Guide · Travel
What to pack for a kitesurfing trip to Hainan
Hainan is warm, sunny and windy, and we provide all the kitesurfing equipment for lessons. That makes packing simple, but a few things are easy to forget.
What we provide
For lessons you don't need any kite gear. We provide current Slingshot kites and boards, a helmet, a life jacket and an impact vest, plus boots at spots with pebbles. Riders at IKO Level 2 or above can also rent gear for supervised riding.
For the water
- Swimwear, or board shorts and a swimsuit you can move in
- A long-sleeved rash vest or UV top: you'll spend hours in the sun
- Reef-friendly sun cream and lip balm with SPF, and plenty of it
- Sunglasses with a strap, and a cap or hat for the beach
- A water bottle you can refill
Most riders don't need a wetsuit, even in winter. If you feel the cold, a thin neoprene top is useful on a windy January day.
For the rest of the trip
- Light, breathable clothes and sandals
- A light jacket for winter evenings, especially in Haikou, which is a little cooler than the south
- Any medication you need, plus plasters and something for minor cuts
- A dry bag for your phone and keys on the beach
Documents, money and apps
- Passport and visa. Check the current entry rules for your nationality before you book flights.
- Payments. Most places in China are paid by phone. Set up Alipay or WeChat Pay with your own card before you travel, and carry a little cash as a backup.
- WeChat. It's how most people in China message, and the easiest way to reach us while you're here.
- Connectivity. Some services you use at home may not work in mainland China, so download what you need before you leave.
Bringing your own kite gear?
You're welcome to. Check your airline's sports-equipment rules before you fly, and tell us what you're bringing so we can suggest the right spots for your kite sizes. If you'd rather travel light, we also sell current Slingshot, North, Ride Engine and Mystic gear: see the gear catalogue.