🌴 The 13 Absolute Essentials You Need for Every Surf Trip (Don’t Paddle Out Without Them)

If you're planning a surf trip—whether it’s your first or your fiftieth—there are a few things that can make or break your experience. Forget one of these essentials, and you might end up borrowing a broken board, missing the best tide window, or worst of all—battling sunstroke halfway through your session.

We’ve compiled the ultimate surf trip packing list, complete with real-world tips and eco-

conscious reminders to help you get the most out of your next wave-filled escape. Let's dive in:

1. Passport (and Visa, if needed)

Obvious? Sure. But you'd be surprised how many surfers rock up to the airport with a passport

that’s too close to expiring. Most countries require at least 6 months’ validity beyond your travel

dates—and some won't even let you board the plane if that requirement isn’t met.

Planning a surf trip to Bali, Morocco, or the Philippines? You may need a visa, or an extension if

you're staying longer than 30 days. Always check entry requirements well in advance, and keep

digital and physical copies of your documents, just in case.

➡ Pro tip: Some remote surf destinations require a return/onward ticket to enter—don’t let

immigration catch you off guard.

2. Your Surfboard (or a Solid Plan to Get One)

Bringing your own board means riding what you’re used to, which is a big bonus—especially for

longboarders or intermediate surfers. That said, surfboard baggage fees can be brutal. For example, Ryanair can charge €75–100 per boardbag, while some long-haul airlines (like Qatar or

Singapore Airlines) include it for free—if you pack smart.

If you’re not bringing a board, rent from a reputable surf shop. In places like Siargao or

Taghazout, you’ll find high-quality rentals starting at around €10–€15 a day. In more remote areas,

buying secondhand and selling before you leave is often cheaper and ensures you get something

that suits the local conditions.

➡ Pro tip: For left-hand point breaks, you might want a different fin setup than you’d use for a

beach break. Ask locals or your surf retreat hosts what works best.

3. Phone Charger + International Adapter

Your phone is your navigation tool, surf forecast reader (we see you, Magicseaweed and Windguru), translator, and booking agent. A dead phone means no tide checks, no surf pics, and no way to reach your new surf crew. Universal travel adapters with USB-C or USB-A ports are essential. A compact power bank (10,000 mAh or more)can keep your phone alive for those long days when you're hopping between surf spots, cafés, and sunset sessions.

➡ Pro tip: In countries with unreliable electricity (like Indonesia’s outer islands), charge your phone any time you have access to a plug—not just at night.

4. Surfwear That Matches the Conditions

Surfing in Portugal in October? You’ll want a 3/2mm wetsuit at minimum. Headed to Sri Lanka or

Central America? A long-sleeve rash guard or surf tee will protect your skin and keep your stoke

high during midday sessions.

It’s not just about function—it’s about fitting in. Rocking a full wetsuit in the tropics screams “I just

bought this yesterday.” So does paddling out in a T-shirt that balloons like a parachute.

➡ Must-haves:

• Warm water: boardshorts/bikini, rash guard, zinc.

• Cooler water: wetsuit (3/2 or 4/3), booties if rocky.

5. Reef-Safe Sunscreen and Zinc

Every year, thousands of tons of chemical sunscreen wash into our oceans, damaging coral reefs

and marine life. Ingredients like oxybenzone and octinoxate are now banned in places like Hawai’i,

Palau, and Thailand. Choose reef-safe formulas—brands like Sun Bum Mineral, SurfDurt, or Raw Elements are trusted by surfers worldwide. Don’t forget zinc-based sunblock for your nose and cheeks—especially for long sessions under tropical sun.

➡ Pack extra! Reef-safe products can be expensive or hard to find in surf destinations.

6. Shorts and T-Shirts (a.k.a. Real Clothes)

Sure, your salty boardshorts feel like home—but if you need to board a plane, grab a smoothie, or

hit a sunset bar, you'll want to look like you’ve showered this decade. Bring two pairs of shorts

(with pockets) and a couple of breathable t-shirts. Forget the jeans. Think lightweight, quick-drying, and comfy.

➡ Optional but smart: A loose long-sleeve shirt for sun protection or temple visits in Southeast

Asia.

7. Flip-Flops or Slides

Even barefoot warriors hit a patch of hot concrete, broken coral, or mystery beach glass. Flip-flops are light, easy to pack, and the footwear of choice for every surfer from Kuta to Costa Rica.

➡ Tip: If you're planning to ride a scooter, go for sturdy slides or something with a back strap—

slipping mid-turn is not part of the vibe.

8. A Hat (or Two)

Sun protection doesn’t stop at sunscreen. A wide-brim hat for land and a strap-on surf hat for

the water can be the difference between a sunburned scalp and a safe, stylish session.

➡ Surf hats with chin straps stay on even in heavy wipeouts. Brands like FCS and Decathlon offer

lightweight, affordable options.

9. Local Cash

Card payments may be common in big cities, but many surf towns still run on cash—especially

when you're buying fruit at a roadside stand or splitting the cost of a surfboard wax with a local

grom. In some places, ATMs charge high fees or run out of cash. Bring enough local currency for your first few days, especially if you're arriving late or traveling to a remote island.

10. Reusable Water Bottle

Staying hydrated is non-negotiable. And in hot, salty environments, you're losing water faster than you think. A reusable bottle isn’t just good for the planet—it also saves you money and keeps you session-ready.

Most surf hostels and retreats provide filtered water—so BYOB (bottle, not beer). For extra peace

of mind, get one with built-in filtration or UV purification (like Grayl or LifeStraw).

11. Waterproof Camera or GoPro

Even if you don’t go viral, you’ll want those surf memories captured. A GoPro or waterproof

action cam lets you film sessions, share highlights with your crew, or analyze your stance later.

➡ Bonus: Be the one filming and you’ll never surf alone—people will want to surf with the person

holding the camera.

12. Electrolytes (Your Secret Weapon)

Salt water, tropical sun, and long sessions = dehydration danger zone. Electrolyte powders or

tablets (like Hydralyte, LMNT, or Nuun) help replenish what you’re sweating out—especially after

back-to-back sessions.Symptoms of mild dehydration: fatigue, headache, sluggish paddling. Prevention is much easier than recovery.

13. Smiles, Stoke, and an Open Mind

No matter how much gear you bring, the real secret to a perfect surf trip is attitude. Sometimes

the waves are flat, the food is weird, or your board arrives late. If you can meet that with humor,

curiosity, and good vibes—you’ll always win. Surf culture thrives on connection, spontaneity, and respect. Bring your best self. Smile at locals. Share waves. Don’t be a wave hog. And remember why you’re there: to ride waves and feel alive.

🏄 Ready to put this list to use?

At Rainbow Surf Retreats, we’ve designed our surf trips so you don’t have to overthink the details. We welcome LGBTQ+ surfers from around the world—whether you’re just starting or you’re looking to improve your style in world-class waves. All you need to do is show up with the

essentials (and that smile).

👉 See our upcoming retreats and start planning your next salty adventure: 🌈 rainbowsurfretreats.com