how to pack for a liveaboard

How to Pack for a Liveaboard

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Liveaboard Packing List with Scuba Diver Magazine.

Heading off on a liveaboard dive adventure with us? Whether it’s your first time or you’re a seasoned diver, packing smart can make or break your trip. This guide—based on Scuba Diver Magazine’s detailed walkthrough—breaks down everything you need to know, from luggage choice to dive gear essentials and what to leave at home. Here’s how to pack for a liveaboard trip.

🏁 00:00 – Introduction: Why Packing Matters

Packing for a liveaboard is different than packing for a resort dive vacation. You’ll be living, eating, and diving from the same boat for several days—so space is limited, and planning ahead is crucial. Bringing what you need (and leaving the rest) means more comfort, less stress, and more time enjoying the underwater world.

🎒 01:20 – What Kind of Bag Should You Bring?

Skip the suitcase. Go with a soft duffel-style bag, preferably one that folds down when not in use. Dive boats have limited storage, and hard-sided luggage takes up unnecessary space. Look for:

  • Lightweight, water-resistant duffels
  • Wheels (optional, depending on how much travel you’ll do on land)
  • Durable zippers and reinforced stitching
  • A dive gear-specific bag with mesh ventilation is a plus

Pro Tip: Some divers even use mesh dive bags inside their duffels to make unpacking easier onboard.

🚫 05:00 – What NOT to Pack for a Liveaboard

Less is more. Don’t waste space (or airline weight limits) on items you won’t use. Leave behind:

  • Excess clothing: You’ll live in swimwear, rash guards, and maybe one comfy outfit for the evenings.
  • Towels: Liveaboards provide them.
  • Hairdryers & Irons: Not needed and often not allowed.
  • Full-size toiletries: Opt for travel sizes, and bring reef-safe options.
  • Fancy shoes: One pair of sandals or boat shoes is all you need.
  • Dive weights or tanks: Provided onboard.

Remember: Pack with function in mind, not fashion.

🌊 09:11 – A Word About Explorer Ventures

Our fleet offers purpose-built diving liveaboards in some of the world’s most incredible locations—from the Galápagos to the Caribbean and beyond. Our boats are well-equipped and diver-friendly, but space is at a premium. Packing efficiently will help you—and your dive buddies—have the smoothest experience possible.

📋 10:01 – Don’t Forget These Must-Have Items

Here’s the list you’ll kick yourself for missing:

  • Dive certification card(s)
  • Logbook or digital record
  • Reef-safe sunscreen
  • Motion sickness meds or patches
  • Small dry bag for shore excursions
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Chargers & power adapters (check region-specific plugs)
  • Mask defog
  • Dive computer and backup battery
  • Save-a-dive kit (O-rings, zip ties, spare mask strap)

🧳 14:58 – What Goes in Your Main Bag

This is where you pack all the big stuff. Make sure everything is clean, dry, and well-packed to avoid damage during transport. Here’s what typically goes inside:

Dive Gear:

  • Wetsuit (or drysuit, depending on destination)
  • BCD and regulator
  • Mask, snorkel, fins, and boots
  • SMB, whistle, dive light, and slate
  • Underwater camera & housing (some bring this in carry-on)

Clothing:

  • 3–4 swimsuits or rash guards
  • 2–3 T-shirts or tank tops
  • 1–2 pairs of shorts
  • Hoodie or long-sleeve for chilly nights
  • Lightweight pants
  • Pajamas, underwear, socks

Toiletries:

  • Travel-sized shampoo/soap (biodegradable)
  • Toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Hairbrush or comb
  • Personal medications

✈️ 18:06 – What to Pack in Your Carry-On

Keep your essentials and valuables with you. Airlines lose bags, and boats won’t wait for delayed luggage.

Carry-On Essentials:

  • Passport and travel documents
  • Certification cards
  • Dive computer
  • Prescription medications
  • Wallet and small amount of local currency
  • Phone, headphones, charger
  • One change of clothes and swimsuit
  • Mask (if you’re particular about fit)
  • Your liveaboard waiver and boarding papers

Pro Tip: If your dive gear is compact or valuable (like your regulator or camera), carry it with you!

Final Thoughts

Packing for a liveaboard isn’t complicated—it’s strategic. Think like a minimalist, prioritize functionality, and remember: anything you forget, you’ll likely live without (or find on the boat). The goal is to dive, relax, and enjoy your time with us and your fellow adventurers.

Ready to book your next trip? Book here.

Read more of our travel tips here.

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