So, you’ve booked your self-drive cruise.
Now it’s time to consider what to bring, and what to leave at home.
Remember, space is limited on a boat.
Prepare carefully and you’ll save yourself valuable room, not to mention avoiding painful shoulders while travelling to your departure base.
Do not bring unnecessary items, ” just in case”.
Rest assured that you won’t need formal evening wear nor a 1000 page book.
1 Bags
Do use soft luggage wherever possible. It will be easier to store once on the boat.
2 Non-slip shoes.
No need to buy expensive deck shoes, but do insure that your footwear is comfortable and non-slip. If your children hate tying their laces, try to find shoes with velcro or buckle fastenings instead. Think SAFETY first, not style!
3 Gloves!
Even if you are cruising in the height of summer, a good pair of gloves will protect you when handling the ropes, which can be cold and wet in the mornings.
I find fingerless, canvas ones best. My shopping hint: Cycling gloves are often better value than boating ones.
4 Sunglasses and hats
We’ve all laughed at the post-ski photos, but remember, the sun dazzling off the water can hurt your eyes too. Everyone should have good-quality sunglasses and wear them.
A sun hat or cap will also help.
5 Binoculars
With an abundance of wildlife and fantastic views along the waterways, these come high on my list of priorities whenever I’m travelling. Some water birds are quite timid, such as kingfishers and herons, so be ready.
6 Pegs
You probably won’t want to spend your time doing the laundry during your holiday, but some pegs to secure towels to the boat rails while cruising is a great idea and won’t take much space in your case.
7 A lighter
It’s my experience that matches get damp all too easily. Bring a disposable lighter instead.
8 A small torch
For those evening strolls along the tow path, owl spotting, or simply to guide you safely back after a trip to the local restaurant. In rural France, not all areas have street lighting.
9 Something for the evening
After an enjoyable day cruising and visiting the local sights, an early night is usually most inviting. But, if you like to make the day as long as possible, pack some playing cards, paper and pens, and an electronic book if you have one. I bet you won’t get past the first chapter..
10 A notebook to use as a Diary
Record your daily activities… it will help when you want to label your photos later. Encourage everyone to write or draw in the book for a great holiday souvenir.