Preparing for a trip and deciding what to pack can be pretty challenging. You must carefully consider which items are essential and which ones you can leave behind. To help make things easier, we have provided two packing lists and an overview of essentials, nice-to-haves, and gadgets.
We refer to the equipment and gear you need for and around surfing. We are sure you know best what clothing, shoes, and other personal items you want to bring for the time spent outside the water.
Packing list for a trip to the Atlantic with your van or car
European surfers choose Spain, France, Portugal, and other nearby destinations as their top favorite places. These locations are easily accessible by van or car, and there are no risks of tropical diseases. Additionally, you can indulge in delicious Spanish tapas and French baguettes. However, it is essential to pack a few necessary items to ensure a hassle-free trip.
We have also selected some useful gadgets and nice-to-haves that can come in handy during your trip. Since you're traveling by car, you'll have more space to pack than if you were flying. Therefore, don't hesitate to bring along whatever you can and enjoy your journey.
Essentials
- Surfboard with tail pad, leash, and fins
- A roof rack or surfboard rack
- Surfboard bag / Surfboard sock
- Wetsuit (3/2, 4/3 mm) and a hanger with a crossbar
- Bikini, board shorts, and lycra for warmer days
- Surf poncho for changing and keeping warm
- Wax for cold water and wax comb
- Fin wrench and spare screws (depending on your setup)
- Suitable repair kit for your surfboard and Duct Tape
- Sunscreen for your body, face, and lips
- First aid kit with disinfectant and ointments for wetsuit rashes
- Key safe to attach to your car
- Water bottle
- Sandals
Nice-To-Haves
- Booties and hood for cold days
- Surf cap or bucket hat
- Mat for changing
- Wet bag for your damp wetsuit
- Handy telescope for hard-to-reach spots
- Ear and eye drops and earplugs like SurfEars
- Pop-up tent or sunshade
Gadgets
- Action cam and photo camera
- Surf watch with tide indicator
- Surf backpack with wet compartment
- Waterproof case to carry around
- RS Pro Hexatraction pads instead of wax
- FCSII Tool to get your fins out of the board gently
- Mobile shower
Packing list for surfing when traveling to the tropics by airplane
When planning a trip to the tropics, it's crucial to pack differently than you would for a trip to Europe. Popular destinations such as Bali, Sri Lanka, and Costa Rica require specific items to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable vacation. To help you prepare, we've created three packing lists tailored to warmer climates. Remember, packing light will make your travels much more effortless.
Like our team rider, Lisa Veith-Gruber, you can save money on airline fees and make traveling to your tropical destination much easier by packing everything into a slightly larger board bag. It's a practical way to conserve space and simplify your transport logistics.
Essentials
- Surfboard with tail pad, leash, and fins
- Surfboard bag / Surfboard sock
- Warm water wax and wax comb
- Fin wrench and spare screws (depending on your setup)
- Suitable repair kit for your surfboard and Duct Tape
- Long sleeve lycra and surf leggings for ladies
- Surf bikini and boardshorts
- Light surf poncho for changing
- Sunscreen for your body, face, and lips
- Generous first aid kit
- Disinfectant for wounds, Betadona ointment, and ointment for rashes
- Surfline app or surf guides in print
- Water bottle - preferably with a filter
- Sandals and Reef Booties
Nice-To-Haves
- Wet bag for your damp items
- Mat for changing
- Handy telescope for hard-to-reach spots
- Ear and eye drops and earplugs like SurfEars
- Surf cap or bucket hat
Gadgets
- Action cam and photo camera
- Surf watch with tide indicator
- Waterproof case to carry around
- RS Pro Hexatraction Pads instead of wax
- FCSII Tool to get your fins gently out of the board
We hope you have a lot of fun and catch some great waves on your upcoming trip, no matter where you're headed.
