What to bring on a canal boating trip?

Most of the essentials will be provided for you on your narrowboat holiday you do not need to worry about towels, linen, bedding, cooking utensils and there even life jackets if you want them. You do of course have to pack your clothes and your personal belongings. The check list below will help you not to forget the extras which will make your canal boat holiday even better.

Part of the fun is planning your route before hand so it is advisable to purchase a map or guide before you start your narrow boat holiday. A number of guides are available and these are invaluable for your trip as they show all the sites of interest, pubs, shops and facilities along your route. Each guide is relevant to a different route depending on where you have chosen to take your canal holiday. For information and go to …..blah blah blah

You can stock up of fresh produce on route as there are plenty of shops close to the canals. Or you can eat at one of the many pubs, cafes or restaurants that you will discover on your narrow boat journey. You are bound to want a morning cuppa or maybe a picnic lunch so it is best to start with the basics of bread, milk, Tea Bags and maybe eggs for breakfast. Oh and some Champagne or wine..... Do you need any justification? You're on a narrowboat holiday!

Be prepared and have some cash to hand although the larger stores and pubs will accept cards the smaller, off the beaten track, places may only accept cash. The larger towns will have a bank with ATM machines and Post offices but a small canal side village may not have these facilities.

We can't predict the weather on your canal holiday so be prepared for all eventualities a sun hat and swimmers for the hot summer sun and waterproofs for a rainy day. Sun cream is a must as you will find yourselves outdoors for most of the day and the sunlight reflects off the water in the canal so you will need that extra protection when on the canal boat.

Leave you stilettos at home as sensible none slip shoes, such as deck shoes or trainers, are essential for when you are on aboard your narrow boat. Walking boots are a good idea for those canal side and woodlands walks.

A must to capture your narrowboat holiday is a camera. Keep it with you at all time so you do not miss any of the great photo opportunities.

You will have heaps to see and do on your narrowboat holiday but also you will have plenty of time to relax. Forget the hustle and bustle and slow down for a week or two. Bring those novels you have been meaning to read or the DVDs you never have time to watch. To keep the children entertained, just in case of rain, a pack of cards can be priceless or maybe a puzzle book and a selection of board games. With an on board entertainment system why not bring along some of your favourite CDs to listen to as you cruise along.

For the more active bikes can be easily secured onto your canal boat you can then moor up and explore the surrounding countryside. There is no better holiday if you enjoy fishing bring your equipment and spend a quiet few hours fishing from the comfort of your canal boat. Don't forget to purchase a rod licence, available on line from the environment agency website. If there is a budding artist in your family bring a pad and some paints.