Summer might be over, but there’s still plenty of time to plan a watersports getaway before the cold sets in.
Before you leave home, you’ll want to be sure that you’ve packed all the essentials. Otherwise, you risk spending your holiday shopping for boring basics that you could have just brought along.
Keep reading for pro tips on what to pack for your surf, snorkel, or scuba vacation – and make the most of your time in the water!
Sun Protection
Sunburn is the most common effect of exposure to the sun’s powerful UV rays. And, it’s the most frequent injury among watersports enthusiasts!
Keep yourself safe by packing plenty of lightweight and layerable clothing, a hat, UV blocking sunglasses, and reef-safe sunscreen. Remember, you’ll want to apply sunscreen 30 minutes to an hour before entering the water – and don’t miss those hard to reach areas prone to burning.
Personal Care
If you’re traveling in a remote region, you’ll want to bring some toiletries and personal care items along from home. Familiar products might be unavailable – or extremely expensive in your destination of choice.
This should also include any prescription medications that you take and basic over the counter supplies for first aid.
Basic Gear
No matter which sport you’re participating in, you’ll want to bring some basics along. Small, easy to pack items like a mask, fins, and snorkel can save you a bundle on rentals – and using your own personal equipment guarantees a good fit.
You’ll also need to bring exposure protection – to keep your skin safe from stinging organisms like jellyfish, accidental scrapes, rashes, and the sun. Use this wetsuit temperature guide to decide which thickness is right for your trip!
Pack Smart
How you pack is almost as important as what you pack!
You’ll want to start off with high-quality luggage or gear bags that are easy to carry and transport, and can stand up to the stress of travel. Keep your sports equipment separate from personal items if possible. And, pack like items together, so you don’t spend half the trip searching for that one lost sock.
If you’re bringing any liquids along, be sure they are sealed in plastic and stored in cabin luggage to avoid any hassles at the airport or spills that could soak your bag’s inside. And, make yourself familiar with TSA guidelines before you travel if you’re not sure exactly what is allowed.
Leave These Behind
Try to make your trip more sustainable by leaving some items at home.
If you’re traveling in a remote region where recycling is uncommon, try to skip out on single-use hotel toiletries and disposable items. These plastics will most likely wind up in a landfill – or worse, the ocean. Instead, opt for earth-friendly products like solid shampoo, conditioner, and sunscreen.
This reminder also goes for disposable batteries and other items that will be difficult to dispose of safely.
Hit the Waves With Surf, Snorkel, and Scuba
Now that you’ve read through our top packing tips, you’re probably excited to break out your gear bag. And, so long as you use this guide as a reference, you’re sure to have everything you need for a dream surf, snorkel, or scuba vacation.
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