What To Pack

The packing list below is a general overview of appropriate clothing for your surfing adventures with First Descents. Outfitters will provide all gear and safety equipment including surfboards with ankle straps and wetsuits. Never been surfing? No problem! Our guides will teach you the surfing basics so you’ll be prepared for every wave! Be sure to look at your personal page for packing details specific to your program. Please contact First Descents if you have any questions regarding this packing list.

Must Haves:

• Water Bottle – 32 oz preferably – no glass
• Daypack/Backpack – normal school backpack works fine

Clothing for surfing:

• Women – Secure, comfortable swimsuit (One piece or two piece is fine. Whatever you’re comfortable in.)
• Men – Secure, Swimming Trunks / Board Shorts
• Flip Flops or Sandals (to wear to the beach)
• Sun Hat
• Sunglass with retention strap (croakies)
• Beach Towel
• *Sunscreen* – First Descents will provide some sunscreen, but please bring your own if possible.
• NO COTTON on the water – bathing suits should only be synthetic materials (e.g. nylon, spandex)

Why no cotton?

Cotton is a poor choice for outdoors activities due to its high thermal conductivity (rate of energy loss). When it gets wet, cotton allows the moisture to sit on your skin, in turn cooling you instead of keeping you warm. In other words, you don’t stay very warm or dry with cotton!

Clothing not for surfing:

• Warm, comfortable clothes (sweatpants, jeans, t-shirts, hoodies, shorts, etc.) nights at the lodge may be chilly. Cotton is acceptable.
• Comfortable Shoes
• Rain Jacket
• Headlamp/Flashlight

Gear for surfing:

Your instructors will provide all of the necessary surfing gear, which will include

• Wetsuit
• Surf Board with board strap

Also to consider:

• Camera
• Book/Journal
• Stocking Hat/Beanie
• Personal hygiene items, sunscreen, instant hand sanitizer, insect repellent
• Spending money (there may be opportunities to purchase souvenirs, if you wish)

Other info:

All linens – sheets, pillow, blankets, and towels are provided.

All food will be provided – breakfast, lunch, dinner, dessert, drinks, snacks, snacks and more snacks!