Sailing safety kit: what to have on board

Sailing safety starts with staying on the boat and being able to call for help. Check your country’s rules for required equipment: they vary by boat size and how far offshore you go.

On board

• A lifejacket for everyone, worn on deck.
• A way to call for help: a fixed or handheld marine VHF radio with DSC, and a personal locator beacon for offshore sailing. Most European countries require an operator certificate (such as the SRC) to use a marine VHF; check your country’s rules.
• A waterproof first aid kit and a compact one for the grab bag.
• Headlamps with red light for night watches.
• Water and ration bars in the grab bag.
• Documents in a waterproof pouch.

Note: marine VHF and amateur (ham) VHF radios are different. The handheld radios on our L1 list are amateur radios and are not a substitute for marine VHF at sea.

We’re adding lifejackets, marine radios and beacons to our picks.

Last reviewed: October 2026.