According to data from Statista, over 87 million U.S. adults participate in recreational boating—which includes fishing, skiing and travelling. Each boating trip is different, but what you need to bring on your boat still remains the same. It’s important to plan your your trip the right way. Whether it’s warm or cold out, everyone loves a good boating trip. Here’s a checklist of what to bring on every boat trip, courtesy of USA Today.

Safety Equipment

First things first, safety is always of the utmost importance. It’s always good to plan in case for emergencies, and there are some basic necessities that you’ll need to bring no matter where you’re going.

• First Aid Kit – Take a first aid kit stocked to the brim with all of the essentials. Sunscreen, lip balm and anti-seasickness medications should be at the top of the list. Also take any other medications that you have to bring with you. You never know when the seas could go wild or someone could fall ill, and if you’re far from shore you’ll need to take care of them quickly.
• Life Jackets – Make sure there’s a life jacket for every single person on the boat. It’s imperative that everyone has a life jacket, whether you know how to swim or not, and whether they’re planning on going in the water or not. This includes infants and young children.
• Nautical Charts – These can make up for where GPS may fail. If anything, they’ll perfectly supplement any GPS system on board.
• Two-Way Radio – Since cell phones don’t always work at sea, it’s especially important to make sure you have one of these handy. This way you can stay in contact while at a port. Be sure to also take an international calling card with you, just in case you need it.

Sun Protection

If you’re planning on venturing out during the day, make sure to take these items to protect yourself from the sun’s rays.

• Hats – Definitely don’t forget that your face needs to be covered. Whether it’s warm or cold out, you’re going to need to be able to see properly. Make sure your face is properly shielded with a nice hat.
• Polarized sunglasses – These will come in handy on top if the hat, especially when venturing out during the day.
• Sunscreen – Even if you applied sunscreen before setting sail, don’t forget to reapply throughout the day.

Fun Items

Don’t forget to have fun on the water! Here are some things to bring to enhance your good time.

• Camera – You’re going to want one of these for all those sunset and ocean photos.
• Binoculars – These will come in handy if you see something out at sea and want a closer look.
• Fishing gear – This includes chum kits.
• Games – Books for leisure reading time are helpful for when it’s slow, and games will be a great addition if you’re bringing your family (particularly children) out with you.

Miscellaneous Necessities

There are a few items that fall into the category of “must-haves” for your boating trip. These are:

• Adequate clothing – Bring a couple days’ worth of clothing; you’ll thank yourself later. It’ll come in handy. If you plan on going ashore for some shopping, bring clothing suitable to walk around in, and bring an extra set to change into just in case you happen to get wet.
• Toiletries – Bring everything. Pack extra soap, deodorant and lotion.
• Snacks – There will be downtime, and you’ll get hungry and sluggish. Bring gum and mints as well.
• Water – Bottled water is a necessity, particularly if you’re taking a long trip in the hot sun. The last thing you want is to become dehydrated.

Boat Insurance

As you begin the planning process for your boat trip, make sure to secure a great Boat Insurance policy for your vessel and your boaters. At Mariners, we specialize in insurance for California boats, and we’d be more than happy to answer your questions and help you to select the right amount of coverage for you and your boat.

About Mariners Insurance

Mariners General Insurance Group was founded in 1959 to protect boat owners and marine business clients. We are marine insurance experts and insure boats worldwide – in every ocean on the planet. Marine insurance is critical if you own a boat or nautical business. Trust the professionals with all of your Boat Insurance needs – trust Mariners Insurance. Call us at (800) 992-4443 any time you have questions or concerns about insurance for your vessel or marine business.