Many people go on a water adventure to have some fun. Ocean and sea scenery can remove your stress and help you relax. Activities you can do with water are limitless. 

A sailing adventure is a great way to spend your summer. Many people enjoy sailing as an activity to indulge themselves in. Sailing does not only involves getting in a boat, and it also involves knowing how to maneuver the sailing vessel properly. You can take up classes and lessons to learn sailing if you are a beginner in sailing. Or you can check Red Beard Sailing to help you sail like a pro. 

Since sailing is a lengthy activity that can sometimes last for a few days, there are essentials that you need to pack for this. These items will help you survive and get through the sailing adventure.

Here are ten essential items that you need when you are on a sailing adventure:

Personal clothes

Clothes are essentials you need to pack before going out to sail. Pack clothing that is applicable for tropical or mild sailing climates. Quick drying and lightweight clothing are good choices, too. 

Here are some of the clothes you might consider packing:

• bathing suits or rashguards
• casual clothing
• shorts and shirts
• undergarments
• pullover or jackets

You may also bring accessories that can help you feel comfortable. You can take the following items on your sailing adventure:

• boat shoes
• sunglasses or goggles
• hat 
• gloves
• bandana or scarf
• waterproof bag

Personal care items and essentials

Your sailing adventure will last for more than a day. You will need toiletries, personal care items, and essentials to survive the sailing adventure. You will need these items to be comfortable during the sailing. 

Here is a list of things that you can consider packing:

• after-sun lotion
• skincare products
• tissue and towels
• toothbrush and toothpaste
• shampoo and soap
• deodorant
• nail clipper and file
• comb or hair brush
• prescription meds
• aspirin and antacids
• allergy medicine
• bandaids or gauge

Sailing safety tools and equipment

The US Coast Guard requires different vessel safety checks for different types of boats. Packing these tools and equipment is essential and necessary to bring during a weekend of sailing. Carrying these items is not only for mandatory requirement but will keep you safe and sound when you are in the water. 

Here is some recommended safety equipment that is necessary to bring during your sailing adventure:

• wearable personal flotation devices or a life jacket 
• throwable flotation devices
• fire extinguisher
• visual and sound signaling devices like flares and whistle
• first aid kit
• harnesses and tethers
• battery-powered radio or two-way communication device
• flashlights
• pocket knife
• masks and goggles

Food

You cannot buy food in the middle of the sea. Unless you want to spend all your time fishing for something to eat, it is necessary to bring other food. People with seafood allergies also need special meals to carry on board. 

You can bring other foods on a sailing ship like pasta, vegetables, fruit, and bread. These food options can fill your stomach while sailing. 

Travel Documents

Whether you are planning for a local or international sailing trip, travel documents are part of the essentials you need to bring. These are necessary for places that require documentation. 

You can check your destination’s requirements for visitors or sailors to know which document you will bring. 

Here are some of the documents that you will need to bring for your sailing adventure:

• identification card
• passport
• boat registration document
• ship radio license
• boat insurance 

Fishing rod and equipment

You can try other activities while in the water. You can bring a rod and try fishing. Fishing is a great activity to enjoy while sailing, and you can catch fish to eat while you are on your boat. 

Aside from your fishing rod, your fishing kit will need extra lines, lures, and hooks. You will also need a knife and a bucket for all the catching you will have for the day. 

Here are some tips you can try to find the best fishing spot while you are sailing:

• Do your homework to find a fishing spot before sailing
• Ask the locals for fishing spots
• Use a tool or technology to find fish

Sunscreen and skin protector

You will spend most of your time on under the sun while sailing. Prolonged exposure to the sun while sailing can result in UV radiation and DNA damage. 

Sunscreens are necessary to prevent skin damage from extreme heat. Sunscreens or a skin protector will help you enjoy your sailing adventure without suffering from sunburn.  A tinted sunscreen with SPF50 for one is a good choice.

When choosing a sunscreen for your sailing adventure, always remember the SPF or the Sun Protection Factor. A broad spectrum with an SPF of 30 and above is advisable. You need to apply sunscreen on areas directly hit by the sun, like the face, neck, arms, and legs. 

Drinking or potable water 

Drinking or potable water is necessary to bring with you while sailing. Drinking seawater is not advisable as it will cause dehydration. Drinking water is essential for cooking and refreshing yourself. 

You may also use drinking water to make a cup of fresh tea or coffee you can enjoy before a morning dip in the sea. 

Having an adequate water supply during your sailing trip is necessary. You will need to be well-hydrated while sailing. Other water activities will also drain your energy, and water can help you regain strength.

Map and compass

A map is essential when you are new to a sailing place. Unless you know navigational techniques, a map can help you know directions, destinations, and routes you will follow. 

A map can be your guide while you are on your sailing adventure. This thing will help you not get lost in the middle of the sea. 

It is also necessary to bring a compass to know which direction you should anchor. A compass can help you read the map and your location accurately. 

Your sailing adventure will be more fun when you know that you will find your way back to the coast. A map and a compass are necessary items that will teach you the right way.

Items for other activities to pass time

A sailing adventure may take days and months, depending on your schedule and preference. Taking items for other activities can help ease your boredom while sailing in the middle of the ocean or sea.

Here are some of the items you take with you for fun:

• board games
• books 
• pen and sketchpad
• cellphones and electronic gadgets
• radio or headphones
• scuba diving gear