Packing for a boat trip is different from any land-based vacation. Space is limited, weight matters, conditions change fast, and everything gets exposed to salt, sun, and spray. A smart packing list focuses on multi-use items, quick-dry fabrics, and gear that solves real problems on the water. Whether you’re heading out for a weekend charter, a week-long sail, or a multi-day bareboat adventure, this checklist keeps you prepared without overpacking.
Clothing Essentials That Handle Wet and Wild
Choose clothes that dry quickly and resist odors — you’ll wear the same pieces multiple days.
- 4–5 quick-dry T-shirts or performance tops (moisture-wicking, UV-protective if possible)
- 2–3 pairs of quick-dry shorts or convertible pants
- 1 lightweight long-sleeve shirt for sun and cooler evenings
- 1 fleece or lightweight puffy jacket for night watches or windy passages
- 2–3 pairs of quick-dry underwear and socks (merino wool blends stay fresh longer)
- Swimsuit (or two — one gets wet, one stays dry)
- Rash guard or UV shirt for extended sun exposure
- Hat with chin strap (baseball cap or wide-brim)
- Buff or neck gaiter for sun, wind, or as a face mask
- Non-marking boat shoes or water shoes with good grip (avoid black soles that mark decks)
- Flip-flops or sandals for cockpit and shore time
- Light rain jacket or waterproof shell (even in the tropics, squalls happen)
- Sleepwear that doubles as lounge wear
Pack in compression sacks or dry bags to save space and keep items dry.
Personal Items and Comfort Must-Haves
Small comforts make long days on the water feel luxurious.
- Reef-safe sunscreen (SPF 50+, broad-spectrum, water-resistant)
- Lip balm with SPF
- Sunglasses with strap (polarized lenses cut glare)
- Small personal dry bag (10–20L) for phone, wallet, and passport
- Reusable water bottle (insulated if possible)
- Quick-dry towel (microfiber packs tiny)
- Toiletries in travel sizes (biodegradable soap/shampoo if eco-focused)
- Prescription medications plus extras (seasickness pills are non-negotiable for many)
- Basic first-aid items (band-aids, antiseptic, pain relievers, anti-itch cream for bug bites or jellyfish)
- Seasickness remedies (wristbands, ginger chews, or prescription patches)
- Earplugs and eye mask for better sleep in shared cabins
Electronics and Navigation Gear
Keep devices protected and charged — salt and water destroy gear fast.
- Waterproof phone case or dry pouch
- Portable charger (10,000–20,000 mAh) and waterproof cables
- Headlamp or small flashlight (red-light mode preserves night vision)
- Waterproof speaker for music and announcements
- Backup navigation (paper charts or downloaded offline maps on phone/tablet)
- Handheld VHF radio if the boat doesn’t have one (or as backup)
- Power bank specifically rated for marine use
Shared Boat Items to Divide Among the Crew
These reduce duplication and lighten everyone’s bag.
- Snorkel gear (mask, snorkel, fins — one set per person if space allows)
- Fishing gear (if permitted and desired)
- Collapsible cooler or soft cooler bags
- Reusable shopping bags for provisioning
- Trash bags and zip-top bags for organization and waste
- Multi-tool or basic repair kit
- Deck of cards, small board games, or paperback books for downtime
Critical Safety and Protection Gear
Never assume the boat has everything you need.
- Personal flotation device (PFD) if you prefer your own fit/comfort (inflatable models pack small)
- Tether and harness if offshore or in rough conditions
- Waterproof flashlight or strobe
- Whistle attached to PFD
- Small ditch bag with essentials (if going offshore)
Final Packing Tips for Maximum Efficiency
- Use packing cubes or compression bags to organize by category (clothes, toiletries, electronics).
- Test everything for waterproofing before departure.
- Leave room for souvenirs and provisioning.
- Bring a few quality Marine Accessories like non-slip deck shoes, quick-dry microfiber towels, and waterproof phone pouches — they make daily life smoother and protect your investment in comfort.
Roll clothes instead of folding to save space and reduce wrinkles. Wear your bulkiest items (shoes, jacket) on travel days to free up luggage space. Check the boat’s inventory list in advance so you don’t double up on items like towels or linens.
With this streamlined approach, you’ll step aboard light, organized, and ready for whatever the water throws at you. The less you carry, the more you enjoy the freedom of being on a boat — where the only thing that should weigh you down is the view.