Diving Abroad- What do you put in your bags?

[Mel78]

Wow, Thanks Guys. I am going to Fiji and Thailand....CAN'T WAIT!!! I have just packed my bag and going to take it to work to see how heavy it is on the industrial scales...eekkk!!!

 

[mikeb21072]

You might want to check the weight of your empty suitcase. We bought the Wenger large suitcase that was the lightest case available at the time, under 9 lbs empty. I can get my gear packed and come in under the 40 lb limit for Spirit airlines, including lights and camera gear. I carry-on my regulator in a backpack.
i needed the large case to fit the mares volo power fins, they are 28 in long. Thinking of switching to the Hollis f2 fins for traveling.

 

[dmoore19]

There are many different luggage scales available. I have one and I would suggest if you are going to be doing a lot of traveling that you need one too. I always try to start out with my luggage weighing a max of 40-45 lbs. That way when wetsuits aren't quite dry or I have a couple of T-shirts or other trinkets purchased during my travels I have the room and weight allowance available to bring those things home with me. A set of portable luggage scales has saved me $$$ on a couple of occasions, redistributing items on the way home is often necessary.

 

[Tigerman]

Generally I travel to someone warm so what I pack is 1 case with my scuba gear (minus tank and weights) and 1 case with my photo equipment and my carryon with laptop and dive computer(s). Hardcase for the dive gear, pelican storm case for the photo equipment.
Weight limit was fine as long as I shot a P&S, but no chance with my DSLR setup, so I just pay for an extra case..

 

[GrimSleeper]

If you've got integrated weight pockets and/or trim pockets, one handy weight-saving tip is to make sure you've taken the weights out before coming home... I'm endlessly amazed at how much lead gets taken home by customers by accident!

 

[Tigerman]

Im impressed how you dont notice on your suitcase

 

[matts1w]

Quality duffel bags weigh a whole lot less than suitcases.

 

[Wingy]

Given you are going to Fiji and Thailand may i suggest you go through your clothing again and get rid of anything you think you ''might'' wear. If you are on the small side you will find anything and everything in thailand at super cheap prices. I generally pack a rashie, 2 tanktops, 2 pairs of shorts, a bikini and one no iron sundress. Grab a sarong when you get there and if you decide to have a night out you will find some lovely dresses for next to nothing. Wear your Jeans on the plane. Enjoy.

 

[Tigerman]

I did forgot to mention - I bring underwear, shorts and T-shirts in the same case as the dive gear. I bring ONE set of long sleeves and thats the one I wear on the plane.
If you havent travelled much and think "it'll be warm when I land" you're potentially in for one long, cold flight - planes are airconditioned and they fly so high it tend to be -50c (thats -58f) outside. I rather keep the sleeves on/with me than risk NOT getting a blanket cause theire all out of them

 

[KeithG]

Hi Guys
I am doing a few dive trips abroad @ Christmas and next year...what dive gear does everyone take with them when they travel and what don't you take to cut down on weight ect...
Thanks

I take all my gear. It fits in a single 4lb 70 litre waterproof duffle bag. lots of room for a few shorts and shirts and swin trunks.
camera gear all goes in a single Lowe pro carry on back pack.
to cut down on weight I leave coats and shoes at home. Just a single pair of sandals on my feet.
this all works well until you get stranded on the way home in Newark for 3 days in a snow storm - it was a little cool tromping throw the snow drifts on the way to supper.