You’d think that packing for a sailing trip would be easy enough – just grab the same hard-shelled roller suitcase and packing list from that week in Europe – but it’s not so simple. Don’t be that guy. Here’s the streamlined list I’ve been using for years and give to friends before every trip. It’s evolved over many cruises and is focused on utility, comfort, and respect for limited space. No fluff. Just what you need.
General Tips
- Pack light. Like you would if you were going backpacking. Space is limited aboard the boat so we want to only bring what we need.
- Don’t bring a hard-shelled suitcase. Only soft fabric bags.
- Layers are good and versatile.
- Synthetic materials (polyester, nylon, rayon, etc) are good because they are lightweight, compact, and dry quickly.
- Sun protection and bug repellant are essential.
Clothes
- Synthetic short sleeve and long sleeve shirts
- Synthetic pants and shorts
- Boat shoes
- Beanie
- Synthetic hoodie or cardigan
- Warm top layer (e.g. packable puffer jacket)
- Rain coat (packable) and/or foul weather gear
- Socks, underwear, etc
Sun & Bug Protection
- Sunglasses
- Hat
- Sunscreen and Chapstick
- Bug spray or wipes
Sleeping
- Sleeping Bag
- Pillow
- Ear plugs
- Sweatpants and/or gym shorts
Gear
- Sailing Gloves
- Headlamp
- Handheld VHF Radio
- Watch
- Snorkeling Kit
- Sailing knife
- Lighter
Recreation
- Electronics (Digital camera, kindle, spare battery, Aux cord, etc)
- Hiking shoes
- Drybag
- Swimsuit
- Hammock
Sundries
- Toiletries
- Medication
- Towel
- Paper towels, trash bags, wet wipes, hand sanitizer
Provisions
- Fresh water (1 gallon per person per day). Freeze one gallon in advance for keeping the ice box cool.
- Dish towel for doing dishes
- Snacks, drinks, coffee, tea
- Food for Meal Plan
Provisioning Tips
- Food that requires no refrigeration is best. Minimizes use of ice box/power.
- Minimally packaged food is best. Minimizes trash. Remove excess packaging at home.
- Frozen foods are good for the first day or two, either pre-made frozen meals, or frozen ingredients. They help keep our ice box cold, and naturally thaw out over time.
The Bottom Line
Packing for a cruise isn’t about deprivation – it’s about smart decisions. If it doesn’t serve a purpose, or doesn’t pull its weight (literally), leave it behind. The boat will feel more spacious, your gear will be easier to find, and you’ll be glad when you don’t have to climb over three duffels to reach the cockpit in the middle of the night when the anchor starts to drag.
Oh—and leave room in your bag for memories, not stuff!
