What’s in your grab bag?

Those planning to go offshore or ocean cruising need to consider seriously the contents of their grab bag to take into the liferaft. Remember, it really should be kept in a dry cockpit locker, as near to the liferaft as possible and within easy reach – not buried under a heap of other gear.

I particularly like the type of liferaft that has a second, smaller canister for this purpose as it is automatically deployed with the liferaft.

Wherever possible it’s best to pack electric or electronic items that use standard dry-cell batteries so you can then pack a few extras (not possible with PLB/EPIRBs). Some rechargeable radios will accept AA cells in an optional converter pack, for emergency use. PLB or EPIRB Waterproof, handheld VHF radio LED flare Waterproof LED torch Hand held GPS with spare batteries Sharp knife with sheath Multitool with plyers Bottles of water Seasickness tablets

No-one likes carrying them but they are still effective at attracting rescue services

BELOW: Find out what is in your liferaft’s survival pack, andenhance where needed