What is a diver's must have?

[SkullDeformity]

The list of items you "must" have is much longer than the goofy gadgets you don't need. I must have my full kit, because if any part of it is missing, I can't go diving.

You need the right kind of personality. Anyone can learn to dive, but you have to be the right kind of person to be able to excel, love, and be addicted to it. I didn't even know I wanted to SCUBA dive until I randomly got certified after two uneventful birthdays where I insisted I didn't want or need anything. Ironically, I learned to dive before I got my drivers liscene, and I learned to dive when I was 18. But now it has totally consumed me, is keeps me up at night.

 

[Geoff_H]

What is a diver's must have?

Air.

I've dived without air many times :angel_smi

 

[Geoff_H]

I think an SMB should be a part of every divers kit for all dives. Personally I have a little one that goes with me on every dive and a big one I take on dives where there is a chance of swell, currents or other factors that could impede the boats ability to see me.

I also think shooting a bag should be covered as part of Open Water courses.

 

[D_B]

... a SMB (and a finger spool of line would help)
... a cutting implement (knife, shears, J/Z-knife, etc) preferably two
... a backup light that you carry always
... a whistle
... a compass
... and I think at least as important is a rudimentary knowledge of the area your diving (direction of prevailing current, what direction is back to shore, etc)

 

[dry heat diver]

I've dived without air many times :angel_smi

How's that working out for you?

 

[Geoff_H]

How's that working out for you?

Pretty good! Air isn't the only gas you can go scuba diving with, ergo it's not an essential.

 

[kreuzerkrieg]

Oxygen Analyzer. I'm always amazed how many mixed gas divers don't own one. Oxtox and DCS are just too easy to get if you don't know the O2 content of your mix, and don't trust the dive shop, for even the best shops frequently mess up the mix. - Kirk

IMHO, useless piece of gear, If you dont trust the diving club, just recalibrate the analyzer before you check your mix

 

[kreuzerkrieg]

Two of you meant cutting devices. I think it is most important thing when you are diving in places where fishing occurs, what you gonna do if you get caught in fishing net? I carry pretty big titanium knife for this case.
Second, diving new sites –are you sure you will find the way back? How ‘bout good Suunto compass?

 

[Steve50]

depends on where I'm diving - in Cozumel, it's margaritas.

 

[nymbus]

Dive buddy... (most of the time)...

Or at least someone who cares enough to know when you are out and checks in to make sure you got home safe.