10 + Things You Need To Bring to The Lake Next Time That You’d Never Think To Bring

10 + Things You Need To Bring to The Lake Next Time That You’d Never Think To Bring 

For many, a trip to the lake, especially Lake Pleasant, is a cherished event. One a hot summer day or even during a mild spring overcast, there are always families and friends enjoying the many beautiful pastimes that the lake has to offer. Packing for a day at the beach is probably never a detailed task. Of course, you need the essentials, your bathing suit, towel, some sunblock, fishing gear and license,  as well as cold beverages and snacks to top off the trip. Yet, there are some items you need to bring to the lake next time that will add a little comfort to the outdoor excursion. 

1. A First Aid Kit. Often times we forget that even small scrapes and cuts can cause problems if left untreated. Being at the lake comes with its own form of risk and it’s useful to be ready than to be left trying to scrounge up some makeshift bandages. Make sure your first aid kit includes medicated ointment, bandages, tweezers, distilled water, and antihistamine cream in case of an allergic reaction.

2. An Old Inconspicuous Container to Hide Your Valuables In. When your trip to the lake requires a bit of a hike, you may need to carry everything with you and store it somewhere close by, including some items that are valuable to you. Even something as simple as an empty bag of chips with your car keys, phone, and spare change would never tempt the wandering eyes of an untrustworthy lake dweller, such as those pesky seagulls. 

3. A Cooler. Honestly, it’s usually a no brainer but is often forgotten until you notice another family that conveniently remembered theirs. Make sure your cooler is big enough to hold ice as well as your food. Or, use frozen water bottles to keep your perishables cold - as they melt, they’re an ice-cold refreshing drink when the sun is at its hottest.  If you find a cooler with pockets, bring it. You’ll thank us later.

4. Frozen Aloe Vera Cubes. That’s right, this hack will cause a whole lot of comfort if your lake day turns into a sunburn celebration. Before leaving for your trip, freeze aloe vera gel into ice cubes and then store them in your cooler. When you or your children get a bit of a burn, the cold, as well as the aloe itself, will offer immediate relief.
   
   
5. A Snorkeling Mask. Many families enjoy taking a cool swim in the lake, and Lake Pleasant is no exception. What ecosystem lies beneath the gorgeous water? Bring a snorkeling mask and take a peek at the fish, plant life, and other mysteries. You can even find snorkeling water boards so you’re little ones can take a peek down below as well.

6. A Waterproof Phone Case. This one goes without saying yet so many people never think about protecting their thousand-dollar phones until they’ve been accidentally dropped in the water. This is where that snorkeling mask would definitely come in handy.

7. A Chair With a Canopy. When you’re at a lake without a sandy beach, often time you’re left perching on some rocks to rest your feet. The hot sun can also get pretty gruesome around midday. Having a chair with a built-in canopy takes the fuss away from trying to hunt down the shade and adds some comfort when you’d like to sit back and take in the beautiful landscape. 

8. A Roll of the Good Toilet Paper and some Sanitizer. Every time you take a trip to the lake, there’s always that one bathroom that’s either out of toilet paper or feels like sandpaper on your skin. Especially if you’re planning on adding camping to your roster, your own roll of the “good” toilet paper will add that little bit of extra comfort to your adventure. And, of course, grab the hand sanitizer in case you gotta go while on a hike and are nowhere a restroom

9. A Waterproof Speaker. If you’re taking the pontoon out on the water, a wireless and waterproof speaker is a must. Fill up your phone with your favorite songs and let those good vibes take care of the ambiance. And, if the party gets a little out of hand and the speaker falls overboard, well the fish can jam out to John Mellencamp while you dive in to retrieve it.

10. An Army Knife or Multi-Tool Set. You won’t even realize you need it until you’re stuck wanting to cut some twine or fishing line. A multi-tool set has you covered for any minor nuances that may arise - it’s better to be prepared than stuck in a bind (of twine).

11. A Pool For the Smaller Children. If you have a few small children who may not be as adventurous to cool off in the lake, bring along a children’s sized blow-up pool and park it shore-side. Let them play with their floaty toy; It’ll keep your little ones busy and ensure they don’t wander off.  

12. A Baby Booster Seat. It’s simple inventions like this that can add that little extra comfort to your day at the lake. Whether lakeside or on the boat, a baby booster seat is the perfect spot to feed your little one without needing someone to carry them in their lap. If you’re on the boat, be sure to have the seat buckled in and a life jacket on at all times.

13. A Smokeless Grill. Did you bring simple sandwiches and salads to eat for dinner? Try packing a small grill like this Biolite Firepit grill so you can cook and eat delicious hamburgers and corn on the cob right from the lakeside. Most lakes, including Lake Pleasant, offer available picnic areas with tables to sit and eat. 

Are you interested in learning more about the exciting possibilities that Lake Pleasant has to offer? We’d love to offer some of our tried and true advice. Reach out to a member of our team today.