What to Bring on an Airboat Tour: The Complete Packing List
A good tour starts before you get on the boat. Guests who come prepared have a better time — they’re comfortable, protected from the elements, and free to focus on the experience instead of dealing with sunburn, sore feet, or a dead phone battery. Here’s exactly what to pack.
The Essentials
Sunscreen: South Florida sun is strong year-round. Apply SPF 30 or higher before you arrive. Reapplication mid-tour isn’t practical once you’re on the water, so go heavy before boarding.
Sunglasses: Polarized lenses cut glare off the water and make wildlife spotting significantly easier. You’ll thank yourself when you’re trying to pick out a gator resting on the bank.
Closed-toe shoes: Sneakers or water shoes with grip are ideal. Sandals and flip-flops slip on a wet deck and aren’t appropriate for dock areas.
A hat: A brimmed hat or cap with a chin strap is best. At speed, a loose hat becomes a problem.
Water: Bring a sealed water bottle. Hydration is especially important during spring and summer tours when temperatures and humidity are both high.
Optional but Recommended
A light jacket or layer: Even in summer, the air temperature drops noticeably at speed on the water. From October through April, mornings can be genuinely cold before the sun climbs. A pullover or windbreaker that stuffs into a bag is ideal.
A camera or waterproof phone case: The wildlife photo opportunities on a Swamp Monster tour are real. Having your phone in a waterproof pouch or a dedicated camera gives you flexibility without the anxiety of water spray.
Insect repellent: Mosquitoes are more active during the wet season (June through September). A small travel-size repellent in your pocket is worth it during those months.
Binoculars: If you’re serious about bird watching, compact travel binoculars open up the experience. Great egrets, anhingas, roseate spoonbills, and ospreys are common sightings, and binoculars let you observe them without the boat needing to get within a few feet.
Leave These at the Car
Loose valuables: Keys, wallets, and phones not in a case should stay in your car or a secure zippered pocket. Spray and wind can move things off surfaces and edges.
Food: Outside food isn’t recommended on the boat. Eat before you arrive or after your tour.
Strong scents: Heavy perfume or cologne can attract insects on the water.
For Families with Kids
If you’re bringing children, consider packing a small backpack for the adults with sunscreen, snacks for after the tour, a change of clothes for younger kids (spray does happen), and any ear protection they prefer over the standard-issue kind.
We provide ear protection for every guest. It’s recommended for children especially.
Book your airboat tour here — and now you know exactly what to bring.
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