundup, river safety has been a central focus of our gatherings. We believe that all packrafters—whether beginners or experienced paddlers—should have access to knowledge and practices that help them stay safe on the water. Our events emphasize group management, personal safety awareness, proper equipment use, and river rescue techniques. Through workshops, informal exchanges, and peer learning, we strive to spread a strong safety culture within the Nordic packrafting community.

2. Inclusion for All

Everyone is welcome at the Nordic Packraft Roundup. We are committed to creating a space where all participants, regardless of gender identity, background, or experience level, feel safe, seen, and respected. Our events are built on openness, kindness, and mutual respect. It is important to us that every person who joins feels free to be themselves and part of a supportive and inclusive community.

3. Protection of Nature and Wild Rivers

As packrafters, we are deeply connected to the natural landscapes and rivers we explore. Protecting these places is not only a responsibility, but also a passion we share. We actively promote the preservation of free-flowing rivers and oppose harmful dam projects. We also encourage participants to follow Leave No Trace principles and take care of the ecosystems we travel through. Maintaining healthy, clean rivers is essential for the future of our sport—and for the generations to come.

These values are more than just ideas—they shape how we organize, how we paddle, and how we treat one another and the environment. They are what make the Nordic Packraft Roundup more than just an event: they make it a community.

MEET YOUR HOSTS

Jeremie Lamart – Sweden and Norway events

Jeremie Lamart is a dedicated packrafter and kayaker who’s been paddling rivers since 2011. Based in Sweden, he’s the founder of the Swedish Packrafting Association and the mind behind the Nordic Packraft Roundup. Jeremie is an international river guide and whitewater instructor with the Norwegian Paddling Association. Passionate about whitewater, he’s organized many community events in Sweden and Norway, always with a strong focus on river safety and sharing knowledge. Teaching is one of his biggest passions—whether it’s helping others gain confidence on the water or building connections through the river community. For him, it’s all about safe adventures, wild rivers, and the people you meet along the way.
Contact for events in Sweden and Norway: jeremie.lamart@gmail.com

Caj Koskinen – Finland event