What to Pack for a Dive Trip: Warm Water Edition
Your Complete Guide to Packing for a Warm Water Dive Vacation
Warm water dive travel doesn't require a drysuit, undergarments, or heavy tanks, but it still demands a thoughtful packing strategy. Whether you’re flying to Cozumel, getting all the way to Fiji, or heading to the Keys, knowing what to bring (and how to pack it) can make the difference between a smooth trip and a frustrating one.
This guide includes a full downloadable packing checklist, gear-by-gear explanations, and tips for carry-on vs. checked bag strategy. It’s based on my personal system that has kept me under airline weight limits and fully dive-ready on every warm water trip.
Why Packing for a Dive Trip Is Different
Scuba gear is bulky, expensive, and often not replaceable at your destination. You also need to meet strict weight limits on most airlines. That means:
- You must split your dive gear between bags intentionally
- You need backups for some critical gear, but not others
- You’ll want to minimize liquids, batteries, and electronics in checked bags
- You might dive every day, or only part of your trip, so clothing needs vary
Complete Warm Water Dive Trip Checklist
Below is a generalized packing checklist based upon my actual packing list as of August 2025. You can download my personal packing list in PDF version here: Download My Actual Dive Travel Packing Checklist (PDF)
| Item | Weight (oz) | Bag |
|---|---|---|
| Checked Bag | 192 | Checked |
| BCD | 135 | Checked |
| Fins | 72 | Checked |
| Compass | 2.5 | Checked |
| Large SMB & Spool | 18.8 | Checked |
| 3mm Wetsuit | 48 | Checked |
| 3mm Boots | 33.3 | Checked |
| Rash Guard Bottom | 5 | Checked |
| Frictionless Socks | 2.3 | Checked |
| Whistle & Mirror | 6 | Checked |
| Slate with Pencil | 3.0 | Checked |
| Mini Save-a-Dive Kit (no batteries) | 32.9 | Checked |
| Small Dry Bag | 1.3 | Checked |
| Microfiber Towel | 5.5 | Checked |
| Clothing | 128 | Checked |
| Checked Bag Total Weight: | 686 oz | 43 lbs |
| Item | Weight (oz) | Bag |
| Carry-on Bag | 40 | Carry-On |
| Dive Computer | 13.1 | Carry-On |
| Regulators | 98 | Carry-On |
| Mask | 12 | Carry-On |
| Flashlight | 8.7 | Carry-On |
| Rash Guard Top/Bottom | 7 | Carry-On |
| Batteries for Flashlights | 7.7 | Carry-On |
| Water Bottle | 13.2 | Carry-On |
| Small First Aid Kit | 16.0 | Carry-On |
| Electrolyte Powder | 18 | Carry-On |
| Ear Drops | 1.5 | Carry-On |
| Sun/Sting Relief | 1.5 | Carry-On |
| Sunscreen (Reef Safe) | 1.4 | Carry-On |
| Mask Defog (Reef Safe) | 2 | Carry-On |
| Paperwork (Certs, DAN, MOD Table) | - | Carry-On |
| Carry On Total Weight: | 240 oz | 15 lbs |
What to Put in Your Carry-On vs. Checked Bag
Carry-On Priorities:
- Anything you can’t dive without if your checked bag is delayed or lost
- Expensive electronics (computer, reg, camera, chargers)
- Paperwork, ID, certification cards, DAN info
- One swimsuit and essentials so you can dive Day 1
Checked Bag Strategy:
- Wetsuit, fins, and BCD to save carry-on weight
- Backup and non-critical items (slates, spare gloves)
- Clothing rolled and stuffed inside gear to reduce space
Tips to Avoid Common Packing Mistakes
- Never check your dive computer or primary mask
- Seal wet items in separate drybags for return flight
- Use a luggage scale before leaving home
- Batteries in carry-on only — especially for lithium devices
- Pack a full dry run a few days early to catch missing items
Optional and Situation-Specific Items
Consider these depending on your destination:
- Reef hook
- Camera tray and strobes
- Extra O-rings or port covers
- Backup mask (if local rental isn’t reliable)
Final Checks Before You Leave Home
- Confirm flights, dive reservations, and gear bag weight
- Bring passport, cert card, and travel insurance info
- Prepare your home (garbage out, thermostat adjusted)
This packing guide isn’t theory. It’s my actual system. Tweak it to fit your needs, but know that it works and it fits.