How to Pack Your Kite Gear

Are you planning to take a kiteboarding trip soon? Here, we’ll provide tips on what to bring and how to pack your gear.

What to Bring on a Kiteboarding Trip

Kite Trip Packing List

• Kite             

• Control Bar

• Board

• Harness

• Wetsuit

• Extra Towels

• Swimsuit

• Rash guard

• Warm clothes

Before You Pack

Before packing, make sure all gear is clean, fully dry, and free of sand or salt. Moisture or debris can cause wear, corrosion, or mildew during travel, so taking a few minutes to rinse and dry your equipment is worth it.

You should also be able to carry all of your gear in one trip. Whether you’re moving through an airport or heading to the beach, having only two bags saves time, reduces stress, and helps prevent forgotten gear.

Tips for Packing

Kiteboard travel bags are typically designed to meet airline size requirements for sports equipment and are often similar in dimensions to golf bags. Most airlines have a 50 lb weight limit, so be mindful not to overpack. A kiteboard bag can usually fit two to three kites, one disassembled board, a wetsuit, a harness, and a control bar. You may be able to squeeze in a few extra items, but it’s important to weigh the bag before heading to the airport. We also recommend placing an AirTag or something similar inside your bag in case it gets delayed or lost.

To maximize space, remove all air from your kites, then fold them neatly. While it’s possible to pack kites without their individual bags, we recommend keeping them protected whenever possible. If you do remove the kite bags, take extra care not to pinch the canopy at the zipper, because this can cause damage.

Many traveling kiters pack their kite equipment in checked luggage and keep clothes and personal items in a carry-on. 

Renting Gear is Always an Option

Traveling with your gear can end up being more costly than you bargained for. Gear can get lost or damaged, or you may pay for a heavy bag fee. The better option might be to rent gear at the destination. You won’t have to worry about lugging your gear around everywhere, and it gives you the opportunity to try something new. It’s a good idea to check gear rentals before your trip to get an idea of pricing and availability. 

Whether you pack your gear or rent at your destination, we hope you enjoy your kiteboarding adventure.