Minimalist Travel Diving

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Packing for a dive trip used to be a mess. My suitcase was small, but my gear list? Way too big. I’d stand there, staring, thinking, “How do I fit this without losing it at the airport?” Been there, hated that—I’ve learned better. After years planning events, I’m a pro at packing smart. I hate stressing out with two bags slung over my shoulders and a suitcase so heavy it feels like I’m dragging a shark. My rule now? One backpack on my back, one suitcase to roll. That’s it. For diving, I keep it simple with 8 things I’d never rent. It saves my sanity and keeps me chill underwater.

What’s All the Gear?

Here’s the full scuba gear list: mask, snorkel, fins, wetsuit, dive shoes, BCD, regulator, weights, dive computer, flashlight, SMB. That’s 11 items—too much for travel. When I started diving, I’d pack most of it. My bag would scream, “I’m done!” and I’d panic at check-in. One time, I shoved fins and a BCD in there—barely got it closed. Now, I stick to 8 things I own. Renting’s not for me. Rentals can be weird—wrong size, smelly, or just off. Owning my gear makes diving easy and calm.

Why I Don’t Rent

I’ve explained it in an old blog—check them if you want—why I don’t rent stuff like masks or wetsuits. Short version: I want gear that’s mine. It fits, it feels right, and skips the drama. Less worry means more peace underwater, watching fish do their thing. Here’s my 8 must-haves, with two suggestions for each. They’re light, pack smart, and fit my one-backpack-one-suitcase life.

My 8 Must-Have Gear Picks

Wetsuit

Wetsuits are super personal. After renting it once, I just can't do it again. It smelled awful, like someone left it in a swamp. And the fit? Terrible. God knows how many people wore it—or pee'd in it. I’m stuck in it all dive, so it’s mine now.

• Fourth Element Xenos 3mm: Light, stretchy, packs small—keeps me warm without the stink. Even a eco-friendly option! (My personal choice)

• Scubapro Everflex 3mm [Amazon]: A little thicker for cooler water, still packs small, moves with you easy

Dive Shoes

Dive shoes just make things much easier even if you end up renting fins, you wouldn't have to worry about slip on or open heels. And I definitely would not advice you to dive barefoot. Try stepping on sharp rocks once and you'll know—yowch!

• Fourth Element Pelagic: Lightweight 3mm, tough sole, packs tiny—great for rocky shores.

• Mares Equator 2mm [Amazon]: Super light, dries fast, slips in anywhere—keeps toes safe and happy.

Dive Computer (Watch-Style)

Any diver would know, a dive computer is a must, so why not invest in one? Aside from that, it also keeps your safe, no guessing your depth—too risky. I’m a watch person anyway, so I love these small ones. They replace my daily watch on trips—one less thing to pack. Big ones like my Shearwater? I save those for local dives or big adventures.

• Suunto Zoop Novo Watch [Amazon]: Clear info, light weight, wear it all trip—simple safety that looks good.

• Garmin Descent Mk2S [Amazon]: Small, smart, tracks dives and more—feels safe without breaking the bank.

Fins

Fins are a pain to pack. Big rentals take all the space—and once, the strap kept coming loose. I’d check every dive, scared I’d lose them. Look, it is not a big deal, but when you consistently having to check during your dive, it ruins the mood. Now, I just bring short ones that work.

• Scubapro Go Sport [Amazon]: Compact, strong kick, packs easy—no more strap stress.

• Aqua Lung Storm [Amazon]: Light, tough, fits anywhere—keeps me swimming without the fuss.

Mask

Some people might not feel that way. But if you ask me, masks are essential to your "inner peace". I rented one that leaked once—it will put you on an alarm mode the entire dive, no fun at all! Mine fits right every time.

• Aqua Lung Micromask [Amazon]: Small size, big view, packs flat—crystal clear underwater.

• Atomic Aquatics Frameless [Amazon]: Small shape, big view, packs flat—clear sights every time.

Flashlight

Flashlights light the way. I don’t rent them—period. Mine’s always ready to spot stuff underwater.

• ORCATORCH D530 [Amazon]: 1300 lumens, 8-degree beam, super compact—cuts through the murk and fits in my bag no problem. (My personal choice)

• Bigblue AL1300NP [Amazon]: Focused beam, super light, lasts long—lights up the dive just right.

SMB (Surface Marker Buoy)

An SMB keeps you seen. Without it, the boat might miss you—not cool.

• XS Scuba Quick Launcher SMB [Amazon]: Folds small, bright color, pops up easy—keeps me safe, no sweat.

BCD

BCDs control your float. If you have read my very first blog, and know what I went through during my O-course. You would know how important this is to me. Now, I own one. It’s like a wetsuit—gives you that safe feeling. Travel ones are way better, though—lighter and easier.

• Scubapro Litehawk [Amazon]: Super light, strong stuff, no bulk—keeps you comfy on the move.

• X-Deep Ghost Deluxe [Amazon]: Sleek, tough, packs easy—feels secure and travels like a dream. (My personal choice)

Why This Setup Works for Me

Here’s the best part: this fits my packing rule. Imagine wearing your dive computer watch the whole trip—it’s your daily watch, too. Mask, SMB, and flashlight? Good for hand-carry on planes (yep, TSA says okay—masks and SMBs are fine, flashlights under 7 inches work, so these do. Just make sure that you take the batteries out). That leaves just 4 items for your suitcase: wetsuit, dive shoes, fins, BCD. Backpack on, suitcase rolling—done. Oh, and regulators? I’ve had bad ones before, but if they work, you can deal. I’d rather rent that than haul it.

That’s my 8. Less gear to carry means less stress. I can enjoy the dive—gliding along, spotting a turtle, feeling free. Look, the whole point of a trip is to explore, relax, and have a good time. Why mess that up dragging a ton of stuff? This list keeps it simple—just the must-haves—so I can pack a quick to-go kit whenever I dive. I’m a gear geek at heart, sure, but I’m a minimalist too. This setup lets me travel light, pack easy, see clearly, stay comfy, feel safe, and find peace underwater. If you have any tricks when it comes to packing for these dive trips, feel free to let me know!

Keep in mind folks. It’s March now—spring’s kicking in, and that means it’s time to plan the next dive trip. Where’s your next underwater escape?

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