April 29, 2024 6 min read

Things to Pack for a Tropical Surf Trip

Picture yourself riding waves under the golden sun, surrounded by palm trees, and immersed in warm waters. But wait, before you embark on your next tropical surf adventure, you must have all the essentials packed. There’s nothing worse than arriving in a foreign country only to realise you’ve forgotten your surf fins or, even worse, your surfboard!

Fear not - we’ve put together the ultimate surf trip packing list, full of must-have items to make your surf trip unforgettable. From surf essentials to sun protection and everything in between, follow our guide to ensure you have everything you need for your next surf trip in the tropics - whether that be Indonesia, Bali, Sumatra, Sri Lanka, Mentawais, Puerto Rico, Mexico, or Ecuador, Hawaii, just to name a few!

A man wearing boardshorts holding a shortboard in the tropics

Things to consider about your surf destination

Before we dive into what you need, there are several key factors to consider about your chosen destination to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

What kind of waves break there?

Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced surfer, it’s essential to choose a destination with waves that match your level of experience. If you're just starting out, look for breaks offering gentle, beginner-friendly waves or more challenging breaks if you’re an advanced surfer seeking barrels.

If you’re travelling with companions of various skill levels, opt for a destination with a variety of breaks catering to different abilities. This way, everyone can enjoy the waves!

Is the country you’re visiting safe for travellers?

Safety is paramount when travelling to any surf destination. Research the safety conditions of the country you’re visiting, including potential risks such as theft or local hazards. Taking precautions like using lockboxes (ones that can’t be cut and carried away) or waterproof key pouches can help protect your belongings and ensure a worry-free trip.

What’s the water temperature?

Consider the water temperature of your destination, as this will determine the type of gear you’ll need. While most tropical destinations call for bikinis and surf shorts (oh yes!), locations with cooler water temperatures may require a summer wetsuit for comfort and warmth (such as France in the summer or Morocco in the winter - not so tropical, but still very warm).

Are you visiting during ‘on’ season?

Many tropical destinations have distinct wet and dry seasons, known as ‘on’ and ‘off’ seasons. Ensure you’re visiting during ‘on’ season for crisp, clean, and perfect waves!

Are there local surf shops, bars, and restaurants?

Look for accommodation in surf villages or areas with easy access to surf and repair shops, if you ever need them. Being surrounded by like-minded surfers and having access to amenities such as local shops, bars and restaurants, a cash machine, and surf gear can make your trip more convenient.

By considering these factors before starting your journey, you can ensure a memorable and enjoyable experience. Now, let’s get into the good stuff!

Tropical surf trip checklist

Let’s start with the absolute essentials, and then we’ll cover some optional extras that’ll make your life a little easier, too!

1. Surfboards

Don’t forget your number one best friend, your trusty surfboard! Don’t forget to take pictures of your surfboard before travelling and check the condition to avoid any unwanted surprises. If your board gets damaged on the way there, you can claim damages back from your airline if you have evidence of before and after.

2. Surfboard bags

The best way to avoid damaging your surfboard while travelling across the world with you is to protect it with a board bag and pack it well with bubble wrap.

3. Surf fins

Pack your surf fins to ensure you can ride your board properly. Remember to pack spare fins, too, as they can be very expensive in the tropics.

4. Surf leash

Keep yourself and your board connected with a reliable surf leash , and remember to always take a spare one with you in case one snaps!

5. Surfboard wax

Maintain grip and traction in the surf. For warmer waters, take tropical surf wax with you; otherwise, it’ll melt before you get in the sea.

6. Wetsuit, maybe?

Depending on the water temperature, consider packing a short spring suit for women or a summer suit for men in cooler waters. But in most tropical destinations, you certainly won’t need one.

7. Rash guard

Protect your skin from the sun with a UPF rash vest. They’re quick-drying and can also stop an uncomfortable rash from developing on your chest.

8. Reef boots

Prevent injuries from sharp coral reefs and rocky bottoms with some wetsuit reef boots! Investing in good-quality reef booties ensures comfortable and worry-free surf, especially at point breaks.

9. Swimwear

Pack your favourite bikinis or boardshorts for endless days of surfing and sunbathing - it sounds like heaven!

10. Travel towel

Don’t forget to pack a compact and quick-drying travel towel for post-surf showers. Bring along a larger beach towel for relaxing on the sand soaking up the tropical sunshine - vitamin D.

11. Zinc and waterproof sunscreen

Protect your skin from harmful UV rays with high SPF waterproof sunscreen and zinc. Reapply regularly, especially after surfing or swimming, to avoid sunburn and damage.

12. Sunglasses

Polarised sunglasses provide UV protection for clear vision and protect your eyes from the sun's glare.

13. Reusable purificator water bottle

Stay hydrated and eco-friendly with a reusable purification water bottle with a filter. We recommend getting a Water-To-Go water bottle for clean and healthy water anywhere, allowing you to reduce the amount of single-use plastic bottles you’ll use for sustainable hydration.

14. Surf repair kit

Be prepared for any surfboard mishaps with a comprehensive surfboard repair kit, with essentials like resin, fibreglass cloth, sandpaper, and fin screws for quick fixes on the go.

15. Surf earplugs

Avoid surfer’s ear and waterborne infections with specialised surf ear plugs. Invest in high-quality ones to keep water out without compromising hearing or comfort.

16. Clothes (for hot weather and evenings)

Pack lightweight and breathable clothing for hot tropical weather and comfortable evenings.

17. Mosquito repellent

Ward off pesky mosquitoes and other insects with effective mosquito repellent.

18. First aid kit

Prepare for minor injuries and emergencies with a well-stocked first aid kit, with bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any necessary medications.

19. Medication

Don’t forget to pack any essential medications you may need during your trip. Ensure you have ample prescription medications and over-the-counter remedies, such as insect bite cream.

20. Toiletries

You can always buy these out there, but finding shampoo and conditioner can sometimes be challenging. Don’t forget body wash, shampoo and conditioner, moisturiser, toothbrush, toothpaste, and even nail clippers if your trip is over a few weeks long!

21. Travel adaptors and chargers

Bring travel adaptors to recharge all your electronic devices during your trip. Research the plug types used in your destination country to know which one to bring.

22. Daytime backpack

Carry your personal belongings, water, passport, and other daytime essentials in a backpack during the daytime.

23. Passport, visa, and travel documents

This is probably the most important, as you won't be going anywhere without them! Remember to bring printed copies of flight tickets, accommodation bookings, visas, and other important documents.

24. Travel insurance

Don’t go anywhere without travel insurance. Protect yourself from unforeseen circumstances with comprehensive travel insurance for peace of mind. Make sure your policy covers activities like surfing and medical expenses.

25. Waterproof pouch

Safeguard your valuables from water damage with a reliable waterproof pouch. Keep your phone, wallet, keys, and other essentials dry and secure while out on the water or lounging on the beach.

26. Downtime essentials

Bring books, a Kindle, playing cards, a sketchbook and pencils - whatever floats your boat! These are great for relaxing between or after surf sessions.