If you’ve booked your vessel, but are wondering what to bring boating, this guide will steer you through the process of what to pack for a boat trip. While some are the same as you’d bring on any holiday, there are certain items that are specific to a boat trip packing list.
Whether you’re an experienced sailor or are new to life at sea, this list of what to pack for a boating holiday will help to ensure you don’t forget anything. From documentation and luggage to clothing, accessories, toiletries, tech, and more, here are the items to consider bringing on board.
Before packing your bags
Weather
The first thing to think about is where you’ll be heading, the time of year you’re going, and what the climate will be like.
Remember that it could be a lot colder on the water – and even by the coast when you’re on land, particularly at night. Layering is a good way to go, as you can adjust your clothing to suit the temperature.
Style
Casual clothing will usually be the best choice. Even smart restaurants frequented by those on sailing holidays tend to expect diners in laid-back attire. Boat life isn’t really conducive to multiple pairs of high heels, shirts that need a lot of ironing, or delicate garments and jewellery that might catch on things.
Space
Bear in mind how much room there might be on board, too. You don’t want your luggage to take up every inch of floor space. There will be limited storage, so packing as little as possible can make life easier.
Boat
The type of boat will also come into play. There may be more scope regarding what to pack for a yacht trip, for example, as there will likely be a lot more space on board for you and your belongings. If you’re hiring an upmarket vessel, you might also feel that dressing up is more important.
Luggage
Backpack, duffel, or sports bag
Picking the right luggage can also make a difference to everyone’s comfort level once you’re on board the boat. In most cases, soft and flexible bags like duffel bags, backpacks, or sports bags are the best choice, as they can be slotted into any on-board lockers, cupboards, or drawers more easily. Even soft-sided suitcases can be hard to squeeze into tight spaces, as they’re still structured.
Day pack
You’ll also need some kind of day pack or bag. A waterproof one is ideal, as it will offer protection for your smartphone or camera, wallet or purse, and any other items you carry around.
Lightweight, flexible tote
A tote bag or beach bag is perfect for shore excursions when you may need to carry more than the absolute basics, such as a beach towel, snorkelling gear, and forms of entertainment like toys or books. Again, pick a lightweight, flexible bag, such as a mesh one, that folds down flat if you can.
Theft-proof bag
Bringing a theft-proof cross-body bag, or a concealed security pouch, can help to keep your valuables safe when venturing onto solid ground. Beware of petty thefts and pickpockets when on land, as thieves can frequent areas that attract tourist crowds.
Clothing, footwear, and accessories
Swimwear
First on the list of what to bring on a boat trip has to be swimwear. For a week or more away, bring three sets: one to wear, one to wash, and a spare. These don’t take up a lot of space.
Daywear
For summer, the sort of clothing you’d wear at the beach is perfect – think vest tops, t-shirts, shorts, and sun dresses. If you’ll be visiting any religious sites, check what you should cover and pack accordingly. You may also need clothes suitable for hiking.
Casual evening wear
For however many evenings you’ll be spending on land, pack relaxed outfits you can wear out to bars or restaurants.
Nightwear
Pyjamas are the most practical choice for a boat trip.
Waterproof jacket
A packable waterproof jacket can protect you from ocean winds and sea spray, as well as rain. You can also carry a portable one with you whenever you head off exploring, as an extra layer to wear if needed.
Warmer layers
A sweater or two is ideal to slip on when you’re feeling the chill. You might also like to bring a lightweight jacket, which is ideal for dining out.
Footwear
Bring flip flops or sandals for on board, plus any other smart, hiking, or beach footwear you’ll need.
Accessories
A sun hat or cap, plus sunglasses, will be necessary when it’s hot out. Don’t forget that you can easily get burnt on a moving boat, even though you’re unlikely to feel it until later on.
Accessories like jewellery and a scarf can help to dress up casual outfits, without taking up too much room.
Toiletries and medication
Sunscreen
Reef-safe formulas are kinder to the ocean, while oil-free products might help to protect the finish of the boat. This is top of the list of what to bring on a yacht trip in summer.
Insect repellent
Don’t forget to apply this, particularly during the evening and/or when you’ll be spending time on land. Be careful where you do so, though, as strong repellent formulas could also damage the surfaces of the boat.
Lip balm
Choose an SPF formula to help prevent chapped lips.
Regular toiletries
Travel size containers can help to save space, both when packing and when on board. You’ll need whatever you usually use, such as some or all of the following items.
- Toothbrush
- Toothpaste
- Dental floss
- Make-up remover
- Cleanser
- Moisturiser
- Shampoo
- Conditioner
- Body wash
- Deodorant
- Hand cream
- Razors
Cosmetics
You might want to go easy on the make-up and perfume for a laid-back boat trip. But if you do want to bring a bit of glam, try to pack travel-size versions to save space.
Anti-sickness medication
Effective anti-sickness meds are essential if you tend to suffer from seasickness. Or if you’re not sure whether you will. Forgetting these could potentially ruin your trip – at least until you dock somewhere and can find a pharmacy.
Prescribed medication
Make sure you have an adequate supply of any prescribed medicines you’ll require. Order in good time before you go, so you’re not caught short.
First aid kit
Though there should be one on board already, your own travel first aid kit is always useful to have when you head off exploring.
Glasses and contact lenses
If you wear them, don’t forget your glasses and/or contacts. Plus any cases and cleaning solutions you’ll need.
Essentials and documentation
Passport
Make sure you check validity requirements for any country you’ll be visiting. If you miss this off your list of what to pack on a boat trip, you won’t be getting very far at all!
Visas
Likewise, make sure you arrange any electronic or traditional visas needed before departure.
Driving licence
If you plan to drive overseas, do check whether you need an International Driving Permit. These are very cheap to buy, and are valid for a year.
Cash and credit or debit cards
You’ll definitely need some form of payment. A small amount of local currency is always useful to carry. Tell your card provider that you’ll be travelling before you leave to avoid your accounts being blocked. You might also want to check what foreign transaction fees you’ll be charged.
Insurance documents
Don’t forget these, complete with contact details. You may need to seek advice or make a claim while you’re away.
Charter rental documents
Also make sure you have access to an electronic or paper copy of your boat rental agreement. Just in case you need to refer to it, or have to contact the charter company or boat owner for some reason.
Boat licences
If you need certification to rent the boat, then you may need to bring the right licences along. Depending on the vessel, the country, and the owner’s requirements, you might need an International Certificate of Competence (ICC), a Bareboat Charter Licence (BBCL), a Yachtmaster Licence (YML), a Skipper’s or Sailing Resume (SR), and/or a Marine Radio Licence (SRC). Or the acceptable equivalents from your home country.
Check what you might need in this guide to boat licence requirements.
Other items
You’ll also need to pack at least some of the following.
- Phone and other device chargers
- USB adaptor and AUX cables
- Travel adapters for foreign sockets
- Laptop, tablet, or portable gaming console
- Books and magazines
- Games – a pack of playing cards is very lightweight, as are some travel games
- Insulated mug – to keep drinks hot or cold
- Zip-loc bags – always useful for dry storage
- Torch – a compact yet powerful LED torch is ideal
- Shopping bags – so many uses, from stocking up at the shops to separating wet gear or storing items
- Laundry detergent – a small supply for refreshing clothes
- Eye mask and ear plugs – may help you get a good night’s rest
What food to bring on a boat trip
Whether or not to bring any food depends on whether your boat comes with catering and a crew. If it doesn’t, then you’ll need provisions to last until at least your first port of call.
To decide what to bring, first work out how much and what sort of food storage you’ll have. The boat should have pots, pans, and utensils: this is also worth checking out in advance.
Then plan what to eat for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks – as well as what to drink. Basic meals that are quick to prepare, and don’t require special equipment, are the best option.
Bring enough supplies to last until your first stop – plus a little extra in case of contingencies. Tinned or dry goods will stay fresh for ages, so it doesn’t matter if you bring them but don’t use them.
And there we have it – our ultimate packing list for your next boat trip. Browse destinations and boats on our homepage to get started with planning your holiday.