Surf Travel Hacks: What to Bring (and Not Bring) on Your Next Surf Trip

Photo by Jess Loiterton on Pexels

There’s nothing quite like the anticipation of a surf trip — that feeling of chasing waves, exploring new coastlines, and waking up to the sound of the ocean.

But any surfer who’s traveled knows: packing smart can make or break your trip (or worse, break your board!).

Whether you’re heading to a tropical retreat or off on a surf adventure abroad, here are some tried-and-true surf travel hacks — what to bring, what to skip, and how to keep your stoke high and your baggage light.

1. Bring the Essentials — But Keep It Simple

When it comes to surf travel, less is often more. Focus on versatile gear that keeps you ready for any conditions.

Surf Travel Essentials:

•  Your Favorite Board (or Two): Bring your go-to board and a backup if space allows. Pack them safely in a padded travel bag with fin, nose, and tail protection (think extra bubble-wrap and towels – especially around the nose and tail).
• Repair Kit & Wax: Always carry ding repair, wax, and a wax comb — you’ll thank yourself after that reef session.
• Sun Protection: Reef-safe sunscreen, zinc, a surf hat, sunglasses and a long-sleeve rash guard are musts. We like surf leggings too. When it comes to sun protection, more is more!
• Two Surf Suits or Boardshorts: Rotating between two means one is always dry.
• After-Sun Lotion or Aloe: Because sunburns happen, even to the careful ones. We love Maui Vera Organic Aftersun Moisturizer.
• Portable Charger: Perfect for keeping your phone and GoPro alive through travel days.

Pro Tip: Pack your fins, leash, and wax in your carry-on. If your board bag gets delayed, at least you’ll be ready to borrow or rent one and still paddle out.

2. Don’t Overpack

Surf trips are about flow, not fuss.

You don’t need seven outfits — you’ll likely live in swimwear, a couple of tees, and one comfy outfit for evenings.

Skip bringing:

• Too many clothes — ocean life is simple. Bring things you can wash easily or wear more than once.
• Big beach towels — bring a lightweight quick-dry towel instead. Or better yet, a surf poncho that doubles as a towel.
• Full-size toiletries — go travel-size and eco-friendly.
• Fancy shoes — one pair of sandals and maybe sneakers is plenty. If you’re on a surf trip, you’re not wearing heels!

Pro Tip: Most surf towns and retreats have laundry service. Light pack = more freedom.

3. Smart Board Travel Tips

Your surfboard is your baby — treat it that way when flying.

• Double-wrap the nose and tail with clothes or bubble wrap.
• Remove fins and stash them in a padded bag.
• Mark your board bag with “FRAGILE” and “SURFBOARDS.”
• Keep a photo of your boards before check-in, just in case.

Pro Tip: Use your wetsuits, towels, and clothes as padding — saves space and protects your boards. Might not need a suit case as well!

And if you’re travelling somewhere with lots of boards available for rent, consider leaving your boards at home and renting instead. Saves any worry about broken or lost surfboards (we have had both happen) and any hassles and fees associated with oversized baggage.

4. Think Beyond the Waves

Surf trips are about more than just surfing — they’re about connection, culture, and nature.

Also pack:

• A reusable water bottle (stay hydrated and skip plastic).
• A small first-aid kit and mini pharmacy (reef cuts and travel sickness happen).
• Travel snacks – think nuts, beef jerky, dried fruit, etc. so you always have sustenance on hand.
• Travel insurance that covers surf injuries (always worth it).
• A journal or camera to capture the magic.

Pro Tip: Bring a small dry bag for beach days and boat trips — it keeps your gear safe and dry.

5. Mindset Matters Most

The best surf travelers are adaptable. Waves change, plans shift, weather happens and sometimes you end up in unexpected places — and that’s where the real memories happen.

Pack a positive attitude, patience, and a sense of humor.

Because surf travel isn’t just about finding waves — it’s about finding yourself in the flow of it all.

Final Wave

Packing for a surf trip doesn’t have to be stressful. Keep it light, intentional, and centered on what really matters: the ocean, the journey, and the joy of surfing new breaks.

At our Surf + Wellness Retreats, we make travel easy — with everything you need waiting for you, from boards and gear to nourishing food and waves that feed your soul.

So pack your favorite boardshorts, grab your sunscreen, and get ready to chase the next swell.

Adventure — and the ocean — are calling.