(The real, essential list so you’re comfortable, safe, and happy at sea.)
1. Clothing (Light, Quick-Dry, Layered)
- 🩳 2–3 swimwear sets (you’ll live in them)
- 👗 Light, breathable clothes (linen, cotton, quick-dry)
- 🧥 A windbreaker or light waterproof jacket
- 🧢 Hat + sunglasses (with a strap so they don’t fly off)
- 🌙 Warm layer for evenings (sea breeze gets cool)
- 👟 Soft-soled shoes (optional; often barefoot is best)
Tip: Avoid anything that flies away easily — the wind is real.
2. Toiletries & Sea Essentials
- 🧴 Reef-safe sunscreen
- 🪥 Biodegradable soap/shampoo
- 🚿 Microfiber towel (dries fast)
- 💧 Lip balm + after-sun aloe
- 👁️ Contact solution/spares (if needed — saltwater is unforgiving)
3. Sea Comfort + Health
- 💊 Motion sickness tablets (even if you think you won’t need them)
- ⚓ Sea bands (surprisingly helpful)
- 🩹 Small first aid kit (the boat usually has one but personal meds are key)
- 🧃 Electrolytes (lifesaver under the sun)
4. Tech & Useful Gear
- 🔋 Power bank
- 📱 Waterproof phone pouch
- 🎧 Headphones (wind + waves = loud)
- 🔦 Small headlamp for night on deck
- 📸 Camera or GoPro (optional but magical)
5. Water Gear
- 🥽 Snorkel mask (boats often provide, but your own fits better)
- 🩴 Reef booties (for coral beaches)
- 🧤 Dry bag (for dinghy rides + splashes)
6. Documents & Money
- 📄 Passport + copies
- 💵 Cash (many islands have no ATMs)
- 🎫 Insurance details
- 📱 Offline maps (don’t rely on signal)
7. For Liveaboards or Multi-Day Trips
- 📚 Book or Kindle
- 🎲 Small game/cards
- 🧘♀️ Sarong (multi-use: shade, towel, cover-up)
- 🥤 Reusable water bottle
- 🍫 Favorite snacks (boat food varies)
Tip: Soft luggage only — no hard suitcases. They’re impossible on boats.
🌅 What NOT to Bring
- High heels
- Heavy jackets
- Big beauty kits
- Hair dryer (won’t use it)
- Anything expensive that can’t get wet
- Too many clothes (you’ll wear swimsuits 80% of the time)