When it comes to the perfect vacation, there is nothing better than a day on the water. Whether you are exploring the gorgeous shores of Greece or a local lake, there is a lot of fun to be had. To make the most of your day on the water, we have compiled a list of necessities to pack, activities for entertainment, and a few essential tips to ensure that you stay safe and secure when out on the boat.

Bring the Necessities

If you are on vacation or don’t otherwise go out on the water very often, then you’ll want to refer to a packing list to ensure that you have everything you need. Life is different on the water. The sun gets a bit more intense, and you are farther from land, so retrieving something you forgot can be a bit of a chore. For starters, bring two bathing suits if you have them, one for swimming and one for sitting on the deck, especially if you are going to be on the ocean. The humidity there can slow down the drying process so having a second option will give you something to sit in other than that sticky bathing suit.

On top of that, you should also bring several towels and a couple of changes of clothes, especially if you plan to stay the night on the water or go out to a restaurant later in the day. Also, invest in a dry bag which may be a product you purchase online or even just a gallon-sized plastic bag. Use this to store your valuables, including wallet, camera, phone, and any loose cash so it doesn’t get ruined.

If you are planning to be out on the water all day, you will want to pack a cooler with the necessities that will provide sustenance and keep you hydrated. When loading your cooler with ice, go for a ratio of 2:1 so it will last longer and you aren’t stuck with a puddle of water. Pack food that can sit without being eaten right away like sandwiches or veggie wraps. To avoid dehydration, pack a lot of water and drink it often. Avoid coffee and sugary drinks like sodas to improve your outdoor hydration.

Have Fun

When it comes to having fun on the water, the sky’s the limit. Make sure to pack or rent plenty of water toys and items for activities, from snorkeling masks and waterboards to goggles so the kids can get a glimpse under the water. Vacation destinations often rent equipment to tourists, so if you ever wanted to learn to water ski or surf, take the chance and make it a vacation you will never forget. Keep in mind that you don’t have to become an expert. Just trying something new will be a blast for you and your family.

Remember that being on the water doesn’t mean that you need to be in the water. If you just want to sit on the boat deck and soak in the rays, then bring your favorite book, magazine, or e-reader. Another fun idea is to bring cards and board games for fun family bonding out on the water.

Also, bring your camera so you can capture any beautiful sights or sea life. Make sure to take your phone in case of emergency or just to play your favorite music. Set a reminder to bring any necessary chargers for all of those devices so you aren’t left in a lurch. Another idea is to bring an extra power bank so you can keep your phone alive even without outlets.

Stay Safe

Although there is a lot of fun to be had out on the water, it is also essential that you stay safe as life on the sea has many variables that you don’t often see on land. Start by ensuring that there are plenty of life preservers on board, even if you feel that you are a strong swimmer. While rented boats may have the proper safety precautions, if you are on an unfamiliar boat, make sure that there are fire extinguishers, flares, and a working horn, so you are prepared for the worst.

While it doesn’t affect everyone, seasickness is another safety concern for which you should be prepared. Some pre-existing medical conditions, like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), can lead many to feel more nauseous, and a bobbing boat won’t help matters. If you have GERD or a similar condition, remember to bring any required medication on the boat. Just to be safe, it is a smart idea to bring general seasickness pills on the trip as well in case anyone feels under the weather.

Due to the reflective nature of the water and a typical lack of shade, the sun can be especially dangerous to your skin and your health, so caution is necessary. Be sure to bring plenty of sunscreen on the trip, with an SPF of at least 30. The sun can also cause damage to your hair, so consider applying a scalp powder before you go. Make sure to bring your sunglasses as well, because, without them, the UV rays from the sun can damage your eyes.

Now that you know and have everything you need to have a fun day on the water, go out and do it! Enjoy what our glorious oceans and lakes have to offer and make some memories with your family and friends.