Checklist for Boating

One of the best ways to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip is to prepare yourself with the appropriate equipment for your outdoor activity. Those who own a boat or are planning to rent a boat for a quick watercraft excursion get to reap the benefits of ample storage during their outdoor activity. But with larger watercraft comes larger needs, especially in terms of safety and emergency equipment. Here’s a rundown of everything you’ll need for your boating excursion, whether you’re opting for a pontoon boat, speedboat, sailboat, or other type of small propelled watercraft.

Click here  to download a printable PDF shopping list.

Essential Boat Equipment

Aside from your boat itself, there are a few additional items that are essential (and sometimes mandatory based on laws and regulations) for your boating trip. Remember to keep your passenger counts in mind, as this will alter the amount of items you’ll need to bring aboard. Keep in mind that many of these essentials will be stored within your vessel as a semi-permanent or permanent fixture.

Basic Gear

In addition to many of the essentials, you’ll want to ensure that your boat is stocked with all of the basics to prepare you for any variety of situation that may arise. While these items may be less permanent within your vessel, they’re still a necessity nonetheless.

Travel Items and Miscellaneous Gear

Because many will need to travel in order to reach the local waterway, there are many travel items to consider. Additionally, we’ll cover many of the miscellaneous products you can opt to bring depending on which water activities you’ll be getting into!

Clothing

While one may consider the minimalist perspective for watersport attire, boaters should take into consideration their exposure to the sun when out on the water and well as their exposure to the elements. As we’ve mentioned before, shorter and more casual trips may require less attire than someone planning a multi-day trip. Remember that it’s always recommended to dress in layers that can be easily removed as temperatures rise, although boaters have the advantage of storage and space for extra clothing layers when out on the water.

First Aid

As an essential to any trip, first aid can help to ensure that minor accidents and ailments are taken care of. Those participating in watersports aboard a boat or other dry area will have the benefit of being able to bring more first aid items than, say, a swimmer would. If you keep your first aid kit aboard your boat, then be sure to check its integrity before leaving dockside.