Traveling With A Dive Light: A Comprehensive Guide

Travelling with dive equipment can be challenging, especially when it comes to airline baggage restrictions and fees. Dive lights and their batteries are a common source of anxiety for divers and airport personnel alike. The main concerns are the heat and combustion risks associated with dive lights, as well as the limitations on lithium batteries. However, with careful planning and knowledge of the rules, you can successfully travel with your dive light. This involves understanding airline baggage policies, investing in lightweight and compact gear, and considering what equipment to bring versus what to rent at your destination.

Know the rules for flying with lithium batteries

Lithium batteries are commonly used to power dive lights, and there are special rules around bringing these on airplanes due to the risk of spontaneous ignition, short-circuiting, and fires. The rules for flying with lithium batteries vary slightly depending on the airline, but there are some general rules to follow.

Firstly, it is important to note the difference between lithium-ion (rechargeable) and lithium metal (non-rechargeable) batteries. Lithium-ion batteries are usually allowed in both carry-on and checked baggage when installed in a device, but there are some restrictions for spare batteries. Spare lithium-ion batteries must be carried in carry-on baggage only and are limited to a rating of 100 watt-hours (Wh) per battery. Each passenger is limited to a maximum of 20 spare batteries, and these must be individually protected to prevent short-circuiting.

Lithium metal batteries, on the other hand, are limited to 2 grams of lithium per battery and are also typically only allowed in carry-on baggage. Like lithium-ion batteries, they must be individually protected to prevent short-circuiting.

It is worth noting that some airlines may have different restrictions on the number and size of lithium batteries allowed. For example, Delta Air Lines allows passengers to carry up to two spare lithium-ion batteries between 101 and 160 Wh, while other airlines may have different limits. Therefore, it is important to check with the specific airline you are flying with to ensure you are following their guidelines.

In addition to airline policies, it is also important to be aware of any government regulations regarding lithium batteries. For example, in the United States, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has specific rules about travelling with lithium batteries, which are outlined on their website.

Overall, when travelling with lithium batteries, it is crucial to follow all applicable rules and regulations to ensure your safety and compliance with airline and government policies.

Keep your dive light in your carry-on luggage

Keeping your dive light in your carry-on luggage is a good idea for several reasons. Firstly, dive lights are often expensive to rent at your destination, and they are compact and easy to carry. Secondly, you can ensure your dive light arrives safely and avoid the risk of it being lost or damaged in checked luggage. This is especially important if your dive light has lithium batteries, as these are subject to special rules and restrictions for checked baggage.

Lithium batteries have been known to cause issues with spontaneous ignition, short-circuiting, and fires, so it's important to know the rules and regulations around them. The specific restrictions will depend on the type of lithium battery your dive light uses and whether it is removable or non-removable. Most airlines will allow lithium batteries under 100wH in checked bags, but it's a better idea to keep them in your carry-on luggage. For batteries between 100 and 160wH, you may be limited to carrying only two, and they must be in your carry-on. Batteries over 160wH are typically not allowed at all.

It's also a good idea to separate the lid and canister of your dive light and tape up the connections before packing it. This will help to avoid any confusion or concerns during the security screening process. Additionally, make sure to check the policies of the specific airline you are travelling with, as some may have different restrictions or require prior approval for certain types of batteries.

By keeping your dive light in your carry-on luggage, you can ensure that you have it with you at all times and avoid any potential issues or delays.

Choose a lightweight dive bag

Choosing a lightweight dive bag is essential for travelling divers, as it can make a big difference in terms of weight and cost. Older dive bags can weigh 7kg/15lbs or more, whereas modern roller bags weigh between 4-7kg/8-10lbs. If you don't mind carrying your gear in a backpack or duffel bag, you can find dive bags that weigh only 1-2kg/2-4lbs.

When selecting a lightweight dive bag, it's important to consider the bag's durability and functionality. Look for bags made with high-quality, water-resistant materials that can withstand the rigours of air and dive travel. Features like compression straps, multiple compartments, and well-placed grips can also enhance the bag's convenience and ease of use.

• Akona Tanami Sling Dry Back Pack: Weighing only 1lb 9oz, this bag can hold all your essential gear for a day of diving. It features exterior bungee cords, web loops, and mesh drawstring pockets for additional storage.
• Akona Panama Dry Duffel Bag: This bag weighs 2lbs 14oz and is built with tough, abrasion-resistant materials. It can accommodate gear for two divers during a day of diving or one diver for a weekend getaway.
• Scubapro Mesh N' Roll Bag: Made from lightweight nylon, this bag is tough enough to hold a sufficient amount of cargo without tearing. It features a rectangular shape that accommodates gear better than a duffel shape.
• Kraken Aquatics Mesh: Available in two sizes, this mesh bag can accommodate different types of divers and snorkelers. It's lightweight, foldable, and features an adjustable shoulder strap for easy carrying.
• XS Scuba Seaside Deluxe Bag: This backpack-style bag is ideal for divers who need their hands free for carrying other luggage. It's made from tarpaulin and polyester mesh and can hold a complete set of diving equipment.

Pack your mask carefully

Your mask is critically important when diving, so it's worth taking the time to pack it carefully. If you own a mask that’s comfortable, offers good visibility and doesn’t leak or fog, take it with you wherever you go.

Firstly, you'll want to clean your mask before your trip, especially if it's new. Then, when packing, be sure to protect your mask. Carefully pack it, and keep it in its case when you aren’t using it. Many comfortable low-volume and frameless masks are available that take up less space and may be less likely to break if your luggage is dropped or crushed. You can also use your mask for snorkelling on non-diving days.

If your fins are not too large, try putting them in a backpack with your mask, snorkel and other gear. This way, you’ll be able to carry it on the plane with you, avoiding fees and possible gear damage.

If you're looking to save space, consider a mask that's super-compact and can be kept in a pocket. Masks like the Oceanic Shadow are slightly lighter in weight and provide excellent visibility. Or, if you want something with amazing visibility and the option to use prescription lenses, the Cressi Big Eyes Evolution is a good choice.

Check local rental gear availability

When deciding what dive gear to bring and what to leave at home, it's worth considering the cost and convenience of renting equipment at your destination. While it can feel safer to use your own equipment, most rental gear available at popular diving destinations is adequate.

If you're planning to travel with a dive light, it's worth checking whether you can rent one at your destination. Dive lights are usually quite expensive to rent relative to their price, and they're compact and easy to carry, so it might make sense to bring your own. However, if you're tight on luggage space or want to save some money, renting a dive light could be a good option.

Before your trip, be sure to call local dive shops to check on rental gear availability. Ask about the specific gear you need, such as a dive light, and find out their rental policies and prices. Some shops may require a reservation or a certification card, so it's important to have all the necessary information before you arrive.

• Aquarius Dive Shop in Monterey, California, offers a comprehensive selection of high-quality scuba gear rentals, including dive lights. They recommend reserving your gear online or calling ahead to guarantee availability, especially on busy weekends.
• Florida Dive Company has a comprehensive Rental Department with top-quality, high-performance rental gear. They advise reaching out directly to ensure accurate information about gear availability, as demand may be high during certain seasons.

By checking local rental gear availability, you can make an informed decision about what to bring and what to rent, ultimately saving you time, money, and hassle on your dive trip.

Frequently asked questions