How to Pack Like a Pro for a 10-Day Dive Liveaboard

Set Yourself Up for Smooth Sailing (and Diving)

Packing for a 10-day liveaboard adventure requires more planning than a weekend trip. Between dive gear, travel essentials, and limited storage onboard, what you bring — and how you bring it — can make or break your experience. Overpacking can clog your cabin; under packing can mean costly rentals or missed comforts.

Whether you’re heading to the Galapagos, Indonesia, or the Maldives, this guide will help you prep like a pro and dive in fully prepared.

Essential Dive Gear Checklist

While many liveaboards offer rental gear, most divers prefer their own for comfort and fit. Here's a core packing list:

• Mask, snorkel, and fins (with boots if using open-heel fins)

• BCD (compact travel-style recommended)

• Regulator and alternate air source

• Dive computer and backup computer/watch

• Wetsuit (3mm–5mm, depending on destination)

• Dive light (for night dives)

• Reef hook and safety marker buoy (SMB)

• Surface whistle or air horn

• Spare mask and mouthpiece

• Mesh gear bag

Pro Tip: Use gear bags that drain easily and can be compressed when empty.

Clothing and Personal Essentials

Cabin space is tight, laundry options are limited, and the vibe is casual. Pack light, quick-drying clothing:

• 4–5 swimsuits or rash guards

• Lightweight tops, shorts, and leggings

• 1–2 long-sleeve shirts for sun protection

• Windbreaker or hoodie for breezy evenings

• Flip-flops or water shoes

• Sunglasses, sun hat, and sarong or towel

• Small dry bag for deck essentials

Don’t forget:

• Reef-safe sunscreen

• Biodegradable toiletries

• Seasickness medication and personal meds

• Travel insurance details and certification cards

• Chargers, extra batteries, and a power bank

• IPad with books & videos downloaded as there may be limited or no Wifi

Photography & Tech Gear (Optional but Popular)

If you’re into underwater photography or video:

• Compact or DSLR underwater camera + housing

• Backup SD cards and batteries

• Desiccants and microfiber towels

• Laptop or tablet for media backup

  Be sure to pack it all in a watertight case that protects against salt spray and impacts.

Smart Packing Tips

• Soft-sided duffels or collapsible bags are easier to store in tight quarters

• Pack your essentials in carry-on in case your checked bag is delayed

• Label everything, especially if diving with others who use similar gear

• Use packing cubes or compression bags to save space

• Minimize plastic packaging and pack reusable water bottles or mugs

What NOT to Bring

• Formal wear — the dress code is casual all day, every day

• Excess dive gear you don’t need or won’t use

• Full-size luggage — hard suitcases are a pain to stow

• Excessive electronics (Wi-Fi may be limited or unavailable)

Managing Baggage Weight

Most international flights limit checked bags to 20–23 kg (44–50 lbs), and liveaboards often enforce similar weight limits for internal transfers. We recommend:

• Wearing your heaviest shoes and jacket in transit

• Using lightweight versions of your BCD and fins

• Sharing non-essentials (like reef hooks or lights) if traveling in a group

If in doubt, contact your liveaboard operator to confirm gear availability and baggage limits.

Be Prepared, Not Overpacked

Liveaboards are designed for efficiency and comfort — but they aren’t cruise liners. Every inch of space counts. By packing smart and thinking ahead, you’ll save yourself stress and focus on what matters: exploring spectacular dive sites, bonding with fellow divers, and enjoying life at sea.

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