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Getting ready for that dream dive vacation can be an exciting time. Just don't let the anticipation and enthusiasm shortcut important pre-trip preparations. Here are some tips from Caradonna's experienced travel experts that can help ensure the trip goes smoothly.
PRE-TRIP PREPS & CHECKS
How far in advance should I prepare for a dive trip?
Many countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date.
Download The App
Use the free Mobile Passport Control app to submit travel documents and customs declarations digitally. This lets you bypass standard customs clearance lines at supported U.S. airports and seaports.
Entry Requirements & Visas
Check with your travel agent or visit the U.S. Department of State website to determine if there are any required visas or country entry registrations for your destination.
Register For EVOAs
Many countries now offer Electronic Visas upon arrival, but you must register in advance
Be wary of imposter sites and make sure that you are on the government site, as there are many spoof sites that look similar to the original and come up in search.
Health & Vaccinations
Visit the CDC’s Travelers' Health site to see if there are any recommended or required immunizations for your destination.
Refresh Your Diving Skills
If you haven't been in the water for a while, consider reviewing skills with a pre-trip local checkout dive or refresher course with a local dive shop.
Do I need dive insurance?
Dive insurance is a must-have. Make sure it's up to date, and for remote destinations, make sure it includes emergency airlifts and boat evacuations. Buying travel insurance can also add peace of mind.
Check The Fit
Try on that wetsuit that fit like a glove last year to make sure it didn't shrink or stiffen in storage – or that you didn't expand.
Check Water Temperatures
A little research into expected water and weather conditions at your destination can ensure you pack the appropriate exposure suit and clothing.
Service and Test Your Gear
Make sure regs and BCs are working properly and refresh computer batteries. Consider a pre-trip gear service at your local dive shop.
Get The Credentials
Signing up for programs like TSA Pre-Check and Global Entry can help you skip long lines at departure airports and speed up returns.
Smart Packing Tips
Make Copies
Smartphones are great for organizing screen grabs of records, but it's safer to make paper backup copies of every important document, just in case. This includes ticket information and boarding passes, hotel reservations, dive certifications, prescriptions, visa, and vaccination records if applicable to the destination. For added peace of mind, add a second copy of vital documents to your checked luggage.
Should I bring my own scuba gear?
Most divers prefer to use their own gear, but if baggage becomes unmanageable or weight limits are tight, consider renting bulkier and heavier items such as BCs and regulators at the destination.
Label It
Put names on dive gear and items that could be easily confused or mixed up at the resort or on the boat.
Tips to Avoid Lost Luggage
Consider adding an Air Tag or similar Bluetooth tracker to your checked bags so they can be located if they don't arrive at your destination.
Add Waterproofing
Include a small dry bag to protect important items while on the dive boat. Include some Ziploc or garbage bags to isolate items that are dirty or not fully dry before packing for the return.
Save-a-Dive Kit Essentials
Create a compact save-a-dive kit with extra mask and fin straps, mouthpiece, zip ties, O-rings, a small tube of silicone lubricant, a few waterproof bandages, and spare batteries.
Consolidate Your Wardrobe
Most travelers take more clothing than they really need. Choose items that are lightweight, fast-drying, and that can be mixed and matched. Take advantage of laundry services offered by many resorts and liveaboards.
Switch It Up
If traveling with a partner, divide clothing between individual bags to ensure there's something to wear if one bag is delayed or lost.
Carry-On Must-Haves
Take Full advantage of airline carry-on allowances. The slight inconvenience of carrying bags during transfers is more than offset by the security of knowing important items are safe from baggage loss or delays. Prioritize non-replaceable items such as prescription medications, prescription masks, and other things that you would have a hard time being without should your baggage be delayed.
Packing Light Without Leaving Essentials Behind
Once the bags are filled and closed, put them on the scale to make sure they are within airline weight limit requirements. This includes not just originating flights, but also smaller transfer aircraft that may have more restrictive baggage policies.
Ask your agent about extra fees or travel sign-ups, such as Bonaire's $75 entry tax and $40 marine fee. Use caution with search engines and only pay on official government sites to avoid fake pages.