When the time comes for your next family vacation or corporate retreat, the need for thorough planning will quickly become evident. Camping is difficult with large groups as you must bring just about everything with you, from beds and lodging to food and kitchen supplies. Hotels make accommodations easy enough with things such as linens, bedding, and televisions, but most rooms lack amenities such as full kitchens and propane grills.
Houseboats, on the other hand, have the necessary space to bring along just about anything you can imagine to make your vacation easy and fun. Marinas often stock their houseboats with appliances, plenty of bunks, and full kitchens. Knowing ahead of time what these houseboats include, and what you will want or need to bring with you, will ensure your party is ready for a great vacation.
Things you probably need:
Even the nicest of houseboats rental agencies cannot provide everything you need for an enjoyable vacation. Many marinas equip their vessels with a host of items that customers desire. However, things such as bedding, toiletries, and electronic devices are not generally included.
The bunks on houseboats give you the opportunity to bring along your favorite bedding. Of course, you will need food and drinks for your stay on the lake. Infants and toddlers will need plenty of diapers and other age-related items. Finally, you will need all clothing to match the weather and planned activities.
Items you may want:
The things your fellow passengers may want to have available during your houseboat vacation will depend on their personal preferences and types of enjoyable activities. Beach games like badminton and volleyball are popular as well as board games like checkers and cards for playing poker or “Go Fish”.
Older children may want access to video games, sports equipment, or reading material. Not to mention the ever-popular opportunities that houseboat rentals provide for swimming in which case every member of your party will want swimsuits and beach towels. Even those looking to relax with some fishing will need their poles, bait, and lures.
Amenities that are provided:
Luckily, houseboat rentals are stocked with the large, bulky, and heavy things that can be difficult to pack up and bring with you. From numerous bunks to first aid kits, there are so many things you won’t need to worry about packing up for your trip.
The kitchen will be stocked with pots and pans and up to two onboard refrigerators. The front decks even house barbecue grills and large ice chests that make lakeside meal prep both fun and easy. The nicest models may even have televisions and water slides making your time on the lake even more enjoyable.
Just remember to review the amenities already available on your houseboat, be sure to start planning early, and pack only what you will really want and need for a great vacation. It’s as simple as that.
