A surfing trip is always an exciting occasion to look forward to. However, don’t get so excited that you forget to pack the essentials for your vacation. After all, the last thing you’d want is to experience lots of stress instead of rest and relaxation. To help you plan better for your next surf trip, here’s a handy guide on some items you should bring with you:
Your Favorite Surfboard
Although you’re sure to find surfboard rental services at any prime surfing destination, many serious surfers still prefer to bring their own board, or even several.
The best board to choose will depend on where you’re going and the probable size of the waves, so check the weather forecast before you start packing. Do also pack your board securely in its own bag to keep it from breaking or being damaged in transit.
Surf Leashes
A leash will keep your board from drifting away from you and hitting other surfers or getting lost in the sea.
Depending on the strength of the waves you’re trying to ride, you might need to keep a few on hand. You never know when the leash you’re currently using may break and require replacing, after all. Luckily, leashes are easy to stuff in your bag and don’t take up a ton of space.
Compression Socks
While these may not be the first items to come to mind when you think of a surf trip, compression socks can come in handy if you’ll be taking a long car, train, boat, or plane ride to your destination. That’s because sitting for long periods can cause your legs to feel stiff and crampy. The last thing you’d want is to arrive at the beach but be unable to surf because your legs hurt too much.
So, make sure to pack a pair of compression crew socks in your carry-on luggage. Better yet, put them on before you leave home for healthy blood circulation while you travel.
Sandals
No matter how much you’re raring to get in the water, walking barefoot across hot tarmac and sand will undoubtedly hurt your soles.
To protect your feet during the walk to and from the shoreline, pack a pair of durable beach sandals in your luggage. Good water-resistant sandals with sturdy anti-slip soles can serve you well for many years. You’ll also want a pair that’s easy to get in and out of. So, skip sandals with lots of complicated buckles and straps in favor of more straightforward options, like those with Velcro closures.
Board Shorts
Being on your board for long hours can give you nasty sunburn on your thighs, especially if you’re using a board that sits high in the water. Given this, board shorts are a must for protecting your legs from the sun while you’re out catching the swell. Look for comfortable shorts that go all the way down to your knees, and do pack multiple pairs of them for good measure.
Sunscreen
While protective clothing is arguably your best defense against sunburn when surfing, you’ll also need to apply a healthy layer of sunscreen to the parts of your body that your clothes don’t cover. It’s especially important to lotion up if you intend to be out surfing between 10 AM and 4 PM, since UV radiation from the sun is most intense at these hours.
Additionally, make sure to pack a tube or bottle of quality sunscreen in your bag instead of waiting to buy some when you reach your destination, as it may be sold out or overpriced when you get there.
A Rash Guard or Wetsuit
Wearing the proper clothing while surfing will keep you safe not only from sunburn, but also from surf rash. The latter condition is a mildly painful skin abrasion that comes about as a result of constant friction between your body and your board. A thin rash guard will provide a protective barrier over your skin to prevent surf rash and is especially appropriate for warm, tropical climates.
If you’re surfing in colder waters, you may want to wear a wetsuit instead, as wetsuits are typically made of thicker, warmer materials compared to rash guards. Choose a suit that fits you well and won’t restrict your movement while swimming and surfing.
Earplugs
Swimming in natural bodies of water like the ocean can be hazardous for your ears, as bacteria from the water can enter your ear canal and cause infections. Bacterial infection can lead to redness, swelling, tenderness, and even temporary loss of hearing in the affected ear.
Fortunately, a pair of good earplugs is all you need to keep your ears clean, dry, and safe. Depending on your preference, you can either buy a pair of reusable earplugs or a disposable pair made of silicone.
These are just some of the most basic and helpful items that you should pack on your regular surfing trips. However, depending on your personal needs, you might need to bring other accessories and equipment along with you. Whatever the case may be, always make a packing list to ensure that you don’t forget anything before you head off to catch some waves.
Thank you for reading.
