So, you are about to head out on that long awaited (probably expensive) diving trip to the other side of the world. What should you consider taking extras of?
A Practical Guide Based on Our Experience
We’ve all been on trips that don’t go as planned. Whether it’s lost luggage or equipment that fails when you least expect it, things can go wrong.
I recall a dive trip to Little Cayman, where we were excited to dive the famous Bloody Bay Wall. I had specific shots in mind and couldn’t wait to get in the water. Little did I know my camera battery had other plans. The night before, I made sure everything was fully charged and functioning properly. I even took a test shot before going to bed—everything checked out perfectly. The next morning, we headed to the boat, loaded up our tanks, dive gear, and cameras, and set off for the first dive site. Just before splashing in, I turned my camera on for another test shot—only to find that my battery had a single bar left. By the time we got in the water, the battery was completely dead. Needless to say, my camera stayed on the boat for the rest of the day. It was a hard lesson learned.
This experience taught me the importance of buying name brand batteries. While it may be tempting to “save” a few dollars on off-brand batteries, they can fail on you, costing you far more in lost shots than what you saved upfront.
Lesson learned: Don’t buy generic batteries.
Each item on our spares list has been included because one of us here at Reef Photo & Video has learned the hard way. Don’t make the same mistakes we did—make sure you’re prepared!
Here’s our go-to list of spare parts to pack:
🔹 Main Housing O-ring
🔹 Port O-rings
When you first purchase your camera housing, it usually comes with a spare O-ring (manufacturer-dependent). Having a spare is essential. We’ve heard countless stories of pinched or torn O-rings, and since these are specific to each camera housing, there’s no chance you’ll find a replacement in a remote part of the world. Pack a spare or two!
🔹 Fiber Optic Cables (or Electric Sync Cables)
Fiber optic cables are one of the most popular options for triggering strobes. One major benefit is that they cannot flood, unlike electric sync cables, where improperly lubricated bulkhead O-rings can lead to water intrusion and flooding. A flooded electric sync cable will cause misfires or prevent your strobes from firing at all. Bring a spare! Fiber optic cables may occasionally become unplugged when handing your camera to a dive guide, but it's rare for them to get severed. If that's a concern, pack a few INON Bush Plugs.
🔹 O-ring Lubricant
Your O-rings need lubricant to stay in good condition, especially when you’re opening and closing your housing daily or changing ports frequently. Each time O-rings are exposed to air, they risk collecting debris or drying out. Be sure to keep them properly cleaned and lubricated throughout your trip!
INON Silicone Grease
Sea & Sea O-ring Grease
Nauticam Lubricant
Zen Underwater o-ring Lubricant
🔹 Extra Batteries (for your camera, flash trigger, and strobes)
As you learned from my earlier story, spare batteries are a must. Always purchase non-generic camera batteries and follow your strobe manufacturer’s recommendations for the batteries that will provide optimal performance. Flash trigger batteries should also be reputable brands like Panasonic or Duracell and of course don't forget about the battery for your leak detection system!
🔹 Tool Kit
Much like a Save-a-dive Tool Kit this can include the tools that may be unique to your underwater camera system. Some notable items to include in this would be a set of Allen Keys, a Phillips & Flathead Screwdriver or other more unique tools like your Vacuum Valve installation tool!
🔹Vacuum Pump
Almost all modern underwater housings have some sort of vacuum system which wasnt always the case! These vacuum systems have grown in popularity as they give you the most peace of mind. You can rest easy knowing your housing is properly sealed. These require the use of a Vacuum Pump to get the housing to the required sealing pressure. Sure, there are creative ways to get your housing to the desired pressure but it much easier to toss a spare Vacuum Pump into your kit!
🔹Spare Clamps
I can picture it now: you’re mid-conversation while disassembling your arms, and without realizing it, you unscrew a clamp too far. Suddenly, the spring, washers, and handle go flying in all directions—or worse, into the water! Having a spare clamp on hand could be the difference between a smooth dive day or a frustrating equipment setback.
This list is a great starting point for your “Save a Shoot” kit. Always remember—being prepared can make all the difference on your adventure!