Gear To Bring While Boating

Whenever one goes out on a walk, climb, camp, or picnic, there are always essentials things that need to be brought along.  Similar guidelines apply with boating, whether you are only staying on the ocean for a day, or if you are staying there for a few days.  There are a couple essentials that you should never forget to bring with you, and if they are on board, they can save your life in a dangerous situation.  If you are just out for a day on the water, several items mentioned in this article still should be brought because they will supply the maximum comfort for your day on the water.

The most critical thing to human survival is water.  Our Bodies are 55% to 78% water, and you can last anywhere from 1 to 3 weeks on H2O alone.  So obviously, the most essential thing to bring on any boating journey is water, and a lot of it.  The sea salt in the ocean wind can suck moisture from your skin, and the sun’s rays coming down upon you also dehydrate you.  By keeping well hydrated, one can prevent dehydration, heat exhaustion, and in extreme cases, dying.  Also bring enough nourishment for the number of days you think you will be out, and add one day.  This will give you an additional meal if everything goes as planned, or a chance to save food in emergencies.

The sun’s rays fall down upon the earth non-stop.  When we receive our 12-14 hours of summer sun, it is not hard to get burnt if you don’t have the right protection.  Out on the water, the sun’s rays are made brighter, and can hit you at all angles causing a worse burn.  Always make sure to bring along a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses to decrease your chance of getting a sun burn, and protect your eyes from damaging rays.  Also included in protection from the elements is a light to heavy rain jacket.  You may get stuck in a storm and there’s not much worse than getting caught in bad weather on a boat while you’re not prepared.

The final couple items are the items that can truly save your life if need be.  Life vests are tested life savers in worst case scenarios, because they can keep you buoyant if your boat sinks.  A compass can tell you in what direction you are headed.  Joined with a map and superb quality binoculars like Nikon binoculars, you are basically set for navigation.  Marine horns and small mirrors can be used to signal to other vessel or aircraft, and a pocket knife can be very useful in many situations.

The article is short, but every one of these items is really important in a way.  Sun protection can stop dehydration along with provide comfort.  Water and nourishment will supply you with the vital nourishment that you need to survive.  Last but not least, signaling tools and safety precautions are always a great idea.  Some of these things may even protect your life if you find yourself in an emergency, so when boating, always go prepared.