A day on the water sounds like heaven. Whether solo or bringing your loved ones along, it’s important to know what to bring on a boat day to be prepared for whatever. We’ve compiled a list of 10 boat day essentials for your next trip. Use this as a packing list for boating trips year-round.
1. License and Registration
Have your boat registration to prove that you operate within your state’s legal requirements. Take your fishing license on board, as well, in case you get the urge to angle.
2. Cellphone or Marine Radio
Keep a fully charged cellphone on hand in case of an emergency. If you’d prefer to keep your phone at home, take a marine radio. Write down and memorize the numbers of frequencies of the police, Coast Guard or maritime patrol.
3. Cooler With Water And Snacks
Pack some water bottles and snacks in an airtight cooler for your trip. Hunger or thirst can put a damper on a happy outing.
4. First Aid Kit
Stock a waterproof first aid kit before you set off. It’s better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it.
5. Motion Sickness Pills
Unexpected queasiness or seasickness is always possible on the water, especially if you’re with other passengers. Keep a pack of motion sickness pills in your first aid kit.
6. Depth Finder
Keep your boat from landing in trouble with a digital depth finder gauge to steer away from shallow waters. Or keep a portable depth finder device on board.
7. Life Jackets
It’s always a possibility that your guests forget their life jackets. Keep some spares, including smaller ones for kids. If you’re going on the water with your favorite four-legged friend, bring a life jacket for dogs.
8. Sunscreen and Sunglasses
Prevent sunburn and grab a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF. On that same note, take sunglasses with you to prevent glare from interfering with your vision. Get a wide-brim hat to keep the rays off your face, too.
9. Fire Extinguisher
All vessels need to have a working fire extinguisher on board. You may already have one on your boat, but make sure it works.
10. Extra Clothes and a Towel
You don’t want to be sitting in wet clothes in the event of a boat wake or bad weather. Keep a dry change of clothes and pack a towel.
Need a Dock to Call Home? Call EZ Docks
We hope this list of essential things to take on a boat for day trips was helpful! Looking for a great place to dock as you head home? Contact EZ Docks to learn more about setting up a low-maintenance floating dock for your residential property.