Your Questions & My Travel Hacks

(What to pack, what to expect, and the little things no one tells you)

Welcome back 🤍

If you’ve made it this far, you’ve probably already read:

• Why Surf Retreats Are So Special

• How to Choose the Right Surf Retreat

Now it’s time for the practical side.

The things I’ve learned after nine surf retreats.
The little hacks. The mistakes. The overpacking. The “why did I bring this?” moments.

This is the honest, real-life version.

Start Here: Reusables First

Take your water bottle.

It sounds simple, but it makes such a difference. You’ll avoid buying plastic bottles every day, and most retreats have filtered water available.

Small habit. Big impact.

Packing: You Probably Need Less Than You Think

We’ve all done it.

Packed the “just in case” outfits.
Extra bikinis. Extra shoes. Extra everything.

Most surf retreats have very relaxed vibes. You’ll rotate the same few pieces and no one will notice.

Pack the clothes you feel comfortable in. I like multipurpose outfits — for example, a T-shirt that works for the beach but also with denim shorts in the evening.

Honestly, you don’t need ten dresses.
But if you feel like bringing them — go for it.

You probably don’t need two brand-new bikinis.
Take the one you’ve already surfed in and know feels secure.

Be realistic. Ask yourself again: Do I really need this?

If You’re Bringing Your Own Surfboard

This one deserves its own section.

If you’re travelling with your board, don’t forget:

• A spare leg rope

• Spare fins

• Fin key

• Extra fin screws

• Wax (bring your own — don’t rely on finding the right one locally)

• Duct tape

• Ding repair kit

Even if you don’t know how to use a ding repair kit, someone at a local surf shop or one of the guides will. It’s always better to have it.

And yes — I always travel with a spare leggy. It’s one of those things you don’t think about until you really need it.

Better safe than sorry 🤍

Hair & Makeup Reality

You might be surprised how little makeup you actually wear — unless you can’t leave without your waterproof mascara (go for it, girl).

Personally, I do a little makeup detox on holidays. But plenty of girls keep their routine — whatever makes you feel good.

From my experience, you’re not going to completely change your skincare routine on a trip. Take what you usually use and keep it simple.

I usually leave retinol at home — you can burn your skin more easily in strong sun. I stop using it about three weeks before holidays and pack extra hydrating creams and serums instead.

Best to check with your dermatologist or whoever helps you care for your skin (and yes, Google can help too).

Sun, salt, surf, early mornings — your routine shifts naturally. Think of it as a mini skin reset.

And the Dyson Airwrap?
No, you don’t need it, sis.

Embrace the salty hair. In humid destinations, your perfect waves won’t last anyway. Messy beach hair just works — it’s a vibe.

Travel Insurance Is Not Optional

This one is serious.

Check. Then check again.

Make sure surfing is covered as an activity.
If you’re taking your own board, check the coverage limit for sports equipment.

It’s one of those things you hope you never need — but you’ll be very glad you have it if you do.

Staying Connected (Let’s Be Honest)

Let’s be honest — one of the first things many of us want to do when we land is check our phone.

Message family.
Check the map.
Open WhatsApp.
See where we actually are.

I’ve started getting an eSIM before my trips (I’ve used providers like Holafly), and I honestly can’t fault it.

If you buy it in advance, it’s usually cheaper. And it means you land, turn off airplane mode, and you’re connected straight away.

You can absolutely buy a physical SIM at your destination — that works perfectly too.

But if you’re like me and prefer organising as much as possible upfront (yes, overthinker + business analyst energy 😅), an eSIM removes that first little layer of stress.

And if you’re expecting a WhatsApp message from a driver picking you up from the airport — especially in places like Bali, Sri Lanka, or the Philippines where WhatsApp is the main way of communicating — you’ll be very glad you sorted it before you landed.

Small thing. Big peace of mind.

Small Things That Make a Big Difference

• Universal adapter — mine has travelled everywhere with me. They’re not cheap, but I don’t need to check plug types ever again. Convenience matters.

• Hand luggage essentials — pack a bikini, toothbrush, and enough for 1–2 days in case your luggage gets lost. There’s nothing worse than finding out your suitcase is travelling the world without you.

• First aid basics — always better to have your own.

• Electrolytes & magnesium — hot destinations + lots of surfing = easy dehydration.

• SPF 50 and zinc — Lombok, Sri Lanka, the Maldives… the sun is strong. And sunscreen can be very expensive locally.

• Mosquito spray (Sri Lanka, I’m looking at you).

A Slightly Controversial Travel Hack

On long flights, I often pre-order a vegetarian (or special) meal — even though I’m not vegetarian.

Why?

You get served first.
And because you pre-order, you’ll never hear: “Sorry, we’ve run out.”

Small win. Big satisfaction.

Sun Protection (Please Read This)

Trust me — tan is not that cool anymore.

Protect your skin.

I surf in leggings sometimes (yes, even Lululemon). The sun in places like Lombok is intense — I’ve worn SPF 50 under leggings and still tanned.

I’ve had melanoma, and I wouldn’t wish that journey on anyone. Protecting your skin isn’t optional — it’s a priority.

This could honestly be a whole blog post on its own.

Comfort Matters

• Ear plugs & eye mask — even if you’re not sharing a room, fans and air cons can be loud.

• Face mask after long flights — best little hotel room spa moment.

• Notebook — journaling your thoughts or little wins in the water is special.

• A small bag of sweets or snacks to share — instant connection with the group.

Before & After the Retreat

If you can, I love arriving a couple of days early.

It gives me time to explore alone, understand the area, and settle in. When the retreat starts, I feel more relaxed (yes, I’m an overthinker — business analyst by trade 😅).

Staying a few days after can be just as magical. You revisit favourite spots, explore places you didn’t have time for, and often deepen friendships made during the retreat. You might be surprised how many girls have the same idea.

Sometimes after days of surfing, I just need time to soak in the environment and culture before heading home.

Connect Before You Go

Reach out to the other girls beforehand.
Maybe book the same flight.

Everyone feels the same nerves. And remember — it’s a holiday. Everyone wants to have the best time possible.

Final Thoughts 🤍

I hope this series has helped you understand:

• Why surf retreats are so special

• How to choose the right one

• And what it’s actually like once you book

If you’re heading on one soon, I’d love to know where.
And if you have specific questions, send them my way.

Happy travels.
Roll with Purpose 🌊