Surf Trip Packing List for Bali: Everything You Need (and What to Leave Behind)

🌴 Why Packing Right Makes or Breaks Your Surf Trip

Heading to Bali for a surf trip is a dream—but forgetting a key item like zinc or a rashguard can turn that dream into a sunburned nightmare. Whether you're staying for a week or a few months, having the right surf gear (and knowing what you don't need) saves you stress, money, and skin.

At Break & Flow Bali, we host surfers from all over the world. So we’ve compiled the ultimate surf trip packing list to help you hit the waves fully prepared and keep your stoke high from day one.

✅ Must-Have Surf Essentials

🏄‍♂️ Surf Gear

  • 🏄 Rashguard or long-sleeve surf top – Protection from board rash & Bali sun

  • 🩳 Surf bikini or boardshorts – Secure fit is key for wipeouts

  • 🧴 Reef-safe sunscreen (zinc-based) – Protect your skin & the ocean

  • 👣 Reef booties – Optional but great for reef breaks and beginner safety

  • 🕶️ Polarized sunglasses – Perfect for beach breaks and post-surf chills

  • 👒 Hat with a chin strap – Shade during surf checks or paddling out

  • 🏄‍♀️ Surfboard (optional) – Boards are easy to rent, but bring your own if you’re picky

Staying for a while? Consider renting a board when you arrive to avoid airline fees. Check out our Beginner’s Surf Guide to Bali for where to rent.

🧘‍♀️ Yoga + Recovery Gear

  • 🧘 Travel yoga mat or towel

  • 🧴 Muscle balm or arnica for soreness

  • 🎧 Headphones or calming playlist for post-surf restoration

  • 🧦 Compression socks (for travel days or long drives)

  • 📿 Journal or intention notebook

💡 Joining one of our Surf & Yoga Retreats? We provide mats, props, and all yoga equipment, so you can travel lighter.

👕 Clothes + Bali Basics

  • 🧥 Lightweight jacket or sweater (for windy evenings)

  • 👗 Loose, breathable clothing

  • 👙 Swimsuits (at least 2-3)

  • 👟 Comfy sandals + sneakers

  • 🧢 Hat + sunglasses

  • 🛏️ Sarong or beach towel

  • 🏝️ Dry bag for boat rides or beach days

  • 💧 Reusable water bottle (hydration = recovery)

🌿 Want to explore beyond the waves? Don’t forget something modest for temples.

🔌 Tech + Travel Essentials

  • 📱 Phone + charger

  • 🔌 International power adapter

  • 📷 GoPro or waterproof camera

  • 📅 Passport with 6+ months validity

  • 💳 Credit card and a little local cash

  • 📱 SIM card or travel WiFi

  • 🩹 Basic first aid: plasters, painkillers, allergy tablets, etc.

❌ What NOT to Bring

  • 🧼 Full-size toiletries (easy to buy here)

  • 🏄‍♂️ Multiple surfboards (unless you're a pro)

  • 💍 Flashy jewelry or valuables

  • 👞 Heavy clothing or jeans (you won’t wear them!)

  • 🧊 Anything you can rent or share on retreat

🙌 We’ve got your back—most surf items are available locally if you forget something.

📄 Download Your Free Printable Surf Packing List

👉 Click here to download the checklist PDF
Print it, screenshot it, or save it for the airport. Packing made simple.

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Beginner’s Guide to Surfing in Bali: Everything You Need to Know Before You Paddle Out