Ditch Bag

Signaling and Rescue — Highest Priority

• EPIRB (registered, GPS-enabled if possible)
• PLB (backup or for crew)
• Handheld VHF radio (waterproof, fully charged)
• Signal flares (SOLAS-approved if offshore)
• Signal mirror
• Loud whistle or air horn
• Waterproof flashlight or strobe (extra batteries)

Water and Hydration

• Water pouches (at least 1–2 liters per person minimum)
• Manual watermaker or desalinator (for offshore passages)
• Electrolyte packets

Food

• High-calorie emergency rations (lifeboat bars)
• Energy bars (vacuum sealed)

Navigation Backup

• Handheld GPS (waterproof, spare batteries)
• Basic compass
• Notebook and pencil (log positions, times)

Medical and First Aid

• First aid kit (bandages, antiseptic, meds)
• Seasickness tablets (critical in a liferaft)
• Pain relievers
• Prescription meds (if needed)

Survival Gear

• Knife (fixed or folding, corrosion-resistant)
• Multi-tool
• Thermal blankets or bivvy sacks
• Sunscreen and lip balm
• Sunglasses (polarized if possible)
• Hat or thermal cap
• Sponge (to remove water from raft)
• Small repair kit (for inflatable raft)

Protection from Exposure

• Lightweight rain gear or ponchos
• Extra socks
• Gloves (warm or sun-protective depending on climate)

Documents and Extras

• Waterproof copies of passports and boat registration
• Cash in small bills
• Spare eyeglasses

Power and Electronics

• Spare batteries in a waterproof case
• USB battery pack (fully charged) and charging cables
• Small solar charger (for longer passages)

Optional Items (Offshore Passages)

• Fishing kit
• Small tarp or additional shade
• Dye marker (to make you visible from the air)

The Bag Itself

• Waterproof and floating
• Brightly colored — yellow or orange
• Reflective strips; clearly labeled “DITCH BAG”
• Lanyard or tether to secure to yourself or the liferaft

Practical Tips

• Light enough to grab instantly — store near the companionway
• Check contents every 6–12 months: batteries, expiration dates
• Pre-pack items in waterproof sub-bags
• Make sure every crew member knows where it is

Coastal vs. Offshore

• Coastal: may skip the watermaker; reduce food supply
• Offshore: add redundancy — multiple beacons, more water, better medical kit