The herons weren't pleased. Begin at either Flamingo Visitor Center or Gulf Coast Visitor Center in Everglades City, where boaters must obtain a free backcountry permit and file a trip plan no more than 24 hours in advance. The trip plan reserves campsites. A list of permitted outfitters is available from the park headquarters. Food and fresh water.
Rangers recommend at least a gallon of water per person for each day of the trip.
Water and food should be carted in raccoon-proof containers. Heavy duty resealable baggies of various sizes to keep maps, matches, food and other goods from getting soggy. Watertight metal ammunition boxes from military surplus stores are fairly inexpensive and protect delicate gear from both moisture and concussions. Rain gear and, for winter, cold weather gear. Sunglasses, sunscreen and wide-brimmed hats.