Essential Safety Gear to Include in your Marine Grab Bag

When you’re heading out to sea—whether for a leisurely coastal cruise, a spot of offshore fishing, or a more ambitious passage—it’s easy to focus on fair weather and calm waters. But anyone who’s spent enough time on the water knows that conditions can change in the blink of an eye. That’s why having a properly equipped marine grab bag is not just prudent—it could be lifesaving.

Also known as a “ditch bag” or “abandon-ship bag”, this is the kit you take if you’re forced to abandon ship in a hurry. It should be packed with the essentials to help you survive until help arrives and should be stored in a place that is easily accessible on your boat in case of an emergency. Key design characteristics include the bag being waterproof, buoyant, brightly coloured, and easy to carry with a strap or handle.

Whether you’re a weekend sailor, offshore cruiser, or fishing enthusiast, here’s a rundown of the must-have gear for any well-prepared grab bag.

1. Emergency Communications

Once you’re in the life raft or water, your top priority is letting someone know you’re in trouble. Essential items include:

• EPIRB (Emergency Position-Indicating Radio Beacon) – registered and tested to ensure it is ready to broadcast a distress signal to search and rescue authorities, enabling them to quickly locate you.
• PLBs (Personal Locator Beacons) – one per crew member is ideal
• A waterproof handheld VHF radio
• Signal mirror and whistle – small, simple, and effective
• Satellite Phone or Satellite Communicator

2. Flares and Visual Signals

To help rescue services locate you:

• Electronic Flares or SOLAS-rated pyrotechnic flares
• Emergency signal flag or high-vis streamer
• Smoke signals – particularly effective during daylight
• Waterproof LED torch or strobe light

3. First Aid Kit

Medical needs can’t be ignored at sea. Your kit should include:

• Sterile dressings, plasters, antiseptic wipes
• Seasickness remedies
• Painkillers
• Tweezers, scissors, gloves
• Any personal medications, securely packed in waterproof containers

4. Water and Emergency Rations

Hydration is critical, especially in the sun. Include:

• Sealed emergency water rations
• High-calorie survival bars
• Water purification tablets or a compact filter

5. Navigation and Survival Tools

Basic navigation and survival tools can be helpful. Even if your electronics fail, you should be able to track your position:

• Waterproof charts of local waters
• A compass
• Waterproof notepad and pencil
• Multi-tool or marine knife

6. Warmth and Shelter

Exposure is a major threat, even in summer:

• Foil blankets or thermal bivvy sacks
• Lightweight ponchos or tarps
• Sun protection – sunglasses, sun cream, lip balm

7. Lighting and Power

You’ll need to keep devices charged and stay visible:

• Head torch or waterproof flashlight (plus extra batteries)
• Glow sticks as a backup light source

8. Documentation and Identification

Make waterproof copies of:

• Crew ID and contact info
• Boat registration and insurance details
• Medical info and any important contact numbers
• Float plan

9. Additional Handy Extras

Depending on the nature of your voyage, you may also want:

• Spare specs or contact lenses
• Small fishing kit
• Lightweight rope or cord
• Roll of duct tape (wrap it around a pen to save space)
• Ziplock bags for organising and waterproofing small items

Like any emergency kit, your grab bag isn’t a one-and-done. Check it regularly, at the start of each season, before long passages, and any time you update electronics or prescriptions. Replace expired flares, batteries, and food, recharge devices, and test beacons as per manufacturer instructions.

No one sets off expecting to abandon ship, but the sea doesn’t always play by our rules. By preparing a thoughtfully packed marine grab bag, you’re giving yourself and your crew the best possible chance of getting home safely, no matter what unfolds out there. So, don’t put it off, give your grab bag a proper going over before your next voyage. After all, it’s the one bag you hope you never need, but one you’ll be glad to have if you do.