The Official Waluaa Surf Trip Packing List

If you’re planning a surf trip or participating in one of our upcoming surf and yoga retreats in Panama, you’ll want to make sure you have everything you need for an unforgettable experience. While every surf trip is different depending on your destination, there are a few essential items every surfer should pack. Whether you’re catching warm tropical waves with us in Santa Catalina, Panama, or chasing cold-water barrels in the Arctic Circle, our Official Waluaa Surf Trip Packing List will ensure you’re well-prepared for the waves of a lifetime.

Surf travel is one part preparation and one part pure excitement, and having the right gear with you means you can spend more time in the water and less time stressing about what you forgot!

Beach Break at Playa Estero

Surf Trip Packing List

1. The Right Boards for Your Skill Level

For most surfers, traveling with their own boards is a must. If you prefer to travel light, don’t worry—we offer a wide selection of surfboards at our retreats, perfect for beginners and longboarders. However, if you’re bringing your own quiver, consider your skill level and the waves you’ll encounter:

• Beginner to Intermediate Surfers: A mid-length board or longboard is ideal. These boards offer stability and versatility, allowing you to catch waves with ease.

• Advanced Surfers: A well-balanced three-board quiver is all you need—a small wave groveler or fish, a high-performance shortboard, and a step-up for bigger surf.

For additional guidance on selecting the right board as a beginner, check out our guide to choosing the perfect surfboard for learning how to surf.

If you're unsure what to bring, think about the type of waves you’ll be riding and the board that makes you feel the most confident. The best board for a surf trip is always the one you know well and trust. Many surfers also like to bring a travel-friendly board bag with padded protection — a worthwhile investment if you’re flying with your quiver.

2. Extra Surf Accessories

These small items take up almost no space in your luggage, but they can save an entire surf session if something breaks or goes missing. A simple fin key or spare leash can make the difference between surfing all day or watching from the sand. Always pack:

• Extra fins (compatible with your board’s fin system)

• At least two leashes (one spare!)

• A ding repair kit (especially for remote destinations)

• Plenty of surf wax (appropriate for the water temperature)

• Fin keys and spare fin screws

Sunrise at Estero

3. Sun Protection – A Must-Have!

Surf trips often involve hours under the blazing sun, so sun protection is non-negotiable. A bad sunburn can ruin your trip and even lead to long-term skin damage. In tropical climates like Panama, the sun feels especially strong, and even seasoned surfers can underestimate how quickly a burn can happen. Prioritizing sun protection ensures you’ll stay comfortable in the water throughout your entire trip. Essential sun protection items include:

• Reef-safe sunscreen (we recommend SPF 50+ for tropical destinations like Panama)

• Zinc oxide for extra face protection

• A rash guard for added UV protection

• A wide-brim sun hat for when you’re out of the water

4. The Right Neoprene for Your Destination

Wetsuits come in a variety of thicknesses depending on water temperature. If you’re unsure what suit to bring, always check the seasonal water temperatures before your trip. A well-fitted wetsuit not only keeps you warm but also helps you stay in the water longer, making each session more enjoyable. Ensure yours matches your surf trip destination:

• Warm water (like Panama) – A 2mm wetsuit jacket is useful for early mornings.

• Cooler water – A 3/2mm full suit provides warmth and flexibility.

• Cold water destinations – A 5/4mm hooded wetsuit, booties, and gloves are necessary.

5. A First Aid Kit – Be Prepared

A first aid kit is crucial, especially if you’re heading to remote surf spots. Even small cuts or reef scrapes can be irritating when you’re surfing multiple sessions a day. A simple, travel-sized first aid kit helps you stay safe and comfortable, especially when you’re far from big convenience stores or pharmacies. Essentials include:

• Waterproof bandages

• Antiseptic wipes & triple antibiotic ointment

• Tweezers (for sea urchin spines)

• Electrolyte packets (for hydration)

• Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory meds

While we have everything you need for safety at our Panama retreats, it’s always smart to travel prepared if you decide to go for a solo surf.

6. A Good Beach Read – Relax & Recharge

When you’re not surfing, relaxing with a great book is the perfect way to unwind. Surf trips naturally create spacious pockets of downtime — those quiet moments between sessions when your body is resting and your mind is soaking in the day. A great book pairs perfectly with sandy toes, salty hair, and slow afternoons. Some of our top recommendations include:

• Barbarian Days: A Surfing Life by William Finnegan

• Searching for Captain Zero by Allan Weisbecker

• Let My People Go Surfing by Yvon Chouinard

Final Thoughts

With the right gear and preparation, your surf trip will be an unforgettable adventure. Whether you're joining us at Waluaa or planning your own surf mission somewhere new, preparing well ensures that the only thing you need to focus on is enjoying the waves in front of you. Need help planning? Check out our surf and yoga retreats in Santa Catalina, Panama for the ultimate tropical surf experience, where we give you a Full Guide on Panama, surfing here and what to expect.

For more surf travel tips and destination guides, stay tuned to our Waluaa blog!

Did the warm-water talk make you crave a surf trip to Panama? Check out our upcoming retreats here