10 Essentials for a Family Boating Trip

Planning a family boating trip sounds like fun—and it absolutely can be—but only if you cover the basics first. You see, being out on the water means you’re away from stores, restaurants, and sometimes even cell service. That’s why it’s better to think ahead. What will keep everyone comfortable, fed, safe, and entertained?

This list covers the essentials that can make or break the day. Nothing fancy here—just practical stuff that too many people forget until it’s too late. So before you fire up the engine, here’s what you’ll want to have checked off your list and packed on board.

Research the boat before getting on it

You see, not all boats are created equal, and just because something looks good in a listing doesn’t mean it’s right for your family. Look at the specs, check reviews, and don’t be shy about asking questions before committing.

Also, talking to people who actually use boats—especially local boat lease club members—can give you insights that you won’t find online. These folks often know which rental places are reliable and which ones cut corners. A five-minute conversation might save your entire trip from turning into a stress fest.

Make sure everyone has a life jacket

Bringing enough life jackets might seem obvious, but it’s shocking how many people overlook it or assume rentals provide them. You see, if you’re bringing your own, you control the quality and fit. Each family member—yes, even confident swimmers—should have one that actually fits properly and feels comfortable to wear all day.

Check that they’re approved by the U.S. Coast Guard. That label isn’t just a formality—it means the jacket meets real safety standards. Anything less, and you’re taking unnecessary risks. It’s not just about legality, either. In an actual emergency, that approval could be the difference between safety and panic.

Pack enough food and drinks

It’s easy to underestimate how much everyone will want to snack once you’re out on the water. The mix of sun, excitement, and motion makes people hungry fast. Bring food that’s easy to grab and eat, like sandwiches or wraps. Messy food and boats don’t exactly mix well.

Moreover, don’t skimp on drinks. Pack a ton of water, maybe more than you think you’ll need. Hydration matters even more on a hot boat deck. Juices or flavored drinks can help keep kids happy, too. And yes, bring a cooler. Warm drinks and soggy sandwiches can turn a fun trip into complaints central.

Bring sun protection

High-SPF sunscreen isn’t optional on a boat. The reflection off the water can burn your skin quicker than you’d expect. Lather up before getting onboard and bring it with you for touch-ups. No one wants to come back red and sore from what should’ve been a great day.

Hats and sunglasses make a huge difference, especially for kids. Go for wide-brim hats if you can. They protect more than just your face. Sunglasses with UV protection aren’t just about looking cool—they’ll keep everyone from squinting all day and help avoid headaches and eye strain.

Have a basic first-aid kit onboard

Bandages and antiseptic wipes are a must. Someone always manages to get a scrape or minor cut, whether it’s from a fishing hook or climbing in and out of the boat. You don’t need a full ER kit—just enough to handle common sense stuff without stress.

Seasickness can catch even seasoned boaters off guard. Bring something for that, just in case. Chewable tablets or wristbands work well for kids. It’s way better to have it and not need it than to deal with a woozy kid in the middle of the lake with zero supplies.

Plan bathroom breaks or onboard options

Knowing where the marinas with restrooms are can be a trip-saver. You see, even short outings can feel long when someone suddenly has to go. Planning ahead for stops keeps everyone more relaxed and avoids awkward moments mid-lake.

If your boat doesn’t have a toilet, think about getting a portable option. They’re not glamorous, but they get the job done. Pair that with wipes and hand sanitizer, and you’ve covered the basics. It’s not the most fun topic to think about—but trust me, you’ll be glad you did.

Charge and bring your phones

Charge your phone the night before like your trip depends on it—because it kind of does. You’ll want it for maps, weather checks, playlists, and emergency contact. Plus, you know someone’s going to want to take photos every ten minutes.

Use a waterproof pouch. Even if you swear your phone’s “water-resistant,” it’s not invincible. A little splash or sudden dip is all it takes to turn your screen into a paperweight. Bring a backup battery, too. Navigation and music apps love to eat up power when you need it most.

Keep kids entertained

Waterproof games or small activities go a long way toward keeping kids happy. A few boredom-busters in your bag can make the difference between “best day ever” and “are we done yet?” Think simple: card games, coloring sets, maybe a waterproof camera if they like taking pictures.

Include them in the boating itself. Let them steer (with supervision) or help with ropes. It gives them something to focus on and helps them feel involved. Bored kids become cranky fast, but if they feel like part of the crew, the day becomes an adventure instead of just a ride.

Prepare for sudden weather changes

Checking the forecast isn’t enough. Weather apps don’t always catch fast-moving changes on the water. Bring a couple of light rain jackets, even if it’s supposed to be sunny. The second clouds roll in, you’ll be glad you didn’t leave them behind.

Pack a dry bag for your phone, wallet, and anything else you’d rather not get soaked. Towels are smart too—not just for swimming but for surprise rain. Boat cushions dry slowly, and no one likes sitting on a soggy seat for the rest of the trip.

Know boating rules and safety protocols

Learning the right-of-way rules is a must. You don’t want to end up in someone else’s path just because you assumed they’d move. It’s not as complicated as it sounds, and even a quick refresher the night before can help you feel a lot more confident out there.

Assign someone to help keep watch. It’s hard to see everything, especially if kids are running around or you’re focused on steering. A second set of eyes makes a huge difference in spotting swimmers, debris, or other boats that sneak up faster than expected.

Wrap up

A successful family boating trip isn’t about luck – it’s about being prepared. Most of the things that go wrong out there are the kind you could’ve seen coming if you gave it five minutes of thought. Also, small things like snacks, sunscreen, or a phone charger might not seem like a big deal until you need them and they’re missing.