10 Essential Packing Lists for Taking Kids on a Sailing Trip

Taking children out on a sailboat turns a standard weekend into an unforgettable offshore adventure, but it also elevates the stakes for safety and comfort. Without the right gear, a sudden shift in wind or a splash of cold spray can quickly turn a fun family outing into a miserable, damp ordeal. Packing smart means choosing marine-grade equipment that keeps kids warm, dry, and secure so everyone can focus on the joy of the wind in the sails.

Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, this site earns from qualifying purchases. Thank you!

Key Safety Rules for Sailing with Kids

Sailing with kids requires a firm set of non-negotiable safety rules established before the boat even leaves the slip. The absolute gold standard rule is that life jackets must be worn at all times while on deck or in the cockpit, regardless of swimming ability or calm weather. Children must also understand the three points of contact rule—always keeping at least two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand, securely anchored to the vessel when moving around.

Teach kids to stay in the cockpit unless accompanied by an adult, especially during maneuvers like tacking or jibing when the boom swings across. Establish a clear safe zone below deck or in the center of the cockpit where they can sit out of the way of working lines and winch handles. Regularly drill simple procedures, like what to do in a man-overboard situation, so that reactions become calm, practiced habits rather than moments of panic.

Kids Life Jacket – Mustang Survival Rev Young Adult

A dedicated youth life jacket is the single most critical piece of safety gear on any vessel. Standard adult vests do not scale down safely, and cheap pool-style floaties are completely useless in open water. Kids need a Coast Guard-approved, high-mobility Personal Flotation Device (PFD) designed to turn an unconscious wearer face-up in the water instantly.

The Mustang Survival Rev Young Adult PFD stands out because of its engineered buoyancy distribution and high-mobility cut. Built with a rugged outer shell and soft, segmented foam, it provides crucial safety without chafing active arms or restricting movement while pulling lines. Its bright fluorescent panels and reflective accents ensure high visibility in low-light conditions, while the heavy-duty zipper and secure buckles keep the vest locked in place.

• Weight Range: Designed for youth weighing 55 to 88 pounds (25 to 40 kg)
• Approval: USCG Type III Approved for recreational use
• Material: Durable 200D nylon shell with soft interior liner
• Safety Features: Engineered to self-right most wearers face-up

Before buying, double-check the child’s weight rather than relying on age, as a proper fit is non-negotiable for flotation dynamics. Rinse the vest with fresh water after every saltwater trip to prevent salt crystals from degrading the zipper and fabric. This PFD is ideal for active pre-teens and young teens who need high performance, but it is not suitable for toddlers or infants under 55 pounds.

Sailing Gloves – Gill Junior Deckhand Gloves

Handling running rigging can blister young, soft hands in minutes, especially when lines are wet and under tension. Sailing gloves provide the necessary grip to control sheets and halyards without letting the rope slip and burn. They also protect small fingers from pinch points around blocks, cleats, and shackles.

The Gill Junior Deckhand Gloves are engineered specifically for smaller hands, featuring a double-layer Amara reinforcement across the palm for exceptional wet grip. The short-finger design keeps fingertips free for tying knots and handling small hardware, while the stretch fabric back ensures flexibility and breathability. Crucially, the offset wrist closure prevents accidental watch-button presses and provides a custom, secure fit.

• Design: Short-finger style for maximum dexterity
• Fabric: UV 50+ protection with quick-dry stretch back
• Palm Material: Non-absorbent, abrasion-resistant Amara leather
• Sizes: Junior Small to Junior Large

Wet gloves can stretch slightly, so buy them snug rather than with room to grow. To maintain the grip texture, air-dry them away from direct heat sources like cabin heaters. These are perfect for kids who actively participate in sailing maneuvers, but they are unnecessary for younger passengers who sit purely as observers.

Dry Bag – Sea to Summit Big River Dry Bag

Open water, splashing waves, and humid marine air mean that anything not sealed will eventually get damp. A heavy-duty dry bag keeps extra clothes, electronics, and snacks perfectly dry, even if the cockpit floods or the bag takes a temporary tumble overboard. It acts as an insurance policy for a child’s comfort when cold spray threatens their spare layers.

The Sea to Summit Big River Dry Bag is built to survive rough fiberglass decks, sliding around anchor chains, and heavy UV exposure. Unlike flimsy, thin dry sacks, this bag features 420D waterproof nylon fabric and fully taped seams. The non-wicking TPU roll-top closure seals out water completely, while the heavy-duty lash loops allow you to secure it firmly to the boat’s lifelines or grab rails.

• Sizes Available: 5L, 8L, 13L, 20L, 35L, and 65L capacities
• Material: TPU-laminated 420D nylon with a 10,000mm hydrostatic head
• Attachment: Low-profile Hypalon lash loops for secure tie-downs
• Colors: High-visibility yellow, orange, and blue for quick spotting

To get a true watertight seal, roll the top down tightly at least three times before buckling. Do not overstuff the bag, or the roll-top seal will buckle and allow moisture inside during heavy rains. This is an essential item for any sailing family, but those looking for a lightweight backpacking sack should look elsewhere—this is built for rugged, wet marine environments.

Marine Sunscreen – Thinksport Kids Sunscreen SPF 50

Sun protection on a sailboat is a constant battle because water reflects UV rays directly up under hat brims and sunglasses. Standard cosmetic sunscreens wash off quickly in salt spray and often contain chemicals that harm fragile marine ecosystems. A dedicated marine-grade sunscreen protects young skin while respecting the underwater environments you sail through.

Thinksport Kids Sunscreen SPF 50 is a highly effective, zinc-oxide-based mineral sunscreen that provides broad-spectrum protection without the chemical nasties. It boasts the highest level of water resistance (80 minutes), meaning it stays on during active deck work and swimming. The formula is free from biologically harmful chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate, making it a truly reef-friendly choice for coastal cruising.

• Active Ingredient: 20% Non-nano Zinc Oxide
• Sun Protection: SPF 50+ broad-spectrum UVA and UVB defense
• Water Resistance: Rated for 80 minutes of wet exposure
• Formulation: Gluten-free, vegan, and biodegradable

Mineral sunscreens are thick and require thorough rubbing to avoid a white sheen, which actually helps parents spot missed patches on active kids. Apply it at least 15 minutes before going on deck to allow the protective barrier to set. This is a must-have for all children on board, though parents who prefer quick chemical spray-ons may find the thick cream takes a little more effort to apply.

Kids Water Shoes – Keen Kids Newport H2 Water Sandals

Sailboat decks are filled with toe-stubbing hardware, slippery wet surfaces, and hot fiberglass. Bare feet invite broken toes and slips, while standard sneakers get waterlogged and heavy. A hybrid water sandal protects vulnerable toes while maintaining traction on slick decks and during dinghy landings on rocky shores.

The Keen Kids Newport H2 Water Sandals are the industry benchmark for water shoes due to their signature patented rubber toe bumper. The razor-siped outsole provides incredible grip on wet gelcoat without leaving black scuff marks on the deck. They are made from washable polyester webbing that dries quickly and can be tossed in the washing machine after a salty weekend.

• Upper: Washable polyester webbing with quick-dry lining
• Traction: Non-marking rubber outsole with multi-directional lugs
• Closure: Secure-fit lace capture system with adjustable hook-and-loop strap
• Sizing: Available in Toddler, Little Kid, and Big Kid sizes

While highly breathable, these sandals can trap small pebbles and sand during beach landings, requiring a quick rinse in the water. Always let them air-dry completely in a shady spot, as direct cabin heat can shrink the rubber sole over time. They are ideal for active kids who jump from boat to shore, but are not necessary for infants who cannot yet walk.

Marine Binoculars – Bushnell H2O Waterproof Binoculars

Keeping kids engaged on a sailing trip requires giving them jobs and tools to explore their surroundings. Binoculars turn navigation, wildlife spotting, and buoy hunting into an interactive game. Standard household binoculars will quickly fog up internally or fail completely when exposed to salt air and sudden splashes.

The Bushnell H2O Waterproof Binoculars feature O-ring seals and nitrogen purging to ensure they remain completely fog-proof in humid marine environments. The non-slip rubber armor is textured with soft ridges, making them easy for smaller, wet hands to grip securely. They offer a moderate 8x magnification combined with a wide 42mm objective lens, which strikes the perfect balance for stabilizing an image on a rolling deck.

• Magnification & Objective: 8x42mm (ideal for boat stability)
• Waterproofing: IPX7 rated, fully waterproof and fog-proof
• Prism System: BaK-4 roof prisms for bright, clear viewing
• Focus System: Easy-to-use center focus wheel

High-power binoculars (like 10x or 12x) are incredibly difficult to stabilize on a moving boat, making this 8x model the sweet spot for kids and adults alike. Keep the included neck strap adjusted short to prevent the binoculars from swinging into deck hardware when the child bends over. This is a fantastic tool for curious older kids, though younger toddlers will lack the coordination to focus them properly.

Kids Rain Jacket – Helly Hansen Kids Seven J Jacket

A windproof, waterproof outer layer is vital because the wind chill on open water is significantly colder than on land. Even on sunny days, wind and cold sea spray can cause mild hypothermia in small children surprisingly fast. A high-quality rain jacket acts as a personal shield, trapping body heat while keeping moisture out.

Built by a brand rooted in professional seafaring, the Helly Hansen Kids Seven J Jacket utilizes Helly Tech Protection fabric that is fully waterproof, windproof, and breathable. It features fully sealed seams to stop water from seeping through stitch lines under pressure. The quick-dry lining ensures that even if some moisture creeps in, the jacket dries rapidly once the sun emerges.

• Fabric: 2-ply Helly Tech Protection construction
• Safety Features: Detachable hood and reflective elements for high visibility
• Fit: Elastic cuffs and adjustable hem to seal out wind
• Sizes: Toddler through youth sizes

Look for a slightly loose fit to allow for layering a warm fleece sweater underneath on colder days. Remember to rinse the outer shell with fresh water after salty trips to maintain the breathable membrane’s water-repellent coating. This jacket is perfect for variable coastal weather, but is overkill for hot, tropical days where a simple rash guard suffices.

Motion Sickness Band – Sea-Band Kids Wristband

Motion sickness can ruin a sailing trip instantly, turning an excited child into a miserable, lethargic crew member. Drug-free prevention is always the best first step, as many pediatric seasickness medications cause extreme drowsiness. Non-invasive wristbands offer a reliable, chemical-free way to settle active tummies before the rolling waves take their toll.

The Sea-Band Kids Wristband uses acupressure to target the P6 (Nei-Kuan) point on the wrist, a method clinically proven to reduce nausea. The soft, elasticated knit band is comfortable to wear for hours and operates without any side effects or drowsiness. Because they are reusable and washable, they can stay in the boat’s first aid kit for seasons of reliable use.

• Mechanism: Plastic stud applying pressure to the P6 point
• Material: Washable, latex-free elasticated band
• Packaging: Sold as a pair (one for each wrist)
• Storage: Includes a small plastic carrying case

The bands must be positioned precisely—about three fingers below the wrist crease between the two central tendons—to be effective. Put them on the child before leaving the dock, as preventing motion sickness is far easier than curing it once it starts. This product is ideal for any child prone to motion sickness, though very small toddlers with tiny wrists may not get a tight enough fit for the acupressure to work.

Waterproof Headlamp – Black Diamond Cosmo 350-R

Sailing after dark or managing a tight cabin at night requires hands-free illumination. Flashlights occupy a hand that should be holding onto the boat, making a headlamp an essential safety tool for night sailing or overnight anchorage. A red-light feature is mandatory to preserve night vision for both the wearer and the helmsperson.

The Black Diamond Cosmo 350-R is exceptionally suited for marine use because of its IP67 waterproof rating, meaning it can survive submersion in water up to one meter for 30 minutes. It features a dedicated red night-vision LED that prevents blinding the skipper while kids read in their berths or walk the deck. The rechargeable lithium-ion battery can be topped up via a micro-USB port using the boat’s 12V outlet, eliminating the need to carry spare alkaline batteries that degrade in salt air.

• Brightness: Up to 350 lumens of powerful white light
• Waterproof Rating: IP67 (dustproof and highly water-resistant)
• Power Source: Integrated rechargeable battery with charge level meter
• Modes: Full strength, dimming, strobe, and red night-vision

Teach kids to use the lock mode (by holding the power button) before storing the headlamp, preventing it from turning on accidentally in a gear bag and draining the battery. The headband is highly adjustable, fitting small children’s heads as easily as adult caps. This is a must-have for overnight trips or evening sails, but is less critical for quick daytime harbor cruises.

Kids Sun Hat – Sunday Afternoons Kids Play Hat

A standard baseball cap does not protect the delicate back of a child’s neck or their ears from burning in intense marine glare. On a boat, the sun hits from all angles, making a wide-brimmed hat with comprehensive coverage a necessity. The hat must also be windproof, as gusts on deck will instantly blow unprotected hats straight into the water.

The Sunday Afternoons Kids Play Hat is designed for high-glare water activities, featuring a 2.75-inch down-sloped brim and a 5.5-inch neck veil. It is constructed from UPF 50+ rated fabric that blocks 98% of harmful UV rays. Crucially, the hat includes a smart breakaway chinstrap that releases under tension for safety, alongside an adjustable sizing band that keeps the hat snug during windy tacks.

• Sun Rating: UPF 50+ certified sun protection
• Coverage: Wide brim with a protective floatable neck veil
• Ventilation: Strategic mesh ventilation panels (except on toddler sizes)
• Sizes: Small (6-24 months), Medium (2-5 years), Large (5-12 years)

The brim of this hat is designed to float, so if a gust of wind does send it overboard, it is easy to spot and scoop up with a boat hook. The neck veil is soft and folds flat, allowing kids to sit back comfortably in cockpit cushions without the hat pushing forward over their eyes. This hat is a vital protective gear item for any child on a boat, but may not appeal to older teens who prefer a more traditional cap.

How to Pack and Store Gear in Tight Cabin Spaces

Boat cabins are notoriously compact, and loose gear quickly becomes a tripping hazard or gets soaked when the boat heels. The golden rule of packing for a sailing trip is to never bring hard-sided suitcases. Rigid luggage cannot be compressed to fit into oddly shaped marine lockers or under-berth storage areas. Instead, pack everything in soft-sided duffels or dry bags that can be rolled up and tucked away once emptied.

Implement a strict “one-in, one-out” policy for toys and gear in the cabin to prevent clutter from overwhelming the living spaces. Assign each child a dedicated storage bin or hanging canvas pocket for their personal items, teaching them to secure their gear before the boat gets underway. Keep foul weather gear and life jackets in easily accessible companionway lockers, never buried under sleeping bags or food provisions where they cannot be reached in an emergency.

To manage dampness—the ultimate enemy of cabin comfort—designate a wet zone near the companionway for dripping jackets and salty boots. Never store wet gear in closed lockers, as this promotes rapid mold growth and creates a musty cabin odor. Use plastic vacuum-seal bags or simple Ziploc freezer bags to organize outfits by day, which keeps spare clothes bone-dry and makes it easy for kids to grab fresh gear without rummaging through their entire bag.

Sailing with children is an incredibly rewarding experience that fosters confidence, teamwork, and a deep respect for the water. By equipping your young crew with the right safety gear, protective clothing, and compact storage solutions, you ensure that every voyage is defined by discovery rather than discomfort. Pack smart, set clear rules, and enjoy the unparalleled adventure of life under sail.