Essentials for boat based field work
Fieldwork doesn’t have to be uncomfortable
For me, fieldwork is one of the most exciting parts of science. Whether you’re studying sharks offshore, monitoring coastal ecosystems, surveying wildlife, or conducting environmental research, working in the field allows scientists to collect the data that drives discovery and conservation.
But fieldwork also comes with real challenges: long days in the sun, unpredictable weather, physical exertion, and limited access to resources. Proper preparation isn’t just about comfort—it’s about safety, efficiency, and protecting your health so you can continue doing the work you love.
Over the years, I’ve learned that a well-prepared field kit can make the difference between a smooth research day and a stressful situation. Here are some essential items and safety practices every field scientist should consider before heading out.
10 Tips for Successful Fieldwork
1. Sun Protection Is Non-Negotiable
Fieldwork often means hours of exposure to direct sunlight, especially for marine and coastal researchers. Without protection, this can lead to severe sunburn, long-term skin damage, and increased risk of Skin cancer.
Essential sun protection includes:
Broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+ or higher)
UV-protective clothing
A wide-brim hat
Polarized sunglasses
Lip balm with SPF
Reapply sunscreen throughout the day, especially if you’re sweating or working in the water. Protecting your skin now can prevent serious health issues later.
2. Hydration Is Critical
When you’re busy collecting samples, deploying equipment, or surveying wildlife, it’s easy to forget to drink enough water. Dehydration can lead to fatigue, dizziness, headaches, and decreased cognitive performance—none of which you want when working in challenging environments.
Always bring more water than you think you’ll need, especially in hot climates. Many experienced field researchers follow a simple rule: if you think you packed enough water, bring one more bottle.
Hydration packs, insulated bottles, and electrolyte mixes can also help maintain fluid balance during long days outdoors.
3. Pack High-Protein, Salty Snacks
Fieldwork burns energy quickly. Between hauling equipment, walking long distances, or working on a boat, your body needs consistent fuel.
The best field snacks are:
High in protein
Easy to eat quickly
Resistant to heat
Slightly salty to replenish electrolytes
Examples include:
Nuts and trail mix
Jerky
Protein bars
Peanut butter packets
Crackers or pretzels
These foods help maintain energy levels while replacing salt lost through sweat.
4. Wear Clothes That Can Get Wet, Dirty, or Both
Field scientists should dress for function. Your clothing should be comfortable, durable, and adaptable to changing conditions.
Key clothing considerations include:
Quick-drying fabrics
Closed-toe shoes with good traction
Extra layers for changing temperatures
Clothing you don’t mind getting muddy, salty, or stained
If you work near water, assume that at some point you will get wet.
5. Always Bring Foul Weather Gear
Weather forecasts are helpful—but they aren’t always accurate. Sudden storms, wind shifts, and temperature drops are common in many field environments.
Always carry:
A waterproof rain jacket
Waterproof pants if possible
Dry bags for electronics and notebooks
Even on sunny days, weather can change quickly. Being prepared keeps your team comfortable and your equipment protected.
6. A Well-Stocked First Aid Kit Is Essential
Every field team should carry a comprehensive first aid kit that can handle minor injuries and stabilize more serious issues until help arrives.
Important items include:
Bandages and adhesive bandages
Sterile gauze
Antiseptic wipes
Medical tape
Tweezers
Gloves
Scissors
Some additional items can be especially valuable in remote field settings:
Aspirin — can help slow clot formation during a suspected heart attack while waiting for medical assistance.
Benadryl — can help slow allergic reactions in emergency situations.
Hibiclens — useful for thoroughly cleaning wounds to reduce infection risk.
Field kits should also include menstrual supplies to ensure that all crew members have access to necessary hygiene items. Thoughtful preparation supports the well-being of the entire team.
7. Carry Multiple Navigation Methods
Technology is incredibly helpful—but it can fail. Batteries die, signals drop, and electronics can get wet.
For safety, always carry multiple forms of navigation, including a mix of digital and analog tools.
Examples include:
GPS device or navigation app (I’m a big fan of Navionics)
Nautical or topographic maps
A compass
Backup batteries or power banks
Redundancy ensures you can still find your way if one system stops working.
8. Always File a Float Plan
Before heading into the field—especially on the water—you should always file a float plan.
A float plan includes:
Where you are going
Who is on the trip
Your expected route
When you plan to return
When someone should call for help if you don’t check in
Leave this information with someone on land who is not part of the field team. If something goes wrong, this plan can significantly speed up rescue or recovery efforts.
9. Avoid Doing Fieldwork Alone
Solo fieldwork may seem efficient, but it introduces significant safety risks. Accidents, injuries, and unexpected situations are far easier to manage when someone else is present.
Working in teams allows researchers to:
Provide immediate assistance in emergencies
Share physical workloads
Maintain situational awareness
Improve data collection accuracy
Whenever possible, conduct fieldwork with at least one other person.
10. Have a potty plan
It may seem silly, but you should know how you are going to go to the bathroom. Is there a bathroom on the boat? Can you easily get to facilities on land? Or will you be using the world’s largest toilet…the ocean. It’s important to make sure you and your crewmates have bathroom options that feel safe and accessible to all members of the team. Not everyone can aim and fire off the side. You should take care to consider possible bathroom strategies and make this clear to everyone on the team so no one is avoiding drinking water so they don’t have to pee.
Preparation is key
Fieldwork is one of the most rewarding aspects of scientific research. It connects us directly to the ecosystems we study and provides the data that drives conservation, discovery, and innovation.
But successful fieldwork depends on planning, preparation, and prioritizing safety.
By protecting your skin, staying hydrated, fueling your body, preparing for weather changes, and equipping your team with proper safety supplies, you set yourself—and your research—up for success.
Because the best field days are the ones where everyone returns safely with great data and great stories to tell.