How to Pack for a Whale-Watching Trip

Nothing could be worse than being caught offshore without things you need to make your whale-watching excursion a pleasant journey. Plan ahead, make a list and enjoy your trip!

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Hats
• Sunglasses
• Warm Jackets
• Ginger Snaps
• Saltine Crackers
• Seasickness Remedies
• Sunscreen
• Boat Tickets
• Camcorders
• Cameras
• Film
• Binoculars
• Binoculars
• Water Bottles
• Waterproof Ponchos
• Hats
• Cameras

1. Find out what is available on the boat before you pack. If there is a galley or snack bar, you may be able to avoid carrying snacks or beverages, making your pack lighter.

2. Avoid taking anything larger than a day pack. You are not likely to have much storage space and won't want to keep track of a large bag while trying to watch whales.

3. Bring things that will keep you warm and dry (unless you're whale watching in the tropics). Jackets, rain ponchos, warm shoes and socks, and even gloves may be appropriate, depending on where you are.

4. Wear as much as you can to avoid packing it. A jacket (light or heavy depending on where you are), poncho, hat, sunglasses, binoculars and even cameras can be worn or carried when you board the boat.

5. Take food items that will help you avoid seasickness, such as Saltine crackers or gingersnaps, even if you've taken a seasickness remedy prior to boarding. Plan to snack every 15 to 30 minutes to keep something in your stomach.

6. Make sure the necessary equipment is readily accessible. If your video camera is stuck at the bottom of a camera bag, you're likely to miss some great shots.

Tips & Warnings

• Although you can take seasickness remedies with you on the boat, "mal de mer" is best dealt with before your trip. Whether you're using a prescription patch, wrist pressure bands or a common remedy such as ginger, avoid waiting until you're aboard ship or feeling nauseated to start anti-seasickness measures.
• Remember that there is likely to be sea spray on the boat, so you should have a way to protect your optical equipment when necessary. Plan to put cameras and binoculars under ponchos, inside jackets or into your pack when spray is heavy.
• Be extremely cautious if you have a condition - such as diabetes - that might make you seriously ill if you get seasick. Discuss options with your doctor before you go.