If you’re like most boaters, you take great pride in your vessel and want it to be ready for every cruise. But, before you go, make sure your boat has the following necessities. If you don’t have any of these items, you might have a bad time on the water. Don’t let Murphy’s Law ruin your next trip; instead, prepare your boat for anything!
Cleaning Supplies
Before each trip, make a checklist of everything that needs to be done to prepare the boat. Making sure that all of the cleaning supplies are on board and accounted for is one of the most important items on this list. Everything from mops and buckets to rags and cleaning chemicals is included. The last thing anyone wants to happen during a trip is to run out of cleaning supplies. It would not only be inconvenient, but it could also lead to unsanitary conditions onboard. So, the next time you’re heading out on the water, double-check that all of the cleaning supplies are present. It could save you a lot of trouble later on.
Food & Supplies
No matter how long you intend to be out on the water, bring plenty of food and drink with you. After all, there’s nothing worse than being stranded in the middle of nowhere with nowhere to drink or eat. Pack non-perishable snacks such as granola bars and dried fruit, as well as plenty of water, for your trip. If you’re going to spend a night or two on your boat, bring some easy-to-prepare meals like instant noodles and canned soup. With a little planning, you can ensure that your boating trip is enjoyable from beginning to end.
Navigation Tools
The most basic navigation tools are known to most boaters: a map and a compass. Navigating by map and compass may appear to be an antiquated method, but these tried-and-true tools are still the best way to ensure safe passage on the water. Learning to use these tools will really come in handy, especially if you are in a remote area with no cellphone service.
Safety Gear
While enjoying a beautiful day on the water, it is critical to be aware of safety protocols in the event of an emergency. Lifejackets, flares, and a first-aid kit are all recommended items to have on board at all times. Lifejackets will obviously be useful if anyone falls overboard, and having a variety of sizes on hand can also be beneficial. If you get into trouble, flares can be used as a distress signal, and a first-aid kit will come in handy if someone is injured onboard. Taking these simple precautions can help ensure that everyone onboard has a safe and enjoyable experience.
Consider your needs before venturing out on your boating trip. To ensure that your boat is in good shape, you should stock up on cleaning supplies, food and other consumables, navigational aids, and safety gear to ensure that you are well-equipped for your journey. Your time on the water will be more enjoyable if you have all of these essentials ready to go. In the marketing for a new boat? Check out Rock Outdoors; we have a large selection of new and used boats to pick from!
