Motor Boatin' Bloggin'

Today

March on Falls Lake is a beautiful thing. The crowds haven't arrived yet, the scenery is fresh, and that first warm-ish day of the year practically demands a boat rental. But early spring weather in North Carolina is famously unpredictable — warm in the afternoon, chilly by the time the sun dips, and occasionally both in the same hour.

The key to a great March lake day? Packing smart. The experts at Motor Boatin’ know exactly what is needed to be prepared for a perfect lake day.

Here's everything worth throwing in the bag before heading to the water this spring:

  • Layers, layers, and more layers: March mornings at Falls Lake can feel closer to February than May. Starting the day in a light jacket or zip-up fleece is the move — one that can be peeled off once the afternoon sun kicks in. A windbreaker is especially clutch on the water, where the breeze tends to make temperatures feel a few degrees cooler than they actually are.
    • Pack: A base layer, a mid-layer fleece, and a lightweight windproof outer layer.
  • Sun protection: The sun reflects off the water year-round, and March is no exception. UV exposure on the lake can sneak up fast, especially on a clear spring day. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are non-negotiables regardless of the month.
    • Pack: SPF 30 or higher sunscreen, UV-protective sunglasses, and a baseball cap or wide-brim hat.
  • Dry clothes and a towel: Nobody plans to get splashed, especially on cooler days, but it happens. Whether it's a wave from a passing boat, a rogue tube wipeout, or a jet ski misadventure, having a dry change of clothes stashed in a bag makes the ride home infinitely more comfortable. March is not the month for staying wet.
    • Pack: A full change of clothes in a dry bag or ziplock, plus at least one towel.
  • Snacks and drinks: Time on the water has a funny way of working up an appetite. Pack more snacks than seems necessary. Easy finger foods, sandwiches, trail mix, fruit, jerky, and plenty of water. A thermos of hot coffee or tea is a genuinely great idea for a March morning on the lake.
    • Pack: A cooler with water, snacks, and something warm to sip on.
  • A waterproof bag or dry sack. Phones, wallets, keys, and cameras do not mix well with lake water. A simple dry bag or waterproof pouch keeps the essentials protected, whether on a pontoon, deck boat, or jet ski. This is an easy one that most people forget until it's too late.
    • Pack: A waterproof dry bag or, at a minimum, a few large ziplock bags for valuables.
  • Motion sickness relief: Choppier spring waters combined with cooler temps can catch first-timers off guard. If anyone in the group tends to get queasy on the water, packing motion sickness tablets or wristbands is a smart precaution, especially on a windier March day.
    • Pack: Dramamine, Sea-Bands, or another preferred motion remedy.

Fewer crowds, peaceful scenery, and the pure excitement of getting back on the water after winter — March lake days are genuinely underrated. Pack right, dress in layers, and it's going to be a great time.

Ready to reserve? Book your perfect lake day online now and request a captain if needed!