Picture this: You’re setting sail around the picturesque Ionian Islands on a 7-day MedSailors adventure. The sun is shining, the sea is glistening, and you’re sharing this unforgettable experience with a group of fellow travelers in their 20s and 30s. Days are spent swimming in turquoise waters, exploring charming coastal towns, and enjoying delicious meals in family owned tavernas while the sunset paints the horizon in vivid colors.
Sounds perfect, right? But to make the most of this once-in-a-lifetime sailing trip, packing smart is key. The Mediterranean is known for its beautiful, sun-soaked days, but also for unpredictable weather. With space on your yacht being tight and the need to navigate cobblestone streets and steep hills when onshore, you’ll want to pack light and practical.
Here’s a guide to 12 essential items you should bring along for your week of island-hopping bliss with MedSailors
Duffel Bag
Forget hard-shell suitcases! A soft, collapsible duffel bag is your best friend when packing for a yacht trip. Not only does it save space in your cabin, but it's also easier to carry up narrow stairways or through cobbled streets. You’ll be thankful for its flexibility, as you can stash it away more easily once you’re onboard. Trust me when I say everyone who brings a large suitcase INSTANTLY regrets it. With swimming and relaxing in charming towns being the main activities on a MedSailors trip, you end up wearing the same two-three outfits anyways!
Bathing Suits
You’ll be living in your bathing suit for much of this trip, so make sure to pack at least two or three. Whether you're swimming in hidden coves, snorkeling among reefs, or sunbathing on deck, you’ll need extras to rotate while the just worn one dries. And let’s not forget—after a day in saltwater, nothing feels better than changing into a fresh suit!
Quick-Dry Towel
Yachts don’t have the luxury of dryers, so a thinner quick-dry towel is a lifesaver. Whether you’re drying off after a swim or freshening up post-shower, you’ll appreciate how quickly it dries and how little space it takes in your bag. Bonus: you can use it as a beach towel or a seat cover on deck, too!
Versatile Sandals
You’ll be hopping between the boat, beaches, and coastal towns, so pack a pair of versatile sandals. Opt for ones that can handle getting wet but still look stylish for a casual dinner ashore. Comfortable yet chic, they’ll also be your go-to for those impromptu hikes through seaside cliffs or strolls through village squares. You can never go wrong with a trust pair of Tevas, Chacos, or Keens.
Portable Charger
Power outlets and connection to electricity are limited onboard (the premier & superior catamarans have 2 USB chargers + 1 Type C Standard European outlet), and you'll want your devices charged for photos, navigation, and staying connected with fellow travelers. A portable charger ensures you never miss capturing that stunning sunset or checking in on your next onshore destination. Choose a lightweight one with multiple charges to last you the whole day out.
Reusable Water Bottle
With all that Mediterranean sun, it’s essential to stay hydrated. A reusable water bottle is a must, as you’ll need to carry water with you wherever you go, whether it’s on the yacht or during onshore excursions. Drinking water is constantly provided throughout your time onboard via 10L jugs, so fill em’ up! It’s eco-friendly too, helping reduce single-use plastic waste—a small but important step for protecting the environment you’ll be sailing through.
Reef-Safe Sunscreen
You’ll be spending lots of time outdoors, so sunscreen is non-negotiable. Make sure to bring reef-safe sunscreen to protect your skin without harming the precious marine ecosystems you’ll be exploring. A water-resistant, broad-spectrum SPF is key to keeping your skin safe while you’re swimming, sailing, and sunbathing. My go to brands are Blue Lizzard, Badger, and Reef Repair.
Reading Material
You’ll have downtime on deck, whether it’s while sailing between islands or relaxing under the stars at night. A book, magazine, or Kindle can be the perfect companion for those quieter moments. Choose something light and easy to read—perhaps a beachy novel or travel memoir to match the vibes of your adventure.
Windbreaker
While the Mediterranean is warm, the sea breeze can cool things down, especially in the evenings. A lightweight windbreaker is the perfect layer to throw on when the temperature dips or the wind picks up while sailing. Compact and easy to pack, it’s also handy for unexpected weather changes. My windbreaker doubled as a raincoat during an unexpected storm that passed through Greece in early September 2024 during our time on the Greece Corfu Discovery route. In that moment I was beyond grateful to have packed something heavier than a tank top or t-shirt.
Sunnies & Hat
The Mediterranean sun is strong, and you’ll be under it for hours each day, so protect your eyes and face with good-quality sunglasses and a hat. A wide-brimmed hat or a simple cap will keep the sun off your face, while polarized sunglasses will cut down glare off the water, making for more comfortable sightseeing and sailing.
Tote Bag
A small, lightweight canvas tote bag will be your go-to for onshore excursions. Whether you’re heading to a beach, a local market, or out to dinner, it’s perfect for carrying your essentials without the bulk. Most shops in Mediterranean Europe no longer readily give out plastic shopping bags, to cut down on single use plastics, so a canvas tote is a life saver when it comes to purchasing local snacks or souvenirs. Choose a fabric tote that’s foldable so you can easily pack it away when it’s not in use.
Pen and Notebook
There’s something about traveling that inspires creativity, so don’t forget a small notebook and pen. Jot down notes about your favorite spots, ideas sparked by your adventures, or simply use it as a travel journal to reflect on your experience. It’s also handy for writing down directions, recommendations, or thoughts on new friends you meet along the way.
By packing light and smart for your MedSailors adventure, you'll have everything you need to make the most of your time sailing the stunning Ionian Islands. Keeping it simple not only ensures more space onboard but also makes exploring new destinations a breeze. Now, all that’s left to do is set sail and enjoy the Mediterranean magic!
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