The Ultimate Packing Guide for Your Maui Scuba Trip

Getting ready to dive in Maui? How exciting! There’s so much to think about — from staying comfortable underwater to keeping your gear organized and ready to go. Before you even unzip your suitcase, here are our best tips to make packing for your Maui scuba trip simple and successful.

Make a Dive Gear Checklist
A packing checklist is the easiest way to avoid overpacking or forgetting something important. Your list may change slightly depending on where you’re diving, but here in Maui, we have a few tried-and-true recommendations.

Check out our Dive Gear Checklist on the Aloha Maui Diving website for a detailed guide to what to bring for your Maui diving adventure.

Choose the Right Dive Bag
Backpacks work great for land-based travel, but diving in Maui calls for something more practical. Because most beaches have paved parking and easy access, a roller bag with wheels is a smart and convenient option. It provides better protection for sensitive gear and saves your shoulders from unnecessary strain.
You might also want to bring a lightweight mesh bag for snorkeling or quick dive trips.

Pack in Stages
Don’t wait until the night before your flight to start packing. Begin by setting aside your favorite gear, swimsuits, and accessories a few days ahead so everything has time to dry completely. Once you’ve gathered what you need, start filling your dive bag — no last-minute scramble required.

Leave Time for Gear to Dry
In humid, tropical climates like Maui, scuba gear takes longer to dry than you might expect. Be sure to give yourself enough time before flying home. Empty your BCD thoroughly and consider using scuba hangers for your wetsuit and boots.

Bring a Dry Bag for Wet Gear
If your gear doesn’t dry before your flight, a dry bag will be a lifesaver. It prevents moisture from spreading to the rest of your luggage and keeps things clean and odor-free. A dry bag is also great to have on the boat or beach for keeping valuables and electronics dry between dives.

Pack to Protect
Pack heavier items, like your wetsuit and boots, at the bottom of your bag. Place delicate gear — such as your regulator, dive computer, and camera — in the middle for protection. Always store liquids like defog solution or camera cleaner in sealed waterproof bags to prevent leaks.
We also recommend bringing your most valuable items, such as your regulator or camera, in your carry-on to avoid damage during travel.

Maximize Your Space
Use your space wisely by nesting smaller items within larger ones. For example, stuff your scuba socks or beanie inside your mask box for extra cushioning. You can also tuck your rash guard or surface marker buoy into your fins instead of using separate fin protectors. Smart packing saves both space and money on extra baggage fees.

Bring Spare Parts and Tools
Even a small gear issue can ruin a dive day, so it’s smart to pack a few spares. Bring extra mask and fin straps, o-rings, and mouthpieces, along with a few basic tools like zip ties, an adjustable wrench, and pliers. These small items can make a big difference if something needs a quick fix.

Be Careful with Compression Bags
Compression packing cubes are great for travel, but not for neoprene. Compressing wetsuits, gloves, or hoods can damage their insulating properties by crushing the air bubbles that keep you warm. Fold them gently instead and let them breathe.

Pack Sharp Items in Checked Luggage
If you’re bringing a dive knife or cutting tool, make sure it goes in your checked bag — not your carry-on. Secure it in a sheath or ziplock bag before packing. This helps you avoid losing gear at airport security and keeps everyone safe.

Don’t Forget Electronics
Your camera gear is only as good as its batteries and chargers. Pack all your charging cables and spares, and double-check that your GoPro housing is rated for diving depths. A small waterproof case or padded dry bag helps protect your electronics on the go.

Keep Copies of Your Certification Cards
Always bring printed and digital copies of your scuba certification cards and insurance information. Save photos on your phone, email them to yourself, and pack a hard copy just in case. Don’t forget your dive logbook — it’s the best way to record your memories and track your progress.

Use Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Maui’s coral reefs are beautiful but delicate. Protect them by using sunscreen that’s truly reef-safe. Look for mineral-based options like Stream2Sea, which we carry in our shop. If you’re unsure, you can always pick some up when you arrive. Mahalo for helping us keep Maui’s ocean healthy!

Don’t Want to Pack? Rent from Us!
If packing sounds like too much work, we’ve got you covered. At Aloha Maui Diving, we offer a full range of quality rental gear, from BCDs and regulators to wetsuits and dive computers. You can even reserve in advance so your gear is ready when you arrive. Stop by our friendly dive shop in Maui, and we’ll make sure you’re fitted and ready to dive stress-free.