We take our boat out a lot, especially during the summer months. So, I am now able to pack my boat bag quickly because when you have 3 boys (ages 7, 6, and 3) begging you to leave, you learn to move quick. My husband’s goal is that we bring the bare minimum and I get that since we have limited space on the boat. But he knows I’m bringing my bag and what I fit in it, goes.
Related Posts: Essential Items for Boating with Kids, Silver Glen Springs by Boat with Kids , Boat Day to Blue Spring State Park with Kids
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. That means if you click on a link and make a purchase I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Here is what is in my bag:
- The bag itself – I have tried several boat bags, and I now have a clear favorite. I love the SCOUT original deano tote. That is what is pictured here. On days when we are doing a quick boat ride and I don’t bring as much, I also love my Go Skoot tote. It is smaller and can be hosed down afterwards, same as the SCOUT.
- Towels – On the bottom, I put our towels as the base (if this is a day when we will be swimming).
- Water bottles – I do prefer bringing water bottles for the kids versus them pulling a plastic water bottle from the cooler. The Thermos funtainer I find to be more lightweight than others, so I like to bring these ones with. For my youngest, I have the Thermos funtainer with straw.
- Sunscreen – Supergoop is currently my favorite sunscreen. My husband does not allow sunscreen spray bottles on the boat, so I bring the lotion and stick.
- Sunglasses
- Hats
- Lots of snacks
- Change of clothes (this is usually a pair of dry shorts for the boys to throw on in the car when we leave but sometimes I bring an extra swimsuit as well; just depends on what kind of day we are having)
- Mesh pouches – I love these mesh pouches, and I use them for everything (one for snacks, one for dry clothes, one for sunglasses and sunscreen…you name it).
- Diapers & Wipes – I no longer need to worry about diapers, so these are not currently in my bag, but I used to use one of the mesh pouches to put diapers and wipes in. I would bring these Arm & Hammer bags as well.
- Goggles – I don’t always bring goggles, depends on where we are going, but sometimes they are needed.
That is what is in my bag! One item I am on the hunt for is a dry bag for myself for phone, boat keys, etc. It would be really helpful when we are going to one of the springs. I’m eyeing this one from Booe or this one from Bote. They are not the most affordable options but when I read the reviews of some of the other cheaper options, they are hit or miss. I would prefer to spend a little more and make sure it works as expected. I will write an update once I find one I like. If you have one that you like, please email me and share!!
Hope this helps and happy boating!