There are still a couple of months left in the boating season, and a chance to gather family or ‘the gang’ and plan a day on the water at the Blue Mesa, Horsetooth, Chatfield or Cherry Creek Reservoirs.
One good thing about planning a day trip is you don’t need a lot of gear. Or do you?
Any voyage out on the water requires at least a few of the necessities. Here is our checklist of things you need to have on board.
For Safety
It’s the law that everyone on board–Grandpa down to Baby Jane–needs a PFD or life jacket. Even for a quick picnic spin around the lake.
The rest is normal boating gear: fire extinguishers and flares, first-aid kit, airhorn and whistle, throwable life ring and boat hooks, VHF radio and binoculars.
Never skimp on safety. Because when you need one of these items and you don’t have it, you’re in a boating emergency.
For Refreshments
Now if you’re doing a picnic cruise for your daytrip, you probably already have most of this stuff. And it’s probably delicious, too! But here’s some things to remember to have along.
Beverages and extra water (gotta stay hydrated). Food and extra snacks. Extra ice and icepacks. Utensils like plates, bowls, cutlery (plastic or not).
For Comfort
Especially at this time of year, weather conditions can change on a dime, so always be prepared.
You always need plenty of sunscreen, sunglasses, lip balm, and wide brimmed hats. Even in the fall, exposure to harsh sunlight, especially out on the water, can be harmful.
Depending on where you’re going, bug spray is always handy to have on board. Aloe vera or other soothing lotions in case the bugs bite.
Make sure you have enough towels and blankets on hand to keep everyone on board dry and comfortable. A sudden squall or even just hitting someone’s wake the wrong way can send water flying into your boat, and a wet kid (or Grampa) is an unhappy kid.
Extra clothes, hair ties, anti-nausea medication … all should be kept on board.
For Clean-Up
Once the day trip is over, the clean-up will begin. Bring plenty of garbage bags, recycling bags, and rags and paper towels to help get the boat ship-shape in no time.
Don’t forget
For the kids: plenty of games, floaties, books, water toys and more.
For everyone: good music, phones and cameras (charge them up before leaving the dock), deck of cards, bathing suits.
Once you’ve got the necessities covered, you can set out on your Day Trip and just have a great time!
