Here’s a list I use to make sure I’m packed correctly for a dive trip. Feel free to print the list or copy to your reminder app.

Essential Scuba Diving Equipment

• Mask
• Fins
• Snorkel
• Boots
• Buoyancy Control Device (BCD — Preferably with Alternate Air Source and Integrated Weight Pockets)
• Regulator with Alternate Air Source
• Pressure Gauge / Depth Gauge / Compass / Dive Computer (or Dive Console)
• Wet Suit
• Gear Bag
• Dry Bag (or plastic bag)
• Certification Card & Log Book

Recommended Accessories

• Knife (Some countries will not allow dive knifes. Also make sure the knife remains in your checked luggage)
• Dive Light (small light with lanyard)
• Dive Beacon (on dive boat)
• Dive Flag (on dive boat)
• Underwater Slate and Pencil (optional)

Spare Items (optional)

• O-Rings
• Mask and Fin Straps
• Regulator Mouthpiece
• Snorkel Keeper
• Batteries for Flashlight
• Spare Dive Beacon

General Luggage Items

• Shorts
• Comfortable Shirts
• Sweatshirt / Sweater
• Swimsuits
• Hat / Visor
• Long Pants (at Least One Pair)
• Clothes Suitable for a Night Out
• Comfortable Shoes
• Bug Spray
• Nail Clipper

For the Boat (pack in dry bag)

• Windbreaker
• Sweat Suit (to Keep Warm after a Dive)

Medical / First-Aid Items

• Waterproof Sunscreen
• Sunburn Treatment / Aloe Vera Gel
• Swimmer’s Ear Solution
• Diarrhea Medication
• Aspirin / Ibuprofen / Other Pain Relief
• Antibacterial Cream
• Prescription Medication (in its original bottle)

Suggestions for Carry-On Luggage

• List of Important Phone Numbers / e-Mail Addresses
• Reading Material
• Sunglasses
• Extra Pair of Prescription Glasses (or Contact Lenses)

For Underwater Photographers and Videographers

• Camera
• Camera Housing
• Filters
• Strobe
• Chargers and Connector Housing
• Extra Lenses
• Extra Memory Cards
• Connection Cables (USB, etc.) to transfer pictures to a computer (if you’ve brought or will be using one)
• Lens-Cleaning Fluid and Tissue
• Spare Batteries

Last-Minute Checklist

• Passport
• Airline Ticket(s) (It also helps to download the airlines apps)
• Cash (tips, treasures & departure tax)
• Credit Cards
• Traveler’s Checks
• Vouchers
• General Luggage
• Dive Gear
• Carry-On Bag
• List of Important Phone Numbers