Essentials For Your Boat Bag: What To Pack

When preparing for a boat outing, it's important to be equipped with the right supplies to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Whether you're sailing on calm coastal waters or venturing into deeper seas, having a well-stocked boat bag can make all the difference. From essential safety gear to convenient entertainment options, knowing what to pack will give you peace of mind and enhance your time on the water. So, what should you include in your boat bag? Let's dive in and explore the must-have items for your next aquatic adventure.

Electronics and charging

When preparing your boat bag, it's important to consider the electronics and charging equipment you'll need. Here are some essential items to include:

Electronics

• Smartphone: Your phone is not just a means of communication but also a valuable tool for navigation, checking tides and weather, and entertainment. Ensure it's fully charged before you set out, and consider downloading useful apps such as the USCG App for Emergencies and the FWC App for Boating/Fishing Info.
• Handheld VHF Radio: This is crucial for communicating with rescue services and other boats. Keep it in your grab bag, along with spare batteries.
• Portable Bluetooth Speaker: A waterproof and floating speaker can provide entertainment and atmosphere for your boat trip.
• Power Inverter: A small 12V power inverter can be useful for charging various electronic devices.

Charging

• Portable Charger: While phones can usually stay charged throughout the day, a portable charger provides peace of mind. Solar power banks are an excellent option as they can convert sunlight into electrical energy and store it for later use.
• Battery Charger: A backup battery charger ensures you're not left with a dead device if your main power source fails.
• Dry Bag for Electronics: It's important to keep your smartphones and other electronics dry while on the water. Use a small dry bag or water-resistant bag to protect them from moisture.
• Spare Batteries: Always pack extra batteries for your VHF radio, torch, and any other battery-operated devices.

Safety and survival gear

Safety and survival are paramount when boating, and there are several items you should include in your boat bag to ensure you are prepared for any eventuality.

Communication Devices

A handheld marine radio with extra batteries is a must-have for communication in an emergency. Keep your cell phone on you, along with a charger cord and power bank, to stay connected and use apps for navigation, tide, weather, and music. A satellite phone is also a good idea for long-distance cruises.

First Aid and Medication

A first aid kit is essential and could be a lifesaver in an emergency. Include seasickness pills or tablets, asthma inhalers, and any other medication you need regularly.

Protection from the Elements

The sun, rain, and wind can all pose challenges, so be prepared with sunscreen, sun protection in the form of cover-ups, hats, and UV-blocking sunglasses, and a rain poncho or foul-weather gear.

Tools and Knives

A multi-tool or tool kit, such as a Leatherman, can be invaluable for quick fixes. Include a knife, preferably a pocket knife/pliers combo, and a handheld watermaker to ensure access to drinking water.

Navigation and Signalling

A handheld GPS or VHF device will help you communicate your position and navigate accurately. Flares, a strobe light, and a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) or Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB) will help signal for help and attract the attention of rescuers.

These items will provide a solid foundation for your safety and survival gear, ensuring you are well-prepared for a range of scenarios while boating.

Tools and repair kits

Tool Kit

A small tool kit or a multi-tool like a Leatherman can be incredibly useful and provide solutions to many problems. Some essential tools to include are:

• Flat-head and Phillips-head screwdrivers
• Pliers
• Pocket knife
• Stainless steel tools to prevent corrosion

Repair Kit

If you are sailing offshore or on a longer journey, consider adding a repair kit to your boat bag. Some items to include are:

• Jubilee clips
• Duct tape
• Repair clamp
• Glue
• Spare parts specific to your boat

Other Useful Items

In addition to the tool and repair kits, there are some other items that can come in handy for minor repairs or adjustments:

• Multi-key
• Spare batteries
• Spare fuses
• Rope or twine
• Zip ties

Remember to tailor your boat bag to your specific needs and the type of sailing you'll be doing. It's always better to be over-prepared than under-prepared, so take the time to consider potential issues and the tools you might need to address them.

Entertainment and comfort

When preparing a boat bag, entertainment and comfort items are key to ensuring you enjoy your time on the water. Here are some suggestions for things to pack that will keep you and your crew happy and entertained:

Entertainment:

• Card games: Waterproof card games or a deck of plastic playing cards are a great, compact way to pass the time.
• Music: A portable Bluetooth speaker can connect to any smartphone and provide music on the go. Look for waterproof, dustproof, and shockproof options that can float in the water.
• Solar power bank: While phones can usually stay charged all day, a solar power bank can provide peace of mind as a backup charging option. Solar power banks convert sunlight into electrical energy and store it for later use, even without continued sun exposure.
• Books or e-reader: If you're a bookworm, bring along a book or an e-reader (don't forget to pack the charger!) to relax and pass the time.

Comfort:

• Sun protection: This includes sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher, blocking both UVA and UVB rays), cover-ups, hats, and UV-blocking sunglasses.
• Hydration: Pack plenty of water, especially if you plan to be out in the sun all day.
• Rain gear: A rain poncho or foul-weather gear will keep you dry in case of unexpected rain.
• Warm clothing: Long sleeve shirts or sweatshirts can provide extra warmth if the temperature drops, or if you're out on the water after sunset.
• Dry bags: Use small dry bags to keep your electronics and gear dry. Water-resistant bags are also useful for storing wet swimsuits and towels.
• Water shoes: If you plan to explore islands or beaches, water shoes will protect your feet from rocks and other hazards.

Sun protection

Sunscreen:

Be sure to pack a high-SPF sunscreen, preferably SPF 30 or higher, that offers broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays. Apply sunscreen generously and reapply it frequently throughout the day, especially after swimming or if you've been perspiring.

Clothing:

Wear protective clothing, such as a lightweight, long-sleeved shirt, a hat with a brim to shade your face and neck, and sunglasses with UV protection. Dark-coloured clothing with tight weaves provide better protection against the sun's rays. Consider bringing a lightweight cover-up or beach wrap that you can easily throw on for additional coverage.

Sunglasses:

In addition to providing UV protection for your eyes, polarised sunglasses can help reduce glare from the water, improving visibility and reducing eye strain. Look for sunglasses that wrap around your face to provide extra protection from peripheral sunlight.

Lip Balm:

Don't forget to protect your lips with a lip balm that contains sunscreen. Lips can easily get sunburned, leading to discomfort and blistering. Choose a lip balm with an SPF of at least 15 and reapply it frequently, especially after eating, drinking, or swimming.

Portable Sunshade:

Consider bringing a portable sunshade or beach umbrella that you can set up on your boat. This can provide a shaded area, offering a respite from direct sunlight and helping to keep you cool.

Remember, even on cloudy days, the sun's rays can still be intense, so don't skimp on sun protection. By taking these precautions, you can help prevent sunburn, reduce the risk of skin cancer, and ensure that you have a more comfortable and enjoyable boating experience.

Frequently asked questions