The-Best-Scuba-Gear-Packages

Purchasing your scuba gear is a hefty investment. Scuba gear will last years even decades before it needs to be replaced. Most beginning divers just rent their gear, until they feel comfortable that high-pressure will stay with it. Take a look at a scuba gear package you like, then divide that price by what you pay when you rent the gear. That will tell you the number of dives before you break even. Some divers never move on to investing. If you are only diving a few times each year, it may be hard to justify the investment.

Another factor that may motivate you to get your gear is muscle memory. Using the same gear each time will allow you to act without needing to think about what you have to do. Need a dump valve? Your body will know exactly where to reach.

1

OUR TOP PICK

Aqua Lung Pro HD BCD Scuba Package

Aqua Lung Pro HD BCD Scuba Package


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Summary

The Aqua Lung Pro HD Essential Package is an outstanding package for the new diver. The package consists of the Pro HD BCD, a Titan regulator, an ABS Octopus, and an i300C 2 gauge dive computer.

The Aqua Lung Pro HD is an outstanding choice for not only a new diver but also for an experienced diver looking for something special. This jacket-style BCD with an integrated weight system has much to offer. The SureLock™ II Weight Release is a very secure system and allows up to 20 or 30 pounds of ditchable weight depending on the size. An additional 10 pounds of trim weights can be put in a pair of tank band pockets. Again depending on size, the BCD has a lift of 24 to 55 pounds. 

To help you to maintain a streamlined position and to reduce damage due to trailing equipment, there are two instrument pockets, one for the Octopus and the other for your gauges. These are located outside the two utility pockets. Comfort is ensured with adjustable straps including a chest strap that can be adjusted vertically and a waist strap. The finish is a ResisteK™ material, designed to resist fading and abrasions.

The Aqua Lung Pro HD Essential Package includes the Titan lightweight regulator. This warm water regulator has a balanced diaphragm first stage with 2 high-pressure ports and 4 low-pressure ports. The balanced diaphragm allows easy breathing at all depths and protection from outside elements. The combination of high and low-pressure ports assures that you can connect all the devices you need to. The second stage of the Titan is an unbalanced demand valve and has a Venturi adjustment knob to help adjust the breathing effort.

The device we never really want to use outside of training is our octopus. This package includes the ABS Octopus. The ABS octopus is a low-profile second-stage demand valve with a present breathing resistance. As with other octopus regulators, it has a yellow hose and yellow covers.

Last and certainly not least, this package includes the i300C 2 gauge dive computer. The i300C comes mounted in a console along with an SPG (submerged pressure gauge). The computer is easy to use but includes advanced features. Multi-gas with 3 mixes and Nitrox FO setting from 21% up to 100% and adjust the PO from 1.1 to 1.6 for Nitrox and technical diving. Among the many features is a Bluetooth connection to save your dive logs. 

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  • Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
  • Aqua Lung Pro HD BCD with weight system
  • Lift to 55 pounds
  • Titan primary regulator
  • Outstanding dive compute
Model & Accessory Specs

Package Details:

Titan Scuba Regulator
Aqualung i300C Computer Air and Nitrox Modes
Pro HD BCD Wrap-Around Jacket With Weight Integration
ABS Octopus

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2

EDITORS CHOICE

OCEANIC OPEN WATER SCUBA PACKAGE

OCEANIC OPEN WATER SCUBA PACKAGE


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Summary

The Oceanic Open Water Package is ready wherever your dive travels take you. The package includes the Alpha 10 + cDX Regulator, an Alpha 10 Octo, the VEO 4.0 Computer, and the light and rugged OceanPro BCD with QLR4 weight pockets.

As the BCD is the item that has the most items to consider, we will look at that first. The OceanPro BCD is a well-designed economical BCD that is very popular with dive schools because of its durability and features. This is a jacket-style BCD with a padded backpack, adjustable cummerbund, wide straps, and two main pockets. Eight plastic “D” rings also help stow your accessories. 

The QLR4 (Quick Lock & Release) Weight Integration System is also included. This system allows up to 20 pounds of dumpable weight. If you do not want to use dumpable weights, then you can use the space as two additional pockets. The lift depends on the size: XS 18 lb; SM 26 lb; MD 31 lb; LG 38 lb; XL 44 lb.

The OceanPro BCD uses fadeless 1000 Denier Ballistic Nylon Construction, and their Reliant Integrated Inflator is standard. 

The Alpha 10 + cDX Regulator is an outstanding choice for warm water diving. The first stage is a combination balance diaphragm and piston that has two high pressure and four low-pressure ports. The second stage has a pneumatically balanced demand valve. The regulator has a two-year service interval. Provided you get your regulator service properly, there is a lifetime warranty and free repair parts. 

The Alpha 10 Octo second stage also has a Pneumatically balanced demand valve. Both regulators are Nitrox Compatibility – Standard to 40%

The  VEO 4.0 Computer mounted in a 2 gauge console is a great addition to this package. The dive computer is the latest high-pressure version of the VEO and is 20% slimmer than version 2. It features Dual Algorithm™ which allows you to choose between the Pelagic DSAT or Pelagic Z+ Algorithms, letting you set the level of conservation you are most comfortable with.

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  • What Makes This Dive Gear Package Stand Out
  • Very durable full feature BCD
  • Integrate weight system
  • Easy to use, powerful VEO dive computer
  • Top-quality Alpha 10 regulator and Alpha 10 octopus
Model & Accessory Specs

Package Details:

OceanPro BCD
Alpha 10 + cDX Regulator
Alpha 10 Octo
VEO 4.0 Computer

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3

BEST VALUE

Cressi Start Pro BCD Scuba Package

Cressi Start Pro BCD Scuba Package


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Summary

The Cressi Start Pro BCD Scuba Package is perfect if your budget is a little tight. The package includes Cressi Start Pro BCD, Cressi AC2 XS2 Regulator, Cressi XS Octopus, and the Cressi Mini C2 Depth and Pressure Gauge Console. 

The Cressi Start BCD is a very durable BCD that was designed for the training and rental markets. These users need something that will take abuse, last a long time, and have all the basic features. They also need something affordable. The Start does not have weight integration and the “D” rings are plastic, this helps reduce the cost. However, it does have two large pockets. The Start BCD  is made from Cordura 1000 Denier on the outside panel and 500 Denier on the inside, so it is very durable. The waistband and cummerbund are separate from the bladder to give a good fit independent of the level of inflation. The pressure gauge and octopus anchoring systems are integrated, and the backpack is lightweight making this a good travel BCD as well. Depending on the size, this BCD can provide up to 45 pounds of lift. This is a very dependable BCD that will meet the needs of a new diver for many years.

The Cressi AC2  XS2 regulator is a simple but highly reliable device that is also favored by dive centers because of its low cost, low maintenance needs, and high reliability. The first stage is an unbalanced piston style with one high-pressure port and four low-pressure ports. Few recreational divers will be unable to tell the difference between a piston style and the balance diaphragm style first stages. The port system will meet the needs of most divers. The second stage has an adjustable venturi effect to reduce the possibility of freeflow as well as finding your own best breathing pressure. This is a traditional size second stage.

The Octopus XS is similar to the AC2 XS regulator in size and performance. It also has an adjustable venturi effect.

The Cressi Start Pro BCD Scuba Package is rounded out with Mini C2 Gauge Analog Console. The two gauge console includes a depth gauge and a submersible pressure gauge.

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  • What Makes This Dive Gear Package Stand Out
  • Highly durable
  • Low Cost
  • Dive School favorite
  • Gauge package
Model & Accessory Specs

Package Details:

Cressi Start BCD
AC2 XS regulator
XS Octopus
Mini C2 Gauge Analog Console

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4

Cressi R1 BCD Leonardo Scuba Package

Cressi R1 BCD Leonardo Scuba Package


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Summary

The Cressi R1 BCD Leonardo Scuba Gear Package is a good choice if you like the Cressi Start package but are looking for a package with a dive computer and an integrated weight BCD. This package includes the Cressi R1 BCD, the Cressi AC2 Compact Regulator, the Cressi Compact Octopus, and the Cressi Air/Nitrox Leonardo Computer Console

The Cressi R1 BCD is a lightweight jacket style made of durable 500-Denier Cordura. The R1 uses a semi-rigid and semi-flexible backpack making it strong while still being lightweight. The waist length high-pressure is cut differently allowing a larger air bladder that does not interfere with movement. The bladders provide between 17 and 37 pounds of lift depending on the size of the BCD. This is more than ample for recreational divers. The BCD has a cummerbund and an independent waist strap. The shoulder straps are padded and use the traditional squeeze type releases. A chest strap is also provided. Gear stowage is helped by two large zipper pockets and 6 “D” rings, 4 large and 2 smaller ones. 

The BCD has the “Flat Lock Aid System” Integrated Weight System. The 2 weight pockets each weight hold a maximum weight of 4.5kg/10lbs. The BCD does not have any trim pouches, however, the tank band will accept trim pockets.

The Cressi AC2 Compact Regulator has an unbalanced piston-type first stage. However, it is well known for having a solid performance in recreational diving. The first stage features one high-pressure port and four low-pressure ports. The second stage is the XS Compact, an unbalanced downstream demand valve. It has an adjustable venturi effect and a large purge button. 

The Cressi Compact Octopus is the companion piece to the Cressi AC2 Compact Regulator. The technical specifications are similar to the regulator’s second stage.

The Cressi Air/Nitrox Leonardo Computer Console includes the Leonard dive computer and an SPG. The Leonard dive computer is a good choice for the new diver and will likely meet their needs for years. It features Air, Nitrox, and Gauge modes. The diver has three levels of user-adjustable conservatism. Sometimes you just want to be extra careful. The Nitrox mode will adjust for FO2 of between 21% and 50%, the PO2 adjustable between 1.2 bar and 1.6 bar. These are the ranges for recreational diving. The Dive computer's log book will save 60 dives/75 hours of information with a 20-second sampling rate before being overwritten.

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  • Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
  • Weight Integrated BCD
  • Great stowage on the BCD
  • Good quality regulators
  • Air/Nitrox dive computer
Model & Accessory Specs

Package Details: 

Cressi R1 Weight Integrated BCD
Cressi Air/Nitrox Leonardo Computer Console
Cressi AC2 Compact Regulator, Yoke
Cressi Compact Octopus with Hose

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5

Cressi Travelight Scuba

Cressi Travelight Scuba


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Summary

The Cressi Travelight Scuba is the choice for the diver who mostly travels by air for their diving adventures. This set includes the Travelight BCD, the Cressi MC9 Compact Regulator, the XS Compact Octopus, and Leonardo 2 gauge console. Along with a carrying bag, the total weight of your gear is under 15 pounds.

The Travelight BCD is a jacket style BCD with the Integrated Lock Aid Quick-Release Weight System. The weight system will hold 20 pounds in the front removable pouches and another 10 pounds in fixed rear trim pouches. The jacket is designed so that the air bladder inflates away from the body for a more comfortable fit when the bladder is fully inflated such as when floating on the surface.

The Travelight has a harness system with traditional squeeze-type connectors. There are 8 alloy metal “D” rings to attach your accessories to and two zipper pockets. These items are often missing from other travel BCDs. As with most BCDs, the Travelight has three Pull-Dump/Overpressure Relief Valves, one on each shoulder and one on the lower back. However, Cressi has moved the rear relief valve control to the front. The lift varies with the BCD size. The Cressi Travelight has 13.5 lbs of lift (6 kg) in its smallest size and 36 lbs (16.3 kg) in its largest sizes.

Cressi MC9 Compact Regulator has a balanced diaphragm first stage and is available in either DIN or Yoke valves. The first stage is brass with a nickel coating for long life and has 2 high-pressure ports along with 4 low-pressure ports. The second stage is a downstream system with an adjustable venturi effect. The regulator is made from durable but low-weight material making it great for travel.

The Cressi Compact Octopus has technical specifications that are similar to the MC9 Compact regulator’s second stage.

The Cressi Air/Nitrox Leonardo Computer Console includes the Leonard dive computer and an SPG. The console is smaller than most dive consoles, using a smaller SPG and the compact Leonard dive computer. The console is angled so that you can easily see both devices together and is made from polycarbonate and desmopan, (a thermoplastic polyurethane). The gauge is color-coded for the pressure having a green zone, yellow zone, and red zone. 

The Leonard dive features Air, Nitrox, and Gauge modes. The Leonardo features the Cressi RGBM algorithm and allows the diver to select from three levels of conservatism. The Nitrox mode will adjust for FO2 of between 21% and 50%, the PO2 adjustable between 1.2 bar and 1.6 bar. These are the ranges for recreational diving. The Dive computer's log book will save 60 dives/75 hours of information with a 20-second sampling rate before being overwritten. 

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  • Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
  • Perfect Travel set for warm water recreational divers
  • Weight integrated travel BCD
  • Streamlined console with SPG and dive computer
  • Travel regulators
Model & Accessory Specs

Package Details:

Cressi Travel Light BCD
MC9 Compact Regulator Set
Octo
Leonardo C2 Console Dive Computer
Akona Less Than 7lbs Roller Suitcase

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6

Mares Abyss 22 Regulator Scuba Package

Mares Abyss 22 Regulator Scuba Package


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Summary

The Mares Hybrid Pro Tec/ Abyss 22 package featured here is different from the other packages on this list. The BCD is modular, suitable for technical diving including dual tanks and the regulators are designed to be used in cold water. Package Includes Mares Hybrid Pro Tec BC, Mares Abyss 22 Navy Regulator Yoke, Mares Air Control Alternate Air Source, and the Mares Puck Pro Plus Wrist Dive Computer.

The Mares Hybrid Pro Tec BC is a back-mounted modular build BCD made with  Cordura1000 / Cordura420 and Alutex material. Alutex is an aluminum glass fiber material. This BC (Mares drop the “D” in their product names) is three components, the vest, the carrier, and the air bladder that can be separated. The vest is the portion that contains the straps, pockets, and weight integration system. The shoulder straps are anatomically contoured, elongated, with shoulder pads. The waist is an adjustable cummerbund system and the vest uses MRS Plus (Mechanical Release System) Integrated Weight Pockets. The two-weight pocket each holds 12 pounds. Tech divers often have several accessories, and the vest has two zippered pockets, two roll-down pockets, and 10 “D” rings. You can adjust the position of three of the “D” rings. 

Abyss 22  Navy regulator is so named because it is currently the only regulator that meets the US Navy extreme cold water standards (testing is at the pressure of 192 feet and water temperature of 38 degrees). The first stage high-pressure valve is made of "Tri-material" allowing for superior safety and duration. The ports include an intermediate-pressure DFC port, 3 low-pressure (LP), and 2 high-pressure (HP) ports. It is an environmentally sealed balanced diagram valve. The second stage is also an environmentally sealed balanced valve. It features a VAD system, mesh-grid cover, and an all-metal case. The metal parts of both stages are either nickel- and chrome-plated brass or stainless steel all treated with fluoropolymer resin. Non-metal parts are high-impact technopolymers.

The Mares Air Control Alternate Air Source is also included in this package. This device combines the function of an octopus with that of the BC inflator. As with any standard inflator, there is a button to add air to your BC. However, instead of oral inflation, the end of the inflator has a small regulator. In an emergency, you will use this as your octopus. You can also use the mouthpiece to orally inflate the BC. 

The Mares Puck Pro Plus Wrist Dive Computer rounds out this package. The Mares Puck Pro Plus is an updated version of the well-established Mares Puck Pro. The only difference between the two is the method of saving dive logs. The Pro saves to a computer by a USB cable, the plus by a cabled Bluetooth connection to a smartphone. The dive computer will store 36 hours of logs with a 5-second profile. The Puck Pro Plus is an entry-level, large wrist dive computer. However, it does have a gas switching ability making it suitable for some types of technical diving as well. The display is one of the easiest to read of any dive computer on the market. The batteries are expected to last about 500 dives and can be changed by the user. 

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  • Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
  • Coldwater and technical dive package
  • Best extreme cold water regulator on the market and Mil-std
  • True Tech BCD
  • Reliable dive computer
Model & Accessory Specs

Package Details: 

Mares Hybrid Pro Tec BC
Mares Abyss 22 Navy Regulator Yoke
Mares Air Control Alternate Air Source
Mares Puck Pro Plus Wrist Dive Computer

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Pro tip 1 - Buoyancy Control Device:
  • Your BCD should be 100% compatible with your regulator, and often they are sold together for a discounted cost. Look for the best deal without buying low-quality equipment in conjunction with something else. 
Pro tip 2 - Octopus: 
  • Your octopus is your lifeline in an emergency scenario, and you should always be able to identify it underwater quickly. For this reason, octopuses are often sold with holders for quick identification.
Pro tip 3 - Mask and Snorkel: 
  • Your mask and snorkel go hand-in-hand, both above and below the surface. Be sure that the snorkel is easily removed and replaced with the mask you plan to use.


Scuba Diving Expert

How To Choose A Scuba Gear Package – Buying Guide

What-to-look-for-in-a-scuba-gear-package

Buoyancy Control Device

While diving, we always want to control our buoyancy. In the water column, we strive to become neutral buoyancy, meaning we neither float up nor sink. We move up or down based on our body position and leg action. However, as we move deeper or shallower and as we use the air in our tanks, our buoyancy changes. The Buoyancy Control Device also called a BCD and a BC by a few manufacturers helps us make adjustments. Also, we will use the BCD to provide positive buoyancy after our dive, so we can comfortably float on the surface. The BCD is also the means we carry our air supply in a tank. A secondary function of the BCD is to help us stow our equipment. Pockets and “D” rings allow us to free our hands while still having accessories available. These are attached to the BCD. Some BCDs come with a weight integration system to remove the need for a separate weight belt.

Regulator

A regulator controls the release of the air in your dive tanks. It has two portions connected by a hose. The first stage attaches to the scuba tank. It reduces the high pressure in the tank to an intermediate pressure. The first stage has a mix of high-pressure and low-pressure ports. The high-pressure ports are used to measure the pressure remaining in the tank, while the low-pressure is used by the second stage and other low-pressure devices. The second stage is attached to the first stage by a hose. The second stage takes the air at the intermediate pressure and lowers it to the surrounding pressure. The second stage has a mouthpiece that you put in your mouth. This is the air you will breathe.

You might also like: Scuba Regulators

Octopus

The octopus is a backup second-stage regulator. It also attaches to a port on the first stage. If the primary second stage fails, a diver can switch to the octopus. Second-stage failures are very rare. However, the octopus is also seen as a sharing device. If your dive buddy runs low on air, you can share yours.

Computer

Dive computers are very popular. They have in many cases replaced the need for dive tables while planning your dives. They make real-time evaluations concerning your dive times and the risk of the bends, then inform the diver of the remaining dive time and the need for safety stops. They are also capable of recording the depth, time, and even the water temperature so you can review them later. Dive computers replace the need for a depth gauge and air-integrated ones can replace the SPG. Consider getting one with your package, it can reduce or eliminate the expense of the gauges.

FAQs

What-Is-Scuba-Gear

Q: What Is A Scuba Gear Package?

A: 

The scuba diving packages put together the items that you will need as you move away from rental gear to owning all of your own. Like the combo meal at your fast food restaurant, getting the items as a package will normally have some savings. Most scuba gear packages will include the BCD, regulator, octopus, and a gauge console. The 2 gauge console is the most common with a Submerged Pressure Gauge (SPG) and a depth gauge. However, as the dive computer is becoming more than a common accessory to a required item, many packages include the dive computer in the console replacing the depth gauge. Your mask, fins, and wetsuit are not a part of packages as these items are often purchased during your training.

Related Review: Dive Safety Gear

Q: Where Do I Use Scuba Gear?

A: 

Scuba diving is a very safe sport, provided that you have been properly trained. Before you go scuba diving, you must receive training and become certified. The type of scuba diving gear you choose to purchase will depend mostly on the location where you plan on diving. Warmer climates generally require less dive gear than colder climates. Commonly we refer to diving conditions into separate categories that each require a different set of gear:

Tropical or warm water Scuba Gear: In climates with water 75ºF (24ºC) or warmer you can enjoy less bulk by streamlining your gear. This includes a thin wetsuit or no suit at all. 

Temperate Scuba Gear: When diving in water closer between 60 - 75ºF (15 - 24ºC) you will want some more protection. You will likely not need a thick wetsuit but one that varies depending on temperature. Having a suit around 3-5mm is ideal for these temperate environments.

Cold Water Scuba Gear: In a water cooler than 60ºF (15ºC) you will want the most protection while in the water. Keeping warm isn’t just for safety but will also make it so that you go through your air much slower. Depending on how cold your climate is, a wetsuit may not do it. You may need to opt for a dry suit. Also, at these water temperatures, you will need regulators that are designed for the colder water. Similar to the problem of icing on a plane's wing, a regulator can build up ice even when the water temperature is above freezing.

Globo Surf Overview

Scuba diving gear packages are a great way to get everything you need for your dive in one convenient place. It can be daunting to buy all the different components you will need for your dive. Opting for a full scuba gear package will ensure all your dive gear works well together and will allow you to get the most from your purchase.

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