People & Lifestyle
The Essentials To Pack For The Perfect Snorkeling And Paddling Trip in the Tropics
The summer vacations have started, and if you are a travel freak, you just might have plans for snorkeling in tropical climates like Grenada or an exhilarating paddling trip to Fiji!
It’s all fun and games until you come to the most dreadful part of the planning – the packing.
What clothes suit the weather? how many sets should you take? Do you need a backup sunglass in case the one you wear breaks in half? What if the snorkel they give is dirty? Questions like these can really daunt you when you’re planning a snorkeling or paddling trip.
To save you from that dilemma, we have categorized all the necessities you will need to pack in the easiest way possible. Keep reading!
The Must-Haves For Snorkelling/Paddling Trips
There are things you just can’t forget to bring to your snorkeling and paddling trip. Take a look at those essential items.
Snorkel
Even though the place where you’ll go snorkeling will provide you with snorkels, it’s better to get one of your own. You have NO idea how many mouths that tube went into, and honestly, that’s gross. Try the snorkel out first in a pool so that you know it fits you perfectly.
If you’re confused about which type of snorkel masks you need, Faveable has listed 5 of the best masks for you to choose from. Snorkeling sets that come with a pair of fins are good options to go with.
Wetsuit
Get a wetsuit that’s snug and well fitted. You don’t want water getting into your loose swimsuit or ruin the whole experience with one that’s so tight that it’s difficult to breathe in.
Life Jacket
This is completely optional as the snorkel/paddling destination will have them handy, but it’s never too late to be safe.
Gloves & Boots
These will protect you against sunburn while paddling, or provide you warmth if you decide to kayak in the winter.
Rash-guard
Instead of going through hassles of slathering sunscreen time to time to prevent sunburns, get a rashie of a good quality to wear inside that swimsuit. Also, no more chafing.
Anti-Fogging Solution
Wipe your snorkeling glasses with some anti-fogging solution for a crystal clear vision throughout the trip!
What About Clothes?
When it comes to what to wear for snorkeling or paddling, there are 2 Holy rules to follow:
- ALWAYS opt for synthetic fabric clothes – They dry quickly and wick the sweat caused by the humidity very easily.
- AVOID colors like red & black because no one wants to be chased by wasps.
What Clothes You’ll Need
The following are some of the clothing items that we recommend you take with you. However, be advised that these completely depends on the duration of your trip and the weather condition of your destination.
- Some Casual Clothes– You obviously don’t want to spend the entire trip in water, you would want to enjoy the mainlands too! Pack dresses, like men’s sun shirts, that are lightweight but are appropriate for indoor dinners.
- Rain Jackets– It’s a good idea to pack a rain jacket as it can rain in the tropical regions at any time. Make sure they are lightweight, breathable and of course, waterproof.
- 1-2 Fleeces– It might get cold in the night, so better be prepared for it as well too.
- Light Hiking Shoes– These will not weigh your feet down and make treading easier and comfortable.
- Sun Hats– Pack the ones with larger brims so that you get maximum sun protection and look chic at the same time.
- Zip-Off Pants– Take 3-4 sets of these babies – you’ll thank yourself. Convert the zip-offs into shorts at any time, this way you won’t need to pack for extra shorts.
- 1-2 Set Of Heavy Pants/Jeans– you can pack gabardine or jeans for indoor wandering hours.
- Shirts And T-Shirts– take 2 sets of long-sleeved shirts and 2 sets of short-sleeved t-shirts for touring and sleeping purposes.