I’ve lost count of how many times guests have arrived at Kitekuda Kite Resort only to realise they’ve forgotten something essential – be it their favourite harness, a spare fin, or even something as simple as sunscreen. It happens all the time.
Packing for a kitesurfing holiday is different from your average beach getaway. You’re not just throwing some swimwear and flip-flops into a bag – you need to think about gear, wind conditions, and even local infrastructure. So, to save you the hassle of scrambling to find last-minute replacements, here’s the ultimate kitesurf packing checklist.
1. The Essentials – Your Kitesurfing Gear
If you have your own gear and plan to bring it, make sure you’ve got everything you need:
- Kites: Bring at least two sizes to cover different wind conditions
- Bar & Lines: Check for wear and tear before packing
- Board: Twin tip, surfboard, or foil (depending on what you ride)
- Harness: A well-fitted harness is crucial for comfort
- Leash & Safety Gear: Don’t forget your leash and impact vest as well as a helmet
- Pump: Not necessary, but handy in case your valve system is exotic
- Wetsuit or Rash Guard: Water temp is usually in the mid to high twenties (Celsius)
Forgot something? No worries! At Kitekuda Kite Resort, we offer top-quality Duotone kite rentals, including kites, boards, harnesses, bars, and all necessary accessories. So even if you travel light, we’ve got you covered!
2. The Right Clothing for Your Destination
Kitesurfing destinations vary – from warm tropical spots like Sri Lanka to cooler locations where you’ll need more coverage. We concentrated on what to pack for tropical destinations like Kitekuda Kite Resort:
- Boardshorts, swimsuit or bikini (for kiting)
- Long sleeve Rash guard or Lycra top (to protect from the sun)
- Lightweight hoodie for “cooler” evenings after a long day in the sun
- Flip-flops or reef booties
- Sunglasses with a retainer strap
- Cap or Hat to protect you from the sun
Important: Kitekuda is located in a predominantly Muslim area, so if you’re leaving the resort to visit local villages or shops, please dress respectfully. Women should wear clothes covering their shoulders and knees, and men should avoid going shirtless outside the resort.
3. Sun Protection – Don’t Underestimate It!
The combination of sun, wind, and saltwater can do serious damage to your skin. Stay protected with:
- High SPF sunscreen: Waterproof and reef-safe
- Polarised sunglasses: Reduces glare and protects your eyes
- Cap or hat: Keeps the sun off your face when not on the water
- After-sun lotion: Aloe vera gel is a lifesaver, we have plenty of plants in our garden
Tip: Here at Kitekuda, we have strong sun exposure all year round, so don’t skimp on sun protection!
4. Travel & Kite Repair Kit
Even the best kitesurf trips can be ruined by minor gear failures. Be prepared with:
- Basic kite repair kit: Spare bladder patches, sail tape, and a valve fix
- Multi-tool: Useful for fin screws, foot straps, and board adjustments
- First aid kit: Blister plasters, antiseptic wipes, and bandages which you can also find in our first aid boxes at Kitekuda
Tip: Most kite schools (including ours) have repair services, but small fixes are easier if you have your own kit.
5. Electronics & Gadgets
We all love capturing those epic sessions, but don’t forget the practical electronics too:
- GoPro or action camera: For those insane kite loops
- Power bank: Essential for charging devices on the go
- Travel adapter: Check the plug type for your destination
- Unlocked phone & local SIM: For cheap internet access abroad
Tip: Sri Lanka has great mobile networks, and you can grab a local SIM card at the airport for easy connectivity.
6. Extras That Make Life Easier
Finally, here are a few often-overlooked things that make a kitesurfing trip smoother:
- Waterproof dry bag: Protects your phone and valuables on the beach
- Reusable water bottle: Stay hydrated without buying plastic bottles
- Book or Kindle: Perfect for windless days
Forgot your toothbrush? No problem! There’s a small local kiosk near the resort where you can buy essentials like shampoo, toothpaste, and other toiletries.
Final Tips for Packing Smart
- Check airline baggage policies: Kite gear can be bulky, so know your limits
- Use a lightweight kite bag: Some airlines allow sports gear for free, but weight matters
- Plan for no-wind days: Bring running shoes, snorkel gear, or a yoga mat
Ready for Your Kitesurf Holiday?
With the right gear and preparation, your kitesurf trip will be hassle-free and packed with epic sessions. At Kitekuda Kite Resort, we provide everything you need: great wind, top-quality rental gear (kites, boards, harnesses, bars, etc.), and an amazing kitesurfing community.
So, pack smart, travel light, and get ready for an unforgettable kitesurfing adventure!
About the Author
Hi, I'm Mike, a passionate Australian windsurfer and kitesurfer, also the owner of Kitekuda Kite Resort and the Duotone Pro Centre. I have called Sri Lanka home for the past 30 years and I love sharing my knowledge and experience of this beautiful island with all our visitors. I've been living at Kitekuda, situated on the diverse Kappalady lagoon, for the past 10 years, and I know this unique little ecosystem like the back of my hand. I'm committed to promoting sustainable tourism in Sri Lanka by building deep relationships in the local village and running initiatives that will lead to long-term benefits in the area.
#becomekuda #kitekuda #kitesurfingsrilanka #windsurfing #kitesurfing
Bookings & inquiries: https://www.srilankakiteschool.com/inquiry-jotform