After completing introductory sailing courses, you may feel prepared to go explore waters on your own. Before embarking on your first day trip, ensure you have all the essentials on board. Follow our checklist below to make sure all crucial items are compiled. Some supplies may not be needed for everyone, so make sure to tweak the list based on your preferences and what equipment you own or will have to be borrowed/rented. However, this is a comprehensive list with all bases covered.

Equipment

• Flashlight
• Duct tape
• Emergency flares
• Navigation
• Rigging knife
• Heaving rope
• Bungee cords
• Binoculars
• Radio
• Bilge pump
• Tool Kit
• Cell phone/solar charger

Personal

• PFD
• Sunscreen
• Chapstick
• Sunglasses
• Deck shoes
• Hat
• Watch
• Appropriate clothing/bathing suit/wet suit
• Towels
• First aid kit (Asprin, Benadryl, athletic tape, etc.)
• Medications
• Hot/cold wraps
• Motion sickness pills
• Waterproof/rain gear
• Gloves
• Cash

Food

• Water
• Snacks
• Gum
• Drinks
• Napkins/paper towels
• Plates/bowls
• Utensils
• Stove
• Cooler

Image from Zarex on the Wikimedia Commons