First dive trip ever - what to bring?

[H2ODoc]

Heading off to Belize in a few days and going to take our 1st dive trip ever! :yl2jump:

Any advice on what to bring? We don't really have any dive "accessories" to speak of, so here's our list so far:

- mask/snorkel (we are renting the rest!)
- mesh bag (borrowed from friend)
- PADI course books and referral form

That's about it. Do we need anything else? Knife, flashlight, sausage thing (I REALLY don't want "Open Water II" to be made based on our tragedy!).

We may borrow or rent an underwater camera (one is a Nikonos (?), but I'm afraid that might be a little distracting for us noobies).

Thanks!

 

[vondo]

Heading off to Belize in a few days and going to take our 1st dive trip ever! :yl2jump:

Any advice on what to bring? We don't really have any dive "accessories" to speak of, so here's our list so far:

- mask/snorkel (we are renting the rest!)
- mesh bag (borrowed from friend)
- PADI course books and referral form

That's about it. Do we need anything else? Knife, flashlight, sausage thing (I REALLY don't want "Open Water II" to be made based on our tragedy!).

We may borrow or rent an underwater camera (one is a Nikonos (?), but I'm afraid that might be a little distracting for us noobies).

Thanks!

Probably no camera unless you give it to someone else to take pictures of you. It sounds like you still need to do your OW checkout dives, so you will have plenty to do. While I didn't take an SMB (sausage thingy) until I owned my own gear, it is not a bad idea. Neither is a dive light you can keep in a BC pocket. (Something like a UK SL4 or SL6.) It's useful even during the day if you want to look into crannies. Bring a waterproof watch.

No fins, huh?

Take a ziploc bag with your log books, dive tables, anti-fog if you use it. Don't forget sunscreen and a hat.

Where and who are you diving with?

 

[immersed]

Whistle, reflecting mirror, safety sausage. I got mine all in a cute little kit w/mesh bag, clips to a d ring. It's highly unlikely that anyone would let you get yourself wandered off in class, but if you want to start off 'right'...

I started taking photos on checkout dive #2, but I was highly comfortable with all of it. Only other thing to consider is that you don't distract others who might not be so comfortable, and if instructor or DM asks you to put it away, be courteous and do so.

 

[Chaseh]

I love bringing along "Dry Fit" shirts. I haven't seen anyone else wearing this stuff but I love it on boats.

A few companies make them, generally for running and working out, but the wicking material is great to throw on after a dive and to cut the breeze. The water wicks to the surface and evaporates, and works great..

 

[bperrybap]

Might want to get some "Swimmers Ear" drops which helps
dry out your ears if you have any water in the ear issues.

--- bill

 

[1_T_Submariner]

Hey H2ODoc Since I noticed you are new to the board....Welcome. Dandydon has a good thread on what to take on a boat with you.

Have a great trip.

 

[JimHar99]

Don't forget your sun screen and insect repellent with deet.
Enjoy your trip.

 

[trigfunctions]

Seasick preventative - even if you don't think you need it. It's better to use it and not need it than to not use it and have seasickness ruin your dive.

 

[del_mo]

Seasick preventative - even if you don't think you need it. It's better to use it and not need it than to not use it and have seasickness ruin your dive.

...and take it at least one hour in advance of any boat dive. I like Bonine and don't like Dramamine (tends to make a person sleepy). This will also help you equalize.

 

[Jcsgt]

...and take it at least one hour in advance of any boat dive. I like Bonine and don't like Dramamine (tends to make a person sleepy). This will also help you equalize.

Start taking the stuff the night before, to get it in your system, then again a couple hours before you dive.