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Travel with Brigitte

20 Essential Things to Bring Before a Sailing Vacation

Flat lay of travel essentials and tech gadgets including Nikon camera, MacBook, passports, smartwatch, headphones, and power banks on a wooden table.

Key Takeaways:

  • Pack essential documents, medications, and travel necessities before you leave home.
  • Bring sun protection, comfortable clothing, and proper footwear for life on and off the ship.
  • Use organizational items and travel accessories to stay comfortable and prepared throughout your sailing vacation.

There’s nothing quite like a sailing trip, the breeze in your face, open water in every direction, and that gentle sway of the charter boat reminding you exactly where you’re meant to be. It’s the kind of escape that feeds your sense of adventure. However, winging it without the right gear can turn a great trip into a headache really fast.

That’s why packing smart matters. Whether you’ve been in bareboat charters for years or this is your first time on deck, bringing the right stuff on board can be the difference between a relaxing getaway and a stressful scramble. From sun protection to little things you’ll be glad you brought, these 20 essentials will help keep your trip safe, comfortable, and full of good vibes.

So grab a pen, or a drink, and let’s make sure your sailing adventure is everything it should be!

1. Dry Bag

Colorful waterproof dry bags hanging for sale in Mandaue City, Philippines.

A dry bag is an absolute must for any sailing trip. Whether you’re splashed by waves or caught in a surprise downpour, this waterproof bag will keep your phones, credit cards, lip balm, and travel documents completely dry. It’s also great for stashing spare clothes, snacks, and electronics without worrying about moisture damage.

2. Non-Slip Deck Shoes

Pair of tan leather boat shoes with white laces and soles on a wooden surface.

Decks can get slick fast, and the last thing you want in your sailing holiday is to slip while trying to enjoy the view or handle ropes. Non-slip deck shoes are designed specifically for life at sea, giving you a solid grip on wet surfaces without marking the deck. They’re more breathable and boat-friendly than regular sneakers, and they’ll save you from any embarrassing (or dangerous) slip-and-slide moments.

3. Polarized Sunglasses

Black framed sunglasses with reflective blue lenses, reflecting trees, on a shiny surface.

The sun’s glare off the water can be blinding, not to mention exhausting on your eyes after a full day on deck. Polarized sunglasses cut through that harsh reflection, giving you clearer vision and helping reduce eye strain. They also add a layer of UV protection, which is crucial when you’re surrounded by open water.

4. Reef-Safe Sunscreen

Four different sunscreen bottles and tubes on a wooden surface, including sprays and lotions.

While traditional sunscreens might protect your skin, some of them contain chemicals that harm coral reefs and marine life. Reef-safe sunscreen gives you the same sun protection without damaging the delicate ocean ecosystem you’re sailing through. It’s a small, responsible choice that helps preserve the beauty of the sea for future adventures.

5. Lightweight Waterproof Jacket

Two lightweight outdoor jackets, blue Salomon Bonatti Pro and orange Marmot, displayed on a dark wall at an event.

Sailing weather can be unpredictable. One minute, it’s sunshine and calm seas; the next, you’re dealing with wind and spray. A lightweight, waterproof jacket is perfect for layering, keeping you warm and dry without being bulky. Choose one that’s breathable so you stay comfortable even when you’re active, and make sure it has a hood for extra protection against sudden squalls.

6. Wide-Brim Hat or Cap

Woven straw hat with a brown and white polka dot band displayed on a stand.

When you’re spending hours under the open sky, a good hat is your best defense against the relentless sun. A wide-brim hat or a well-fitted cap shields your face, ears, and neck from UV rays, areas that tend to burn easily but are often overlooked. Not only does it protect your skin, but it also helps you stay cooler and more comfortable as the day heats up.

7. Motion Sickness Medication

Black and white close-up of various pharmaceutical blister packs with pills and capsules.

Even if you’ve never felt queasy on land or think you’ve got a stomach of steel, the rocking of a boat can catch anyone off guard. Motion sickness can come from out of nowhere and ruin an otherwise perfect day on the water. Having medication or natural remedies like ginger chews or acupressure bands on hand can be a real game-changer.

8. First Aid Kit

Open white first aid kit filled with bandages, medical tape, and Hansaplast plasters.

Bumps, scrapes, or the occasional stubbed toe are almost guaranteed when you’re moving around a boat. A small, well-stocked first aid kit can take care of minor injuries and save you from cutting your adventure short. Include essentials like band-aids, antiseptic wipes, seasickness remedies, pain relievers, and any personal medications.

9. Thermal Flasks

Four reusable water bottles, including blue and stainless steel designs, on a dark surface.

The sun and sea breeze can be deceptively dehydrating, especially when you’re active and exposed to the sun all day. A thermal flask makes it easy to keep you hydrated throughout the day. Using these types keep your water cold and ready.

10. Swimwear (And a Spare!)

Flat lay of neatly folded clothing items, including t-shirts and underwear, in various colors on white surfaces.

On a sailing trip, jumping into crystal-clear water is half the fun—but climbing back into a damp, clingy swimsuit? Not so much. Your charter company won’t bring you any swimwear, so make sure you have at least two sets whenever you need to change into something dry. Whether you’re snorkeling, paddleboarding, or just cooling off, having an extra suit means more comfort and less waiting around for things to dry in the breeze.

11. Quick-Dry Towel

Close-up of neatly stacked and rolled bath towels in various colors.

Standard towels are bulky, slow to dry, and take up precious space on a boat. On the other hand, a quick-dry towel is lightweight, compact, and ready for action. If you’re hopping in for a swim, drying off after a rinse, or just need a cushion for sunbathing on the deck, this towel is your go-to. It dries in a flash, doesn’t hold that damp, funky smell, and folds down small, perfect for the limited space on board.

12. Multi-Tool or Pocket Knife

Red Swiss Army knife with multiple tools extended, including blades, pliers, and scissors, on wood.

You never know when you’ll need to cut a line, tighten a screw, open a bottle, or handle some unexpected DIY repairs while at sea. A good multi-tool or pocket knife is like having a mini toolbox in your pocket. It’s compact, versatile, and extremely useful, a true sailor’s sidekick. Just make sure it’s less than 4 inches.

13. Waterproof Phone Pouch

Smartphone in a clear waterproof pouch with a neck strap, designed for water protection.

Accidents can happen on a boat at any time. One slip and your phone could be swimming with the fish. A waterproof phone pouch is a simple but essential way to keep your device safe from splashes, rain, and surprise dives overboard. Many pouches even let you use your phone through the case, so you can snap photos or check navigation apps without exposing your tech to the water.

14. Portable Charger / Power Bank

Hands holding a light green smartphone and a black power bank, connected by a charging cable outdoors.

Between snapping photos, checking maps, and keeping in touch with the world, your devices can drain fast without you ever knowing it. Since outlets can be limited, or nonexistent, on some types of sailing boats, a reliable power bank keeps you charged up and connected. Choose one with multiple ports and enough juice to get you through the trip, especially if you’re using your phone for GPS or emergency contact.

15. Snorkel Gear

Two pairs of snorkeling masks and snorkels, one blue and one orange, lying on wet sand.

Sure, you could borrow gear, but nothing beats the comfort and cleanliness of your own snorkel set. If your sailing route includes coves, reefs, or clear blue lagoons (and let’s be honest, it probably does), having your own mask, snorkel, and fins means you’re ready to dive in anytime. It’s a small investment for a big upgrade to your underwater adventures.

16. Snacks and Easy Meals

Snack aisle in a supermarket or convenience store filled with bags of chips and various packaged snacks.

There’s something about salty air and sun-soaked days that kicks up your appetite. While most yacht charters have some kind of galley, it’s always smart to bring along easy-to-grab snacks and simple meals. Think granola bars, trail mix, dried fruit, instant noodles, or sandwich fixings.

17. Lightweight Clothing Layers

Three people from behind, wearing oversized hoodies in maroon, dark green, and camel, standing in a park.

Out at sea, the weather has a mind of its own. It can be warm and breezy during the day but cool quickly once the sun dips below the horizon. Lightweight layers, like a breathable hoodie, long-sleeve shirt, or thermal tee, let you adapt without overstuffing your bag. They also come in handy for sun protection or unexpected wind.

18. Travel Insurance (With Sailing Coverage)

Travel insurance documents with a toy airplane, pen, booking confirmation, and US dollar bills.

It may not be the most exciting thing to pack, but travel insurance is one of the smartest and most important. Whether it’s a canceled charter, a weather delay, or a medical emergency miles from shore, having coverage that includes sailing-related activities gives you peace of mind. It’s the safety net you hope you won’t need—but you’ll be glad to have if something goes sideways.

19. Entertainment (Books, Cards, Music)

Person sitting comfortably, holding and reading an e-reader tablet with text displayed on screen.

Even the most scenic destinations have their slower moments; long crossings, lazy afternoons, or evenings anchored under the stars. Bring along your favorite books, a deck of cards, downloaded playlists, or even a travel game. It’s the perfect way to unwind, connect with experienced sailors in the boat, or just enjoy the calm between adventures.

20. Copies of Important Documents

US passport, hundred dollar bills, and a smartphone displaying a financial graph on a table.

Water and paperwork are not friends. Keep printed and digital copies of your important documents, like your passport, ID, travel insurance, and sailing permits, in a waterproof pouch or dry bag. Should the originals go missing or get soaked, having a backup can make the difference between a quick fix and a major hassle.

Setting sail on a vacation is like embarking on a grand adventure, with the promise of fresh breezes and unforgettable experiences. By making sure you’re well-prepared with the right gear, from sun protection to travel insurance and a few comforts of home; you’ll be able to relax and enjoy every wave and horizon.