There's nothing quite like an Australian lake day. Whether you're headed to the calm waters of Lake Jindabyne, the sprawling shores of Lake Macquarie, or a tucked-away dam on a mate's property, a day by the water is one of the great pleasures of an Aussie summer. But the difference between a good lake day and an unforgettable one almost always comes down to preparation. Show up with the right gear and you'll be relaxing on the water while everyone else is squinting into the sun and wishing they'd packed better.
This guide walks you through every lake day essential you need — from the obvious sun-smart basics to the game-changing gear that turns a patch of shoreline into your own private aquatic playground. Consider it your definitive packing list for the perfect day out.
Why a Lake Day Needs a Different Kind of Prep
Beaches have surf clubs, kiosks and lifeguards. Lakes, more often than not, do not. That freedom is exactly what makes lake days so appealing — but it also means you're the one responsible for shade, comfort, hydration and safety. A little planning goes a long way, especially when you're travelling with kids, dogs or a big group of friends. The goal is simple: bring everything you need so you never have to cut the day short.
The Non-Negotiable Basics
Before we get to the fun stuff, let's cover the essentials that should never be left at home:
- Sun protection: A high-SPF, water-resistant sunscreen, wide-brimmed hats, UV-rated rashies and a good pair of polarised sunnies. The Australian sun is relentless, and reflection off the water intensifies UV exposure.
- Shade: A pop-up beach tent or a sturdy umbrella. Lakeside shade can be scarce, so bring your own.
- Hydration and snacks: An esky packed with plenty of water, electrolyte drinks and easy-to-eat food. Freeze a few water bottles overnight to double as ice packs.
- First-aid kit: Band-aids, antiseptic, tweezers for splinters, and any personal medications.
- Waterproof storage: Keep your phone, keys and wallet dry and sand-free. A quality dry bag is worth its weight in gold.
Level Up Your Lake Day: The Gear That Makes the Difference
Here's where a lake day goes from "nice" to "we need to do this every weekend." The right water toys and comfort gear transform a still lake into hours of entertainment for the whole family.
Floating Water Mats — The Ultimate Lake Lounger
If you buy one piece of gear for your lake days, make it a floating water mat. These buoyant, roll-out foam mats let you lie back, sunbake, picnic or simply relax right on top of the water. They're brilliant for stretching out with a book, letting the kids bounce and play, or gathering the whole crew for a floating catch-up.
Crocpad's floating water mats are designed for exactly this kind of adventure — durable, high-buoyancy and large enough to hold multiple people at once. Anchor one to the shore or a boat and you've instantly created a floating base camp. They roll up compactly for transport, so you're not wrestling with an awkward load on the drive home.
Inflatable Water Slides for the Kids
Keeping the little ones entertained at a lake can be a challenge, especially if the swimming area is shallow or rocky. An inflatable water slide gives kids a safe, splashy way to burn off endless energy. Set it up on the grassy shore for a lakeside water park vibe, or use it back home to extend the summer fun long after the lake day is over. They're a guaranteed hit at birthday parties and family gatherings too.
Don't Forget the Dog
For many Australian families, the dog is a fully paid-up member of the crew — and lake days are their idea of heaven. But getting an excited (and slippery) pup in and out of a boat, off a jetty, or up a steep bank can be tricky and even dangerous for older or smaller dogs.
A dog ramp solves the problem beautifully. It gives your four-legged mate a safe, non-slip way to climb aboard a boat or clamber out of the water without straining their joints or risking a fall. If your dog is coming along, it's an essential rather than a luxury — and it makes the day less stressful for everyone.
Packing for Comfort on the Shore
You'll spend plenty of time out of the water too, so make base camp comfortable:
- Foldable camp chairs or a couple of picnic rugs for lounging.
- A portable Bluetooth speaker (kept at a considerate volume) to set the mood.
- Beach towels — pack more than you think you'll need, especially with kids.
- A change of clothes for everyone, kept dry in a sealed bag.
- Insect repellent — lakes and dusk can bring out the mozzies.
- Rubbish bags so you can leave the spot cleaner than you found it.
Safety First: Making Your Lake Day a Safe One
Lakes can be deceptively calm. Water temperatures can drop quickly with depth, underwater snags and drop-offs aren't always visible, and there's no lifeguard to keep watch. Keep these tips in mind:
- Always supervise children in and around the water, and consider flotation aids for weaker swimmers.
- Check local conditions before you go — some lakes have blue-green algae warnings or seasonal closures.
- Know your entry and exit points. Muddy or steep banks can be tricky, which is another reason a dog ramp or a stable floating mat is so handy.
- Never swim alone, and keep an eye on the weather — inland storms can roll in fast.
- Stay hydrated. It's easy to forget how much fluid you lose in the sun when you're having fun on the water.
Your Lake Day Checklist at a Glance
Before you lock the front door, run through this quick list:
- Sunscreen, hats, sunnies and rashies
- Shade tent or umbrella
- Esky with water, drinks and food
- Floating water mat
- Inflatable water slide (if the kids are coming)
- Dog ramp (if the dog is coming)
- Dry bag for valuables
- Towels, chairs and picnic rugs
- First-aid kit and insect repellent
- Rubbish bags for a clean getaway
Make Every Lake Day Count
A great lake day isn't about having the most gear — it's about having the right gear. A comfortable place to float, safe fun for the kids, and an easy way for the dog to join in all add up to a day the whole family will want to repeat again and again. With a little preparation and the right essentials in the boot, you'll spend less time fussing and more time soaking up that gorgeous Australian outdoor water lifestyle.
Ready to gear up for your next adventure? Explore the full range of floating water mats, inflatable water slides and dog ramps at Crocpad and turn your next lake day into the best one yet.
