Spring weekends in Indiana have a way of pulling families toward the water. The sun is out, the temps are climbing, and the lake is calling. But packing for a full day on a boat with kids, food, and gear takes a little more planning than grabbing a towel and heading out the door. A solid family boating gear checklist: what to pack for a spring day on the water can be the difference between a smooth trip and one that ends early.
- Every person on board needs a properly fitted life jacket, including kids, and Indiana law requires one wearable PFD per passenger.
- Spring weather on the lake changes fast, so layers, sun protection, and rain gear belong on the boat no matter how clear the forecast looks.
- A quick pre-departure review of safety gear, fuel levels, and weather conditions prevents most of the problems that ruin family outings.
Life Jackets Come First
This one isn't optional. Indiana requires a U.S. Coast Guard-approved personal flotation device for every person aboard. Kids under 13 need to wear theirs at all times while the boat is moving. Adults should have easy access to theirs even if they aren't wearing them.
Before you toss life jackets in the boat, actually try them on everyone. Straps stretch, buckles break, and kids grow between seasons. An adult PFD on a 50-pound child won't do much good in an emergency. If your boat is longer than 16 feet, you'll also need a throwable Type IV device like a ring buoy or cushion.
Safety Gear You Shouldn't Leave the Dock Without
PFDs get the most attention, but a few other items belong on your packing list. A charged fire extinguisher is required by the Coast Guard, and it needs to be mounted where you can reach it quickly. Grab a whistle or horn for signaling. Heading out around dusk? Double-check that your navigation lights work.
A well-stocked first aid kit matters when you have little ones running around on deck. Bandages, antiseptics, motion sickness tablets, and sting relief should all be in there. Toss in a small tool kit and some spare fuses, too.
Dress for Spring, Not Summer
Spring mornings on lakes like Monroe, Geist, or Morse can feel downright cold, even when the afternoon forecast says 75 degrees. Water temperatures remain cool well into May, and wind on open water can drop them even further.
Pack layers for everyone. Lightweight jackets, long-sleeve shirts, and a change of dry clothes make a huge difference in comfort. Bring sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and reapply every 2 hours. Hats and sunglasses help too, especially for younger kids who won't sit still for a thorough sunscreen application.
Throw a packable rain jacket in the bag for each family member. Indiana spring weather is unpredictable, and getting caught in a shower without cover can turn a great day sour in a hurry.
Food, Water, and the Stuff People Forget
Dehydration happens faster on the water than most people realize. Pack more drinking water than you think you'll need, especially for children who won't ask for it until they're already thirsty. A refillable water bottle for each person is a good move.
For food, lean toward items that handle heat and sun well. Sandwiches, fruit, granola bars, trail mix, and cheese sticks all travel nicely in a cooler. Avoid anything that'll turn into a mess on a rocking boat.
People also consistently forget a few things. A dry bag for phones and wallets, an extra towel or two, biodegradable soap for cleaning hands, and a trash bag so nothing ends up in the lake.
The Pre-Departure Rundown
Once everyone is aboard, walk through a quick pre-departure routine. Confirm your fuel level. Test your bilge pump and blower. Verify that the steering and throttle controls respond as they should. And make sure your drain plugs are seated properly.
Tell your passengers where the safety gear is stored and how to use it. Even young children can learn where the fire extinguishers and life jackets are. File a float plan with someone on shore, including where you're headed, when you plan to return, and how many people are aboard.
Pull up the weather forecast one more time right before you leave. A storm that wasn't in the morning report might be rolling in by noon.
Pack Right and Enjoy the Day at Reeder-Trausch Marine Indy
At Reeder-Trausch Marine Indy, we love helping families get ready for spring days on the water. Whether you need safety gear, replacement life jackets for the kids, or a tune-up before your first outing of the season, our parts and service teams are ready. We're on the south side of Indianapolis, roughly an hour from popular spots like Geist Reservoir, Lake Monroe, and Cordry-Sweetwater. If you're shopping for a new or pre-owned boat this spring, stop by and let our team walk you through the lineup. We even offer an on-the-water tutorial with every purchase so your family feels comfortable and confident from day one.
