The Essential Surf Trip Packing List for Your Next Retreat
Picture this: you’re an intermediate surfer who’s saved up, told the boss you’ll be OOO never seen this before and finally booked your dream surf retreat.
You’re going somewhere remote, of course, because what’s the point of bailing on work and spending your precious vacation days if you’re not going to make it count?
Sure, there might not be many surf shops where you’re going, but that doesn’t matter. You’re prepared, right? Right?
The truth is that packing for a surf trip can be tricky, especially when you’re going to a new location. A quick search online will give you generic packing lists, but those tend to leave out the essentials that only experienced surfers know about.
So here it is… our ultimate surf trip packing list.
Honed by over two decades of surf travel experience, thousands of guests and countless surf retreats – this surf trip packing list will ensure that you’re well-prepared for your next retreat.
Surf trip packing list
IMPORTANT: At Rise Up, we have everything you need for your stay in terms of surf gear. This means that you can pick from a quiver of boards complete with legropes, fins and all the essentials. That said, you’re of course free to bring your own gear. Here’s everything required to enjoy Central America and the Caribbean’s best reef, point and beach breaks.
Travel documents ✈️
Travel insurance
If you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel. It’s as simple as that. Surf trips, while generally safe, are also unpredictable. Make sure you have travel insurance that covers medical bills, trip cancellation or interruption and personal liability.
Valid passport
Nothing torpedos your next surf trip like getting to the airport only to realize that your passport expired a month ago. Check the expiration date and make sure it’s valid for at least six months from your departure date.
Visas
Most surf destinations will require you to apply for a visa unless you’re staying for less than 90 days. Check the visa requirements for your destination and apply in advance if necessary.
Cash
We can’t speak for other tropical destinations around the world, but in Central America and the Caribbean, cash goes a long way. While some businesses may accept credit cards, don’t count on it. Make sure to have some local currency in hand for small purchases and emergencies.
Surf gear 🏄🏽♀️
Board bag
How many boards do you plan on bringing? You’ll need a surfboard bag that can fit them. Traveling with surfboards always sucks, but whether it’s one surfboard or three, the difference is almost negligible. A board bag that’s padded, waterproof and has compartments for your fins is ideal. Wheels for a coffin surfboard bag will save your back and shoulders.
Surfboards
We have a quiver of surfboards for you to pick from, but if you want to bring your own that’s fine by us too. No surf trip packing list is complete without your trusty surfboards, but be realistic about what you’ll ride. A fish or funboard for smaller days and a versatile performance board for better surf should cover all your bases.
Dry bag
Dry bags are super practical for surf trips. You can jam your camera gear in them or use them to store your towel, zinc, cold water bottle or food on the beach. And because your dry bag rolls up when you’re not using it, it takes up very little space in your luggage.
Extra leash/legrope
Throw at least two leashes/legropes in your board bag to avoid any surf trip disasters. They don’t take up too much space, and you’ll be grateful to have a backup if one breaks mid-trip. Leashes break, and as the saying goes, it’s better to have one and not need it than need it and not have it.
Fins and fin keys
The type and number of fins you bring comes down to personal preference. We recommend bringing a minimum of two sets, just in case you break or lose one. And don’t forget a fin key. Again, we have a few lying around, but better to be safe than sorry.
Ding repair kit
Dings and cracks happen. Not often, but often enough that bringing a small repair kit is a smart idea.
Surfboard wax
Our part of the world is hot and balmy. This makes the water temperature perfect for surfing all year round, but you’ll need specific surfboard wax. Tropical wax is a no-brainer. Bring at least a couple of blocks: one for yourself and one to donate to our Rise Up kids before you leave.
Clothing and sun protection 🧴
Reef-friendly sunscreen
It doesn’t matter whether you’re attending a surf camp, boat trip or surf retreat – reef-friendly sunscreen is your number one friend. Pack sunscreen first on your surf trip and apply it often.
Lightweight clothing
What type of clothing should you bring? Whatever you reckon is best for tropical destinations. A bucket hat. Singlet. Shorts. Long-sleeve shirt. The key is balancing lightweight, cooling clothing with clothes that offer decent sun protection.
Spray jacket
A spray jacket that doubles as an insulating layer is perfect for dawn patrol surf checks and hikes to higher altitudes. Bonus points if it’s packable and water-resistant with a hood.
Sunglasses
Sunglasses give your pupils much-needed reprieve after squinting into the sun during your surf. They’re also essential when you’re hanging by the pool.
Rash guard
A rash guard is more than just fashion at this point. They protect your skin from rashes and can also serve as an extra layer of warmth in colder water. Bring one or two along on your trip.
Hiking shoes/trainers
Plan on doing some exploring during your surf trip? Pack a pair of comfortable hiking shoes or trainers. We say hiking shoes or trainers because hiking shoes might be overkill. However, if you have the space, why not?
Flip-flops/sandals
Flip-flops or open-toe sandals are a surf packing list must have. One pair will do, but make sure they’re comfortable. There’s nothing worse than realizing your flip-flops are rubbing your feet raw halfway through a surf trip.
Surf hat
Few things are more unheralded but essential than a good surf hat. Look for one with a wide brim that has adjustable straps or chin ties, so it doesn’t fly off your head when you’re taking off or duck diving.
Rash guard
For extra protection from the sun, rash guards are worth their weight in gold. They won’t help much when it comes to reef break cuts, but they’ll save your skin from strong sun. A long-sleeve rash guard (with a hood, if possible) is best in our opinion.
Travel towel/surf poncho
Travel towels and ponchos are essentials for surf trips. A travel towel is particularly handy since it packs small and dries fast, making it perfect for beach days.
Booties/reef booties
A surf trip can be ruined by a nasty cut on your foot from stepping on sharp rocks or coral reefs. Avoid potential injuries by bringing a good pair of booties or reef booties. A cheap pair will do for our water temp.
Lip balm
Lips prone to burning? Don’t forget lip balm with SPF. A cold drink after a long session will alleviate some of your discomfort, of course, but it’s better to avoid the problem altogether.
Travel gear 🧳
Mini first aid kit
Just to be clear, we have a comprehensive first aid kit at each of our destinations. But if you’re taking a surf trip that doesn’t include accommodation, it’s smart to bring a good first aid kit with essentials like bandaids, antiseptic cream and ibuprofen.
Thumb drive
Want to prove to your friends back home that you’ve been surfing epic waves? Bring a thumb drive with you and we’ll load it with photos from your session.
Ear plugs
Surfer’s or swimmer’s ear can be brutal. If you’re prone to ear infections, grab yourself a pair of surf-friendly earplugs.
Power adapter
Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Barbados and Guatemala all use the Type A and B power plug (the same as in the USA). Make sure you have an adapter that works with these options.
Reusable water bottle
Fresh water is a godsend after a long session. And while you can always grab a cold drink at our retreats, it’s often nice to leave a chilled water bottle in your dry bag on the beach for instant relief post surf.
Carry on backpack
A carry-on backpack is an essential item for any surf trip. It’s perfect for carrying your travel documents, wallet, phone and other essentials while also having enough room to pack a change of clothes and some toiletries in case your checked luggage gets lost.
Insect repellent
Our retreat locations are sprayed regularly for mosquitos, so chances are you won’t come across too many bugs. But if you’re planning on doing a bit of hiking or exploring away from the surf, insect repellent is a must. Double check to make sure it’s safe for your skin and the environment.
Other surf trip essentials that are often overlooked
While everything we’ve listed above is essential, there are a few other things you may want to consider packing for your surfing trip. Here are some overlooked essentials that can make a big difference during your next trip.
- Book (or you can just read these surf quotes)
- Electrical tape/duct tape
- Ziplock bags
- Surfing magazine
- Small scissors
- Painkillers
- Hand sanitizer
- Camera/GoPro
- Portable phone charger
Wrapping up
Surfing trips are all about relaxation and enjoyment, so it can be easy to overlook some essential items.
Hopefully, our list has helped you pack everything you need for your next surf adventure. If in doubt, hit the button below to contact us for more recommendations. We’ll make sure you have everything you need for a memorable surfing trip.
