Ready to pack for a pontoon boat ride? Here is a boating resource guide with a list of all the things to bring on a pontoon boat.
There’s nothing quite like spending a day out on the water until that moment when you realize you’ve left some of your things behind. Going back to shore is a hassle but by planning and preparing ahead you’re sure to have everything you need for a successful pontoon boating trip.
Here are pontoon boat you must-haves for your next boating adventure.


So you’re headed out for a day on the water on your pontoon, but you don’t know what to pack for the day. Don’t you worry because you’ve come to the right place! We have created this pontoon boat packing list of all the essential items you need for pontoon boat riding.
What Should I Take On A Pontoon Boat?
Whether you’re planning a day trip or a multi-day trip on your pontoon, making some strategic planning is essential. Deciding which items to bring can seem overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Here are the top things to pack before a pontoon boat ride.
- Provisions (food and water)
- Safety equipment
- Emergency tool kit
- Cellphone
- Navigation device
- Proper documentation
- Sun protection
- Proper clothing(bring extra)
When packing for your boating trips, always consider these: What, Where are When. Bring items that are appropriate for the activities that you’re going to do. Pack items that are ideal for the weather and destination you’re headed to. And don’t forget to bring some fun boat accessories to make your trip more enjoyable.

No matter the weather or how long your boating trip is, some items are a must for safety concerns and emergencies. You’ll also need to bring basic essentials no matter where you’re going.
Things To Bring On A Pontoon Boat
When riding your pontoons, the last thing that you want to do is forget an item once you start your trip. With that, here are the top things to bring on a pontoon boat for a safe and fun time on the water.
Keep your hunger at bay with these yummy and easy-to-make boating snack ideas!
To ensure that your drinks are cold and your food or catch for the day stays fresh, having a good quality cooler on board is super important. Check out our list of the best boating coolers on the market.

Whatever type of boating trip you have going on, towels are a must! Here are soft, absorbent, and quick-drying towels to bring onboard.

While it’s fun to head out into the waters, boaters are vulnerable to UV rays because of the long periods they spend under the sun. To help avoid sunburns and other skin damage, always pack sunscreen!

Protect your eyes from damaging UV rays by wearing sunglasses. And to filter out intense glare and prevent squinting of the eyes, make sure you get a pair that is polarized.
Whatever your boating style may be, it’s important to wear the best boat shoes to keep you sure-footed and balanced when boats start to get wet and slippery.

You never truly know what the water has in store for you, so it's better to be prepared than sorry. By having the right equipment in your boat tool kit, routine maintenance and repairs can be simpler.

Proper waste management is very simple on a boat yet many people forget this important task. Always have a portable trash bag on your pontoons to keep all your trash away from the waters and for easy disposal after your boat trips.
Solve all your storage needs on board with the help of pontoon boat storage containers. Check out these amazing storage containers designed to help keep your stuff safe and sound, and your pontoons clutter-free.

Pontoon boating with the family anytime soon? Make sure to bring your camera with you. With a waterproof camera at hand, you can capture all the fun moments without worrying too much about the water damaging your cam.
While pontoon boats are generally viewed as stable and safe water vessels, you’ll never know when accidents will happen. Make sure you have safety equipment provided for each passenger. Here is a Pontoon boat safety guide and checklist for you.

While first-aid kits aren't considered mandatory gear according to U.S. Coast Guard regulations, a wise boater knows that having a properly stocked first aid kit on board is a must.
Marine GPS offers boaters endless possibilities when it comes to navigating the waters. It also comes in handy when an unexpected situation happens. From determining your exact location and route tracking to finding the best spots for fishing, a boat GPS offers convenience and increases boating safety.

Dry bags are an important piece of outdoor gear, most especially when boating. Since they're completely waterproof, your gear and other belongings are kept dry even if the bag goes overboard.
So you’ve finally found the perfect spot to set up for the day and relax on your pontoon, an anchor is what you need to keep your vessel secured and steady on the water. Here are different kinds of anchors that you can use for your pontoons.

Running out of gas and turning back to the dock to refuel is a bit of a drag. To enjoy your pontoon boating all day long, make sure you have extra gas aboard.
Cooking BBQs on a boat is more common than you think. Set up your own BBQ party onboard, by adding a boat grill on your pontoons.

Maximize your pontoon boat space by adding a hammock, these outdoor gear can be used for storing some of your food items as well as some of your boating tools and equipment.
Pontoon Boat Accessories
Pontoon boats are a great way to have some outdoor family fun on the lake or a party with friends out on the open sea. Check out these practical must-have pontoon boat accessories to add to your boat for smooth sailing.
Download Your FREE Boating Pre-Departure Checklist

Recommended Boating Resources
- Recommended Pontoon Boat Accessories
- Best Boat Snacks– These are easy to make and yummy, too
- Pontoon Boat Hacks– Simplify your days on the water with these boating hacks
MORE RELATED RESOURCES
Now that you know everything you need to pack for a fun day on the water, here are 14 Pontoon boat hacks to keep your boating life easier. And if you’re looking for more adventure on the water, do check out this amazing post about Disney Cruise that you’ll surely enjoy with the whole family.
Klay
Sunday 19th of February 2023
Me and my friends rent a pink pontoon and we want to make sure to bring all the necessary things we need, your list is great thanks you!