Siargao Surf Trip Packing List 2026

Cloud 9 is a world-class reef barrel — bring a board you know well. Longboards are also useful for the mellower breaks around General Luna on smaller days.

Essential for airline protection. Double up with towels in nose and tail. Siargao is a long journey — boards need solid protection.

4–6 bars of tropical wax for 27–29°C water. Sticky Bumps Tropical or Sex Wax Tropical. Bring more than you think — less available on the island.

For removing old wax and re-texturing between sessions.

Bring both FCS and Futures keys. Pack a spare set — fin shops in Siargao are limited.

Bring two leashes. Cloud 9 has strong current and you do not want to lose your board on a reef break.

Essential at Cloud 9 — sharp coral at low tide makes entry and exit dangerous without protection. 1mm maintains board sensitivity.

Siargao UV is intense. Rashguard gives better protection than sunscreen alone for long sessions.

Reduces dings during transport in tricycles and boats around the island.

Philippines reef ecosystems require reef-safe mineral sunscreen. Reapply every 90 min — the tropical sun is intense.

Full zinc for nose and cheekbones during long sessions at Cloud 9. Available in Siargao but better to bring from home.

Polarised lenses help read the reef and wave shape between sets. Essential on-island transport too.

For walks between breaks and boat transfers. Siargao sun is relentless 9am–4pm.

Sunburn is common on first days. Keep aloe on hand — availability on the island is variable.

Coral cuts at Cloud 9 are common and get infected quickly in tropical humidity. Betadine, antiseptic wipes, Steri-Strips, and medical tape are essential.

Island mosquitoes are active at dusk and in less-developed areas. Dengue is present in the Philippines — protect yourself.

Daily surf sessions in warm water = ear infections. Use drops after every session.

Shoulder and wrist soreness from paddling Cloud 9's current-heavy lineup.

Island heat plus surfing dehydrates fast. Keep ORS sachets in your daypack.

Standard policies exclude reef surfing as extreme sports. Get surf-specific cover — World Nomads or EKTA both cover surfing.

Quick-dry essential. The island is hot and humid. Rotate between sessions.

For evenings in General Luna. The vibe is relaxed island — no need for anything formal.

You will wear these constantly. Leave dress shoes at home.

Useful for motorbike riding and keeping mosquitoes off at dusk. Also for occasional visits to local towns.

The typhoon season (Aug–Nov) brings heavy rain. A light packable rain jacket is useful for motorbike rides and evening showers.

Airalo Philippines eSIM — from $8 for 3GB. DITO, Smart, or Globe networks. Works on arrival without swapping SIM.

For boat transfers to the outer breaks and keeping gear dry in tropical downpours.

Cloud 9 barrels are some of the most photogenic in the world. A GoPro chest or surfboard mount captures the session.

Power cuts are occasional on the island. A large power bank keeps everything charged.

Philippines uses Type A and Type B plugs (same as USA). If coming from Europe or Australia, bring an adaptor.

Protects 2–3 boards on the Cebu or Manila connection. Essential for the multiple flights and airport handlers on the way to Siargao.

For motorbike rides to breaks, carrying wax, reef kit, and water bottle. Keep it simple and waterproof.

For keys, phone, and valuables at the beach. Essential at Cloud 9 where gear can get caught in water spray.

Keep clothing organised. Laundry services are available in General Luna but pack light for the island lifestyle.