It's not easy to know what to take with you when you've decided to charter a yacht with your family or friends. ActuNautique spoke to Dream Yacht Charter, the world's leading yacht charter company, to find out more!

Packing for a cruise on a sailing boat means adapting to the conditions, both in terms of... limited space, as well as the weather forecast!

Dream Yacht Charter has drawn up an essential checklist to help you do just that!

What type of luggage should I take on a cruise?

Travel bags :
It is advisable to opt for soft sports bags or backpacks that fold easily. Rigid suitcases are not recommended, as they are often impossible to fit easily into on-board lockers or cupboards! What's more, it's impossible to leave your suitcase empty at the boat's departure base and hope to get it back when you return...

A waterproof bag :
Here's an essential that you mustn't forget, and which will be very useful for protecting your mobile phone, tablet, glasses and wallet. Otherwise, a zipped bag will give you the minimum protection you need.

The beach bag :
For your towels, sun cream, snorkel and a change of clothes.
A security pouch: wear a security pouch under your T-shirt for your important documents and money.

What clothes should I take on a boat?

The recommended method here is fairly simple to imagine, but more complex to put into practice: put everything you think you'll need in a pile, then remove a good third of it!

Swimming costumes :
Pack several swimming costumes, bikinis or swimming shorts to keep yourself dry.

Beachwear:
Take lightweight clothes, especially ones that dry quickly: t-shirts, tank tops, beach shorts/dresses.

Mackintosh:
Take a light, waterproof jacket that won't take up much space but will protect you if you need it.

Remember to pack a warm top for the evenings, especially if you're sailing in Europe in the low season.

Shoes/sandals:
Shoes with non-marking soles and good grip are essential, even if you'll be barefoot most of the time.

Swimming shoes to protect your feet.

A beach towel :
an essential accessory, to keep the towels and sheets provided free of sea water and sand.

Sunglasses:
Choose them with polarised lenses, which are even better for countering the reflection of the sun on the water.

A sun hat or cap.

Toiletries to bring on a sailing cruise

Sunscreen and sun cream:
take enough, without oil and without risk to the reefs - look for products without oxybenzone or octinoxate.

Mosquito repellent:
To prevent bites (lavender essential oil is very effective and natural).

Lip balm :
to prevent chapped lips caused by wind, salt and sun. Choose one with sun protection (SPF).

Travel-sized toiletries:
shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, toothbrush and toothpaste.

Make-up :
Keep only the minimum!

Anti-seasickness pills or patches :
essential for seasick cruisers.

Earplugs and mask :
for a good night's rest, even if you're not a sound sleeper, as a yacht is a fairly confined space.

Medication:
Make sure you bring your prescription for any medication you need to take with you on your cruise.

What documents should you pack?

Passports and visa, plus social security card, in particular the European social security card EHIC.

Your boating licence:
if you are sailing yourself, don't forget to bring your original certificates and copies with you.

Your insurance details

Miscellaneous

Games:
Playing cards are always a good idea to keep you occupied during your cruise.

If you've booked a bareboat or skippered cruise, you might consider bringing: matches, a torch, a notebook and pen, a reusable water bottle, a flag: represent your country, state, sports team or university - just for fun!

What you DON'T NEED to take on your cruise

• Tanning oil, as it stains the boat.
• Cooking utensils.
• Navigation tools and maps.
• A first-aid kit, included on all boats.
• Valuable jewellery.
• Hairdryer and straightening iron: you'll be in the water a lot!