Ditch Bag Must-Haves: Emergency Preparedness for Boaters

Updated June 27, 2025

4 min read

Ditch Bag Must-Haves: Emergency Preparedness for Boaters

Article Overview: A ditch bag is a critical part of boating safety and emergency preparedness. This guide outlines what a ditch bag is, why it matters, and exactly what to pack—covering must-have survival items, signaling tools, and smart extras to ensure you’re ready for the unexpected on the water.

Table of Contents

Ditch Bag Guide: What Every Boater Needs for On-Water Emergencies

When it comes to boating, safety should always come first. Even though modern boats are well-built and reliable, emergencies can still happen—whether it’s a mechanical failure, fire, or a worst-case scenario like your boat taking on water. That’s where a ditch bag comes in.

Also called an “abandon ship bag,” a ditch bag is a grab-and-go pack that contains survival tools and emergency gear you’ll need if you’re forced to leave your boat quickly. So ask yourself: Am I as prepared as I should be on the water? If the answer is no, keep reading to learn what to pack in your ditch bag.

What is a ditch bag?

motor yacht capsizing A ditch bag is a compact, waterproof bag filled with survival essentials. It should be stored in an easy-to-access location and known to everyone onboard. In an emergency, seconds count—so make sure it’s always within reach.

Look for a bag that:

Floats or has buoyancy panels
Is made of waterproof or water-resistant material
Comes in a bright color (like neon orange or yellow) with reflective strips for visibility
Has a durable strap and tether for quick grab-and-go action

Must-Have Survival Gear

ditch bag for boaters Your ditch bag should hold two categories of gear: tools for signaling help, and supplies to keep you alive and safe until rescue arrives.

Signaling Equipment

To alert rescuers and guide them to your location, pack at least one electronic device—preferably both an EPIRB (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon) and a PLB (Personal Locator Beacon). Add a waterproof handheld VHF radio with GPS, plus extra batteries for backup.

Other signaling must-haves include a signal mirror, waterproof strobe light or flares, and an audible device like a whistle or compact air horn. A high-visibility streamer that deploys in water can also be helpful for aerial search efforts.

Basic Survival Supplies

In addition to signaling gear, your ditch bag should include items that help you stay nourished, hydrated, and protected from the elements:

Drinking water or sealed emergency water packets
High-energy food like protein bars
First-aid kit with seasickness tablets
Waterproof matches or lighter
Folding knife or multi-tool
Sunscreen and lip balm
Rope or small coil of line
A backup flotation device if not already worn
A small amount of cash (in small denominations)

Important Extras Worth Including

If you have room in your ditch bag—or keep a second one onboard—there are several other useful items that can greatly improve your situation.

✔️ Water purification tablets or a filter straw are lightweight and can be life-saving if clean water runs out.
✔️ A compact tarp or emergency space blanket offers protection from sun, wind, or rain.
✔️ Duct tape, ziplock bags, and a headlamp (with spare batteries) are handy in dozens of situations.
✔️ For long voyages or remote boating, a satellite communicator like a Garmin inReach or Spot X can allow texting even without cell service.

Don’t Forget Personal & Medical Items

It’s also smart to include essential identification and health info. Laminated copies of your ID, passport, and vessel registration can help authorities verify your identity. Also include a small card with your emergency contacts, blood type, allergies, and prescriptions.

If you boat with kids or pets, pack items for them too—such as a child-size life jacket, diapers, baby formula, pet meds, or a leash.

Have a Plan Before Your Boat Day

floating device Even the best-packed ditch bag is only part of your emergency readiness. Create a clear plan with your guests or crew. Everyone onboard should know:

Where the ditch bag is stored
How to issue a Mayday call
Who is responsible for grabbing the bag, launching the raft, and other emergency tasks

Practicing this plan—just like a fire drill—can make your response faster and calmer during an actual emergency.

Maintenance Tip: Set a Reminder

Emergency gear is only helpful if it works when you need it. Set a calendar reminder every 6 months to inspect and update your ditch bag. Replace expired food, test batteries and radios, and make sure documents are up to date.

Why Every Boater Needs a Ditch Bag

A ditch bag is a boating essential. Whether you’re cruising offshore or enjoying a day trip along the coast, the time to prepare is before you leave the dock. Having a well-stocked, easy-to-access ditch bag could be the difference between panic and protection in an emergency.

Boat with Confidence—Backed by a Partner You Can Trust

Boating with peace of mind starts with preparation—and with a partner you can trust. From helping you find the right yacht to providing exclusive customer support after the sale, Galati Yacht Sales is with you every step of the way. Let’s talk about how we can help you boat smarter, safer, and with total confidence.
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