What to Pack for Surfing in Sri Lanka: A Complete Checklist

Are you going surfing in Sri Lanka? To avoid any unpleasant surprises during your trip, it is important to take everything you need. In this checklist, we have collected the must-have items for a comfortable and safe surf trip.

1. Basic surfing equipment
If you do not plan to rent equipment on site, take:

✔ Surfboard (if you are bringing your own) + a cover for protection in transport.

✔ Wetsuit (2-3 mm for cool morning sessions, although lycra is usually enough).
✔ Board wax (it is sold in Sri Lanka, but your own is more reliable).
✔ Leash (a leash for your foot, in case the rented one breaks).
✔ Repair kit (patches for minor damage to the board).

Tip: If you don’t want to bring your board, there are good options at surf schools and rentals in Sri Lanka (from $5-10 per day).

2. Clothing and sun protection
Sri Lanka is tropical, and the sun is very strong here. Be sure to take:

✔ Rashguard / lycra (protection from the sun and chafing from the board).
✔ Surfing shorts (quick-drying, with a secure fastener).
✔ Hat / cap (for relaxing on the beach).
✔ Sunglasses (with UV filter and polarization).
✔ Sunscreen (waterproof, SPF 50+) — especially for the face!

Important: It is difficult to find good surfing cream in Sri Lanka, it is better to take your own (for example, Surf Yogis, Shade or Stream2Sea).

3. Hygiene and first aid kit
After surfing, it is important to take care of your skin and have basic medications on hand:

✔ Sunburn remedies (panthenol, aloe vera).
✔ Eye drops (after salt water).
✔ Antiseptic (for scratches on corals or a board).
✔ Hygienic lipstick with SPF.
✔ Repellent (against mosquitoes in the evening).

Life hack: Coconut oil is sold in Sri Lanka — an excellent natural remedy after sunbathing.

4. Documents and important little things
✔ Passport + copy (just in case).
✔ Insurance (preferably with coverage for extreme sports).
✔ Waterproof phone case (or at least a bag).
✔ Small bag/backpack for the beach (to prevent things from being stolen).
✔ Money (cash rupees + card, ATMs are not always available in small surf spots).

5. What can you not take?
❌ Towels — guesthouses and surf camps usually give them out.
❌ Heavy books — it’s better to download them to your phone.
❌ Lots of clothes — in Sri Lanka, people wear shorts and T-shirts.

Bonus: Packing tips
Use a dry bag for things in your suitcase (useful during the rainy season).

Distribute the weight — if you take a board, take into account airline restrictions.

Take a basic first aid kit (bandages, painkillers, stomach upset medicine).

Conclusion
Now you are 100% ready for your surf trip! All that’s left is to book a surf camp or tickets — and off you go, conquer the waves of Sri Lanka. 🌊