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What Should I Pack: Snorkeling

If you're planning to go snorkeling, here are some considerations on what to pack.

Snorkeling Gear​

First and foremost, you need a mask, snorkel, and fins. If you're only going to snorkel once a year or less, you can just rent snorkeling gear at the resort. If you're going more often than that, masks and snorkels especially, are very personal items fit to your face. Consider bringing your own fins as well for comfort and confidence in the water.

Buy From a Local Dive Shop, not Amazon

If you're going to buy your own snorkeling gear, consider buying it from a local dive shop rather than Amazon. While it will be more expensive, you will get far better quality gear and the staff can help you find the right fit. Masks are a very risky Amazon buy. Mask makers have different frame shapes, seals, and sizes. You will save much frustration by going to the pros at a local dive shop.

Wet Suit? Rash Guard?​

There are three good reasons why you want to consider coverage beyond a swimsuit: warmth, sun protection, and jelly fish.

Warmth​

While the water in Cozumel is quite warm compared to the Puget Sound, floating or diving for an hour can really take the heat out of you. A 2mm or 3mm shorty is more than enough to make a comfort difference. Likewise, a rashguard can give a bit more coverage than a swimsuit and help keep you warmer in the water.

Sun Protection​

The sun in the tropics is no joke, and spending an afternoon floating in the water and sitting on a boat can really give you a lot of exposure. Rashguards are a great way to protect your skin from the sun, and they dry quickly. A wetsuit can also help protect you from the sun, but is less maneuverable than a rash guard.

Jelly Fish​

While there's not really a jelly fish season in Cozumel, it is still home to a few species. Among them are some tiny stinging siphonophores that we have encountered once or twice. They sting, but more like a bug bite than a full-on jelly fish sting. Still, it's uncomfortable and can leave red spots or irritations on your skin. A wetsuit or rash guard can help protect you from those little guys.