How to Pack for a Surf Trip (Without Harming the Ocean)

A surf trip is about more than waves — it’s about connecting with the ocean, new places, and the communities that live there. At Do Good Swimwear, we believe how you pack matters just as much as where you paddle out.

From reef-safe sunscreen to sustainable swimwear, here’s a thoughtful surf trip packing guide that protects your body and the places you travel to.

Sustainable Surfwear Essentials

Sustainable Swimwear (Your Most Important Item)

A good surf trip starts with a suit that stays put, moves with you, and doesn’t come at the ocean’s expense.

Why sustainable swimwear matters:
Conventional swimwear is made from virgin plastic that sheds microplastics and contributes to long-term pollution. Choosing regenerated or recycled fabrics helps reduce waste already in circulation.

✔ Durable
✔ Designed for movement
✔ Lower environmental impact

Do Good Tip: Bring two suits minimum so one can dry while you surf the next session.

Brands We Love: Do Good Swimwear (of course!), Patagonia, Salt, The Seea

Surf Leggings or Surf Pants

Perfect for:

• Long paddle-outs

• Reef or rocky breaks

• Sun protection without constant reapplication

They also reduce sunscreen runoff into the ocean — a win for reefs and wildlife.

Sun Protection That’s Reef-Friendly

Reef-Safe Sunscreen

Not all sunscreen is ocean-safe. Many conventional formulas contain chemicals known to damage coral reefs and marine life.

Look for:

• Non-nano zinc oxide

• No oxybenzone or octinoxate

• Mineral-based formulas

Why it matters:
What you put on your skin ends up in the water — especially when you surf.

Brands We Love: Raw Elements, Badger Balm, Little Hands Hawai'i, Mama Kuleana, and SurfDurt 

Sun Hat

A lightweight, packable sun hat is essential for:

• Post-surf recovery

• Boat rides

• Beach time between sessions

Choose breathable materials and adjustable straps for windy days.

Bug Protection (Without Toxic Chemicals)

Natural Bug Spray

Surf destinations often mean warm climates — and bugs.

Choose plant-based repellents made with:

• Citronella

• Lemon eucalyptus

• Essential oils (not synthetic fragrances)

These protect you without harming local ecosystems.

Brands We Love: Murphy's Bug Spray

Hair & Body Care That Won’t Pollute the Ocean

Organic, Biodegradable Hair Care

Salt, sun, and wind are tough on hair — but many hair products are even tougher on the ocean.

Choose products that are:

• Sulfate-free

• Silicone-free

• Biodegradable

• Reef-conscious

This helps prevent chemical buildup in coastal waters and protects marine life.

Brands We Love: Surf Soap, Rising Venus Surf Balm

Surf Trip First Aid Kit (Don’t Skip This)

A small, waterproof first aid kit can save a surf day — or a whole trip.

Include:

• Antiseptic wipes

• Bandages & blister pads

• Antibiotic ointment

• Reef-safe wound cleanser

• Tweezers (for sea urchins or splinters)

Board & Gear Extras

Extra Surf Wax

Always pack more than you think you’ll need — especially if:

• You’re traveling between climates

• Wax isn’t easy to find locally

Pro tip: Match wax temperature to destination water temps.

Lightweight Turkish Towel or Travel Towel

Skip bulky beach towels.

Why Turkish towels are perfect for surf travel:

• Dry fast

• Pack small

• Multi-use (beach, plane, hostel, yoga mat)

They’re lighter on your bag and the planet.

Why Packing Sustainably Matters

Surfing depends on healthy oceans. Every choice — from sunscreen to swimwear — has an impact beyond your board.

Packing consciously helps:

• Protect reefs and marine life

• Reduce plastic pollution

• Support ethical brands and communities

• Keep surf destinations thriving for future generations

Final Thoughts: Pack Light, Pack Thoughtfully

A surf trip doesn’t need excess — it needs intention. By choosing reef-safe, biodegradable, and responsibly made essentials, you’re respecting the places that give us waves.

That’s what Do Good is all about.