Essential Checklist for a Family Day on the Water

When it's time to hit the water and get out on the boat, it's important to have everything you need. From sunscreen to snacks, there are plenty of things to remember. Here's a quick checklist you can use before you spend a family day on the water with one of the boats from Jax Boat Club.

boating checklist

The Basics

Your family day on the water checklist should start with a few basic things, such as:

  • Swimsuits

  • Towels

  • Life Jackets

  • Swimming gear

  • Floats

  • Sand Toys

  • Sunscreen

  • Sunglasses

These basic items are necessary to make the day easier, safer and a success. Make sure everybody has a swimsuit and you have plenty of towels. Of course, Jax Boat Club Members can pick the water toys they want from the club inventory and don’t forget the pump.

Depending on your plans and the type of water you'll be on, make sure to wear and take appropriate clothes and jackets.

Food and Snacks

Taking food and snacks out on the water just makes sense when you plan to take the entire family. Everybody is going to get hungry at some point and making sure everybody can stay fed will help to make the day go smoother.

Make sure you bring food that makes sense with your day out on the water, along with all the supplies you need to prepare and serve the food. If you plan to do any grilling or cooking, make sure you have everything you need and check your fuel source (propane or charcoal). Don't forget the matches and aluminum foil can go a long way when cooking on a day out on the water.

Food is just the start as you will also need to pack beverages and ice. No matter the type of day you plan to have, make sure you pack plenty of water and other beverages for the entire family.  For Jax Boat Club Members, the ice is at the dock waiting for you [and it’s free too!]

Other Items to Consider for Your Family Day on the Water

There are several types of days out on the water you can enjoy if you decide to take a Jax Boat Club boat out. You may not need some of the items above, but you may need other items. For example, if you plan to stop for a meal, you may not need to pack as much food or cooking supplies. Instead, you just need to know which restaurant you will go to and make sure they offer access from the water.  Check out the Cruising Area Map on the Jax Boat Club Website.  https://jaxboatclub.com/our-cruising-area

Depending on the type of day you plan to have on the water, you may want to consider some of the following items:

  • Ziploc bags for phones and cameras

  • Cleaning wipes

  • Trash bags

  • Fishing gear and license

  • Bug spray

  • A first aid kit

  • Paper towels

  • Flashlights and batteries

  • Swiss army knife

  • Swim diapers for babies or toddlers (extras)

  • Extra change of dry clothes

There are several other items you may decide to pack for your family day on the water. The key is to make sure you have everything you need without overpacking and causing yourself issues with getting everything from your vehicle onto the boat.