It happens to all of us… We are finally on the water and enjoying the lake, when suddenly we realize that we have forgotten to bring the snacks for the kids, waters for the coolers, or a first aid kit for any cuts or scrapes. “how could i have forgotten it!, i put it on the counter so that i would see it on my way out!”, says everyone in frustration when the one thing they need at that exact moment has been left behind!

Here at Memphis Boat Center we tend to be on the water a lot and we constantly leave things behind such as paddles, dock lines, towels, or first aid kits.  Some even ask us why we go out of our way to have some of the items in the list of intangibles that we are about to share with you, but the answer is plain and simple. 9 out of 10 times you will never have to use some of these items but on the 10th time if your stuck without it, the day can turn into a bad experience on the lake.

So we have gotten together and come up with a list of items you should always pack before leaving the house and double check that they are with you before putting the boat in the water.

• Phone: Make sure that it has a full battery. Have one phone on the boat to be used only for emergencies.
• Paddle: Trust us, if you run out of gas, or your boat doesn’t crank in the water, paddling back with wakeboards and ski’s is not a fun experience. Yes, we have done it.
• Sunscreen: Its always a good idea to have extra sunscreen on the boat and to put it on multiple times a day. If not, all the alo vera in this world would not be enough for the pain that is sun burns.
• Towels: When you come out of the water for the last time its always nice to have a dry towel to dry off so that you do not get cold from “air drying”.
• Change of Clothes: At the end of the day it is always better when you get back in your car wearing dry clothes, avoiding a long ride home in a wet bathing suit or shorts. Along with the dry towel, a change of clothes are the best combination once you have come out of the water.
• Sunglasses/Hats: Protecting your eyes is one of the most important things that you can do out on the lake. With sunglasses and hats, you do no not only protect your eyes but also avoid migraines or head aches that are caused from a full day out on the sun without eye protection.
• Dock Lines/Bumpers: If you ever want to tie up to other boats or to a restaurant or marina, if you do not have dock lines you will find yourself sitting next to your boat holding it at all times. If you do not have bumpers, the possibility of your boat getting scratches increases significantly.
• Water/Snacks: Water could be the most important item on this list. It is a good idea to have plenty of it and have it iced down. If the forecast is warmer than usual, bring more waters to avoid heat exhaustion or dehydration. Snacks are also important since because they will give you the energy and protein that you loose throughout the day.
• First Aid Kit: Every once in a while an accident will happen that will require someone to clean up a scratch or cut. Lake water can be dirty and contain bacteria so by having a kit on the boat the chances of getting a cut infected decrease since you can clean the wound as soon as you come out of the water.
• Tools: If you go to Lowes or any store like it you will see a 6 in 1 combination screw driver. This tool is awesome on the boat and will help you with any small fix that you need to do on the water.
• Cash: Always make sure you have extra cash on you when you go to the lake. In case of an emergency cash is accepted anywhere, and some boat ramps do not take credit cards.

No matter where you are going, if you take everything on the list on the boat with you, you will be sure to have a great stress free and problem free day out on the water.

if you have any other items you would like us to add to this post feel free to comment below!!!