The Scubaversity Zanzibar & Mafia Islands Dive Trip is just around the corner, and the SV team is just as excited as you are to dive into the magical underwater worlds of Zanzibar and Mafia Island!

But before every great holiday comes the (slightly less exciting) preparation phase—the packing. Not to worry, though, because the SV team has you covered with this comprehensive Zanzibar & Mafia Islands packing list to help make your trip as smooth, stress-free, and unforgettable as possible.

 Diving Essentials

It goes without saying that you’ll need some core dive gear for a trip like this. Whether you’re          bringing your own or renting on location, here are a few things to consider packing (if applicable):

• Mask, snorkel & fins (fit-tested and comfortable)

• Wetsuit (3mm shorty or full suit—water is warm but can get cool during longer dives)

• Dive computer

• BCD (Buoyancy Control Device)

• Regulator & alternate air source

• Dive boots (especially for open-heel fins)

• Surface marker buoy (SMB)

• Reef-safe sunscreen

• Logbook or digital log app

• Mesh gear bag (for carrying wet gear)

• Dry bag (for boat trips and keeping valuables dry)

 Travel Necessities

• Valid passport (with at least 6 months’ validity)

• Printed/digital flight and accommodation confirmations

• Dive certification cards (PADI, NAUI, SSI, etc.)

• Travel insurance (including dive-specific coverage)

• Local currency (Tanzanian Shilling) and/or credit/debit card

• Light daypack or backpack

• Travel pillow, eye mask, and earplugs (for flights and long transfers)

• Reusable water bottle

• Lightweight towel or travel towel

 Clothing

• Swimwear (2–3 sets)

• Rash guard or dive skin (great for sun protection and added warmth)

• Lightweight shorts, T-shirts, and tank tops

• One or two nicer outfits for dinners or casual nightlife

• Flip-flops or sandals

• Lightweight hiking shoes (optional, for island walks)

• Hat or cap (for sun protection)

• Light sweater or long-sleeve shirt (for cooler evenings)

• Light rain jacket (just in case—it’s a tropical climate)

 Electronics

• Camera or GoPro (with underwater housing if applicable)

• Power bank

• Plug adapter (Tanzania uses type D & G plugs, 230V)

• Phone and charger

• Dive torch or flashlight (optional, but useful)

 Entertainment & Extras

• Books or Kindle

• Journal or notebook

• Downloaded music, movies, or podcasts

• Playing cards or compact travel games

• Snacks (especially if you're a picky eater or have dietary needs)

 Toiletries & Health

• Reef-safe sunscreen (very important for marine life protection)

• After-sun aloe or moisturizer

• Insect repellent (mosquitoes can be active at dawn/dusk)

• Toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, etc.

• Biodegradable shampoo, conditioner, and soap (if possible)

• Any prescription medication

• Sea sickness tablets (just in case)

• Mini first-aid kit (plasters, antiseptic, etc.)

• Hand sanitizer & tissues

• Lip balm with SPF

This incredible trip is almost here, and hopefully, with this comprehensive packing list, we’ve helped make your diving getaway a little more relaxed and a lot more exciting.

All of us here at Scubaversity are counting down the days (and maybe even the seconds) until we board our flight to paradise. We can’t wait to make amazing memories with all of you on this once-in-a-lifetime trip.

See you in the water!