Boating Essentials: Top 10 Things you Need on a Boat
- by Joe Weber - updated on 8/17/2022
Being prepared for a day out on the water is not just about having your water toys ready to go. There are several things that all boat operators should have on their boat before heading out. Read on for the 10 things that every boat owner should have on their boat for a day out on the water.
- Cameras
You don't want to miss those great moments when you are having fun on the water. Bring a camera to document your fun adventures or that epic catch to tell your friends. Not only is a camera good for capturing memories, but it is also ideal to document any incidents that may happen to your boat when out on the water.
- Cell Phone
You never leave home without it. Don't leave the car without it either. Bring your cellphone with you on the boat in case of emergencies.
- Safety Equipment
Every state has laws around life jackets. Make sure you know the laws in your state to stay safe and avoid fines. As a general rule, every person onboard should have a life jacket. Small children, under 13 years old, should wear a life jacket whenever the boat is in motion.
Other important safety equipment to have on board are throwable floatation devices, fire extinguishers and visual and audio signaling devices.
- Portable Power
Have a portable power station or a portable power brick to make sure that everyone's devices are charged the whole day. Goal Zero's Sherpa 100AC Power Bank is a great option to take with you. Packed with 25,600mAh it is strong enough to charge multiple devices, multiple times. Pair it with a lightweight and portable solar panel to charge up the power bank while you are out enjoying the day.
- Cords for electronics
Make sure you have cords to charge phones, cameras and other devices while out on the boat.
- Food and drink for the day
Being out in the sun and heat for a long period of time can be dangerous if you don't hydrate. Have plenty of beverages and snacks to stay fed and hydrated so you can enjoy the day.
- Emergency repair items
Most people don't want to bring an entire toolbox with them when they go out boating, but a small chest with some emergency items is a good idea to bring along.
Items that you should have handy in case of emergencies:
- Duct tape
- Electrical Tape
- Screwdrivers
- Adjustable wrench
- Portable jump pack in case of a dead battery
- Flashlights
- Proper documentation
In most states, there are laws requiring that you carry proper documentation for your boat and yourself. Check your specific state's requirements but most will require you to have in your possession the boat's registration, boater education card, and ID or driver's license.
- Waterproof bags
No one wants to replace expensive electronics due to water damage. Waterproof dry bags are available in many shapes and sizes to fit your needs. Save money by protecting your gear from water damage.
- GPS locator
Although rare, emergencies happen. If you are stranded out on a large body of water, say a great lake or the ocean, you will want to have a personal locator beacon so the authorities can easily find you and get you back to safety.
What Else Should I Have For A Successful Boating Trip?
Arguably the most important thing to have for your boat is a good battery. For the strongest, most reliable battery for your boat look no further than Batteries Plus' exclusive X2Power Premium AGM Marine batteries. X2Power offers Starting, Deep Cycle, Dual Purpose and Lithium Deep Cycle options to fit all of your boat's power demands. X2Power offers some of the longest warranties on the market so you can worry less about your battery and enjoy more time on the boat.
Replacement Boat Batteries and Accessories at Batteries Plus
Looking for some of the items on this list? Stop by your local Batteries Plus to see our great selection of flashlights, power banks, and solar chargers to take with you on your boating adventures.
Ready to learn more about which brand of battery is best for your boat? Read our blog article titled "Which Brand of Battery is Best for Your Boat?" to learn more.