Save-A-Dive Kits

How to Build the Ultimate "Save-A-Dive" Kit
by Blake Ewing

There is nothing worse than traveling to a dive destination, getting geared up, and discovering that a piece of your gear is not working. Every diver, no matter how experienced, is bound to encounter gear “issues” at one time or another. The question is whether you will have the tools, parts, and knowledge to solve your problem or whether you will suffer the disappointment of missing a dive.

Speaking from experience, I know that sometimes the simplest things can sometimes cause the most problems. Who would have thought an o-ring or a fin strap could be so important? But this is exactly why a well-thought out save-a-dive kit is so important.

Blake Ewing

What exactly is a save-a-dive kit?
A save-a-dive kit is a collection of tools, spare parts, and back up equipment. A good save-a-dive kit should include tools such as scuba wrenches, a crescent wrench, screwdrivers, pliers, o-ring pick, and a hex wrench set. It should include spare parts like valve o-rings, tie wraps, regulator mouth piece, fin straps, snorkel keepers, hose clips, and alternate clips. A save-a-dive kit can be a soft sided case that can be slipped in a backpack or a waterproof plastic toolbox that can hold all the tools you may need.

The best way to start building a save-a-dive kit is by purchasing a basic scuba toolkit and starter save-a-dive kit. I suggest Innovative’s Deluxe Diver’s Tool Kit ($29.95) and Save-A-Dive kit ($13.95). Start with these kits and add to them to create the ultimate kit!

Remember, however, that building a save-a-dive kit is no substitute for properly maintaining your equipment. This means annually servicing your regulator and BCD at an authorized dealer, rinsing your gear after every use, and storing it in a cool dry place. But when the unexpected happens on a dive, the right tools and backup parts can keep you in the water.

Lastly, it is your job to become an educated diver. The PADI Equipment Maintenance Specialty is an excellent way to learn more about the care and maintenance of your gear. It will provide you with a better understanding you how your equipment works and show you how to solve common problems. The education I received from this course has saved numerous dives for me and my buddies.

Till next time…Safe Travel and Happy Diving, Blake Ewing

The Ultimate Dive Kit

Innovative Diver’s Tool Kit
Innovative Save-A-Dive Kit
Princeton Tec 40 Flashlight
Princeton Tec Coil Lanyard
Innovative High Force Mini Retractor
1 ¼’’ split ring
batteries for primary light, computer/watch
set of weight pockets for integrated system/ or weight belt
(2)fin buckles
(2) knife straps
Extra Certification Card
Additional PADI RDP (dive planner)