Thinking about your first snorkeling adventure? Or maybe you're looking to upgrade your underwater kit? Having the right snorkeling equipment is key, not just for comfort, but for safety, visibility, and capturing those unforgettable underwater moments.
This beginner-friendly snorkeling gear checklist will help you pack smart and snorkel confidently — whether you're headed to Hawaii, the Maldives, or a local coral reef.
Table of Contents
- Rugged Waterproof Phone Case (IP68 Rated)
- Dry Bag (20L Is the Sweet Spot)
- Floating Phone Strap
- Snorkeling Fins
- Snorkeling Mask (Leak-Proof & Anti-Fog)
- Snorkel Set (Dry-Top Easy-Breathe)
- Snorkeling Vest (Seriously, Wear One)
- Reef-Safe Sunscreen
- Quick-Dry Towel
- Water Shoes (Protect Your Feet on Every Surface)
- Professional Underwater Camera
Part 1: Keep Tech High & Dry
IP68 Waterproof Phone Case
Why it rocks: Capture Insta-worthy underwater shots without risking water damage to your phone.
Look for: IP68-rated waterproof cases(protects for 2+ hours at depths of up to 6.6 ft), military-grade drop protection, and strong sealing to handle underwater pressure and impact.
Pro Tip: Always test your case in the sink before diving in — better safe than sorry.
Dry Bag (20L Is the Sweet Spot)
Why it matters: A 20L dry bag is perfect for keeping your essentials — towels, phone, wallet, even snacks — completely dry whether you’re on a boat, paddleboard, or wet beach sand.
Look for: Durable roll-top closure with buckle clip (to prevent leaks), lightweight yet rugged PVC material, and an adjustable strap for easy carrying. Bonus points if it floats for easy retrieval!
Floating Phone Strap
Why you need it: A $10 strap can save your $1,000 phone — slips and splashes happen fast during snorkeling or kayaking.
Look for: Bright colors for easy visibility in water, strong buoyancy to keep even larger phones afloat, and adjustable wrist or neck straps for a secure fit.
Part 2: Core Snorkel Kit
Snorkeling Fins – Boost Your Power, Reduce the Effort
Glide like a dolphin, not paddle like a puppy. Fins help you move smoothly and conserve energy, so you can explore longer without leg cramps or fatigue.
Choose the Right Fit:
Full-foot fins: Best for warm water and worn barefoot. Simple and lightweight — great for tropical snorkeling.
Open-heel fins: Ideal for colder waters or rocky beach entries. Can be worn with neoprene booties or water shoes for extra protection and warmth.
Pro Fit Tip: For beginners, I recommend medium-length snorkeling fins. Long fins used for freediving may offer power but are harder to control, while short fins don’t give enough propulsion. Medium fins hit the sweet spot, giving you speed without sacrificing control.
Also, go for bright colors like yellow or neon green. They make you easier to spot in the water, which is a safety bonus, especially in busy snorkeling spots with boat traffic.
Snorkeling Mask – No Leaks, No Fog, Just Clear Views
Nothing ruins a snorkeling trip faster than a foggy or leaking mask. A well-fitted snorkeling mask ensures comfort, visibility, and lets you truly enjoy the vibrant underwater life.
What to Look for in a Snorkel Mask:
Tempered glass lenses: More durable and shatter-resistant than plastic.
Soft silicone skirt: Creates a watertight seal around your face — no leaks, no pinching.
Adjustable straps: Help you get a snug, custom fit.
Pro Fit Tip: Press the mask to your face and inhale through your nose. If it sticks without the strap, it fits well.
| Feature | Single Lens Mask | Dual Lens Mask |
|---|---|---|
| Field of View | Wider | Slightly narrower |
| Prescription Lens | Not compatible | Easier to customize |
| Fogging Risk | Slightly higher | Better airflow separation |
Snorkel Set (Dry-Top & Easy-Breathe)
Why it matters: A good snorkel keeps saltwater out and makes breathing smooth, so you can enjoy your dive without interruptions.
What to look for:
- Dry-top design with splash guard to block water from entering.
- Purge valve for quick, easy clearing — no salty surprises.
- Comfortable mouthpiece that fits your bite and reduces jaw fatigue.
Pro Tip: Test your snorkel in a pool or bathtub first — mastering the clear-out technique makes ocean snorkeling much easier.
Snorkeling Vest (Seriously, Wear One)
Why it matters: A snorkeling vest adds essential buoyancy, perfect for beginners, tired swimmers, or anyone caught in unexpected currents.
What to look for:
- Snug but flexible fit, enough to support you, without restricting movement.
- Quick-release buckles for easy on/off in the water.
- High-visibility colors to help boats and others spot you quickly.
Bonus Tip: You don’t need to inflate it all the way — adjust the air to your comfort level and float with ease.
Part 3: Snorkeling Accessories
Reef-Safe Sunscreen (Protect Your Skin & the Ocean)
Why it matters: Traditional sunscreens with oxybenzone and octinoxate damage coral reefs and marine ecosystems, even in small amounts.
Better choices:
- Mineral-based formulas, such as those containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, are safe for reefs and gentle on your skin.
- Water-resistant and sweat-proof options for longer protection while snorkeling or swimming.
Pro Tip: Consider wearing a UV-protective rash guard instead — less mess, better coverage, and reef-safe by default.
Quick-Dry Towel (Compact & Travel-Friendly)
Why it matters: A quick-dry towel lets you dry off in minutes after snorkeling — no soggy beach bag, no bulky cotton towel.
What to look for:
- Lightweight microfiber fabric that dries fast and repels sand.
- Compact design that fits easily in your beach bag or dry bag.
Pro Tip: Shake it once, and the sand falls right off — no more bringing the beach home with you.
Water Shoes (Protect Your Feet on Every Surface)
Why it matters: Rocks, coral, and scorching sand can hurt your feet — water shoes offer essential protection and comfort.
Look for:
- Drainage holes to keep your feet dry and prevent slipping.
- Grippy, non-slip soles for safe footing on wet and slippery surfaces.
- Stretchy, quick-drying uppers that fit snugly and dry fast.
Pro Tip: Choose shoes with a secure fit but enough flexibility for easy walking in and out of water.
Professional Underwater Camera (Capture Stunning Snorkeling Shots)
Why it matters: For serious underwater photography, a waterproof camera or protective housing is essential to capture vibrant, clear images below the surface.
Top picks:
GoPro (with waterproof housing) — versatile and rugged.
Pro tip: Use a red filter to correct blue and green color shifts at depths beyond 10 ft, making your photos more vivid.
Shooting advice: Get close to your subject since water can reduce clarity. Patience and steady hands pay off!
Summary
Whether you’re a first-time snorkeler or a seasoned underwater explorer, having the right beach accessories and snorkeling gear can make all the difference.
From protecting your phone and camera with waterproof cases to boosting safety and comfort with quality fins, masks, and vests, this checklist covers everything you need for a safer, more enjoyable snorkeling adventure.