Alright. You’re going sailing. What do you pack?
If you’re anything like most people before their first time aboard, you’ll find yourself standing over an open bag thinking:
“What on Earth do I bring for a sailing trip?”
We get it. Once you’re on the water, you’re committed—for better or worse. There’s no turning back to grab that missing jacket or ditch the massive suitcase that’s now banished to the bow locker with wet fenders and a week’s worth of trash.
Between us, we’ve sailed with over a thousand guests and students—on sailing holidays, training courses, and long-distance passages. And this is the packing list we wish every sailor (including us, way back when) had before stepping aboard.
Whether you’re heading on a weekend cruise, a bareboat charter, or a sailing course, this packing list for a sailing trip will help you show up prepared—and avoid being “that person” on day one.
Your ultimate sailing gear list
Quick Note: This is on top of the obvious stuff—yes, you still need underwear, t-shirts, and socks.
🎒 What to pack into
| Item | Why |
|---|---|
| Soft backpack or duffle | Stows easily. Do not bring a hard suitcase. |
| Dry bags or packing cubes | Keep gear compressed, tidy, and dry. Bring one for electronics. |
🧥 Clothes
| Item | Why It’s Worth the Space |
|---|---|
| Thermals & warm socks | Night sails get cold—even in summer. |
| Wind/waterproof jacket & trousers | This is the only barrier standing between you and foul weather. |
| Sun hat, buff/scarf, sunglasses | Sun reflects off water and will roast you all day long. |
| Non-marking shoes or sneakers | Grippy, comfortable. If rain likely, bring wellies. |
| Down jacket | Warm & low weight. Keep it dry though – otherwise opt for synthetic alternatives. |
🛠️ Gear
| Item | Why you need it |
|---|---|
| Headlamp (with red light) | Red light won’t blind your crew mates. |
| Refillable water bottle | Hydration + fewer plastic bottles. Insulated & with filter even better. |
| Ear plugs | For the snoring bunkmate. Or creaky rig. Or the 3AM halyard slap. |
| Sailing gloves | Your hands will thank you when handling lines. |
| Marine friendly sunscreen & toiletries | If it goes down the drain, it should be marine friendly. |
| Quick-dry towel | Sports towel dries much quicker than cotton one. |
| Bug spray | Mosquitoes, midges and Horseflies can ruin the nicest anchorage |
| Power bank | Charging outlets onboard are usually limited. |
📄 Personal Items
| Item | Why |
|---|---|
| Medications & seasickness pills | Bring what you need. |
| Passport, Insurance, Skipper license, VHF | Bring essential documents. |
| Book + Notepad | For downtime, journalling, or notetaking on a course. |
🚫 What NOT to Bring
- Wheeled suitcases: No place to store them. For real.
- Drugs of any kind: you’d be putting the skipper in impossible legal situation.
💫 Bonus Item.
A hammock.
Optional? Yes.
Magic? Absolutely.
You can easily hang 6 hammocks on deck—and it’s pure bliss. For quiet moments or sharing stories. Read, nap, stargaze—or just soak in the universe. Don’t be surprised if it makes you the most popular person onboard.
Final Thought
We hope this sailing gear list gave you a clearer idea of what to bring so you can enjoy your sailing trip.
In the end (and we know this might sound a little cheesy), what really makes or breaks a sail isn’t gear. It’s packing the right mindset: a willingness to learn and adapt.
Happy sailing.
👇 Next up: Safety briefing checklist
Enjoyed this list? Then you’ll love our ultimate safety briefing checklist! It’s the first thing we run through before heading out.
