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Hawaii Gear

If you are looking for adventure on the Big Island, make sure you are outfitted with the right gear.  In this article we will share with you some of the gear that we use when we pursue our adventures on the Big Island of Hawaii

Hydration is paramount.  I learned a valuable lesson when we ran out of water on a hike in the volcano with 5 uphill miles still ahead of us.  Ever since then, I have always packed plenty of water.  I plan to consume about one gallon of water during one full day of strenuous activity.  Our favorite hydration system is the Camelbak Unbottle.  A versatile insulated sleeve containing a 3 liter bladder, this quenches serious thirst.  I normally slide this into my hydration-compatible pack or latch it to my kayak.

Although the water temperature is normally in the mid to upper 70's, after some time in the water, you will start to feel cold.  Keep yourself comfortable while blocking the sun's harmful UV rays by wearing a rash guard in and around the water.  We wear our rash guard when snorkeling, SCUBA diving, kayaking, and while surfing the waves - it keeps us warm and keeps us from getting sun burnt.

If you are an avid beachgoer and snorkeler no doubt you have a lot of ocean gear.  We recently picked up an all-mesh dive bag.  This bag is perfect for our beach gear and snorkel gear all in one convenient and rugged bag.  Primarily designed to contain SCUBA gear, we take this bag to the beach and store all of our wet clothing, towels, and gear in it.  Also, since it is one large bag with shoulder straps, our hands are free to do other things.

The underwater life in Hawaii is spectacular.  With underwater visibility normally around 100-feet, an underwater camera is a must! Most visitors nowadays own a digital camera.  But did you know there are many water-proof underwater cases that you can buy that will allow you to take your digital camera underwater.  These custom-fit underwater cases are available and matched to fit each make and model digicam.  Most cases will even allow you to take your digicam into deep water while you SCUBA dive!

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