LAKE DAY
PACKING LISTS
What you need to bring depends on the kind of lake day you're having. Renting a boat, bringing your own boat, taking out a pontoon, fishing from a smaller boat, or spending the day near the water all require different packing lists. Use this guide to choose the checklist that fits your plans and avoid overpacking or forgetting the basics.
Separate checklists for rentals, pontoons, and bringing your own boat so you can pack what actually matters.
Know what to bring for a smaller fishing boat, basic gear, licenses, and the little things that make the day easier.
If you're hanging out dockside, picnicking, or just enjoying the lake, pack smart without hauling too much.
To make your trip easier, I’ve linked some of my go-to items below. As an Amazon Associate, I may earn from purchases.
Quick Guide: Renting a boat? Pack light. Bringing your own boat? Start with a dry box. Taking out a fishing boat? Check the drain plug. Spending a day on shore? Keep it simple.
RENTING A BOAT
Rental companies usually provide the required safety gear, so this list focuses on paperwork, comfort, snacks, sunscreen, and dry storage.
BRINGING YOUR OWN BOAT
For boat owners launching or heading out from a dock. This is where paperwork, tools, permits, keys, and the dry box matter most.
PONTOON BOAT SETUP
Best for families and floating lake days. Think shade, towels, coolers, trash bags, sunscreen, chargers, and easy comfort items.
RUNABOUT/
FISHING BOAT
For smaller boats, fishing boats, and boats with drain plugs. Pack the basics, check your plug, and bring the fishing extras you actually need.
SHORE/CASUAL LAKE DAY
For visitors not boating at all. Keep it simple with towels, sunscreen, chairs, snacks, water shoes, bug spray, and a trash bag.
Planning a day at Lake Wallenpaupack?
What you need to bring depends on the kind of lake day you’re having. Renting a boat, bringing your own boat, taking out a pontoon, fishing from a smaller boat, or spending the day near the water all require different packing lists. Use this guide to choose the checklist that fits your plans and avoid overpacking or forgetting the basics.