Boat Accessories for Your Next Boating Trip

Boat Accessories for Your Next Boating Trip

Boating trips are a lot of fun if you’re properly prepared. No matter how much we want to deny that we don’t need certain things, it’s a fact that some boat accessories are worth investing in. All kinds of mishaps can happen when on a boat and, usually, you’re left on your own to deal with them.

It’s not just about owning a boat but you need to take good care of it. This means that you’ll need some accessories to keep it running smoothly, to make the boating experience easier for you, to protect you and your loved ones, and to take all the necessary steps for safely storing it so you can keep it in a good condition for a long time. We’ve picked out six boat accessories that will be of great help the next time you go boating.

Boat Bimini to Keep You Protected No Matter Rain or Sun

A bimini or boat canopy is a much-needed accessory for every boat owner. It’s a canvas canopy that’s held by metal frames that are collapsible for easy storing. As experienced boat owners know, more often than not, you can only spend several hours under the sun without any protection. After that, you’ll feel drained and too tired to continue with any boating activity. Also, if the sun’s not a problem, you can get caught out in the rain, which will also prevent you from proceeding with your adventure. These are the reasons why canopies are a necessity. Manufacturers make them in a variety of sizes and designs, so you can buy a quality boat shade canopy that will keep you protected no matter the weather conditions.

When you go boating, you go to relax, spend some quality time with your friends and family, fish, and feel comfortable while doing all of that. You probably choose nice, sunny days but spending the entire day under the sun is a mission impossible. Having a boat bimini will give you that necessary shade when you want to take a rest and grab a refreshing drink. You can raise and lower them depending on your need and you can mount them wherever you want.

Storms can come out of nowhere and you can hope it’ll pass soon but that’s not always the case. Instead of going back when this happens, enjoy the trip with the help of a canopy. A high-quality one will keep you dry and sheltered. Besides protecting you, a boat shade canopy will protect your boat from rain and too much sun exposure which can be damaging for the cockpit. To keep your bimini looking fresh and lasting for a long time, don’t leave it on all the time. Fold it down whenever you’re not using it. Regarding maintenance, it doesn’t require much. Wash it with water and brush to remove debris and let it dry before folding. In this way, your bimini top will serve you for many years.

Boat Fenders to Keep Your Boat in an Excellent Condition

Fenders are essential boat equipment that you need. The boat can come equipped but a few extra ones can come in handy. Being fully equipped is going to make every trip more enjoyable and carefree. Fenders look like cushions and are attached to the side or other part of the boat. They serve as protection when the boat bumps into docks or other boats. You can find fenders to suit any boat size and style.

They can be of various styles, like round, cylindrical, transom-mounted, rafting, low freeboard, v-shaped, pontoon fenders, and many more. They can be found in numerous colours to match your boat and stores usually offer many fender accessories that you can choose from as well.

Storage Boxes for Safely Storing All of Your Valuables

Even if you think that you won’t bring many things on your boat trip, you will need storage boxes to keep valuable items and electronics dry. These are specifically made to protect such items and devices in case of a flood. It’s easy to misplace and forget important documents and if something happens, they might not be the first thing on your mind. Having a sturdy, water-resistant storage box can keep everything you need dry and in one place. They can be found in different dimensions and are made to float.

First Aid Kit for Every Inconvenience

You probably already know that you shouldn’t set sail without a proper first aid kit. It’ll help you to successfully deal with emergencies that might arise on your trip. There are already assembled kits in various sizes that you can buy. They can be small, for a smaller space, or large that contain more items that can be useful in different situations. Even if you don’t have much space, you can take a small kit and add several essentials that you find beneficial. Always customise the kit depending on the location and weather.

Life Jackets as the Primary Way of Protection

Besides bimini tops, fenders, and first aid kit, it’s essential that you have life jackets on your boat. Everyone on the boat should have a personal flotation device, and this includes pets as well. For greater security, you could ask children or everyone to wear the jackets the entire time. There are several types of PFDs, from type I to type V, and you should choose according to your need or preference. Each type is suitable for different circumstances so make sure that you know what you need before purchasing.

Solar-Powered Chargers so You Never Run Out of Battery

With so many electronic devices in use these days, it’s hard not to use any when boating. This means that a need for charging will surely arise during the trip. Some boats come with electrical sockets and USB ports but not all of them. Even if they do, why not use an eco-friendly energy source? There’s a wide range of solar cells that you can use to charge your electronic devices. They’re small, compact, and easy to carry. Most of them can be used as regular chargers as well in case the sun is not enough. You can find these in numerous sizes, depending on your space and needs.