Packing for a sailing trip: what to bring & practical tips for a perfect vacation

Packing for a sailing vacation is a crucial step to fully enjoying the experience at sea. Choosing the wrong clothing or accessories can make the trip less comfortable, negatively affecting your relaxation.

For short trips, such as a weekend or three-day sailing adventure, it's best to bring only the essentials, focusing on versatile, easy-to-match outfits. On the other hand, for a week-long cruise, you'll need to change your clothes and technical gear to be suitable for possible weather variations.

Knowing the differences between short and long trips and preparing is the first step to packing a practical, lightweight, yet complete bag.

When packing for a sailing trip, the ideal approach is to include a mix of technical clothing, comfortable outfits, and essential personal care items. The weather at sea can be unpredictable—even during warm seasons, mornings and evenings may be too chilly for just a T-shirt.

That's why it's essential to bring at least a windbreaker and a lightweight waterproof jacket and follow the layering principle. For daytime, pack swimsuits, breathable technical T-shirts with UV protection, and non-slip boat shoes for safe movement on deck.

A sweatshirt or lightweight fleece is often sufficient for the evening, but it's advisable to pack additional clothing for longer trips. Lastly, don't forget the must-have accessories: sunglasses, a technical fabric cap with a visor, high-SPF sunscreen, and the necessary medications or pre-tested natural remedies if you're prone to seasickness.

If you're planning a weekend sailing trip, the key is to pack light.

The perfect sailing bag for any short getaway should include:

• - A couple of salt-resistant swimsuits
• - Four breathable t-shirts
• - A pair of lightweight sailing shorts
• - A lightweight, waterproof or windproof jacket
• - A pair of non-slip boat shoes (or sandals)
• - A cap with a visor
• - Sunglasses
• - Travel-size personal hygiene products (toothbrush, toothpaste, face wash, wet wipes)
• - A small first-aid kit with bandages, disinfectant, pain relievers, and seasickness medication

You'll need additional outfit changes and a more varied wardrobe for a week-long vacation. The best advice is to plan for layering, as space on a boat is limited and often shared with other guests. Recommended items:

• Technical wear: long-sleeve quick-dry and UV-protection shirts, convertible pants, a softshell or waterproof jacket for bad weather
• Comfortable casual wear: sweatshirts, shorts, and spare t-shirts
• At least two swimsuits and one or two microfiber towels that dry quickly and take up minimal space
• High-SPF sunscreen, after-sun lotion, and personal care items (mild shampoo, shower gel, deodorant)
• Essential accessories: son-slip technical shoes, a headlamp (helpful in moving around on deck at night), a thermal water bottle, and a portable phone charger

A sailboat’s capability depends on its length and interior layout. On average, a 10-12 meter boat can comfortably accommodate 4 to 6 people, while larger ships over 15 meters can host 8 to 10 guests.

Naturally, the more people on board, the more attention should be given to space management—larger crews require compact, well-organized luggage to prevent clutter in cabins or common areas.

A waterproof bag can make all the difference if your destination has high humidity or rough seas. Whether moving around on deck or simply transferring your belongings from land to boat, it's crucial to have a bag that withstands water and salt.

SLAM sailing duffel bags feature reinforced seams and waterproof or water-resistant materials. Some models even include a separate pocket for wet items or used swimsuits.

Dry bags and waterproof sacks protect valuables and electronic devices from humidity and splashes. Typically made from PVC or similar materials, they are completely waterproof and, when properly sealed, prevent water from entering.

Why bring a dry bag on a sailing trip? It's easy to say: it's for safely storing wallet, phone, documents, camera, or tablet from saltwater exposure.

Sealing a dry bag or waterproof sack is essential for its effectiveness. 

Here's a quick step-by-step guide:

1. 1. Fill the bag, leaving a small space for sealing.

2. 2. Roll the top of the bag at least three times.

3. 3. Fasten the two ends of the closure together (if equipped with a buckle or clip).

4. 4. Check that the bag is fully sealed and has no air escapes.

If you prefer a backpack, ensure the model has heat-sealed seams, waterproof zippers and meets your needs. Many waterproof backpacks include protected internal pockets and adjustable straps for extra comfort.

For waterproof bags, focus on:

• Durable, scratch-resistant materials
• Easy closure systems (such as roll-top sealing)
• Attachment points (carabiners or safety ropes)