Planning a canal boat holiday is exciting—but packing for life on the water is a bit different from your typical getaway. Space is limited, the pace is relaxed, and you’ll be spending most of your time outdoors or cruising peacefully through the countryside. Whether it’s your first time or you’re a seasoned narrowboater, here’s a complete guide on what to bring on a canal boat holiday.
🧳 Essentials to Pack
1. Clothing
- Layers – Weather can change quickly. Bring t-shirts, jumpers, and waterproofs.
- Waterproof jacket & trousers – A must, even in summer.
- Comfortable shoes with grip – Trainers or walking shoes for locks and towpaths.
- Hat & gloves – For cooler mornings or evenings, even in spring/autumn.
- Sun hat & sunglasses – The sun can be surprisingly strong on the water.
2. Toiletries
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, soap, deodorant
- Toilet paper (we provide some, but extras are handy)
- Moisturiser – canal air can be drying!
🍴 Food & Kitchen Supplies
Most hire boats come with fully equipped kitchens (hob, oven, fridge, kettle, crockery, cutlery), but you’ll need to bring:
- Cooking oil, salt, pepper, herbs/spices
- Breakfast items, snacks, and easy meal ingredients
- Bottled water (tap water is safe but often tastes different)
- Reusable water bottles and thermos flasks
- Bin bags, foil, cling film
- Dish soap, sponge, tea towels (check what’s provided)
🔌 Tech & Accessories
- Phone & chargers
- Power bank – some boats have limited plug sockets
- Head torch or flashlight – useful at night or in unlit mooring spots
- Bluetooth speaker – if you want music onboard (keep volume considerate)
🎲 Entertainment
- Books, e-reader or magazines
- Board games or cards
- Journal or sketchbook
- Fishing gear (if licensed and permitted)
- Binoculars for bird watching
🛠 Practical Extras
- Gloves (for working locks)
- Pegs and clothesline (some boats have them)
- Maps or canal guides (like Nicholson’s or Pearson’s)
- Canal key (provided by boat hire, for water points, locks etc.)
- Notebook and pen for jotting things down
🐾 If You’re Bringing a Dog
- Dog bed and blanket
- Lead and harness (great for on-deck safety)
- Food and water bowls
- Dog life jacket (recommended, especially for smaller breeds)
- Dog towels and poop bags
📝 Top Tips
- Use soft bags, not suitcases – easier to store in small spaces
- Don’t overpack – canal life is simple; you won’t need much
- Stock up before departure – shops can be scarce along some routes
- Check what’s provided – see here for a complete list
A canal boat holiday is a wonderfully relaxing way to explore the countryside at your own pace. With just a bit of thoughtful packing, you’ll be well prepared for a memorable adventure on the water.
