KB

We use a "Northwater Peaked" deck bag for all the above equipment and we dont find large effect from wind (14' WS tsunami) If you paddle sideways to winds for 80% of your trip I agree with the bare deck thought; however if you dont these low profile deck bags are great. Heres a link.
http://www.northwater.com/html/products/sea_kayak/SKsubdirectory/Peaked-Deckbag.html