What to pack on a Rubicon 3 trip: part 1

Rubicon 3 Packing List for the Following Trips:

• England – Scotland Milebuilder
• Passage Making Masterclass
• South Coast Milebuilder
• Bay of Biscay
• Atlantic Spain to Canaries
• All transatlantic crossings

Sailing in the fall requires preparation for everything from warm sun to cold, driving rain—sometimes both in a single day! At Rubicon 3, our motto is: prepare for the worst and hope for the best. Packing the right gear will ensure that your sailing experience is both safe and comfortable, no matter what weather you encounter. Below is a comprehensive packing list to guide you through your preparations, divided into sensible categories with practical advice for each item.

Luggage and Storage

Your gear needs to be easily stored and accessible on the boat, and while space is plentiful, it is not unlimited. Soft, compact luggage is essential.

• Bag (around 90 litres):
  • Opt for a soft, collapsible bag that can be stowed easily in tight spaces. The Gill Voyager Duffel Bag 90L is a great option, or if you prefer a wheeled bag, the Gill Rolling Cargo Bag 90L is a good alternative.
• Plastic bags:
  • Inside your main bag, divide your clothes into sections using plastic shopping bags. While you could use dry bags, there’s no need to spend extra. Use the plastic bags to keep your clothes organized and free from condensation. Bring a spare bag for laundry.

Sleeping and Comfort

Your bunk will be large and comfortable, equipped with a reading light and USB charging point. Here’s what you’ll need to bring to ensure a good night’s rest.

• Sleeping bag (mid-season):
  • Any light to mid-season sleeping bag will suffice, as the boat’s interior is well-heated. For ARC or transatlantic legs starting or ending in warm climates, bring an extra sheet or sleeping bag liner—you may not need the sleeping bag once it gets hot.
• Pillowcase (bring 2):
  • You’ll be provided with a pillow, but bring your own pillowcases.
• Single bed sheet (bring 2):
  • A standard single sheet will cover the mattress beneath your sleeping bag.

Clothing

Layering is essential for fall sailing, where temperatures can fluctuate rapidly. Pack enough to stay warm and dry but avoid overpacking. You don’t need to buy expensive technical clothing.

• 4 pairs of underwear
• 4 pairs of socks (some thin, some thick):
  • A mix of thicker and lighter socks allows for layering.
• 6 T-shirts/shirts:
  • Pack a combination of long- and short-sleeve options.
• 1-2 pairs of sailing trousers:
  • Long trousers are essential. There’s no need for expensive sailing-specific ones. Look for medium-weight, showerproof, windproof, and hard-wearing trousers like the Craghopper Stefan 2—affordable and durable.
• 1 pair of shorts:
  • Bring a pair of shorts for sunny days.
• Swimming costume:
  • Even mid-ocean, there are opportunities to jump in for a swim!
• 2 fleece tops/jumpers:
  • One lightweight and one heavyweight fleece will keep you warm without adding bulk.
• 1 mid-layer deck jacket:
  • A breathable, water-resistant mid-layer jacket is key; you’ll probably wear this the most.

Footwear

Footwear is critical for safety and comfort. You’ll need different shoes for varying conditions, both on and off the boat.

• 1 pair of waterproof sailing boots:
  • Essential for keeping your feet dry during long periods on deck. Cheap rubber sailing boots (like Decathlon’s Tribord) are perfectly fine.
• 1 pair of deck shoes or trainers:
  • Deck shoes should have good grip (no open toes allowed as they’re a trip hazard). Non-marking soles aren’t necessary—our decks can handle anything. Regular trainers or Crocs are fine.
• Flip flops:
  • While dangerous on board, flip flops are perfect for ashore and in marina showers.

Accessories for Warmth and Protection

Small accessories can make a huge difference when keeping warm and dry.

• Hats (Woolly or Polartec-style beanie):
  • A warm hat is essential for cold nights and chilly days. Wool or Polartec work best for warmth and moisture control.
• Sun protection (Factor 50+ sunscreen and UV lip salve):
  • Even in the fall, the sun’s reflection off the water can be intense. Use high-factor sunscreen and UV-protective lip balm.
• Sunglasses (polarized with neck strap):
  • Polarized sunglasses reduce glare, improving visibility and protecting your eyes. Ensure they have a neck strap to prevent loss.
• Gloves (sailing gloves and warm mittens):
  • Sailing gloves are useful for handling ropes but not essential. Warm mittens or woolly gloves are vital for cold weather.
• Neck protection (snood or scarf):
  • A snood or scarf helps insulate your neck and keeps water out of your clothing.

Miscellaneous Essentials

These are crucial items you don’t want to forget.

• Washbag:
  • A washbag with a hook, such as the Osprey Ultralight Organizer, is helpful for small showers. Include essential toiletries: toothbrush, toothpaste, nail clippers, shower gel, shampoo/conditioner, talcum powder, and deodorant.
• Towel:
  • Bring a full-sized bath towel or a lighter sports towel
• Seasickness medication:
  • Even if you’re not prone to seasickness, it’s good to have medication on hand, especially in rough waters. Many professional sailors take it—there’s no shame in it.
• Water bottle:
  • Staying hydrated is essential. Bring a personal, refillable bottle to reduce waste.
• Head torch (with red lens):
  • A head torch is a boon for hands-free illumination. A red lens helps preserve night vision on deck.
• Passport, insurance details, and personal medication:
  • Always carry your identification and any medical prescriptions.
• Sailing logbook:
  • Bring a sailing logbook to record your miles and get passages signed off.

Miscellaneous Non-Essentials

These items aren’t mandatory but can make your trip more comfortable.

• Knee pads:
  • If you have sensitive knees, pads can save you discomfort when kneeling.
• Sailing knife:
  • A good sailing knife is useful for cutting ropes or dealing with emergencies. Choose one with a lanyard or belt attachment.
• Foul weather clothing:
  • You don’t need your own foul weather gear as we provide oilskins, but feel free to bring your own if preferred.
• Ear plugs:
  • For snorers, loud sea state, or banging ropes—ear plugs are a lifesaver.
• Eye drops:
  • Wind can dry your eyes quickly; eye drops are a great idea.
• UK 3-pin adapter:
  • We have UK 3-pin 230V AC sockets on board, so international travelers should bring an adapter.
• Favorite condiments:
  • Love Marmite, Tabasco, or a specific type of tea? Feel free to bring it along—these little extras can make a big difference.
• Headphones:
  • Listening to music or podcasts can be a relaxing way to unwind.
• Book/kindle/notebook:
  • Bring something to read, or keep a journal of your adventure.
• USB to USB-C adaptor
  • We have USB ports on board, so you may need to bring an adaptor

What Not to Bring

• Lifejacket:
  • You must use our commercially coded life jackets, so you won’t be allowed to wear your own.
• Personal Locator Beacon:
  • Our life jackets are equipped with PLBs, so please don’t bring your own. It’s important we know which signals to look for.

Ready to Sail?

Your adventure awaits! Whether you’re mastering passages or crossing oceans, packing right is the first step to a smooth journey. So, gather your gear, stow it efficiently, and get ready to set sail. We can’t wait to have you aboard—let the adventure begin!