Did you know that boat ownership in the US increased by 9% in 2020 from the year before? Whether it’s due to the pandemic or not, Americans are starting to realize that boat trips offer adventure, fresh air, and much more.
But if you’re a first-time boat owner or renter, you might not know anything about packing for a boat trip. It’s not like packing for a road trip or camping trip. There are specific things you need to have fun and stay safe at sea.
Lucky for you, this boat trip guide includes all the essentials you need on your boat trip checklist so you always know what to pack.
1. Safety Equipment
Safety is paramount on any boat trip. If you only remember to bring safety gear, that’s far better than nothing.
This is a list of all the safety equipment you should take on boat trips:
- Floatation devices suitable for every person onboard
- Flares
- Sound signals (horns, etc.)
- Marine radio
- Cell phones and portable battery chargers
- Fire extinguisher
- Torches
It might seem odd to bring a fire extinguisher on boat trips when you’re at sea, but you will need an extinguisher for electrical fires, too.
2. First Aid Kit
Another good piece of boat trip advice is to bring a stocked first aid kit, too. It needs to be a marine-level kit with thermal blankets.
3. Sun Protection
Sun protection is non-negotiable. Even if it’s not sunny when you set off, it might be mid-way through your boat trip. Bring sunblock with at least SPF 30, sun hats, and sunglasses with UV protection.
4. Food and Drink
Of course, you need food and drink on a boat trip! Sparkling wine, beer, and nibbles, right?
You can eat and drink whatever you want on your boat trip (be sensible!) but you need extras for emergencies, too. Bring plenty of water for everyone and lots of tinned/dried food.
5. Boat Paperwork
In most states, you need to carry paperwork with you while sailing a vessel. You should have:
- Boat license
- Boat registration
- Health insurance
- Boat insurance
You might need extra documentation like a fishing license if you are fishing.
6. Fun and Games
How can you throw a party on a boat without fun and games? Bring a Bluetooth speaker so you can crank out the tunes and a waterproof pouch for your smartphone so you can take pictures.
If you’re going on a boat trip with kids, bring games they can play on the boat and in the sea so they won’t get bored.
7. Swimming Gear
If you want to dive off your boat, you will need to pack all the right gear. Bring towels, your swimsuit, and a change of clothes. You can also bring snorkeling gear if there are any cool fish to see where you are sailing.
Now You’re Ready for Some Epic Boat Trips
When you’re in adventure mode, packing sensible items for your boat trips might be the last thing you want to think about. But if you take everything on this list, you will stay safe and have fun at sea.
Boat trips are the perfect way to celebrate a birthday or another special occasion. Browse our website for more fun celebration ideas and guides!
