What to bring on a boat party!
Summertime in Chicago is hands down my favorite thing: rooftops start filling up, patios buzz with energy, wine by the river is a must, walking by the lake becomes a ritual, and everything seems to come alive! Without a doubt, one of the most coveted summer activities is a boat party – everyone wants to go on a boat, be invited to a boat party, or (if you’re one of the lucky people who owns one) host a boat party. I took a poll last week and asked if most of you preferred to be the guest or the host, and the guest actually won! This post is geared toward making you the most prepared boat party guest there ever was, so you can enjoy riding the waves without a worry.
Most boats and yachts have tight quarters, so you definitely want to pack a small bag that can still fit all of the essentials.
Here are 10 must-bring items that fit in one bag if you get invited to a boat party or even just a relaxing afternoon on the water.
1. Compact Inflatable Vests
Safety first, then let’s party. When you’re the guest at a party, you assume that the host has you covered – food, drinks, essentials – unless told otherwise. Another thing that we might take for granted are the safety regulations on boats. While you may or may not choose to wear the big life jacket for your entire boat ride, you can make sure you always have your inflatable life vest* in your bag nearby.
Here’s a very compact inflatable vest* so it won’t take up too much space.
2. TOILET PAPER
I’ve been on boats that have tiny (and hot) restrooms with few amenities, including nearly empty toilet paper rolls. Even nicer boats seem to skimp on the essentials when it comes to restrooms, so be prepared no matter what so you can go back the party feeling fresh & confident.
Grab some of these…mini-packs that are easy and discrete to toss in your bag.
3. SHOES WITH light colored SOLES
It wasn’t until last summer that I heard about this! Some rental boats have a “no black sole shoes” rule, because they may scuff up the floor. Check with the party host or plan ahead to wear shoes with a lighter color sole or that can be slipped off easily.
4. stay hydrated
While everyone is busy packing the coolers with beers and snacks, make sure to pack enough water or supplements to help keep you hydrated while you’re out in direct sunlight and heat for several hours.
Try this hydration helper that comes in individuals packs.
5. mini-emergency kit
Be sure to pack a mini-emergency kit full of band-aids, antiseptic, pain-reliever, sea sick meds, and a few other essentials (like your toilet paper). Nothing kills a boat party like a boo-boo or feeling sea sick…especially if you are a friend of a friend (of a friend) at the party and don’t feel comfortable asking around for medicines when the beat drops during everyone’s favorite song. (Who knows? You just might save the day for someone else at the party who needs a little help too.)
These come individually wrapped, so you can easily throw a handful of yummy tummy soothers in your bag.
6. PRE-MIXED DRINKS
It’s tricky to mix up a mimosa while going over waves, trust me I’ve tried. ;) Using pre-mixed drinks are quick, easy, and allow you to carry less items on your boat adventure. Pick up a bottle & snacks to pass around because everyone loves a guest who shares the goodies!
This might be the one item you carry by hand, but this brand has such a cute bottle, you’ll want to show it off!
7. A SWEATER OR LIGHT BLANKET
When the pink and purple strokes of color start to paint the sky as the sun goes down, don’t forget to track down your blanket. This will be your best buddy on the ride back to the docks as the weather starts to cool down. If you have #coldgirlproblems like me, then pack a light sweatshirt too. It’s always best to think ahead and pack a convertible outfit that allows you to easily add a cute pair of leggings or long sleeve top to your look.
8. waterproof pouch for phone + charger
While you might grab a baggy to protect your phone from sand on the beach, you may need something a little more water proof for your time on a boat. Try using a waterproof pouch to store your phone and it may be able to fit a small portable charger to keep you charged all day.
Snag this waterproof phone pouch that allows you to still use the touchscreen functions of your device!
9. convertible cover up wrap
Keeping your beach bag compact is important, so you feel prepared not bogged down during the party. By wearing or bringing a convertible cover up – you’re all set with a thin towel for sunbathing and drying off, a wrap for your bikini, or a dress when you’re ready to go home. It’s the perfect replacement for cotton cloth towels because your thinner wrap will dry quickly in the sun, making it easy to throw in your bag (or wear) at the end of the evening.
Try something similar to this convertible cover up wrap.
10. THE BASICS
Let’s finish things off with the basics – a sun hat, fun sunglasses, and sunscreen. Everything you need to keep your body and eyes shaded and protected from the sun while you’re out being the most prepared guest and life of the party.
This eco-friendly sunscreen was on several top-ranked lists, but grab whatever you can that will protect the environment as much it will protect you!
Don’t forget to charge your phone to 100% before you leave home, and Google the water patrol number before you take off. Being the awesome guest that you are, always remember to text the host to ask if they need help or need you to bring anything. Most of the time they say no, but it’s always polite to ask! Now you’re ready to live your best boat life and be the guest with the best prepared bag for the ride.
*Life vest style/brand is a suggestions only, always follow your local water patrol and standard safety regulations.
Note: All items are suggestions only.