Whether it’s a day at the lake or the family fishing trip, a day on the water can do you a world of good.
And for families looking to get their kids to unplug, a boating trip is your best bet for an enjoyable time to be had by all.
But what should you pack for the perfect day on the water? Well, don’t worry, Proud American Traveler has put the list together for you.
It’s everything you’ll need for your next watery adventure!
Bring Toys For All Ages
Whether you’re forty or four, a good bet is to bring water toys or equipment to keep your boatmates entertained.
If you’re into fishing, then you know that quality rods make a big difference.
But it’s also critically important that you bring the extra equipment to make fishing a success. Don’t forget your tackle box and a bucket for starters.
Inflatables and water toys are also a must-have for kids – as long as someone is supervising.
Water guns, blow-up rafts, and floating water toys will all be a blast.
And while Dad is still waiting for the fish to bite, don’t forget to break out the snorkels and fins too!
Keep it Safe
Safety is a bigger concern on the water than your average Sunday hike. Trouble can happen in an instant, so it’s vital you’re prepared for whatever happens.
With that in mind, make sure you take the family first-aid kit out on the water and train everyone on how to use each item.
But preventative safety is just as important! Make sure you bring plenty of sun protection, floaties for the kids, and overhead cover like a parasol or beach umbrella.
Perhaps most important of all, make sure there’s a life jacket on board for everyone. And be sure to locate where they’re stored before you leave the dock.
Wear Fun, but Smart Accessories and Outfits
Of course you want to look good for all the photos you’re going to take with the crystal blue water in the background, but be smart about how you do it.
A little preparation can go a long way into making your trip both stylish and enjoyable.
First, ask yourself if footwear has a good grip. Ship decks can be slick to begin with, but a thin layer of water can turn them into a slip-n-slide. Pack shoes with good traction!
If you’re thinking about wearing the all-white beach outfit like the models wear, take a second to think about what you’re getting into. Boats are known to move and sway, and you don’t want to spill wine or fish guts all over your flashy white shirt or sundress.
Also keep in mind that most white clothing is see-through when wet.
And for those bringing hats, make sure they fit snugly around your head. Think twice about wide-brims — you don’t want to lose your headgear to the ocean breeze!
Stay Refreshed and Relaxed
A couple of the smartest investments you can make before your trip is a quality cooler and a solid beach bag.
Whether you’re going boating or just taking a trip to the river or lake, three things are a must – drinks, ice, and a cooler.
The thing about being on the water is there’s usually not much blocking the sun, and if you’re out there, it’s usually hot. Make sure your cooler can keep ice for at least 24 hours. Between the blazing heat and constant access, your cooler won’t keep cold as long as it says it will.
A beach bag is perfect for at least three things: sun block, snacks, and towels. Some of the better ones on the market have 3 pouches for snacks, 2 for drinks, one for sun block, and cargo space for six towels. Taking multiple trips from the car to the boat or beach can put a damper on your whole day.
Invest in a good bag and you’ll be down to one trip.
Capture the Memories
Our final tip is to bring a good camera.
If you’re comfortable bringing a more expensive camera along, be sure to always keep it strapped down to your body or tucked neatly into a compartment onboard your boat.
A safer bet is to bring a waterproof camera or waterproof case for your phone (a zip-lock bag could even work for this).
Whatever you do, be sure to capture the memories of your time out on the water!
Did we leave anything off our list?
Or is there something you could live without?
Let us know in the comments section below!
