Sailing Holiday Packing List - What to Take?
Making a sailing packing list can be tricky, so we have decided to give you a few packing tips which can help you prepare for your upcoming adventure at sea. However, what to take on sailing holidays depends solely on you and the type of sailing holidays you have in mind.
Even the largest sailboats have limited space for storing all your belongings, which means that you must be practical when it comes to packing. It is crucial to understand which things are necessary for your sailing trip and which are the things you can do without - the less you take, the better.
Do pack your things in duffel bags. They are the best choice for boats because they’re soft and can be stashed away easily.
Documents and Currency
You will, of course, need your passport or ID card and their photocopies, just in case. Make sure you do not forget to bring your sailing certificates if you are going to be a skipper. If you intend to hire a car or motorbike, you will need your driving license. Also, take your medical card and holiday insurance documents.
When it comes to money, it is recommended that you bring a combination of cash and credit cards. It is important to remember that some smaller ports may have no banks or ATMs and that in small tavernas credit cards may not be accepted. Therefore, it is a good idea to take some cash with you.
Clothes
When it comes to packing clothes for a sailing trip, you should keep it simple.
Sailing requires comfortable clothes and if you go sailing in summer, like most people, bring shorts, light T-shirts, shirts, dresses and of course a bathing suit. However, no matter how sunny and warm your chosen sailing destination might be, it can get chilly in the evenings, and things may get rough out in the open sea. Therefore, be sure to take a waterproof windbreaker and a light jacket or a pullover. Also, bring non-slip shoes that stick well to the plastic surfaces of the boat, especially when they get wet.
Here is a sailing packing list of clothing items and footwear for a 7-day-long sailing trip:
- At least three pairs of shorts
- A pair of pants/jeans
- A couple of T-shirts
- At least two long sleeved shirts/blouses
- Bathing suits
- Light jacket/pullover
- Waterproof windbreaker
- Shoes, sandals, flip-flops
It is also vital to take sun-protective clothing - cover-ups, sarongs and things like that, which will ensure you don’t get sunburnt.
Toiletries and Medication
The first thing you should think about is your skin. Since you will be spending a lot of time out in the scorching sun, be sure to pack sunscreen. Do not forget your prescription drugs, seasickness medications, and insect repellents. We also recommend taking an after-sun lotion, band-aids and a lip balm with you.
Gadgets
Nowadays, it seems almost impossible to live without certain devices, and some of them may be very useful when on a sailing vacation. Here’s the list:
- External battery - one of the most used gadgets on the boat and an essential item since your supply of electricity is likely to be limited
- USB charging hub - for charging up all your devices at once
- Camera/GoPro - you want to capture all those beautiful moments in high resolution
- Tablet or Kindle - read your chosen book
- Portable speaker - you want this one when partying outside on stern
- Aux cable - connect your devices to the yacht radio
Other items you should put on your sailing packing list:
- Sunglasses
- Reading glasses
- Sunhat
- Beach towels
- Small torch
- Snorkeling gear
- Walking gear
- Playing cards, your favorite music, books
- Dry bag
Sailing with Kids
If you’re sailing with kids, make sure you have strong sunscreen with a high SPF with you. Bring clothing that protects their skin from the sun and something warm for the evenings. Don’t forget sunglasses and sunhats. Finally, bring some inflatable toys and coloring books!
