The start of a new year is often the time people resolve to tackle bucketlist travel goals: rafting the Colorado River, scuba diving the Great Barrier Reef, exploring the poles. But how does an entry- to intermediate-level adventurer start preparing to make those big dreams a reality?
10 Pieces of Beginner Scuba Diving Gear for Your First Tropical Trip
16.12.2023 - 14:46 / matadornetwork.com
Scuba diving is one of the most amazing ways to see the world. And since about 70 percent of the world is water, it also means you get to see islands, creatures, and underwater worlds most people can barely dream of.
Whether you just got certified or have been certified for a while but are just now planning your first dive trip, there are a few pieces of basic beginner dive gear you’ll want to buy. While you certainly can run out and spend a few thousand on a full dive set-up, including a BCD, a full set of regulators, fins, and more, most beginners can rent those items from dive shops fairly easily. And renting from your dive operator also means you don’t need to lug heavy gear through airports. But there are some pieces of beginner dive gear where it’s really important to have your own, either for safety, for comfort, or a combination of the two.
If you’re packing for your first scuba diving trip and have no idea what gear you do and don’t need, the list below should help you get started.
We hope you love the scuba gear we recommend! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to make a purchase. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication.
Don’t be fooled into thinking you need to buy all the gear your instructor or dive shop recommends. Scuba diving companies are a for-profit business, so of course, they’re going to recommend you buy all your own gear right away. But if you’re new to the sport or diving infrequently, you don’t need a full set up. You just need the items below.
Photo: Cressi
One of the easier ways to make your first dives even harder than necessary is to have a mask that leaks, pushes painfully against your nose, or constantly needs tightened underwater. Though a leaky mask is a manageable issue, having water floating around in front of your eyes can feel alarming for beginner divers. So it’s best to bring your own scuba diving mask (and, bonus, you can also use it for snorkeling!)
You should always try your mask on in person, so if you’re buying it online, buy it from a shop that allows for easy returns. A trusted, quality brand is Cressi, which makes the Perfect View Snorkeling Mask — a very highly-rated option. It’s usually between $50 and $60, with swivel buckles, easily adjustable straps, and clear sides to maximize your field of vision. It comes in a handful of colors and at about half 7 ounces, it won’t add much weight to your bag. It also comes with a protective case so it doesn’t get scratched while traveling.
Buy Now: $49+
Photo: Best Divers
One of the worst parts of putting your scuba diving mask on is feeling the rubber of the strap rip and pull on the back of your head. Fortunately, one of the cheapest pieces
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