Published on March 2nd, 2022
Summer may seem far off, but you’ll be able to go outside and enjoy it by the beach sooner than you think. Lounging in the sand is always an option, but that can get boring quickly — particularly with children in tow.
Once the water reaches a bearable temperature, prepare for some aquatic activities instead. Bring some of these accessories next time you head to the lake, and the day will be worth the effort.
1. Paddle Boards And Kayaks
Although it’s hard to avoid, activities on the water don’t have to involve diving in to be enjoyable. You can bring any type of personal watercraft to get some time with the ripples without getting soaked. This is the perfect way to explore, race, relax, or even do yoga while not being confined to the beach. These particular accessories can be easy to transport as well, making your trip more convenient.
Stand-up paddle boards offer the opportunity to get almost any experience you want out of your day on the water. There are many types of SUP boards, such as those designed for steady movement as well as racing and touring. A kayak is another good option for on-the-water fun. They make it easy to get a good arm workout while also covering some distance.
2. Inner Tubes
Inner tubes, also known as swim rings, are versatile accessories for water fun. First and foremost, they are inflatable and deflatable, which makes them a breeze to transport. Secondly, they are suitable for users of any age or physical ability and easy to maneuver in calm waters.
While mainly used to lounge, inner tubes can be hooked up to a speedboat for those who crave an adrenaline rush. Besides speedboats, you can realistically strap an inner tube to anything — including kayaks and paddle boards — for an easy ride. (Or an easy ride for the person who’s not paddling, anyhow!)
Inner tubes are commonly used for floating down lazy rivers, whether in the wild or at a waterpark. And for good reason — it’s hard to imagine a more relaxing day in the sun. If you want to float in an actual river, it’s a good idea to have a reputable recreation company arrange your trip. They can supply tubes, transport you to the put-in location, and pick you up when you reach your trip’s end.
3. Floating Trampolines
Whether you’re out for the day with your family or your friends, bring a floating trampoline. Jumping on the water is a blast, and it will get your kids out of the house and keep them happily occupied for hours. Given the cardiovascular benefits, it can even be a great way to exercise alone if you choose. To prevent injury, be sure to position your trampoline in a sufficiently deep part of the lake.
Like inner tubes, floating trampolines are inflatable and deflatable, making them compact and easy to transport. It’s worth noting that smaller ones are much more affordable than the large ones you’ll find at a summer camp. You can also use these smaller models much like you would a raft.
4. Fishing And Frogging Gear
If you prefer to stay on land, you can bring fishing or frogging gear to enjoy the lakeside locale all the same. You’ll need to stock up on bait and bring along your fishing rod, boots, net, and tackle. A license is often required to fish legally, so if you’re inclined to do some angling, get the necessary documentation first. Believe it or not, the same goes for frogging, even if you intend to catch and release.
With the necessary preparations accounted for, these activities are both calming and stimulating, without being overly strenuous. Fishing and frogging are perfect for your science-minded children as well, providing a grounding experience of nature and interaction with local wildlife. Bring the proper gear according to your intentions. That means a net for catch and release or a cooler if you intend your catches to end up on a plate!
5. Personal Flotation Devices
Of course, a day out on the water requires that you take precautions to stay safe, especially if you’re alone. Without a personal flotation device (i.e., a life jacket) of some kind, you put your safety unnecessarily at risk. Don’t forget to bring a PFD for each person and be sure that swimmers either wear them or keep them close at hand. This is especially important for children or those with lower swimming ability, even if they stay in shallow water.
Inner tubes don’t count as safety devices, and the user can get separated from them quite easily. That means they’re no substitute for actual life jackets. Even if you’re spending most of your time on a platform or in a boat, it’s best to stay safe. PFDs should always be the first thing you put in your car before heading out to the lake.
Not everybody enjoys the water in the same fashion, so it’s great that there are countless ways to do so. Next time the sun comes out and the temperature goes up, pack some of these items before you head out. All it takes is one of them — plus your PFDs! — to make a day at the lake go from good to great.
