Packing list suggestions
Where to begin
Where do you start when packing? This guide will give you the basics on important items, prohibited items, clothing, personal gear and surf gear. With these basics in place, consider where you are going and how much is actually required.
Important stuff
- Passport that does NOT EXPIRE any sooner than 6 months after your travel date!
- Driver’s License (if you plant to rent a car or motorbike during your trip, this is essential)
- $20 USD broken down for travel process (MAKE SURE MONEY ISN’T TORN)
- Any additional spending money for souvenirs
- For your final bill at the hotel, you can pay for extras (alcohol, massages, extra activities, ect) with either cash or a credit card. Please note there is a bank fee of 5.5% to use your card for payment. Gratuity for staff is optional, however for guidance, we typically see a range of $100-$200 per person that is split amongst our staff of 15 people.
- Any medications or supplements you take
Prohibited items
- Drones, binoculars, any surveillance equipment
- Slingshots or other weapons
- Recreational drugs are illegal in Nicaragua
Clothes and shoes
- Comfortable yoga/active clothes
- Shorts
- Tank tops/T-shirts
- Sundresses
- Swimsuits/Boardshorts
- Sarong or beach cover up
- Flip flops
- Tennis shoes for the local hike
- Long sleeve shirt or jacket, comfy loose pants in case it gets a little chilly (not too often)
- Rain jacket or poncho (optional)
Personal care
- REEF-SAFE sunscreen with at least 30SPF to protect your skin and the planet. We like + carry this brand *NO CHEMICAL SUNSCREENS*
- mosquito repellent-we like this natural version
- basic first aid kit (we have one too)
- personal supplies of shampoo, conditioner, body wash, lotion, etc. We supply bars of soap, but the rest is at your discretion
- toothbrush + toothpaste
- hair dryers + styling tools
- Women: feminine hygiene products; tampons are NOT easily found
- hats and sunglasses
- refillable water bottle (we offer free high ph Alkaline water available 24/7) *NO PLASTIC*
- travel journal/books
Surf gear
- Rashguard or wetsuit tops/spring suits
- Boardshorts + surf swimsuits
- Earplugs, surf hat, eyedrops
- Surfboards if you want your own! Educate yourself on the surfboard travel fees so you can plan ahead and avoid surprises. Here is a great resource: https://www.wavetribe.com/blogs/surf-travel/surfboard-airline-fees
Giving back
- If you want to bring anything to support the local community, we suggest school supplies, sports equipment, or used clothing/swimsuits.
- Additionally, we support the local program that empowers kids to learn about the environment, perform beach cleanups, and educate the local community on the importance of keeping garbage out of the oceans. Let us know if you would like to make a donation to support the Gigante Trash Brigade when you are here, or donate now to the organization’s leader using this link.