Getting ready for your Instructor Development Course? Here's everything worth bringing, organised so you can pack once and arrive ready to focus on becoming an instructor — not scrambling for gear.

Your dive equipment

You'll need a full set of your own scuba equipment for the IDC:

• Mask, fins, and snorkel

• Exposure suit

• BCD

• Regulator with alternate air source

• Dive computer

• Compass

• DSMB and reel

• Cutting instrument

• Rescue breathing mask

Having gear you're comfortable and confident in matters more than you'd think when you're focused on teaching, not fiddling with unfamiliar kit.

Don't have everything sorted yet, or would rather not travel with a full set? We've got quality equipment available both for sale and for rent, so you can turn up ready to train without the hassle — just let us know what you need.

Documents

• Passport

• C-card(s) and logbook

• Proof of your Divemaster (or equivalent) certification

• Your dive medical (signed within the past 12 months)

• Any EFR/first aid certification you already hold

• A printed copy of your PADI eLearning completion confirmation

Study Materials

Paper or digital both work fine for the IDC — whichever suits how you like to study. Digital is lighter to travel with and easier to search; paper suits those who prefer handwritten notes. Whichever you choose, make sure it's downloaded, charged, or packed before you arrive. Bring a notebook and pen either way.

Everyday clothing

Cyprus stays warm, so pack:

• Light, breathable clothing

• A swimsuit

• A sun hat

• Something for cooler evenings

• A light rain jacket (outside peak summer months)

Sun protection

• Reef-safe sunscreen

• Sunglasses

• Lip balm with SPF

You'll be out on the water a lot — two weeks of Cyprus sun adds up.

Personal items

• Any regular medication

• A basic first aid kit for cuts and scrapes

• Earplugs (handy after a day of diving)

• A reusable water bottle

Practical extras

Cyprus uses UK-style three-pin plugs — bring the right adapter for your phone, laptop, or tablet.

The one thing that matters most

A positive, open mindset. Two weeks is intense — you'll be tired, challenged, and pushed outside your comfort zone at times. Come ready to learn, support your fellow candidates, and enjoy the process. That mindset matters as much as anything else on this list.

Not sure about something specific, or wondering what you can pick up locally instead of packing it? Get in touch — happy to help you figure out what's really worth bringing.

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