Table of Contents
Boating is both exciting and relaxing, being out on the water, enjoying the sunshine and fresh air, and getting away from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Whether you like to boat for the sights, enjoy water sports, or drop your line and catch a fish, we have 11 must-have boating accessories!
Now, let’s dive in.
Health & Safety
Boating Safety Kit
Staying safe is essential. You must have enough life jackets for everyone on board, plus a first aid kit, fire extinguisher, emergency flares or air horns, and a baling bucket. A marine radio or locator beacon is also indispensable for those planning to go far offshore.
It’s also a good idea to take a boating safety course, which some parts of Australia require.
GPS
Navigation is critical, especially on the open ocean, where it can be easy to get lost when you lose sight of land. Use a marine-specific GPS that can withstand the elements and allow for waypoint marking so you can return to good fishing spots. Some models even offer additional features like speed and water depth.
Boat Lighting
Lighting is vital for early morning or nighttime adventures to keep everyone safe. LED lights use low power and will last longer without draining your batteries.
Cooling and Heating Options
If you’re boating in the heat, having an air conditioner is not just about comfort; it can help prevent heat stroke. People are more prone to heat stroke on the water because the sun’s rays reflect off the water’s surface and back up at them.
The EcoFlow Wave 2 Portable AC is compact and portable for use inside the cabin or on deck. It runs wirelessly for 8 hours and can be recharged with solar panels. It even doubles as a heater if you’re boating in the winter, warming those frozen hands or feet and helping prevent frostbite or hypothermia if someone falls in the water.
Fishing Equipment
Fish Finder
Fish finders use sonar technology to provide information on location, depth, and bottom contours, helping you catch fish instead of the bottom.
Trolling Motor
Trolling motors are a must-have for serious anglers fishing offshore.
A trolling motor is a small electric motor that enables you to maneuver your boat precisely and quietly so you don’t scare away a potential catch!
Expert anglers typically prefer to run their trolling motor with a deep cycle marine battery, ensuring they don’t run out of power on extended offshore fishing trips.
For example, EcoFlow’s 12V 100Ah Lithium Trolling Motor Battery offers fast solar panel charging* and 6,000 cycles (charges/discharges) before its capacity decreases to +/- 80%.
Speaking of solar, you can stay SunSmart and charge your phone at the same time with EcoFlow Power Hat.
Rod Holders
Rod holders are attached at strategic locations around the boat to hold your rods while you are fishing, keeping everything organised and secure.
Rod Racks
Rod racks are designed to store fishing rods while not in use, keeping them out of the way so they don’t get damaged or tangled. Choose an adjustable rack to accommodate different rod and reel sizes.
Bait and Tackle Storage
Tackle bags or boxes are essential for organising your bait and tackle. Look for options with plenty of different-sized compartments to organise lures, lines, hooks, bait, weights, and other essential items. Also, look for waterproof options to keep everything dry.
Fun & Wellness
Solar Generator
Having a solar generator is essential for fun and comfort on your boat so you don’t drain its batteries. The EcoFlow DELTA 2 MAX is powerful enough to charge all your electronic devices, including fridges, air conditioners, and more.
Since they use solar panels to recharge them, there’s no need to pack extra fuel. These are also the safest options on a houseboat since they produce no toxic fumes and are safe for use indoors.
A more compact, lightweight option is needed for those on small boats, going on short trips, or with fewer power needs. The EcoFlow RIVER 2 Max + 160W Solar Panel is the perfect compromise between power capacity and portability. It also comes with a compact, portable, waterproof solar panel for easy recharging.
Finally, the other power option is the EcoFlow Smart Generator, which can be charged with solar panels but also takes petrol and propane, which can be convenient for those already carrying those fuels for other purposes.
Refrigerator
A portable refrigerator is much better than a cooler with ice that melts. Whether a day trip for snacks and cold drinks or a multi-day trip with all your perishables, a portable refrigerator will ensure your food, or your catch, stays at food-safe temperatures.
The EcoFlow Glacier Portable Refrigerator has a fridge and freezer compartment and even makes ice cubes for ice-cold drinks on a hot day. It also offers wireless cooling for up to 40 hours on a charge and can be recharged with your solar generator for longer trips.
Water Sports
For kids or adults looking for extra fun, pack tubing, kneeboarding, or waterskiing equipment with you. Ensure everyone wears a well-fitted life jacket.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everyone on board must have a life jacket and a fire extinguisher, emergency flares or air horns, navigation lights, and a first aid kit should always be on board. Most boats require registration, and boaters may require licensing, so they should keep that information with them.
Final Thoughts
Staying safe on the water is as important as having fun. Be sure to pack life jackets, air horns or emergency flares, a fire extinguisher, a bailer, and a first aid kit. Also, bring your fishing gear, rod holders, and fish finder, and for those who like water sports, don’t forget the tubes or waterskis.
Finally, having power is essential; whether you use an EcoFlow RIVER 2 Max + 160W Solar Panel for short trips or small boats or an EcoFlow DELTA 2 MAX for larger boats or longer trips, you will have all the power you need!
*Requires a Solar Charge Controller (Not Included)