Setting off on an extended nautical adventure? Here’s a concise checklist of 10 essential items to ensure your voyage becomes an unforgettable experience.
Some might find this subject amusing. However, as someone raised on Montana’s wide-open plains – not everyone is familiar with the essentials of a full day on the water!;)
Grateful for some fantastic friends who’ve let me tag along on several day excursions! Each outing has been a learning experience, and I thought it would be helpful to share the insights I’ve gathered. So, grab your pen and start packing. It’s time for a relaxing boat day on the sea or a lake!
A Dozen Essentials for a Boat Outing + Helpful Hints for a Perfect Day!
1. Sunscreen plus Eye Protection
I go to great lengths to steer clear of sunburn. Not only do I consider it detrimental to skin health, but I also find the resulting irritation quite unpleasant!
To safeguard against sunburn, initiate protection by applying the initial layer before you even step out the door, and remember to top up as the day progresses.
Don’t forget to don your sunglasses to shield your eyes from the intense reflection bouncing off the water’s surface.
While it may cost a bit more, this particular formula is a lifesaver for my reactive and allergy-prone complexion.
2. A Slim, Rapid-Drying Cloth
Any cloth will serve a purpose, but a slim, rapid-drying option (like this one) conserves precious bag space – and yes, it lives up to its name! It’s ideal if you plan a dip and also serves as a leg covering or a light poncho if the evening breeze turns chilly.
3. Wide-Brimmed Headwear
I haven’t added one to my collection yet, but I’m eager to find a version like this! I tested one recently and found it indispensable for a boat outing. Seek out a broad brim, a secure neck strap (to prevent it blowing away in gusts), and a rear adjustment for a comfortable fit on any head size.
4. Hydration Vessel and Ample Liquid!
Staying hydrated is critical when exposed to the sun for an entire day. Consume plenty to avoid heat-related illness. This specific bottle is my top pick, and my companion swears by its excellence. We often add ice cubes to ours, and by day’s end, the cubes were still making noise! Icy refreshment is incredibly revitalizing on a warm outing.
5. Refreshments Stored in a Chill Chest
We adore this budget-friendly compact cooler for short excursions. We stock ours with a few ice packs and stow away snacks such as:
- Savory wraps (filled with deli meats, vegetables, and cheese)
- Creamy yogurt
- Fresh berries (cherries, blueberries, or strawberries are our top picks)
- Energy-boosting granola bars
- And, remember to pack a portable cutlery set if you intend to bring items requiring utensils!
6. Footwear that handles water
Should you decide to moor close to the coast and step onto a beach, having footwear suitable for water entry on a rocky shore is useful. These Summer sandals are my go-to, versatile choice. These and these also present as excellent water-ready selections.
7. A bathing suit
Even if you doubt your desire to swim, a change of heart after several sunlit hours is possible; pack a swimsuit just in case!
(A quick note: As I age, swimming attire becomes less appealing to me! Nevertheless, I truly enjoy swimming, so I wear my swimsuit regardless. I favor a tankini top paired with swimsuit shorts bottoms. This striped tankini top and navy swim shorts look quite charming.)
8. Lip balm with sun protection
Lips that are dry, cracked, or burned from the sun feel terrible. Remember to carry lip balm with sunscreen to keep your lips nourished all day. (Did I just make a little joke?;))
9. Binoculars
You might spot whales in the distance! Keep a pair of binoculars handy to observe them more closely.
10. Your wallet or currency
Vancouver Island boasts charming marinas tucked away in various spots. A stop at one with a shop could be nice. Treating yourself to an ice cold Hagaan Daas salted caramel ice cream bar would be delightful! You will need some money for this. This slim wallet, favored by my husband, is very convenient!
11. Sweatshirt or sweatpants
Layering is the proper dress code for boating. Even if the day begins sunny and warm—ideal for shorts and a tank top—it will likely become cool as the sun sets. Bringing a sweatshirt and sweatpants accommodates these temperature shifts. (Also, if rain is forecasted, certainly include rain gear!!)
I own a sweatshirt very similar to this and I adore it. A pair of sweatpants is useful to slip over shorts when the evening cools down.
12. A basic first aid kit
Even if your boat has its own first aid supplies, I prefer carrying a small cosmetic bag with simple first aid items such as band aides, tylenol or advil, and non-drowsy Dramamine (for motion sickness).
Curious to see our boating locations?
I document many behind-the-scenes moments from our life on Vancouver Island, British Columbia Canada on my Instagram. I actually shared some moments from this post, including the whales we saw. Follow me there so you don't miss the fun.
More travel content:
My husband and I enjoy traveling and discovering new locales. Here are some destinations I've previously written about:
- Guidance on visiting The Oregon Coast affordably.
- Our journey to Maui, Hawaii</a was an incredible experience.
- Our experience exploring Savannah, Georgia
- A guide to packing for an 8-day trip using only a carry-on
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