What to Pack for a Surf Camp in the Canary Islands

Your flights are booked, the dates are marked in red on your calendar, and you have an incredible urge to step onto the sand of Las Canteras Beach. Taking a surf trip to Gran Canaria is one of the best experiences you can give yourself, but right before leaving home, the same doubt always arises in front of the open wardrobe: What do I pack for a surf camp?

The most common mistake for beginner (and even intermediate) surfers is packing too much. Traveling loaded like a pack mule not only makes your airline ticket more expensive, but it also completely clashes with the relaxed philosophy of surfing.

To ensure you don't leave anything vital behind or pay overweight baggage fees for things you won't even take out of your backpack, at Oceanside we have prepared the ultimate surf holiday packing list for the Canary Islands.

The Golden Rule: The Canarian Climate

Before you start throwing things into your suitcase, you need to understand where you are going. Gran Canaria is known as a "miniature continent" and boasts one of the best climates in the world—the famous endless spring.

Even if you travel in the middle of January, temperatures in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria rarely drop below 18°C, and sunny days hover around 24°C. This simplifies your packing radically: forget about heavy coats, winter boots, and scarves.

Clothes and Footwear: Comfort Above All

The atmosphere at a surf camp, and generally in the Guanarteme and La Cícer neighborhood, is tremendously relaxed. Nobody here is going to look at you twice for wearing flip-flops to grab a coffee. This is what you truly need:

• Swimwear and Bikinis (Minimum 2 or 3): You will spend half the day soaking wet. You need dry replacements while the others dry in the sun on your Surf House terrace. For women, we recommend athletic bikinis or one-piece swimsuits that fit securely so they don't move around with the force of the waves.
• T-shirts and Tank Tops: The ultimate wardrobe staple. With 4 or 5, you'll be set for a week.
• Shorts and One Pair of Long Pants: Shorts will be your daily uniform. However, pack a pair of comfortable jeans or lightweight long pants for the evenings or if you fancy an excursion into the island's mountains.
• A Hoodie or Light Jacket: Even if it's hot during the day, the Atlantic sea breeze at night (especially in winter) can be cool. A good "after-surf" hoodie is a must.
• Footwear: A pair of flip-flops for the beach, the shower, and moving around the accommodation, and comfortable sneakers if you want to walk along the Las Canteras Promenade or do a hiking route.

Sun Protection: Your Shield in the Water

The sun in the Canary Islands, being so close to the equator, hits with great force even on cloudy days. In the water, the reflection multiplies this effect. Your toiletry bag should be a sanctuary of protection:

• Water-Resistant Sunscreen (SPF 50+): Do not skimp here. Make sure it is labeled "Water Resistant" and, if possible, respectful of coral reefs and the ocean (Eco-friendly).
• Face Zinc: This is the colored paste you see on surfers' faces. It creates a total physical barrier over your nose, cheekbones, and lips. It will save you from painful sunburns.
• Polarized Sunglasses and a Cap: Vital for when you are out of the water checking the surf forecast from the avenue.

Surf Gear: Should I Bring My Board and Wetsuit?

This is where most travelers make a huge logistical mistake. If you are staying at a surf camp, leave your hard gear at home.

Traveling with surfboards means paying high check-in fees at airlines, risking them getting broken in the plane's cargo hold, and having to carry giant bags in taxis. Plus, packing a wet wetsuit on your way back home isn't pleasant for anyone.

If you book one of our Stay n' Surf packages at Oceanside, beachfront accommodation and absolutely all top-quality technical gear are included. We will provide you with a clean wetsuit in your perfect size (Quiksilver or Roxy), and you'll have access to the ideal board for each day's conditions, tailored to your progression level. You only need to worry about bringing your swimsuit.

Other Accessories That Make a Difference

To top off an experienced surfer's bag, add these small extras that will make your life much easier:

• Towel Poncho: This is a "portable changing room." It allows you to take off your wet wetsuit right on the sand at La Cícer without having to juggle a normal towel.
• Reusable Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is key. At Oceanside, we support plastic reduction, so bring your flask and refill it at the school.
• Earplugs: If you are prone to ear infections (surfer's ear), a good pair of silicone earplugs will save you medical visits.
• Dry Bag: Perfect for putting your wet swimwear inside when packing your bag back to the airport.

With this list in your luggage, you are more than ready to get the absolute most out of your experience in Gran Canaria. Forget about excess weight, travel light, and save room in your backpack for all the stories and friends you'll take home with you. We'll see you at Las Canteras!