When prepping for any surf vacation, it's easy to just focus on boards - how many and how you’re going to get them there. But there are so many other pieces of equipment, clothing and accessories that you need to consider, particularly if you’re heading to a remote surf camp or on a liveaboard trip. In either of these situations, there may not be stores where you can pick up forgotten supplies, which is why nailing your packing list is so important.
As surfers, we have an obligation to help preserve our ocean playground, which is why sustainability should be at the forefront of our purchasing decisions. When planning your packing list, always consider the most eco-friendly options available, particularly if you need to go out and buy something brand new. Look for gear and accessories with non-toxic ingredients and think about ways you can reduce waste during your trip.
In this packing list for a sustainable dive vacation, we’re encouraging you to rethink what you need for the ultimate surf adventure and help minimise your footprint.
Still planning your sustainable surf trip? Check out this list of 16 eco-friendly surf resorts around the globe.
Eco-friendly surf packing list
Weather conditions
When planning any surf trip, it's crucial to thoroughly research the weather and water conditions at your destination, as these can significantly affect what you pack. If you’re going to be surfing in a cold climate, you'll need to pack accordingly to ensure you stay warm both in and out of the water.
A wind-proof jacket and beanie can provide valuable insulation when you’re out on the boats, helping to shield you from the biting winds as you get to and from the breaks. But more importantly, you’ll need a thick wetsuit to help maintain your core temperature, allowing you to stay out in the surf for extended periods.
On the other hand, if you're visiting a tropical surf destination, you'll want to pack a much thinner wetsuit or simply a rash vest and board shorts. If you’re not sure, check the average water temperatures at your destination or ask the resort/camp directly. When it comes to clothing, opt for lightweight, breathable pieces (ideally made from sustainable fibres) and don't forget the all-important sun protection.
Sustainable surf packing list
To rent or bring your own board
One of the biggest decisions you have to make in the lead-up to any surf trip is whether to bring your own surfboard on a trip or to rent one at your destination. If you’re riding your own board, you'll know exactly what to expect and how it performs, which can be a major advantage, especially if you're travelling to unfamiliar breaks.
And since you won't have to waste time finding a rental, you can hit the waves as soon as you arrive or early in the morning before the rental stores open. Depending on airline excess baggage fees, bringing your own board might end up being cheaper than renting, especially for longer trips. For shorter stays, the daily rental rate could be less than the cost of flying with your board.
On the other hand, renting a board means you don’t have to lug around a massive, awkward item or worry about it getting damaged or lost in transit (to avoid damage, you can wrap your board in bubble wrap or pad your bag out with clothing around the nose and tail). Renting is usually preferable if you’re combining your surf trip with other land-based adventures - finding taxis or using public transport with a surfboard in tow is not the easiest!
If the conditions at your destination aren't well-suited to the boards you bring, you may find yourself struggling to perform. Renting allows you the flexibility to try out different shapes and sizes to find the right match for the local waves. The downside is the uncertainty of rental board quality and availability, with some destinations having a limited selection.
Ultimately, it's a trade-off between the familiarity and potential cost-savings of your own equipment, versus the convenience and adaptability of renting - a decision that depends on the specifics of your trip and personal preferences.
Eco-friendly surf packing list
Land-based activities
While the primary focus of your trip may be surfing, chances are there will be plenty of land-based activities at your destination to enjoy on lay days. These are great opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture and explore the surrounding environment. Land-based activities could include everything from village visits to hiking trips and waterfall swims. Or you could get a different perspective on the ocean during scuba diving and snorkelling adventures.
To make the most of these opportunities, carefully review the resort offerings to understand the full scope of experiences available and pack any gear you might need. This could be comfortable walking shoes or clothing that’s respectful to local communities. By planning ahead and leaving room in your luggage for these essential items, you can take advantage of everything the destination has to offer.
Eco-friendly surf packing list
Travel essentials
• Passport
• Travel insurance documents (we recommend Visitors Coverage)
• Reusable water bottle and/or water bottle filter
• Travel pillow for the plane
• Eye mask and ear plugs (in case you’re sharing a room)
• Laptop
• Phone
• Books/e-reader
Surf gear
If you are bringing your own boards, two to three is usually ideal, with one of those being your absolute favourite and the workhorse of your quiver. It’s wise to have one or two backup boards tailored for surfing different types of waves, just to ensure your bases are covered.
For instance, you may want a slightly larger board for those days when the swell is pumping and you need a little extra volume and flotation. Conversely, a smaller, more maneuverable board can be ideal for glassier, more technical conditions where you'll be looking to execute sharper turns. And with the unpredictability of surf travel, where boards can get damaged or lost, having that backup board in your quiver can be a total lifesaver.
• Surfboards
• Leashes
• Extra fins and fin key
Packing list for sustainable surf vacation
Clothing
When it comes to packing for a surf trip, it's best to go easy on the clothing and focus on versatile, functional pieces that can serve multiple purposes. This is particularly true if you’re already travelling with boards and have maxed out your baggage weight limits. In tropical destinations, you won’t need much more than a few lightweight layers to throw over your boardies or swimsuit.
If you can, choose sustainable, eco-friendly fabrics that will break down naturally when they're done being used. And try not to buy from stores that encourage fast fashion, which is disastrous for our planet. Remember, a surf trip is not about being trendy and most surf camps, resorts and liveaboards have a really laid-back atmosphere. Chances are, everything you need will already be in your wardrobe or can be purchased affordably at thrift stores.
• Flip flops
• Broad-rimmed hat
• Sunglasses
• Singlets/t-shirts
• Shorts/pants
• Warm layers/beanies/gloves (cold environments)
• Sarong
• Underwear
• Good walking shoes and socks
• Bathers/swimwear
• Sleepwear
Health and wellbeing
Surf trips often take place in far-flung, isolated locations where accessing a pharmacy or medical care can be extremely difficult, if not impossible. It's crucial to plan ahead and ensure you have an ample supply of prescription medications, as well as any over-the-counter remedies you may require. This could include anything from motion sickness pills and antihistamines to pain relievers.
In tropical surf destinations, it’s also a good idea to bring your own first-aid kit with antiseptic creams to deal with cleaning and disinfecting reef cuts. Pawpaw cream can also be a godsend for soothing painful abrasions while tweezers will help you extract any pesky splinters from urchin spines. After long sessions out in the water, tiger balm or a similar salve will provide much-needed relief from muscle soreness.
• Prescription medications
• Paracetamol/ibuprofen
• High-SPF reef-safe sunscreen + zinc
• Sea-sickness medication (if you’re on a liveaboard)
• Chemical-free toiletries (bar shampoos/conditioners are great eco-friendly options)
• Hand sanitiser
• Personal care items for women
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