Lake Tahoe Boat Charter Packing List — What to Bring for a Perfect Day on the Water

What to Bring for Your Boat Tahoe Charter

Preparing for your Lake Tahoe boat tour is simple — just bring the essentials that keep you comfortable, protected, and ready to enjoy the water. Here’s the updated checklist to help you get the most out of your charter.

Sun & Weather Protection

  • Sunscreen & SPF lip balm — Tahoe’s elevation makes the sun stronger, and light reflects off the lake.
  • Polarized sunglasses (with strap if possible) — Reduces glare and improves visibility on the water.
  • Hat or cap — Extra helpful on bright or windy days.
  • Light jacket or sweatshirt — Weather can change quickly on the lake, and it’s always cooler on the water.
  • Swimsuit & towel — Perfect for swimming, relaxing, and sunbathing.

Food & Drinks

  • Snacks — Bring simple, non-messy snacks like fruit, granola bars, chips, wraps, etc.
  • Drinks — Water, sports drinks, sodas, and alcoholic beverages are all welcome.
  • Alcohol is allowed — Please enjoy responsibly, and keep everything secure while the boat is moving.
  • No Glass Containers — For safety and environmental protection, glass is not permitted onboard. Please choose cans or plastic alternatives.

Helpful Extras

  • Phone or camera — Lake Tahoe is incredibly scenic; you’ll want photos.
  • Portable charger / power bank — Keeps your phone charged for photos, music, or contacting your captain.
  • Change of clothes — Great if you plan to swim or expect cooler temperatures later in the day.

Important Reminders

  • No glass allowed — This is for passenger safety and to protect the lake.
  • Pack light — Storage is limited, so smaller soft-sided bags are best.
  • Hydrate well — Especially on sunny days or if consuming alcohol.

Frequently Asked Questions About What to Bring

1. Do I need to bring life jackets?
No — we provide all Coast Guard–approved life jackets and safety gear for every charter.

2. Can we bring alcohol on the boat?
Yes, alcohol is allowed. Please avoid glass bottles and red wine, as spills can stain.

3. What snacks are best to bring?
Simple, non-messy snacks like fruit, wraps, chips, crackers, bars, or sandwiches work great on a boat.

4. Do we need to bring water?
We provide water onboard, but you’re welcome to bring additional bottled or canned drinks if you prefer.

5. Should we bring a jacket even in summer?
Yes. Lake Tahoe can feel cooler on the water, and winds often pick up later in the day, so a light jacket or sweatshirt is recommended.

6. Can we bring a cooler?
Yes — feel free to bring one, though all of our boats already include either a built-in cooler or a small refrigerator.

7. Are towels provided onboard?
No — please bring your own towels for swimming, sunbathing, or drying off after a dip.

8. What should we avoid bringing?
Avoid glass, red wine, overly bulky bags, and anything that could blow away easily.

9. Can I bring my phone or camera?
Yes. Just keep electronics protected from splashes and water.

10. Is sunscreen required?
Highly recommended. Tahoe’s elevation increases sun exposure, and we ask guests to apply sunscreen before boarding when possible.

11. Should we bring a change of clothes?
Yes — a dry shirt, sweatshirt, or extra layer keeps you comfortable after swimming or if temperatures drop.

12. Can we bring our own music?
Yes! You can connect your phone to the boat’s sound system, but it’s best to have music downloaded since certain areas lose cell service.