The sun is shining, the barbies are fired up, and the beaches are packed… All of which can only mean one thing – summer is here! Summer is the season for outdoor fun and sees Aussies from far and wide throw on their sunnies and get out there. Before you head out on your next summer adventure, it's not a bad idea to check out what BCF has to offer and pick up some cracker summer gear. We not only have the gear you'll need to make your time outdoors BCFing FUN, but we've also got a whole list of ideas for you to try on your next day out. If the sun is shining and you're stuck on what to do, read on and check out our 6 favourite ways to spend an Aussie summer's day in the great outdoors.
Stand-Up Paddleboarding
There's no better time than summer to grab a stand-up paddleboard (SUP) and spend a day cruising around on one of Australia's many pristine bodies of water. If you've been to the beach lately, there's a good chance you've spotted more than a few paddle boards, and for good reason - they're bundles of fun... BCFing FUN to be exact! SUPs are a relatively new form of watercraft that have taken the country by storm, with a lightweight construction that makes paddling around a breeze. They come in both epoxy and inflatable options, so no matter your storage situation, there'll be a SUP that suits you. It's important to choose the correct weight and length of your SUP, so be sure to have a yarn with our BCFing experts in-store or check out our Stand Up Paddle Board Buyers Guide to learn how to choose the right paddle board for you. We've got some cracker brands including Tahwalhi for those who are chasing a more budget-friendly solution and BOTE who have an unmatched line-up of premium options. Whether you're chasing the perfect platform for a leisurely cruise, or a paddleboard that'll get you fishing, we're sure to have a board to suit your needs.
Now before you head off for a day of paddle-powered fun, don't forget about the many SUP Accessories you can purchase including paddles! We have aluminium and epoxy options available to help get you moving. So don't wait, get out there and go for a paddle today! You won't only be having bundles of fun but will be getting some exercise ticked off in the process, now that's what we call a win, win!
Kayaking alone or with a friend
The humble kayak is quickly gaining a reputation as the perfect watercraft to explore Australia's epic waterways. With a design that's lightweight, compact, and ruggedly durable, it's no surprise that so many BCFers are jumping on the kayak bandwagon! The beauty of kayaking is that it's so versatile. You can ride solo with a 1 person kayak, or link up with a mate (or special someone) and put some teamwork into action with one of our 2 person options Whether you'd like to pick up a recreational kayak that's manoeuvrable and can help you explore every nook and cranny of your local system, or a fully kitted fishing kayak to help put a bend in your rod and a smile on your face, there's sure to be a kayak to fit the bill at BCF. What's even better is that a day spent kayaking isn't limited to those who have a ute or a set of roof racks, just about anyone can spend a day on the water with our range of inflatable kayaks that you can pack up and chuck in the boot or backseat of a small car.
We also have a cracker selection of kayak accessories including paddles and seating to make your time on the water even more enjoyable! If you're lost for ideas on what to do on your next day out, grab a kayak and hit the water for some fun in the sun.
Try your hand at some wake sports
There's nothing quite like the feeling you get when being towed behind a boat! Whether on a wakeboard, skis, or even a kneeboard, you're sure to be grinning from ear to ear. BCF have the right products to suit any experience level, so everyone from the beginner to the guru will be able to enjoy getting stuck into one of Australia's most loved high adrenaline activities. And the best part is, there are so many great spots to try your hand at wake sports. From freshwater impoundments to saltwater rivers, there's no shortage of water to ski around in Down Under!
If lying back and letting the boat do the work is more your jam, get your hands on a tow tube. Tow tubes are available in a huge variety of shapes and sizes ranging from 1, 2, and even 3-person options, so you can fly solo or share in the excitement with your friends and family. Their rugged construction means that they can take a bit of beating, and since they’re fully inflatable, they can be packed away at the end of the day for convenient storage. Riding behind the boat on a tow tube is one of the best ways to experience the epic waterways that Aus has to offer while also feeling the need for speed and getting a good dose of fresh air. Now that's our idea of a summers day well spent!
Don't forget the life jackets! / PFDs
A must-have accessory for anyone on board your boat or watercraft, the life jacket or PFD (Personal Flotation Device) has saved countless lives since its creation. Although maybe not the prettiest of additions to your wardrobe, the PFD is often mandatory, so be sure to check your local guide for regionally specific regulations. They come in a range of colours, sizes, and buoyancy ratings to suit any activity, water type, or condition that you and the passengers onboard may face. Whether it's to keep you safe while speeding around on a wakeboard or tube or to help in the event of a capsize in your kayak, a life jacket is an absolute essential. As each State and Territory has different rules and regulations regarding the use of PFDs, make sure to check out what's required in your area before you hit the water.
Explore the water with a snorkel
If you're in the mood for adventure, it's time to grab a snorkel set, and dive in deep. There's no better way to get up close and personal with our fishy friends, and with the help of some snorkelling gear you can pay a visit to the many fish and crustaceans that call our beaches and waterways home. We've got a full selection that'll cater for every skill level and every member of the family, so whether you're a big kid or a little one you're sure to have an absolute ball! There's nothing more exciting than seeing fish and other critters in their natural habitat, and you can bring your snorkel along on the boat, or to the beach as many models come in a convenient carry bag. If 'fish are friends, not food' aren't the words you live by, you could add to your snorkelling adventure by bringing along some spearfishing gear. Spearfishing is one of the most sustainable ways to catch a feed and a great challenge. Whether it's a big kingfish that you're chasing or a feed of abalone off the rocks, BCF have the gear to help get you going. Don't hold your breath! Whether it's snorkelling or spearfishing that you want to try your hand at, dive in and explore all things underwater this summer.
Spend a day in the pool
If you're lucky enough to have your own pool, there's nothing better than spending a day splashing or lounging around, and here at BCF we have everything you need to make your pool day a winner. Whether you're keen to kick back on a reclining lounger and spend the day getting your tan on, or want to jump in and cool off, a pool day offers something for the whole crew. To take your pool day to the next level, throw in some pool inflatables for good measure. These Streets Pool Inflatables add a whole heap of fun to any pool day and are sure to liven things up. If you're keen for something a little more active, you can throw around the beach ball, get soaked with a water blaster, or even set up a game of volleyball. There's something for the whole family this summer!
Play a game of beach or backyard cricket
Nothing says Aussie summer like a good old game of cricket. Whether it's the backyard or the beach, it's time to get the gang together and try to hit them all for six! The perfect way to end a big day, or a cracker way to compliment that backyard BBQ, there's not many situations that don't call for a game of cricket. Check out this cracker Beach Cricket Set from Verao. It's got everything you need for a game of cricket and is perfectly suited to the beach or the backyard. Howzat!
So, there you have it! Six of our favourite ways to spend a summers day and make this summer one for the ages. But the fun doesn't have to stop there. You can spend a day fishing, cook up a barbie, or even tackle some tracks in your 4-wheel drive. Whatever you have planned for the summer, we hope you can fit in a few BCFing activities… See you out there!