Here’s a list of the things you should always bring to your boat.
We have written extensively about all types of boats for a long time, and these are the things we believe should be standard equipment for all captains.
Here are the things you should always bring on a boat:
1) A Handheld Horn (For Backup)
Check out the 616 Eco Blast Rechargeable Boat Air Horn prices on Amazon here!
If the horn on your vessel fails you, it’s great to have a backup.
The horn sometimes dysfunction.
In that case, it’s absolutely crucial to bring a handheld horn you can sound to alert other boats or to get found in case of emergency.
The 616 Eco Blast Rechargeable Boat Air Horn horn is a powerful 120db signal that meets all the USCG requirements!
Make sure to bring a bike pump as you can use it to refill the air tank.
Very handy and easy to fill up with 10-20 pumps!
Believe it or not, a conch horn or other mouth-blown horn is a legal USCG signaling device.
Be prepared to demonstrate to the authorities that you can effectively blow it.
2) Extra Life Vests
Check out the O’Neill Men’s Superlite USCG Life Vest here on Amazon!
This next one is a no-brainer.
You should always bring extra life vests in proper sizes when you are bringing guests on the boat.
Here’s our recommended model.
The O’Neill Men’s Superlite USCG Life Vest is a prevalent model, and you can check the sizes and numbers on the chart that’s uploaded as an image on the product listing!
You must ensure that each passenger’s life jacket fits them and is proper for their particular weight.
Children’s life jackets are essential, especially when it comes to fit. Children under a certain age are also required to wear life jackets at all times while on the boat.
These regulations change based on area, so you will want to know your laws.
If you are venturing offshore, be sure to have a life jacket with safety harness attachments.
3) First Aid and Safety Kit
You can check out the WindRider USCG Boating Safety Kit price here at Amazon!
It is also important to have a first aid kit on board while you are out on the water.
This will help you deal with any emergency that might arise while out on the water or even at the beach.
In your safety kit, you will also need emergency equipment.
You need to make sure it contains:
- Flares in case you need to signify your location. This electronic flare never expires and meets USCG regulations.
(It’s required by law and the coast guards regularly check for these!) - Bandages etc.
- A handy multi-tool with a screwdriver, cutting edges, different wrench sizes, etc.
- A loud whistle
- A water-proof case
A properly packed safety kit can help you in any emergency. You should place all this in a dry box and store it somewhere on the vessel.
The WindRider USCG Boating Safety Kit has an electric flare, a first aid kit, a whistle, a multi-tool, and it comes in a waterproof case!
Be aware that some US Coast Guard vessel classifications require a first aid manual and adequate supplies.
Some other things that you could keep in case of emergency are spare towels or spare clothes.
4) Fire Extinguisher
You can check out the FIRST ALERT Rechargeable Garage Fire Extinguisher prices here at Amazon!
A fire extinguisher is important to have on the boat.
You are required to have a fire extinguisher on board by law. You will want to make sure that it is charged and usable.
Depending on your boat’s size, you may be required to have two or three fire extinguishers. If inspected, you must be able to locate them readily.
You cannot necessarily use a regular fire extinguisher, but you will need a marine fire extinguisher.
Make sure you know the difference and pick up the proper one.
5) Paddle
Check the SeaSense Paddle Boat Hook Telescoping price here at Amazon!
A paddle is a good thing to have in case of engine failure.
Depending on your boat’s size, this might not be feasible, but for smaller boats, this can be a lifesaver.
We recommend the SeaSense Paddle Boat Hook paddle!
We love this paddle because:
- It’s telescopic so that it can fit in small spaces.
- It’s plastic.
- It’s also a hook.
- It’s affordable!
You can even purchase a fold-able paddle that will save space when stored.
6) Jump Starter / Battery Bank
Check the NOCO Boost XL UltraSafe Portable Lithium Jump Starter Pack prices here at Amazon!
In case something does happen with your battery, you will want to invest in a jump pack for your boat, or at least the proper jumper cables for your particular engine.
These can be very useful for other charging needs as well.
With phones becoming an increasing part of our lives, it is good to make sure you have a way to charge them. Your phone can act as a GPS, a way to call for help, or even a flashlight.
With a solar panel, you will often not bring the battery back to a full charge using solar energy alone.
We recommend this bandit from Noco. It will not only jump-start ANY boat engine, but it will also let you charge your electronic devices several times.
Having your own jump pack or cables will ensure that if you need help from another vessel, you are not relying on them having cables.
7) Solar Panel (For Backup Power)
A solar panel can be the best piece of emergency equipment you can buy for your vessel.
Like a car, the battery on your boat can die when used too much while the engine isn’t running.
A boat can use even more battery than a vehicle because you are more likely to casually hang out on a boat and run equipment like lights and the radio. When purchasing a solar panel, you will want to make sure you do not buy one that will “overcharge” your battery.
You can mount the Renogy 100 watt solar panel with silicone adhesive or even velcro! Or you can keep it in the storage departments until you might need it.
A solar panel should not be a complete replacement for other battery chargers, but it can help keep your battery alive while other chargers are not operating.
It can also keep your boat’s batteries topped up when not in use.
8) Dock Lines
Besides safety equipment, there are other things that you need for your boat.
This equipment is often things that are not thought about until they are needed.
You will want to make sure you have every piece of equipment necessary before setting out on your vessel.
There is nothing worse than being out on the water, needing something, and not having it.
Check the NZ Hi-Performance Dock Lines Bag Set and its prices here at Amazon today!
Dock lines are needed to fix your boat to the dock.
You will need dock lines on the boat if you are going to tie up on an unfamiliar dock.
We recommend the NZ Hi-Performance Dock Lines Bag Set! It is double-braided and made of nylon. Each rope has a 12-inch eyelet and resists sun, oil, mold, and rot!
They come with a handy bag, so you always know where they are and avoid getting them tangled up in other stuff.
If you cannot tie up in these areas properly, it could be dangerous to your vessel and the other patrons.
Most of these places will not serve you if you are not properly tied up to their docks.
I myself have lines permanently fixed to our dock and end in clips that fix to the boat. This eliminates the guesswork and effort that can go along with tying off.
9) Fenders
Boat fenders are sometimes called “boat bumpers.”
We recommend the Polyform G Series Boat Fenders which are not only a classic, but very affordable! These are used to make sure that your boat does not bump against things when waves rock it.
These can be used when you tie your boat to a dock or even another boat.
This can be especially useful when tied off to a large metal wall often found on rivers.
It is good to have at least two for the front and the back of the mooring site, but it can’t hurt to have a spare or two.
It is better to be over-prepared, and it can’t hurt to overprotect your boat.
10) Anchors
You can check the prices here on Amazon for the different sizes of Slide Anchors and Box Anchors!
All boats need an anchor.
This ensures your boat does not go anywhere while you are not currently using it or otherwise run the engine.
Each anchor type is better for a different water bottom as well as for different types of vessels. You will want to look up which anchor is right for you.
It is also a good idea to have multiple anchors on your vessel. Having two anchors and two anchor types can be good if you do not know what type of water bottom you are expecting.
Your anchor should include a length of chain to help your anchor set and enough line the length of five times the maximum depth you will anchor in.
Anchors are designed to re-set with changes in wind and current. But check if conditions vary to be sure your anchor doesn’t drift.
Two anchors can also be good if you need to stay extra steady in a crowded area.
Some anchors work better for sand, some work better in mud, and some work better in rocks or grass:
Here’s our guide to the 4 most used types of anchors! It will teach you all the basics you need to know before you choose the best anchor for your boat.
An anchor is vital for your boat’s integrity, and you will want to make sure you research to find the best type for you.
When you pick out an anchor, you will want to make sure you find the right type and size for your boat. Each anchor has a different level of “holding power,” which means you will need a different weight for your boat, depending on which one you choose.
Anchoring tip: Back down on your anchor with your engine in reverse. This will tell you if your anchor is set and also set it deeper in the bottom.
If you are unsure, always opt for the heavier choice. And be sure to have an adequate chain and rode.
11) GPS / Fish Finder
Check out the Garmin Striker 4 Fishfinder and its prices here at Amazon!
GPS navigation devices can be beneficial on your boat.
The Garmin Striker 4 Fishfinder is great because it can:
- High-frequency sonar system to show you what’s in the water
- Will locate fish around you.
- Will mark and safe a good spot for you
- See your position with the waypoints you choose.
If you are going on a boat in unfamiliar waters, a GPS can really help you find your way around. A GPS device used on a boat is often also equipped with depth measures and fish finders.
Knowing the depth can be very important. If the water is too shallow, you will need to know to lift your engine or perform other precautions properly.
Shallow water is also likely to have large obstructions like rocks or trees. If you do not know these are there, you can damage your prop or engine on impact with them.
You also want to know how deep the water is if you intend to jump off while swimming. Like a pool, you will not want to dive into water that is too shallow because you can risk hitting your head.
These devices are getting more technologically advanced every day, and most include touch screen displays.
12) VHF Radio
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A VHF radio is often used to communicate between vessels or between a vessel and shore. These are most commonly used on large ships and small watercraft to set shore in the sea.
This does not mean that you cannot use it on a smaller vessel or a river or lake.
A VHF radio can be used to summon rescue services or other communication needs, including communications with:
- Harbors
- Locks
- Bridges
- Marinas
When going through a lock system, it is required that you be able to communicate with the operators.
Radios communicate on channels. There are multiple channels, and you will want to know which ones to use to get help and the proper protocol on how to use them, including:
There are different protocols to use depending on what type of vessel you are on, what type of water body you are on, and what type of traffic is near you.
13) Navigation Lights
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Each vessel is required to have proper navigation lights.
Navigation lights are required to be used in low visibility cases brought on by conditions like fog or heavy rain.
They are also required when the vessel is away from the dock between sunset and sunrise.
The LEANINGTECH Boat Marine LED Navigation Lights are great! They are incredibly bright and made from durable, waterproof material. They also are very easy to install for beginners.
In the dark, navigation lights can help you see and can also help others to see you.
Navigation lights required are different per vessel. You should never have FLASHING red or blue lights on your vessel.
These are only to be used by law enforcement vessels.
Read our guide here on the rules and best-practice for using navigational lights on your boat. There are some crucial things to know to navigate well and avoid disasters!
Most vessels require a red and green light visible up to at least two miles away. These are used to indicate your boat’s sides and help other boaters know how wide your vessel is.
Depending on your vessel’s length, you may only need one, or you may need one on the front and the back.
You will want to make sure you know what is required of your particular vessel.
You must be able to see while boating in the dark.
A lack of vision can be dangerous for any motorist, and a boat operator is no exception.
14) Binoculars
Check out the Hooway Waterproof Binoculars With Internal Rangefinder & Compass here on Amazon!
These binoculars are a great find because they are both waterproof and they float if you lose them in the water!
It’s always nice to have a good binocular onboard your vessel for spotting things and knowing what might be approaching you, such as other ships or wildlife.
Getting binoculars like these is recommended for a safe experience.
16) Cooler
Most recreational boat owners use their boat for just that, recreation.
The final items on this equipment list are recreational equipment.
Not everything in this category is required, but depending on what you want to do on your boat, you will want to make sure you have the proper equipment for your recreational activities.
This might seem obvious, but if you are going out on a boat and are bringing food and drinks, you will want a cooler.
Check out the cool features here…
It is important that you at least bring plenty of water while boating.
Dehydration can be severe, and you are more susceptible while out on the water with very few shade sources.
You will also want to make sure that you keep drinks and cold food in the cooler. Spoiled food can be bad for you as well.
Be sure to include a bottle opener and wine corkscrew but above all, drink responsibly.
17) Tow Lines
Tow lines can be used for a variety of water sports.
These can include tubing, water skiing, kneeboarding, and other activities.
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You will want to make sure that you purchase or use the proper tow rope length for the sport you plan on participating in.
You will also want to make sure that you have the proper equipment for the sport you are doing.
Certain tubes are not suitable for being pulled behind a boat.
You also want to make sure that your equipment fits and is the right size for you.
While water-skiing,g you want to make sure the skis properly fit your feet.
18) Fishing Rod Holder and other Fishing Equipment
In addition to a depth and fish finder, you can also get fishing equipment for your boat.
Check out the best price here on Amazon.
A fishing rod holder can help you fish without having to hold the fishing rod constantly.
These can be fixed right to your boat. This helps them with their security and holding ability.
When you invest in this, make sure that you do not go too cheap or lose your fishing rod.
Other fishing equipment can include:
- Nets,
- Additional coolers,
- And everything you might fix to the end of your line.
Fishing on a boat is a great way to catch fish that aren’t reachable close to shore or on the side of a river.
19) Floats and Other Swimming Equipment
If fishing isn’t your thing and more into swimming, you should invest in a fun float.
Fun floats are good when you and your passengers are just hanging around and swimming.
You will want to make sure that you do not try and pull them behind the boat if you are using these floats.
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This can be dangerous and will ruin your float.
You can also invest in diving boards, slides, specialty ladders, and other swimming equipment for your boat.
Your ability to use something like a diving board will depend on your boat. These are ideal for pontoon boats and other stable flatboats.
They even sell ladders for your furry friends. This will help your pet get in and out of the water with ease.
As the proud owner of a dog who loves the water, I can tell you firsthand how hard it is to pull a wet dog back into the boat. It becomes even more difficult if you cannot touch the bottom of the lake or river.
20) Summer Toys
If you have children passengers on your vessel, you might want to invest in some toys.
This can help keep them entertained while out for a long day on the water.
Water guns can be a fun toy for children to play with. They will also be easy to fill up when surrounded by water.
If you plan on stopping by a beach, you might want to bring sand toys. This can entertain your smaller passengers while you spend time on the beach.
You can also bring balls, Frisbee, and other toys to play with if you plan on tying off somewhere shallow.
Even some of your adult passengers might like something to do. When we go out on the water, we enjoy a good game of catch.
21) Grills
If you plan on being out all day, you might want to invest in a boat grill. This is a great way to cook a meal while out on the water.
A boat grill is often used on pontoons, but they can be mounted to other boats also.
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These are often mounted to the railing of the vessel.
This is a great way to cook on a steady cooking vessel onboard. You can cook up your summer favorites and enjoy them while out on the water.
The Weber 1000 is a high-quality grill at an affordable price. It can be used on a flat surface or permanently mounted on a rail.
22) Bluetooth Speaker
If you want to play music without the fear of killing your battery,y you can bring a different speaker.
A Bluetooth speaker will allow you to play music without using your boat’s battery. When we use our Bluetooth speaker on our boat, we stream our local radio station.
This is the same music we would play over the boat speakers and allows for continuity.
Because this is an electronic device, you will want to ensure that it is safe from water damage. You will want to put it in a place where it is not likely to get wet.
23) Sunscreen
One important thing you need to bring for recreational boating is sunscreen. Sunscreen is important while doing any outdoor activities but is especially important while out on the water.
The reflection of the water can make the sun’s rays more intense.
Not only will you want a sunscreen that has an SPF of at least 30, but you will want to make sure you apply it as recommended.
Most sunscreens recommend that they must be reapplied every two or three hours. You might even want to apply more often if you are swimming.
While most sunscreens are made to be waterproof, they can become weakened with exposure to water.
What Else Do You Need Onboard Your Boat?
Listed above are some of the equipment you will need while you are boating. This is by no reason an all-encompassing list.
You will need to make sure that you bring all that is necessary if you plan on doing anything else.
One good way to know what is needed for your boat and its maintenance is to check your owner’s manual.
Usually, these will list what is required for your boat and the specifics needed when purchasing equipment.
This will likely list the basic tools needed to work on your engine if a problem arises.
Being prepared can make sure that you have a fun time out on the water and don’t run into any difficulties.
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