When it comes to packing for a charter, I always find myself having to parse my bag a couple times to get rid of anything but the essentials. "Gear Creep" (the phenomenon where gear proliferates out of control) seems to be a constant battle.

One item that is absolutely essential, is small, and only weighs 2.75 oz is the Petzl Petzl Tikka 3-LED Headlamp. Standard gear for hikers and mountaineers, this little joy has proven itself over and over again while sailing.

Why a headlamp? Well, I've used one the following ways when having both hands free and light can really make a difference...

• Last check of the anchor rode in the dark before hitting the bunk
• Grilling when sundown comes just a little early and the crew is hungry
• Making cocktails in the cockpit when the little coconut courtesy lamp doesn't actually work
• Reading a book after everyone's gone to sleep
• Taking the dinghy to a dock after dark, in a swell, with very little space

I can't recommend this enough. You'll be amazed at how much you use one once you have one. And, at $28 and 120hrs burn time, it's cheap and dependable.

Tags: sailing, petzl, yacht charter, bareboat charter