What to Pack for a Day on the Water: Your Ultimate Canal Boat Checklist
There’s something undeniably calming about a day on the water — the gentle pace, the chug of the engine, the scenic towpaths, and the ripple of the canal as you glide along. Whether you’re heading out for your first ever canal boat day hire or you're a seasoned skipper, knowing what to pack can be the difference between a smooth, memorable experience and one that’s a bit of a scramble.
This guide covers everything you’ll need for a stress-free and enjoyable day on a narrowboat, including essentials, optional extras, and tips tailored to the unique charm of the British waterways.
1. Clothing Essentials: Dress for Comfort and the Weather
The weather on the canal can change quickly — from dazzling sunshine to breezy drizzle in the same hour. Dress in light layers that you can peel off or add to as needed.
Essentials:
Lightweight waterproof jacket
Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing
Spare jumper or fleece
Hat (wide-brimmed for sun or woollen for cooler days)
Sunglasses
Gloves (especially for operating locks or rope work)
Non-slip, flat-soled shoes (no flip flops!)
Tip: Even in summer, canal air can be cool. Bring an extra layer, especially for evening hires.
2. Food & Drink: Fuel Your Journey
Most canal boat day hires don’t come with a café on board, so you’ll need to bring your own supplies.
Consider packing:
A picnic or packed lunch (easy-to-eat finger foods are ideal)
Reusable water bottles for everyone
Flask of tea or coffee
Fresh fruit, nuts, crisps, and sweet treats
Eco-friendly plates, cutlery, and napkins
A bin bag to take rubbish home
Optional Extras:
A small cool box to keep drinks or dairy fresh
Thermos soup for cooler days
Wine or fizz (if allowed by the operator and you’re not steering!)
3. Safety & Comfort on Board
While your canal boat day hire will already be equipped with the necessary safety gear, there are a few things you can bring to make your trip more comfortable.
Comfort Items:
Cushions or picnic blankets for lounging
Fold-up camping chairs if there's outdoor deck space
Sun cream and insect repellent
Hand sanitiser and antibacterial wipes
A power bank for phones
For Families or Groups:
Life jackets for young children (check if your hire company provides them)
First-aid kit for minor bumps or blisters
Baby wipes, nappies, or toddler snacks if travelling with little ones
4. Entertainment: Slow Living on the Move
One of the joys of a narrowboat day hire is switching off from the hustle. But if you’re planning a full day afloat, it’s worth packing a few things to pass the time when you're not steering.
Ideas include:
A good book or e-reader
Travel board games or cards
Portable speaker for music (keep volume respectful)
Sketchpad or journal
Binoculars for wildlife spotting
Bonus Idea: Make it a themed day! Bring a music playlist inspired by the canal era, or a vintage picnic basket to create your own floating afternoon tea.
5. Navigation & Know-How
Most day hires include a route plan or basic map, but it helps to come prepared — especially if you're passing through locks or unfamiliar waters.
Helpful Items:
A printed canal map or guide (even if your phone signal fails)
Notebook or printed instructions with your route and timings
CRT (Canal & River Trust) guidance if operating locks
If You’re the Skipper:
Sunglasses with polarised lenses (to cut canal glare)
A dry bag or folder for any paperwork or maps
Gloves to handle ropes and mooring pins
6. Weather Extras: Be Ready for British Surprises
Canals are open landscapes with very little cover. You’ll need to plan for sun, wind, and rain — sometimes all in one trip.
Be sure to pack:
Umbrella or poncho
Extra socks or a towel
Cooling water spray or a portable fan in summer
Hot water bottle or thermal flask in spring/autumn
Tip: If you’re doing an evening canal boat day hire, remember that temperatures drop sharply after sunset. A blanket or thick jumper can make all the difference.
7. Canal Etiquette: Respect the Waterways
As charming as they are, canals are living environments filled with people, wildlife, and history. Here’s how to make your day hire a respectful and eco-conscious experience.
Things to Bring:
Reusable containers to cut down waste
A rubbish bag to take your litter home
Biodegradable wipes and eco soap (if using the sink)
Camera or phone for photos (but avoid disturbing wildlife)
Reminders:
Always slow down near moored boats
Give right of way where needed
Avoid loud music or shouting
Smile and wave — it’s the canal way!
8. Optional Luxury Items
Want to elevate your day? A few simple additions can turn your narrowboat outing into a special celebration.
Ideas include:
Prosecco or elderflower fizz (and proper glasses!)
Fresh flowers in a jam jar for the table
Fairy lights or lanterns for an evening cruise
A Bluetooth speaker for soft background music
A printed itinerary or “menu” for a themed trip
9. Final Checklist: Tick Before You Travel
Here’s a quick pre-departure checklist to make sure you’re not missing anything:
Keys, wallet, ID, phone
Fully charged phone & power bank
Printed hire confirmation
Map or planned route
Drinks and snacks
Layers for warmth
Waterproofs & sunscreen
Games, music, books
Bin bag for rubbish
Non-slip footwear
A good sense of adventure!
Make the Most of Your Canal Day
A little preparation goes a long way when you're out on the water. From sipping tea on deck to sharing a picnic under the trees, every moment on a narrowboat offers the chance to slow down and reconnect with nature and one another.
Whether you’re planning a romantic escape, a family outing, or a quiet solo adventure, your canal boat day hire will be even more memorable when you’re packed and ready for anything.
Enjoy the breeze, savour the views, and don’t forget to wave at the towpath walkers — you’re now part of the canal community.