With Memorial Day quickly approaching, a lot of people will be diving at the Lake. Whether this is your first trip to the lake or your 100 millionth trip to the lake, let’s discuss how to pack for the lake. Obviously packing for the lake is different than packing for a foreign trip to say Cozumel, which by the way is coming up in July!!
So, how exactly do you pack for the lake?
How to Pack for SCUBA Diving at the Lake
Well, first off, you’ll want the obvious items:
- Wet/dry suits (a range might even be needed)
- Dive boots (short, tall, or both
- Fins
- Mask
- Regulator
- SCUBA tank
- Gear bag
- Dive Computer
- Weights (keep in mind extra weight depending on the suit worn)
Optional:
- Hood
- Vest
- Or a hooded vest
- Dive socks
- Gloves
- Headband
- Scuba Do-rag
There are additional items to consider packing for the lake though…
You’ll need a dive flag. While you may be diving with others who bring a dive flag, it’s better to be safe than sorry. More dive flags are better than no dive flag.
- It’s also a good idea to familiarize yourself with dive flag rules.
- While familiarizing yourself with rules, don’t forget lake diving rules. Rules such as NO diving around boat ramps (launching ramps).
Save-a-Dive Kit. Make sure extra O-rings, masks/straps, extra mouthpieces, etc. Think of things that can save your dive.
Sunscreen. Don’t get burned while on the water. You can burn even on a cloudy day.
C-card. You may have to prove you are a certified diver, especially for air fills. Again, better to be safe than sorry.
Finally, some of the most forgotten times:
- 2 boots, a left and a right
- Swimsuits/towels
- Drinks and Food, especially water
- Weights
- Dive flags
- Sunscreen
Sometimes there are other divers around who can help you out in a pinch. I’ve seen people who wear a bigger dive boot, dive in smaller boots just so they could. These are just things to keep in mind.
Be mindful of diving conditions. That includes both the water conditions as well as the land conditions. It is always better to be safe than sorry. If all else fails, don’t be afraid to abort a dive.