Is Your Gear Trip-Ready? A Pre-Travel Scuba Checklist

You finally board the boat and pull out your gear bag. As you start setting up, you realize your fin strap is broken. AND your dive computer battery died!

There’s nothing worse than gearing up on day one of a long-awaited dive trip and discovering something isn’t working.

A little preparation at home can save you dive time, money, and stress. Here’s how to make sure your gear is ready to travel.

Schedule Service Early (If Needed)

If your regulator or BCD is due for service, don’t wait until the week before departure. Most manufacturers recommend annual check-ups and bi-annual overhauls for regulators — especially brands like Aqua Lung, Apeks and Atomic Aquatics.

TIP: Service shops get slammed before peak travel seasons. Book at least 4-6 weeks out!

Do a Basic Function Check

Assemble and test everything before packing:

Pressurize your regulator and listen for leaks.
Check for free-flow.
Test BCD inflator and all dump valves.
Inspect hoses for cracking, especially under strain reliefs/hose protectors.
Confirm dive computer battery level.
Examine mask and fin straps.

You're always more than welcome to bring in all your gear and use one of our cylinders to assemble and test your gear yourself!

If someting feels off, fix it now.

Check All Your Batteries!

Replace (or at least verify):

Dive computers
Air transmitter/pod
Primary & backup flashlights
Surface signaling devices (if electronic)

Even if they’re “probably fine,” travel is not the time to gamble.

Think Through Travel Logistics

Check baggage weight limits.
Confirm whether your destination uses DIN or yoke.
Check dive conditions and make sure you have appropriate exposure protection.
Bring spare O-rings and a save-a-dive kit.
Download dive logs from your computer.
Photograph your packed gear before departure in case you need to file a baggage claim.
Add Air Tags or similar devices to each bag so you can track it in case it gets lost or delayed.

Pack Smart

Use a regulator bag.
Remove batteries from any carry-on if required for flights.
Carry-on: regulator, computer, mask, medications and swimsuit.

If your luggage gets delayed, you can still dive!

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