Your underwater adventure begins. So you just took your first breaths underwater. CONGRATULATIONS and welcome to -the wonderful world of scuba diving. Regardless of which training organization you completed your Open Water Certification course with, they all have one thing in common. Making sure you use safe and functional equipment, learn a new hobby, and get enlightened about the underwater world and all its creatures.
As with any sport or activity the more you do it, the better and confident you will get, and for sure during your initial course the instructors shown you the latest in diving tech.
You are a diver and you want some cool equipment right? When you finally decide to buy equipment here are five tips and tricks to make sure you not only get the most bang for your buck, but also making sure you get the right fit to ensure your underwater adventure gonna be as great as it gets. NOT ALL EQUIPMENT WILL SUIT YOUR NEEDS!!! Although many dive shops will try and sell you whatever they have.
1. You choose your equipment not the other way around.
Listen to suggestions from diving professionals by all means, but only buy what fits you, your style and needs.
2. Suitable gear for your diving level and skill.
If you have just finished your Open Water Diver course then buying equipment meant for cave diving may not be a good idea. I agree it does look cool and adventurous, but keep in mind a lot of this type of equipment requires some specialized training, and experience. It is always a good idea to get equipment similar to what you used during your Open Water Diver course. A lot not all of dive shops also carry in stock for sale the same gear you initially used. As your experience grows so will your equipment. THAT’S A FACT! So take it slow in the beginning.
3. There is no such thing as the best equipment.
As much as many dive professionals would have you believe that certain specific brands are better then others. This is not necessarily the case. Some brands simply specialize in specific pieces of equipment. For example, Mares makes fantastic fins, Scuba Pro Regulators are widely used by dive centers around the world, and Suunto is known for their dive computers. In the end which ever equipment you personally choose is the best for your needs, style, and abilities.
4. I know airlines have a weight restriction, how do I get all this in my suitcase?
If you plan to go on a diving vacation for your underwater adventure as soon as your Open Water Diver course is finished, then you may want to remember a few small things. There is no need to rush out and buy bigger luggage to fit all your new diving stuff. To make your packing easier it is always good to look up the destination and see what dive centers in the area offer If you are not already going to a specific dive center. For the most part it is cheaper to rent a few pieces of equipment at the destination rather then pay huge airline baggage fees. The best things to take with you are usually personal hygiene items such as, mask, snorkel, fins, regulator set if you already have one, and a wet suit. These are also items that easily fit into luggage and you will still have space for your favourite speedo, or bikini. DON’T FORGET TO PACK YOUR LOG BOOK AND CERT CARD.
5. Stay clear of destination dive operations that disregard your certification level.
As tempting as it is to be allowed to go deeper then 18m after your Open Water Diver course, stick to your training level. It will be a more comfortable diving experience, and most likely you will enjoy yourself and your underwater adventure more. Plus the most beautiful reefs around the world usually fall within 30 ft (12m) range. Going deeper or for a longer bottom time using EANX requires more training and follow up diving experience. As soon as you get home sign up for an Advanced Open Water Course and Enriched Air (EANX) Speciality. If you have the time and the dive centers offer it during your holiday then this is also an opportunity to keep educating yourself further, and to expand your underwater experiences.
As a Scuba Diving Instructor with over 9000 dives all over the globe, and countless students certified, I remember clearly the feeling of getting that first OW Certification and planning a diving trip. I also remember how confusing it can be when trying to figure out what type of equipment to get. In this blog I will throw at you different tricks and tips about scuba diving equipment, destinations, and courses that I have picked up over many km of travel, and hours underwater.