The Essential Sailing Trip Packing List

Whether you’re sailing the San Blas Islands as I did or sailing anywhere else in the world you’ll want to add these essential items to your sailing trip packing list!

Affiliate links are included in this article. Any affiliate is a resource I use and recommend. If you click on a link and use their services or make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no cost to you.

1. The first item on my sailing trip packing list is a crew! Now maybe you’re licensed to sail a catamaran but your trip will be far more relaxing if you let a crew man the galley (who wants to wash dishes on vacation?) and (literally) steer the ship! Local crews not only have knowledge of the waters but they are a wealth of info about the local islands that you’ll be visiting and that’s worth its weight in gold!

2. If you’re spending lots of time at sea, sunscreen will be your BFF! Sun reflects off the water, making the rays stronger. Apply SPF religiously and let your photos show off the fact that you were on vacation, not your tan! Not just an essential part of your sailing trip packing list, it should be part of every packing list!

3. Keeping with the sun-safe theme, an SPF shirt is an easy way to keep you cool and sunburn free. Wearing it and out of the water will keep your skin from getting extra crispy!

4. Cell phones, cameras, drones – all electronics HATE water! And if you’re doing wet landing via zodiac to local islands, you’ll want to keep your expensive electronics safe from the elements with a dry bag.

5. Speaking of electronics, how are you planning to charge those while you’re sailing? Most boats have solar power, but it gives a limited amount of charge (and that’s often necessary for things like likes and cooking) so invest in a solar power bank to charge your phone and camera!

6. Off the boat or on, you’ll want to have a pair of quick-drying water shoes that slip on and off easily and protect you from stubbed toes and sharp shells on the beach.

7. Cover your noggin – and look stylish while doing it – with a snazzy sun hat! Look for one with a wide brim and UPF protection.

8. A quick-drying Turkish towel is essential for sailing trips. When you’re at sea it can feel like nothing ever gets fully dry. The drying speed of Turkish towels is an obvious benefit, but so is the fact that sand rolls right off these bad boys AND they pack down quite small!

Is there anything you’d add when packing for a sailing trip? Drop a comment below!

If you like it, put a pin on it!