How to Pack Snorkeling Gear for Caribbean Trips

Prioritize packing your own mask and snorkel to ensure a proper seal and hygiene, but leave the heavy fins at home to save space. Use a soft-sided gear bag to protect your mask and rent fins at your destination for about $5 to $10 a day.

  1. Select a low-volume mask. Choose a mask with a silicone skirt that fits your face shape perfectly. Pack it in a hard-shell mask case to prevent the glass from scratching or the frame from snapping under the weight of other luggage.
  2. Choose a dry-top snorkel. Pick a snorkel with a dry-top valve that prevents water from entering when you dive. Pack it inside your carry-on or lay it flat along the inside edge of your suitcase to keep it from bending.
  3. Use your snorkel to protect small items. Stuff your socks or small toiletries inside the tube of the snorkel to maximize space and prevent the snorkel from being crushed.
  4. Ditch the fins. Full-size fins take up too much luggage space and are heavy. Rent these at the beach or dive shop once you arrive; most operators include them for free if you book a boat trip.
  5. Prepare for care. Pack a small 2-ounce bottle of baby shampoo or designated mask defogger in your liquids bag. Never use abrasive soaps on your mask lenses.
Can I bring a GoPro?
Yes, but pack it in your carry-on. Bring a floating wrist strap so you don't lose the camera if you drop it in deep water.
Do I really need my own mask?
Rental masks are often leaky and can carry a lot of bacteria. Having a mask that fits your specific face shape ensures you won't spend your entire swim clearing water out of your eyes.
Should I bring a full-face snorkel mask?
No. They are bulky to pack and have been linked to CO2 buildup issues. A traditional two-piece mask and snorkel is safer and easier to store.