Traveling with Kitesurfing is an amazing experience! None or thinner wetsuit, warm and more windproof conditions. It is a unique experience to visit a new country and experience a new culture on a kite holiday and definitely worth it!
If you're traveling with your gear for the first time all you need to learn is how to pack your bag!
I've visited almost 50 different countries and kitesurfed in almost 20 different countries, so I've learned a thing or two about packing my (kite) bag! And I look forward to sharing my best advice with you!
You can of course also rent kitesurf equipment at the destination, but I usually recommend bringing your own equipment, as it is what you know and are used to and you do not know what condition the rented equipment is in.
Split Board A Split Board is a twintip kite board that can be split in two, and you can travel with it in a normal suitcase. A split board doesn't have the same good properties as a normal twin tip board, but if you're just riding for fun it doesn't matter that much. If you want to learn a lot of new tricks on holiday, I don't recommend it.
Kiteboard Bag
When you have to transport your kite board, kites and other equipment, you must have what is called a board bag. A good quality board bag is padded and protects your equipment from possible damage during transport and makes it easier to carry around. The bag is therefore specially developed for traveling with kitesurfing equipment.
Many of the bags have wheels like a suitcase. A board bag comes in different lengths. I have two different ones. A shorter one for when I only travel with a twin tip and a longer one for when I also travel with my kite waveboard.
I typically have the following in my kite bag in the following order within the permitted kilos:
- One twin tip (with fins and pads removed)
- 2 kites
- A bar
- Harness + leash
- Wetsuit
- Pump (removed hose)
- Helmet, impact, vest, shoes (If you use these things)
Sports equipment in the airport
When you want to fly with your kitesurfing equipment, you often have to book it in advance as "special baggage" or "sports equipment" and usually pay an extra fee. You should be aware that each airline has different rules, both for how much the bag must weigh and how long the bag must be. Some companies count "special baggage" in their permitted kilos. But check the rules of the specific company. You check in as usual at the airport, but often you have to hand in your kite bag at the "large baggage" check-in, which is at a different desk. They will inform you where at check in. Often you also need to pick up your kite equipment at "odd size luggage".
Travel insurance
When traveling with kitesurfing equipment, it is important to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers loss, damage or theft of your equipment. Check your insurance cover and make sure it covers sports equipment and any related activities such as kitesurfing. That way you are covered if problems arise during your holiday.
Speak with the locals
The conditions may be different from what you may be used to from your local kitesurf spot. Always remember to think about safety!
Be aware of wind and weather conditions, know your own limits and respect local rules and regulations. Always ask locals if there are any things you need to be aware of, such as wind holes, reefs, rocks, spot label, restrictions on the spot or anything else when you arrive at a new spot.
The destination
There are many exciting kitesurfing destinations. The different destinations have different seasons. So check that it is windy season at the time you want to travel. Also check that there are no tropical storms, hurricane season, winter or anything else. Check which kite sizes you should bring in relation to the expected wind at the destination.
Repair kit
I always recommend bringing extra screws for your board, possibly extra lines, valves and some repair equipment for the kite. It is extremely unfortunate to have your kitesurfing holiday interrupted due to problems with the equipment. It may be limited what you can find at your destination. Some kite spots are very deserted, others may sell only one brand where screw/liners etc. Make sure you have what you need according to the brand/equipment you ride. Always check your kite equipment for damage or other damage before you get on the water.
At OceanSoul we specialize in providing the best possible kitesurfing experience!
Travel with us and become part of the cool community on our popular kitesurf trip with yoga to windproof Akyaka in Turkey!
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