According to the operator of New Hampshire-based Aquatic Specialties, Barb Syovestre, a scuba certification card--or C-card--is the first thing a diver should pack. Though not everyone decides to go through a certification course ahead of time, signing up to complete an open water certification allows most divers the freedom to dive on their own while on a trip. Most destination-based scuba schools, usually contracted out or operated by resorts and hotels, require members to go through a short training and then monitor all dives. An open water certification requires 40 hours over six classroom sessions and five open-water dives.
"There are no beepers, cell phones or voice mails underwater. So more and more people are getting into scuba diving as a stress relief and learning how to do it before they go on vacation because they want that added freedom of either bringing their own equipment or renting it," said Syovestre.
A proper scuba diving gear bag should include items personally chosen by the diver herself. Diving gear should fit well and be comfortable so dives are easier and the diver can focus less on the fit of a wetsuit and more on the views while underwater. A gear bag should hold a mask, snorkel, swim fins or booties, scuba weights and a belt and a bathing suit or wetsuit.In a dry sack or water-proof bag, divers should pack a towel, dry clothing, bottled water and snacks for after the dive.
Divers should always bring seasickness medications and a first aid kit on every dive. "Even if they don't normally get seasick, it's always a good idea to go out and get some medicine beforehand just in case," said Syovestre. "Each dive is different; even if you go diving in the same waters, it's a different experience each time, so always have seasickness pills just in case. A first aid kit is a must for every dive and should always be refilled if supplies are used."
