6 Things Kids Should Bring on a Boat

Discover 6 essential items kids should bring on a boating trip for safety and fun, including life jackets, sunscreen, snacks, and more. Plan the perfect family adventure!

Boating is a fantastic way for families to bond, explore nature, and create lasting memories. Whether you’re cruising on a serene lake, navigating a river, or venturing into the open sea, a day on the water offers kids a chance to disconnect from screens and engage with the outdoors. However, taking children on a boating trip requires careful planning to ensure their safety, comfort, and entertainment. From essential safety gear to fun activities, packing the right items can make or break the experience. This comprehensive guide outlines the six must-have items kids should bring on a boat, along with practical tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable outing for the whole family.

1. Life Jackets: Prioritizing Safety on the Water

Safety is the cornerstone of any boating trip, especially when children are on board. A properly fitted, U.S. Coast Guard (USCG)-approved life jacket is non-negotiable for every child, regardless of their swimming ability. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), of the 613 boating-related deaths reported in 2019, 413 involved individuals not wearing life jackets. This statistic underscores the critical importance of this safety gear.

Choosing the Right Life Jacket

• Fit is Key: A life jacket that is too loose or too tight can fail to provide adequate protection. Measure your child’s weight and chest size to select the appropriate size. Infant and child life jackets are designed for specific weight ranges, typically from 8 to 50 pounds.
• USCG Approval: Ensure the life jacket is USCG-approved, as indicated by a label on the device. This ensures it meets stringent safety standards.
• Comfort and Style: Modern options like the Stearns Puddle Jumper combine safety with comfort, offering a rash guard and fun designs that appeal to kids. Prices range from $20 to $40, available at retailers like Cabela’s or Amazon.

Practical Tips

• Check the fit before boarding and ensure straps are secure.
• Pack life jackets for any friends joining the trip, as you’re responsible for their safety.
• Teach kids to keep life jackets on at all times while on the water.

Table 1: Life Jacket Sizes and Specifications

2. Sun Protection: Shielding Kids from Harmful UV Rays

Extended exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays can lead to painful sunburns and long-term skin damage. Protecting kids from the sun is essential for a comfortable and safe boating experience. Sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, and sun-protective clothing form a comprehensive defense against UV rays.

Essential Sun Protection Gear

• Sunscreen: Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30, ideally water-resistant for up to 80 minutes. Apply generously every two hours or after swimming. For children over six months, adult sunscreens are generally safe, as pediatric versions differ mainly in packaging. Recommended brands include Neutrogena (around $10-$15) and Banana Boat ($8-$12), available at most drugstores.
• Hats and Sunglasses: Wide-brimmed hats or UV-protective caps (priced $10-$25) shield the face and neck. Polarized sunglasses ($15-$30) reduce glare and protect eyes.
• Rash Guards: Long-sleeved rash guards ($15-$30) provide UPF 50+ protection and are ideal for swimming. Brands like Speedo and Kanu Surf are popular choices.

Expert Advice

Dermatologist Rebekah Clifford, MD FAAD, emphasizes reapplying sunscreen frequently, especially after water exposure. For infants under six months, rely on shade and clothing for protection, as sunscreen is not recommended.

Practical Tips

• Set a timer to remind you to reapply sunscreen.
• Position the boat in shaded areas during peak sun hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.).
• Pack a pop-up canopy or umbrella for additional shade, priced around $30-$50.

3. Snacks and Drinks: Keeping Kids Hydrated and Energized

Boating activities like swimming and playing in the water can quickly deplete kids’ energy and hydration levels. Packing ample snacks and drinks ensures they stay fueled and happy throughout the day.

Recommended Snacks and Drinks

• Hydrating Drinks: Water is the best choice for hydration, supplemented with fruit-infused drinks or electrolyte-rich options like Gatorade ($1-$2 per bottle). Avoid sugary sodas, which can dehydrate.
• Healthy Snacks: Pack portable, mess-free snacks like fruit slices (watermelon, apples), cheese sticks, granola bars, and sandwiches. Prices for these items typically range from $5-$15 for a day’s supply.
• Spill-Proof Containers: Use products like the Munchkin Snack Catcher ($5-$10) or Nuk Everlast 360 Spill-Proof Cup ($8-$12) to minimize messes. These are widely available at Target or Amazon.

Practical Tips

• Invest in a high-capacity cooler (Yeti or Igloo, $50-$150) to keep drinks and snacks cold all day.
• Encourage kids to drink water regularly, even if they’re engrossed in play.
• Avoid messy snacks like chocolate or yogurt to simplify boat cleanup.

Table 2: Recommended Snack and Drink Containers

4. Entertainment: Keeping Kids Engaged and Happy

Keeping children entertained on a boat prevents boredom and meltdowns, ensuring a pleasant experience for everyone. A mix of familiar toys, water-based activities, and creative outlets can spark joy and engagement.

Entertainment Essentials

• Favorite Toys: A familiar stuffed animal or blanket provides comfort, especially for younger kids. Floating toys like inflatable balls ($5-$10) are ideal for the marine environment.
• Water Games: Water guns ($5-$15) and throwing discs ($10-$20) encourage active play. Brands like Nerf and Wham-O offer durable, floatable options.
• Snorkeling Gear: For older kids, masks, snorkels, and fins ($20-$50 per set) enhance underwater exploration. Cressi and Speedo offer quality sets for kids.
• Books and Journals: Nature-themed books ($5-$15) about marine life encourage learning, while a travel journal ($5-$10) lets kids document their adventures through writing or drawing.
• Waterproof Camera: A budget-friendly waterproof camera like the Fujifilm QuickSnap ($15-$20) or a GoPro Hero ($200-$300) captures memorable moments.

Practical Tips

• Create a scavenger hunt for kids to spot birds, fish, or plants, using a nature book as a guide.
• Rotate activities to maintain interest, alternating between active play and quiet time.
• Store toys in a waterproof bag to prevent loss overboard.

Chart: Boating Activity Flow

5. Practical Items: Preparing for Comfort and Convenience

Practical items like a change of clothes, towels, and a spacious bag streamline the boating experience, ensuring kids stay comfortable and parents stay organized.

Must-Have Practical Items

• Change of Clothes: Pack a full outfit per child, including underwear and socks, in case they get wet. Budget $10-$20 per outfit.
• Towels: Quick-dry microfiber towels ($10-$20 each) are compact and effective. Pack one per child.
• Boat Bag: A large, durable bag like the OdyseaCo Mesh Beach Bag with Cooler ($30-$50) or SupMLC Extra Large Mesh Tote ($20-$40) holds all essentials, including snacks, towels, and toys.
• Insect Repellent: Kid-safe repellents like Cutter Family ($5-$10) protect against mosquitoes, especially near water.

Practical Tips

• Choose a bag with multiple compartments for easy organization.
• Label all items to avoid mix-ups, especially if friends are joining.
• Pack a small air pump ($10-$20) and patch kit ($5-$10) for inflatable toys or tubes.

6. First-Aid Kit: Being Prepared for Minor Mishaps

A well-stocked first-aid kit is essential for addressing minor injuries like scrapes, cuts, or insect bites. Boating environments can be unpredictable, and having supplies on hand ensures quick response to emergencies.

First-Aid Kit Essentials

• Bandages, antiseptic wipes, and antibiotic ointment for cuts and scrapes.
• Tweezers for splinters or ticks.
• Pain relievers like ibuprofen (kid-safe doses).
• Anti-itch cream for bug bites.
• Motion sickness remedies like wristbands ($5-$10) or ginger chews ($3-$5).

Recommended Products

• Johnson & Johnson First Aid Kit: Compact, 140 pieces, $15-$25, available at Walmart or Amazon.
• Sea-Band Wristbands: Non-medicinal motion sickness relief, $8-$12.

Practical Tips

• Store the kit in a waterproof container for easy access.
• Check expiration dates before each trip.
• Familiarize yourself with basic first-aid procedures, such as treating minor cuts or stings.

Additional Tips for a Successful Boating Trip with Kids

To maximize enjoyment and minimize stress, consider these strategies:

1. Plan Engaging Activities: Involve kids in boating tasks like steering (under supervision) or checking navigation charts to foster a sense of responsibility.
2. Prepare for Seasickness: Non-medicinal remedies like ginger ale, peppermint, or going barefoot can help. Consult a pediatrician for kid-safe options if needed.
3. Involve Kids in Planning: Let them choose snacks, toys, or music playlists to build excitement. A teen-friendly playlist on a Bluetooth-enabled boat stereo (like those from Fusion or JL Audio, $200-$500) can set the mood.
4. Teach Water Safety: Brief kids on boat safety rules, such as staying seated while moving and avoiding propellers when swimming.
5. Balance Activity and Rest: Schedule downtime for reading or napping to prevent fatigue, especially for toddlers.

Why Boating is Ideal for Families

Boating offers a unique blend of adventure, education, and relaxation. Kids learn about nature, navigation, and teamwork while enjoying the freedom of the open water. Unlike screen-based entertainment, boating encourages active participation and creativity. By packing the right items—life jackets, sun protection, snacks, entertainment, practical gear, and a first-aid kit—you create an environment where kids can thrive.

Benefits of Boating with Kids

• Physical Activity: Swimming, tubing, and water games promote fitness.
• Mental Stimulation: Observing wildlife and journaling spark curiosity.
• Family Bonding: Shared experiences strengthen relationships.
• Nature Connection: Exposure to ecosystems fosters environmental awareness.

Conclusion

A boating trip with kids can be a rewarding adventure with the right preparation. By prioritizing safety with life jackets and first-aid kits, protecting against the sun, and packing snacks, entertainment, and practical items, you set the stage for a memorable day on the water. Use the checklist below to ensure you’re fully equipped, and let your family dive into the joys of boating with confidence.

Checklist: 6 Things Kids Should Bring on a Boat

• [ ] USCG-approved life jacket (properly fitted)
• [ ] Sunscreen (SPF 30+), hat, sunglasses, rash guard
• [ ] Spill-proof snacks and drinks with a cooler
• [ ] Favorite toys, water games, snorkeling gear, books, or a waterproof camera
• [ ] Change of clothes, towels, large boat bag, insect repellent
• [ ] First-aid kit with kid-safe supplies

With these essentials, your family is ready to cast off and create unforgettable memories on the water. Happy boating!

Happy Boating!

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