Ready to set sail on a HIOBS expedition? Don’t forget to pack these 5 pocket-sized essentials that are small enough to fit in your PFD!
Embarking on a HIOBS sailing expedition offers a thrilling blend of adventure, fun, and hard work, and ensuring you have the right items with you can make all the difference while you’re in the field! While the list of must-haves might seem endless, we’ve narrowed it down to five pocket-sized essentials that will fit in your PFD (personal flotation device) and help enhance your experience.
From shielding your lips with SPF chapstick to protecting your eyes with polarized sunglasses, prioritizing self-care while on course ensures optimal comfort and enables you to fully immerse yourself in your expedition and enjoy your time in the field.
To learn even more tips, tricks, and self-care recommendations, check out our On Course FAQs and explore our “Self-Care on Course” document there.
We hope these suggestions help you make the most of your time on the water!
1. Compact hairbrush
Bringing a small hairbrush on your sailing expedition can be a surprisingly practical choice. Whether you’re navigating through choppy waters or preparing for the day ahead after your morning dip, the wind, salt water, and sea spray doesn’t always work well with long hair. While it may seem like a minor addition to your sailing gear, a hairbrush can make a big difference in maintaining comfort and convenience while you’re in the field.
2. SPF chapstick
SPF sunscreen isn’t just for your skin—it’s also crucial for protecting your lips from the sun’s harmful rays (even when it’s cloudy!). Lips are particularly vulnerable to sunburn due to their thin skin, and prolonged exposure to UV radiation can lead to painful burns and long-term damage. Applying SPF sunscreen to your lips helps reduce the risk of sunburn and minimizes the chance of developing dryness or chapping.
3. Rowing gloves
Rowing gloves can be an essential accessory for some while on expedition, providing a reliable grip and protecting hands from blisters and calluses. While specifically designed rowing gloves offer optimal comfort and dexterity for rowing motions, weight-lifting gloves can also serve as a suitable alternative. Having this protective gear onboard enhances comfort and performance, allowing you to focus on powering through each stroke with confidence and ease.
4. Lightweight buff or bandana
A lightweight buff/bandana is probably the most versatile accessory while in the field! Not only does it serve as a solution for taming unruly or unwashed hair, but it also pairs perfectly with a hat and offers an extra layer of sun protection while covering your ears and neck and shielding them from the sun. Plus, it can also serve as a barrier on windy days!
5. Polarized sunglasses
Polarized sunglasses work wonders in cutting glare on water surfaces, where sunlight reflects intensely—which is great for allowing sailors to better spot obstacles but not so great for our eyes! Good sunglasses help protect eyes from harmful UV rays, reduce the risk of eye strain, and even act as a physical barrier from wind and other potential irritants that could cause damage.
