Summer is quickly approaching and if you are like many people out there, you are looking for different activities to do to keep you and the family busy. But what kind of activity can you partake in that is not only fun but also something you have likely never done before?
Well, let’s see. Do you have a pontoon boat? Check. Do you like to camp? Check.
How about pontoon camping?
Yes, you read that right. Combine two of the things you love to do – boating and camping and get ready to kick off one epic summer adventure for you and the family.
Why Camp Out on Your Pontoon?
For starters, camping out on your pontoon boat allows you to access some gorgeous camping spots that would otherwise be unreachable on foot.
In addition, sleeping out on the water is a relaxing experience for everyone. Imagine being under the stars – you will be able to count the stars without the lights and interference from the city.
How Do I Prepare for My Pontoon Summer Camping Trip?
Preparation is the key to any successful and fun family activity. While it would be nice to be able to just hop on the boat and go, it does take some planning to make sure you know where you are going, who is going, and what to bring.
Below, we will discuss some of the things to keep in mind as you prep for your upcoming pontoon summer camping trip.
1. First things first, think about where you want to go camping. Location is key as it will determine what is around you and what additional activities you can involve yourself in.
For example, do you want to be able to get off your pontoon boat and explore shops and eateries in a downtown area or do you want to remain on the boat near an island the whole time? The type of experience you want to have will dictate where you will go camping and of course, you should plan out the location first before any of the next steps.
2. Once you have a location in mind, you want to take some time and prep your pontoon boat and trailer. You can’t go boat camping without a boat.
You will want to make sure you complete this step a week or so in advance in case you need to make any adjustments or repairs to your boat. During this time, inspect your boat to make sure it is in good condition along with the trailer to ensure it is in working order.
3. Packing up the camping gear is probably one of the most exciting parts of the whole trip. Once you have secured your location and the boat and trailer have been prepped, it is time to gather everything you need for the camping trip.
Think about the things you would normally take with you on a boat and on a camping trip and then gather them up. You do not want to bring too much so that the boat is overloaded with items, but you want to be able to enjoy your trip without missing out.
Here are some items you may want to bring to help you get thinking:
- Boat tent
- Sleeping gear
- Small camping grill/griddle
- Change of clothes
- Food
- Bug spray
Activities to Do on Your Pontoon Boat While Camping
Planning activities to do will help keep you and the family entertained. If you do not plan on getting off your pontoon boat at a camping site, you definitely want to have some things lined up to keep you entertained.
Check out these ideas:
- S’mores
- Grilling dinner
- Card games
- Fishing
Final Thoughts on Pontoon Boat Camping
Camping out on your pontoon boat is sure to be fun and the talk of the school when your kids tell everyone about their summer.
As always, make sure your pontoon boat is set up for a safe experience including life vests and a way to radio in should you experience an emergency on the water.
On a final note, do make sure you are always obeying all laws and regulations regarding boating and camping.
Otherwise, have a fun and safe trip, and come back to comment and tell us all about it.
