What to Bring on a Lake Travis Boat Rental: The Complete Packing List

The Complete Packing List for Your Lake Travis Boat Rental

Wondering what to bring on a Lake Travis boat rental? Whether it’s your first time on the water or you’re a seasoned lake-goer, having the right gear makes the difference between a good day and an amazing one. This comprehensive packing list covers everything you need for a perfect day aboard an Island Pontoon Rentals boat.

The great news? When you book with Island Pontoon Rentals, we handle the hard stuff—the boat, the captain, the navigation, and the local expertise. We captain, you have fun! All you need to do is show up with the right supplies and a great attitude.

Essential Items: Don’t Leave Home Without These

Sun Protection (Non-Negotiable!)

The Texas sun on Lake Travis is intense, especially from May through September. Sun protection isn’t optional—it’s essential.

• Sunscreen SPF 50+: Bring reef-safe sunscreen and apply 30 minutes before boarding. Reapply every 2 hours, more often if swimming. Budget at least one full bottle per 4 people.
• Sunglasses: Polarized lenses reduce glare off the water. Attach a retainer strap—sunglasses fall in the lake more than anything else.
• Hat or visor: Wide-brimmed hats offer the best protection. Baseball caps work too.
• UV-protective clothing: Lightweight long-sleeve rash guards are increasingly popular and eliminate the need for constant sunscreen reapplication.
• Lip balm with SPF: Often forgotten but your lips burn too!

Hydration & Drinks

• Water, water, water: Bring at least one liter per person per hour on the lake. Dehydration sneaks up fast in the Texas heat.
• Coolers with ice: Hard-sided coolers keep ice longer. Bring at least 2 bags of ice per cooler, and consider a separate cooler just for ice.
• Your favorite beverages: We’re BYOB-friendly! Bring whatever you like—beer, wine, cocktails, seltzers, sodas. Just remember: no glass containers on the boat.
• Electrolyte drinks: Gatorade, Liquid IV, or similar products help prevent dehydration, especially if you’re drinking alcohol.

Food & Snacks

• Easy finger foods: Chips and salsa, fruit trays, veggie platters, cheese and crackers
• Protein options: Deli sandwiches (pre-made), chicken tenders, wraps
• Shareable snacks: Trail mix, pretzels, granola bars
• Sweet treats: Cookies, brownies, or candy for an afternoon sugar boost
• Pro tip: Pre-portion everything into zip-lock bags or containers. Less mess, easier cleanup.

Clothing & Swimwear

• Swimsuit: Wear it under your clothes so you’re ready to jump in anytime
• Cover-up or light clothing: For sun breaks and the ride to/from the marina
• Change of dry clothes: Pack in a waterproof bag for after the trip
• Water shoes or sandals with straps: Flip-flops can slip off; sport sandals or water shoes grip better on wet boat surfaces
• Light jacket or hoodie: For early morning or evening rentals when it can get breezy on the water

Tech & Electronics

• Waterproof phone case: This is the #1 item people wish they’d brought. A waterproof pouch (like a Pelican or universal dry bag) protects your phone while still allowing photos and touchscreen use.
• Portable charger: Keep your phone charged for photos and music all day
• GoPro or waterproof camera: For action shots on the water slide, swimming, and jumping
• Bluetooth speaker: Our boats have sound systems, but a portable backup never hurts for when you’re floating away from the boat

Water Toys & Fun Extras

• Inflatable floats: Loungers, flamingos, donuts—whatever makes you happy. They’re great for floating near the boat at anchor.
• Pool noodles: Simple, cheap, and endlessly entertaining in the water
• Snorkel gear: Lake Travis has surprisingly clear water. Snorkeling near the limestone formations can be fun.
• Football, frisbee: For tossing in the water at shallow coves
• Fishing gear: If you want to try your luck (Texas fishing license required)

Health & Safety Items

• Medications: Any prescription meds, plus motion sickness medication if anyone in your group is prone to it (rare on Lake Travis, but better safe)
• First aid basics: Band-aids, pain relievers, anti-itch cream for bug bites
• Insect repellent: Mosquitoes can appear near shore at dawn and dusk
• Hand sanitizer: Always useful
• Towels: Bring at least one per person, plus extras. Quick-dry microfiber towels are ideal for boats.

What NOT to Bring on a Lake Travis Boat Rental

Just as important as knowing what to bring is knowing what to leave behind:

• Glass containers: Absolutely no glass on the boat. Broken glass is dangerous on the boat and in the water. Use cans, plastic, or aluminum only.
• Styrofoam coolers: They break apart easily and create litter in the lake. Use hard-sided or soft-sided coolers instead.
• Glitter or confetti: Impossible to clean up and harmful to the lake environment. If you’re decorating for a party, use banners and balloons instead.
• Valuables you can’t lose: Expensive jewelry, designer sunglasses without straps, or anything irreplaceable. Things fall in the lake—it happens.
• Negative attitudes: Leave stress on shore. You’re about to have an amazing day on Lake Travis!

Seasonal Packing Considerations

Spring (March – May)

• Layers are key—mornings can be cool (60s–70s) but afternoons warm up (80s)
• Light rain jacket (spring showers are common)
• Water may still be cool in March/April—consider a rash guard for swimming

Summer (June – August)

• Maximum sun protection—this is when sunburn is most likely
• Extra water and ice (heat accelerates dehydration and ice melting)
• Light, breathable clothing
• Water temperature is perfect (80–85°F)

Fall (September – November)

• Similar to spring—warm days but cooler mornings and evenings
• A light jacket for the ride back as the sun sets
• Water is still warm through October

Winter (December – February)

• Warm layers are essential—it can be chilly on the water
• Wind-resistant outer layer
• Swimming is for the brave (water temps 50–60°F)
• Hot beverages in a thermos are a great addition

Packing Tips from Our Captains

Our Island Pontoon Rentals captains have seen it all. Here are their top packing tips:

1. “Pack everything in waterproof bags.” Even if it doesn’t rain, splashing and wet hands mean everything gets damp eventually.
2. “Bring twice the water you think you need.” Every captain says this. Dehydration is the #1 issue they see on the lake.
3. “Pre-chill your cooler.” Put ice in your cooler the night before to pre-cool it. Your ice will last much longer on the boat.
4. “Secure your sunglasses.” Croakies or retainer straps are cheap insurance against losing expensive shades in the lake.
5. “Less is more with food.” People always overestimate how much they’ll eat on the water. Bring quality snacks, not quantity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Island Pontoon Rentals provide anything on the boat?

Every rental includes the boat, a professional captain, life jackets, and a Bluetooth sound system. We’re BYOB for food and drinks—you bring whatever you want to eat and drink.

How much cooler space do I need?

Plan for one large cooler (65–75 quart) per 6–8 people for drinks, plus a smaller cooler for food. For larger groups, add an extra cooler dedicated to ice.

Can I bring decorations for a party?

Yes! Banners, balloons, and streamers are welcome. Avoid glitter, confetti, and anything that could permanently mark the boat.

Is there storage on the boat?

Our boats have storage compartments for bags and personal items. Your captain can help you organize everything when you board.