What to take on a dive
Diving requires a lot more equipment than just a snorkle, mask, fins and tank so to help you find out what you might need we have compiled a comprehensive list.
Your minimum requirement for a dive is:
- Diving suit
- Gloves
- Boots
- Fins
- Watch
- Dive computer or tables
- Mask
- Snorkel
- Cylinder (filled)
- Demand valve
- Gauges (depth and tank pressure)
- ABLJ or STAB jacket
- Weight belt
- Knife
- Trunks/costume
- Towel
- Backpack (for tank)
Most people also carry a pocket torch, and have a first aid kit they can leave on the beach or bank or in the boat. It's important not to carry more kit than you need, especially for short and one time dives, as you'll hold other divers up and always be hunting for stuff you need. If you know the rest of the divers, you can often divide up optional equipment (listed below) between you and only bring one or two things each to share.
Depending on where you're going, how long you'll be out, and what you're doing you may also need:
- Sun tan lotion
- Shampoo
- Talcum powder
- Sun-glasses
- Sea-sickness pills
- Food (eg chocolate and fruit and energy bars) and drink (eg soup, or energy gels) and water (yes, drinking water!)
- Money
- Hat
- Gloves
- Windproof jacket
- Cagoule (waterproof jacket)
- Charts, maps and contact phone numbers
- Lip-salve
- Extra towel(s)
- Walking boots - especially if diving from rocks!
You should always carry, in a waterproof container your:
- Log book
- Qualification book
- First aid information (blood group, any medical conditions or allergies you have)
On dive holidays, longer dives or night or cave dives, you should ensure you have the following:
- Torch (plus spare, for cave-dives, carry a second spare)
- Whistle
- GPS
- First aid kit
- Oxygen kit
- Compass
- Line Cutter
- Diving slate
And your team or boat should have:
- Flares (personal and boat)
- VHF radio
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