Sailing is one of the most freeing and exhilarating experiences you can have on the water. There’s nothing quite like the feeling of the wind in your hair and the sun on your face as you glide across the waves. However, before you set sail on your next adventure, there are a few sailing must haves you should bring with you.
From food and drink to first-aid supplies and navigation tools, read on for a list of sailing must haves for your next sailing trip.
1. Must Have Sailing Clothes
As a sailing enthusiast, I’m always on the lookout for sailing must haves and cold wether gear to add to my collection. In this blog post, I’m going to share with you my top 5 must-have sailing clothes to bring with you on your next sailing adventure.

- A good pair of sailing gloves. Sailing gloves are essential for protecting your hands from the elements while you’re out on the water. They’ll also help you grip the ropes better, which is important when you’re sailing in windy conditions.
- A comfortable pair of sailing shoes. You’ll be spending a lot of time on your feet while you’re sailing, so it’s important to have a comfortable pair of shoes that won’t rub or cause blisters. Look for a pair of shoes with non-slip soles to keep your feet safe on deck.
- A weather-resistant sailing jacket. A good sailing jacket will protect you from the wind, rain, and sun. Look for a jacket with a hood that you can wear over your head in bad weather.
- A pair of sailing shorts or pants. Depending on the weather, you may need to bring a pair of shorts or pants to change into after you’re done sailing for the day. Shorts are great for warm weather sailing, while pants will keep you warm in cooler conditions.
- A hat or visor. A hat or visor is essential for keeping the sun out of your eyes. If you’re sailing in a hot climate, a wide-brimmed hat will also protect your face and neck from sunburn.
So there you have it, my top 5 must-have sailing clothes to bring with you on your next sailing adventure. Make sure you pack these essential items before you head out on the water and you’ll be sure to have a great time.
2. Boat Gear
Sailing is a wonderful way to spend time on the water, whether you’re alone or with friends and family. But before you set sail on your next adventure, there are a few things you should make sure you have on board.
Here are five essential items of boat gear to bring with you:

- Lifejackets. No matter how experienced you are, it’s always a good idea to wear a life jacket when sailing. Make sure you have one for each person on board and that they’re the right size. You should also have a few spare lifejackets on board in case of emergencies.
- Navigation equipment. A GPS system and a reliable chart are essential for any sailing trip. You should also bring a compass; in case you lose power or your GPS system fails.
- Sailboat parts and tools. Even if you’re not planning on doing any repairs, it’s a good idea to bring a few basic tools and spare parts with you, just in case. This could include things like a hammer, screwdriver, screws, nails, rope, and duct tape.
- Sun protection. Whether you’re sailing in the middle of summer or in the middle of winter, the sun can be dangerous. Be sure to pack sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun’s harmful rays.
- A flashlight can be useful for a variety of purposes, from signaling for help to finding your way around in the dark. Be sure to pack a flashlight that is bright and easy to use.
These are just a few of the essential items you should bring with you on your next sailing adventure. By being prepared ahead of time, you can relax and enjoy your time on the water, knowing that you have everything you need to stay safe and have a good time.
3. Foods
When it comes to stocking up for a sailing adventure, there are a few key food items that you’ll want to make sure you have on hand. Here are five essential healthy foods to bring with you on your next sailing trip:
- Fresh fruits and vegetables: While canned and packaged goods have their place on a sailing trip, fresh fruits and vegetables should also be part of your food supply. Not only are they a healthy option, but they can also help to offset the sometimes-monotonous diet of canned and packaged foods.
- Whole grains: sailor or no, everyone needs their whole grains. Choose from a variety of options like oats, quinoa, barley, and more.
- Protein: Protein is an essential part of any diet, and that’s especially true when you’re embarking on a physical activity like sailing. Pack some protein-rich foods like nuts, seeds, beans, and lean meats.
- Healthy fats: Contrary to popular belief, not all fats are bad for you. In fact, some healthy fats are essential for maintaining energy levels and preventing injuries. Stock up on healthy fats like avocados, olive oil, and nuts while sailing.
- Water: Last but not least, don’t forget to pack plenty of water. Whether you’re sailing in hot or cold weather, staying hydrated is key to a successful trip.
4. Fun Things
Sailing is one of the most relaxing and freeing experiences you can have. The wind in your hair, the sun on your skin, and the waves rocking the boat – it’s hard to beat.
But, as with any vacation, there is some preparation involved. Here are five fun sailing must haves to bring with you on your next sailing trip!
- A Good Camera. With all the stunning scenery, you’re going to want to document your trip! Make sure to bring a good-quality camera, extra batteries, and a charger. And don’t forget the memory cards!
- A Comfortable Pillow. Sleeping on a boat can be tough – the motion can be jarring, and the beds are often not very comfortable. Bring a pillow from home to help you get a good night’s sleep.
- A Fun Playlist. What’s a sailing trip without some good tunes? Create a playlist of your favorite songs to listen to while you’re out on the open water.
- A Great Book. There’s nothing like curling up with a good book while you’re rocking in the waves. Bring one (or two) of your favorites to enjoy during your trip.
- A Swimming Costume. If you’re sailing in warm waters, make sure to pack a swimming costume! You’ll want to take a dip in the ocean at some point – it’s refreshing and fun.
These are just a few of the things you should bring with you on your next sailing trip. With these items, you’re sure to have a great time!
5. Communication Tools
Sailing is an amazing adventure, but it’s important to be prepared before you set sail. Here are five essential communication tools you should bring with you on your next sailing trip:
- A radio is an essential tool for communication on a sailing trip. You can use it to stay in touch with your fellow sailors, as well as to listen to weather reports and other important information.
- A cell phone can be a lifesaver on a sailing trip. It can be used to call for help in an emergency, as well as to stay in touch with your family and friends.
- A satellite phone is a great backup communication tool. In case your cell phone doesn’t work, or you lose reception, you can still use a satellite phone to call for help.
- A handheld VHF antenna can be a big help when trying to communicate with other boats. It’s a good idea to have one on hand in case your radio doesn’t have enough range.
- A satellite messenger is a great way to send and receive text messages and emails when you’re out of the range of cell towers. Be sure to get a satellite messenger that is waterproof and rugged, as you’ll want one that can withstand the elements.
6. Paper Works
When sailing, there are many sailing must haves you should bring with you. One of those things is a certificate.
- A certificate is evidence of your qualification to sail. It proves that you have the skills and knowledge to safely operate a vessel. Without a certificate, you may not be allowed to sail.
- There are various types of certificates you can get, depending on your level of experience. If you’re a beginner, you’ll need to get a certificate of competence. This certificate proves that you have the basic skills and knowledge to sail.
- If you’re more experienced, you can get a certificate of proficiency. This certificate proves that you have the skills and knowledge to sail in more difficult conditions.
So, if you’re planning a sailing adventure, make sure you get a certificate first. It could be the difference between a safe and enjoyable trip and a disaster.
7. First Aid Kit Supplies
Before you set sail on your next adventure, you need to make sure you have all the sailing must haves supplies onboard. A first aid kit is one of the most important things you can bring with you. Here are five must-have items for your first aid kit:
- Antiseptic wipes or spray: Antiseptic wipes or spray can be used to clean minor cuts and scrapes. They can also be used to clean surfaces, such as countertops and doorknobs, to prevent the spread of germs.
- Bandages: Bandages are essential for covering wounds. Choose a variety of sizes and shapes to be prepared for any type of injury.
- Pain relievers: Pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help reduce pain and swelling.
- Antihistamines: Antihistamines can be used to relieve itching and swelling associated with insect bites and stings.
- Emergency contact information: Be sure to include emergency contact information, such as the phone number of your doctor or the nearest hospital, in your first aid kit.
By being prepared with a first aid kit, you can rest assured that you’ll be able to handle any minor injuries that occur on your sailing adventure.
[Bonus] – Top 5 Tips on How to Enjoy Sailing
Sailing is often seen as a peaceful, therapeutic activity. There’s something about being out on the open water, surrounded by fresh air and beautiful scenery, that can instantly improve your mood.
If you’re looking to enjoy sailing to the fullest, here are five tips to help you make the most of your experience and of course don’t forget to bring sailing must haves:
- Start small. If you’re new to sailing, it’s important to start small. Choose a calm day to head out, and don’t push yourself too hard. It’s important to listen to your body and the wind and to take breaks when you need them.
- Find a sailing buddy. Having someone to sail with can make the experience much more enjoyable. Choose someone who you get along and with who you feel comfortable sailing with. This will help you to relax and enjoy the experience more.
- Dress for the occasion. Wearing the right clothing is important when sailing. You need to be sure to wear layers that you can easily remove if you get too warm. It’s also important to wear shoes that have a good grip in case you need to move around the boat quickly.
- Take your time. There’s no rush when you’re sailing. Enjoy the experience, and take your time. Savor the moments and truly take in the beauty around you.
- Have fun! Most importantly, don’t forget to have fun! Sailing is supposed to be enjoyable, so make sure you’re doing things that make you happy. Listen to music, dance around the boat, and enjoy the time you’re out on the water.
Conclusion
After reading this article, you should be well prepared for your next sailing adventure! Sailing must-haves to bring with you include a map, compass, and GPS system, as well as a well-stocked first-aid kit.
You’ll also need to bring plenty of food and water, and be sure to pack clothes that will keep you warm and dry. Finally, don’t forget to bring a camera to capture all the memories of your amazing trip!