If it’s your first time houseboating, you’re probably wondering: What do I actually need to pack?

Good news — planning your trip doesn’t have to be stressful, and packing is easier than you might think. Unlike a camping trip, houseboating with H2O Getaways comes with plenty of modern comforts already on board. So before you start stuffing your suitcase with half your home, read this guide to find out what’s essential… AND what you can leave behind!

 

The Essentials

Let’s start with the must-haves. These are the only things you really need to bring…

 

Food & Drinks

Stock up on your faves and plan for easy meals on board. Check out our articles on Vacation Meal Planning and Simple Vacation Meals to make it easier to plan what to eat. 

There are also some great local options for buying pre-made meals so you don’t have as much meal planning to do. We recommend: Fawn Over Market or Trenton Deli & Bakery.

 

Clothes

Think comfy, casual, and weather-appropriate. Make sure to have a pair of sturdy, closed-toe shoes for locking and docking (not flip-flops or sandals). For Spring and Fall vacations we recommend bringing layers — early mornings on the water can be cool, but it often gets quite hot by midday. For a summer vacation, don’t forget your bathing suit!

 

Boater’s License

You’ll need a Pleasure Craft Operator Card to captain the boat. To learn more about getting your license and why it’s important, read this article: Do You Need a Boating License in Ontario?

 

The “Nice to Have” Add-Ons

Want to make your trip even more enjoyable? Here are a few additions that will add comfort, convenience, and a little more fun to your houseboat getaway…

 

• Your favourite ground coffee – Every boat has a French press and pour-over, so you can start your mornings right.

 

• Your own pillow – We provide comfy pillows, but if you’ve got a favourite you can’t sleep without, feel free to bring it along!

 

• Binoculars – Great for birdwatching or spotting buoys as you cruise.

 

• Your go-to spices – Anything you love to cook with.

 

• Sunglasses, sunscreen, & bug spray – Essentials for enjoying sunny days and mosquito-free evenings.

 

• Beach towel – A must-have if you plan on taking a dip or lounging on shore.

 

• Favourite games – We’ve got cards on board and a few games you can borrow, but if there’s a family favourite you love to play, make sure to bring it along.

 

• A good book (or two) – We’ve got a few novels on board, but if there’s one you’ve been meaning to dive into, bring it with you and enjoy some quiet reading time by the water.

 

• Fishing gear – If casting a line is on your agenda, don’t forget your rod and tackle.

 

• Water toys – Inflatables and kayaks are always a hit! (We also rent kayaks, paddleboards, and aquapads if you prefer to pack light.)

 

5 Things You Don’t Need to Pack

There are also 5 items that we commonly see our guests bring with them that they don’t actually need (because we already have them on board!). 

 

• Toilet paper – And not the scratchy kind! We’ve actually gotten compliments on how nice it is 😂

• Paper towels – Already stocked in the kitchen, so no need to pack extra.

• Cleaning supplies – We provide eco-friendly dish soap, all-purpose cleaner, and plenty of rags & towels for any spills.

• Bath towels – Soft, fresh towels are provided for every guest. One less bulky thing to pack!

• Salt & pepper – These two are already onboard, but be sure to bring any other spices or seasonings you love to cook with.

 

It’s Not Camping — It’s a “Floating Cottage”

We totally understand why some guests come fully loaded with supplies. Many folks assume houseboating will be just like camping. But H2O Getaways houseboats are designed to feel like an upscale cottage on the water!

Each boat is fully equipped with the essentials you’d find in most vacation rentals, so you can travel light, relax, and focus on enjoying your time cruising the Trent-Severn Waterway.

 

Ready to Plan Your Vacation?

A week on a houseboat is your chance to unwind and embrace a new kind of adventure. Whether you’re cruising along scenic waterways, visiting quaint towns, or simply relaxing under the open sky, each day offers something new.

If that sounds like your kind of vacation, we’d be thrilled to have you join us!

Tap HERE to read more about our boats
Tap HERE for our rates and availability

We’d love to help you plan your perfect getaway on the water!