What to Pack for Your Divemaster Internship or ITC

Rich Coast Diving
Jul 27
4 min read

Updated: Aug 26

Wondering what to pack for your Divemaster Internship or Instructor Training Course (ITC) ? Check out our complete gear and travel checklist to get dive-ready !

Planning your Divemaster Internship or ITC ? Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned dive traveller, packing smart can make all the difference between a smooth trip and last-minute stress. Our packing list will help you prepare for any tropical destination. But of course there is no better place for your professional dive training than Costa Rica !

Divemaster Training Testimonial in Costa Rica

1. Dive Essentials: Bring What You Need to Explore the Depths

As a Divemaster or Instructor in training, having your own gear isn’t just recommended — it’s expected according to industry standards. Our divemaster trainees dive at least 5 or 6 days a week, either in the pool or in the ocean for training and guiding divers under supervision. To be comfortable we highly recommend you bring your own equipment.

If you’re not ready to invest in everything, no worries! You can rent or purchase high-quality gear directly from us at discounted divemaster prices.

Here’s what we suggest bringing:

Mask and snorkel* (a good fit is essential for comfortable diving !)
Fins (We only do boat diving in warm water so you can either choose fins full foot or with booties)
Wetsuit (3mm full suit is ideal; thermoclines can surprise you)
BCD (integrated weight pockets are preferred) and regulator
Dive computer* (Mandatory tool for dive masters)
Surface marker buoy (SMB) and reel 30ft* (Mandatory tool for dive masters)
Compass and knife/cutting tool*
Dive light for night and limited visibility
Slate or waterproof notebook*
CPR Pocket Mask*
Gear bag or mesh bag
For personal equipment we recommend you bring spare mask/fin straps, mouthpieces, and BCD weight pockets.

💡 Tip: If you’re missing items, don’t stress. Our on-site dive shop has everything you might need. We rent dive gear for divemasters: wetsuit, regulator and BCD. Additional items* mentioned above you need to purchase personally and you can not start your course without them.

As part of your Divemaster welcome crew pack you will receive SSI dive briefing slate and Blue Oceans mash bags for all your personal diving accessories. And Instructor Candidates receive a SSI wet-note booklet with instructor CUE-cards and other goodies as part of their Course materials.

2. Clothing: Light, Comfortable, and Beach-Ready

Costa Rica’s tropical climate means you’ll want light and breathable clothes:

🩳 Board shorts and swimsuits (you’ll live in them!)
👕 Tank tops, t-shirts, and lightweight clothing
🧥 A light hoodie or long sleeve for cool evenings
👟 Flip flops and sturdy sandals or water shoes
🧢 Hat and sunglasses for sun protection
👗 Something casual for going out (think: tacos & live music)

Pack clothes that dry quickly and keep you cool—layers work great for sudden showers or cooler evenings. Ofcourse you need to reserve some space and get yourself a Rich Coast Diving tanktop or tshirt !

3. Health & Sun Protection: Stay Safe and Comfortable

Long-sleeve rash guard or quick dry shirts
Reef-safe sunscreen (protect the ocean!)
Mosquito repellent
Aloe vera or after-sun lotion
Basic first aid kit (plasters, painkillers, antiseptic wipes)
Any prescription meds
Travel towel or quick-dry towel

Taking care of your health lets you focus on the fun parts — diving, exploring, and relaxing.

4. Travel & Tech: Stay Connected and Organized

Important documents

Passport (valid for the entire stay)
Dive certifications (digital or printed)
Dive insurance (mandatory)
Travel insurance
Credit card and/or some USD/Costa Rican colones
Vaccination records

💬 Bonus Tip: Keep digital backups of all documents in your email or cloud storage just in case.

Tech stuff

Wi-Fi is widely available in town and at Rich Coast Diving, so bring what you need — but keep it minimal.

Unlocked smartphone with WhatsApp 📱
Laptop or tablet (handy for studying, logging dives and preparing your academic instructor presentations)
Chargers and travel adapters (Costa Rica uses 110V, US plugs)
Waterproof dry bag for boat days

5. Extras for Comfort & Convenience

A small daypack for excursions
Sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat for sun protection
Snacks for long boat rides or hikes
A good book or e-reader for relaxing downtime

Little comforts go a long way when you’re enjoying your dive holiday—think ahead for a stress-free trip.

Testimonial Divemaster Jessica at Rich Coast Diving

6. Pro Packing Tips

Pack as light as possible but bring all essentials — you’ll be hopping between boats, beaches, and town.
Keep valuables minimal and secure.
Double-check airline baggage limits — many budget flights have strict rules!

Smart packing means less hassle and more time enjoying the pura vida lifestyle.

Ready to Pack and Dive In?

At Rich Coast Diving, your Divemaster Internship is more than just training — it's a full-on lifestyle experience. You’ll learn, grow, and make memories that last a lifetime. Come prepared, and you’ll enjoy every salty second. Still have questions about what to bring? Just contact us and we’ll be happy to help you get ready !