Surf Travel is back for 2022!

by Grant Prest

Let’s start with what you will need to pack to head OS in 2022…. We are off to the tropics! 

Travel Insurance

Number 1 on the hit list is possibly the most important thing: as boring as it may sound its super important if you are going OS for a week or a year. Most insurance companies in Australia offer what you need if you get in a jam. For a couple hundred dollars you can put your mind at ease.

First Aid Kit

Number 2 is a solid first aid. A great kit will help you and your friends out in so many ways. Getting cut or scraped is going to happen. Do your best to stay surfing by carrying a well-stocked first aid kit. Here is a list of items that I have taken away past and present.

It includes:

  • A Great zinc cream that is proven to stay on and safe for the planet, clearly we love our 3Fingers Natural Zinc and believe it ticks all the boxes, natural ingredients, reef and skin safe, 30% Zinc, Aussie Made, great ingredients for rehydrating the skin and a great price when you compare.
  • Steri-strip skin closures(think reef cuts etc) – These are SO important. Get the 3M ones and get a variety of different sizes.
  • Medical grade superglue– Glue cuts or the edges of steri-strips if you don’t require stitches
  • Blister protectors– these have been a lifesaver. They stick so well & are water-proof – see image below as to how I used them on a fin chop to my arm!
  • Plasters of various sizes, including waterproof patches
  • Antiseptic wipes-Take a load of alcohol wipes
  • Rubbing alcohol or Betadine
  • Saline Solution– This is great to spray high-pressured, sterile water into coral cuts or gashes
  • Medical tape(usually brown) & water-proof medical tape (plastic & clear) – Again, buy the brand 3M
  • Antibiotics – note some antibiotics do not work on skin infections. I carry Doxycycline which is good for skin infections. You will need to see a doctor and their advice and a script. Make time to do this before you leave. 
  • Electrolytes– I add to water when I am dehydrated (think Bali Bellie!)
  • Various bandages of different sizes and waterproof medical tape
  • Medical Gauze– DO NOT FORGET THIS. So many people’s first-aid kit doesn’t have gauze in it! How will you dress wounds without it?
  • Antibiotic cream
  • Antibiotic powder
  • Surfer’s ear– ear drop
  • Vaseline

Boards/Leashes/Repairs/Wax

Depending on what you ride, how long you are going for, you can’t go worry with 3 boards. Bring what you would normally ride and one that is longer in length for those bigger days.

Throw in a couple of leashes, wax cakes that suit the temperature of the water and a small towel that you can pack between your boards for some protection.

You can’t go wrong with some solar resin if the boards get banged up on a reef, most camps/towns have somebody that can repair a board…..Always better to bring your own however.

Music

Your mobile phone has got all your needs covered here, just a side note on the music front throw in a small speaker to get the tunes out there.

Apparel (Were going to the Tropics)

Heading to the tropics from Oz normally means you’re leaving the cold for the warmth. Throw in a hoodie for the plane ride and light jeans (tracksuit bottoms) and some socks. The hoodie always comes in handy for a colder tropical night also. 2/3 pairs of your favourite boardshorts that you know you can surf in for hours in warm water. 3-5 tees of course also, all your extra clothes that you aren’t wearing can be thrown in your board bag for board protection. I always take a surf tee or a 1mm wetty top, this is great for sun protection and reef protection.

Snack/Cards/Water Bottle/Good Book

I think you guys can fill in the blanks here, favourite small snacks (protein bars), cards for those nights that the beers are flowing. I always take a few lollies/candy for the local kids

Enjoy the trip wherever you end up and be respectful to the locals …..

 

Back to News