We enjoy some of the best surf and wind conditions all year around in Noosa, but it can get a little cool over winter months and people often ask us about travelling with their equipment. You might be a first time kitesurfing traveller and we just thought we would run through a few things to consider if you are planning a kitesurfing trip this winter.
Luggage
Probably our most asked question is; How do I pack my kitesurfing equipment and what happens at the airport?
This question is a little variable because if you are lucky enough to travel business class, you have a bigger luggage allowance than the rest of us, but most travellers will get a 23kg allowance with the option of buying more. A single kitesurfing set up will usually fit into a travel bag and weigh less than 23kg, leaving a bit of room for you to add your wetsuit top, some clothes and a few bits and pieces. Don't forget, you have 7kg of carry on to pack clothes into a backpack or roller bag. If you travel light, you can often get away with just the one bag, but most airlines are pretty well priced to add a second bag as long as you book it online before you get to the airport.
The key to getting in and out of the airport easily is a roller bag. These bags pack your gear up into a nice neat package with wheels (or backpack straps). They are over sized, but this is easily handled through a special bag drop off point at all airports. Just check your bag in as usual, get it weighed and take it to the oversized baggage area. Have your boarding pass handy as the guys at the gate will want to double check it before putting your bag through.
Safety
There are so many places to travel but not all are going to be suitable for all levels of kitesurfer. We usually choose our destinations to suit all levels from intermediate to advanced but if you are planning on travelling on your own, then feel free to chat to our staff about selecting the ideal location.
If you do travel without assistance and you are still at an intermediate level then consider these safety tips before getting on the water in your location.
- Is the water deep enough and are there any underwater obstacles (reef etc)?
- If you can't stay upwind, is there somewhere you can safely self land downwind? (go for a little walk first).
- Can you enlist boat support on location if an emergency arises?
- Is there a safe launching and landing position free of obstacles?
- Are there any fast moving currents to consider?
Assessing your location before you start kiting is the key to a fun and safe kiting session in any location. If you are travelling in reef areas consider split toe reef booties to protect your feet.
Insurance
Check your travel insurance carefully as not all travel insurance policies will necessarily cover you for kitesurfing related injuries. We use TID as they cover professional kitesurfing, but you should read your policy to be sure you are covered.
Where to go?
Grab a copy of the latest Kiteworld Magazine (available in store) which has a special travel mag in this edition. You can also pick up a fantastic coffee table book by Stoked Publications 'The World Kite and Windsurfing Guide' which has destinations and details of hundreds of locations worldwide. Or, you can ask our team about some of the places we have travelled in Australia and overseas.
