How do I prepare for a surf trip?

Whether you are hopping across the country or trekking across the globe, a surf trip is a special mission for newbies and pros alike. The waves, the culture, and the adventure all make for stories to be retold and overly probably overly romanticized forever. But to truly enjoy your first surf trip, you must be physically and mentally prepared and fully equipped. Therefore, I have compiled a quick and easy guide to surf trip preparation. Shall we begin?

Surf like a Madman (or Woman): Surf-Surf-Surf!

Yes!First and foremost, try to surf as much as possible. No exercise on the planet gets you fit for surfing better than the wonderful act of surfing itself. Find any opportunities to ride waves regardless of their utter crappiness. Even slop can work those essential paddle muscles. Without paddle endurance, you may spend the second day of your trip recuperating.

But Don't just Surf: Crosstrain

If you are not afforded the luxury of ridable waves before your trip, then get outside. Go swimming or paddling. You need to build endurance strength that your daily activities may not challenge. Laps in a pool or time spent paddling and swimming in the ocean will suffice (Even treading water will help). For more info, check out

Get Loose Now: Stretch

When you stretch twice a day, you loosen muscles and joints, so they won't snap after your first four-hour session. A two week stretching regime coupled with a daily swim will significantly improve your trip performance and help save you from injury that could tarnish the luster of your upcoming adventure.

Whatchu Need: Get your Junk Together

Gather your essential items. You don't need too much to survive, but there are a few items that will make your trip infinitely more enjoyable.

---Sunscreen, wide brimmed hat, and sunglasses (How to Choose Sunglasses?).

---Pocket cash (Cabbies don't take credit cards)

---More than one board (You can break or damage a board even in small surf)

---Disposable camera (easy to store and cheap if stolen)

---Several bars of wax

---Your fin system key

---Rashguard/westsuits

---Minor first aid supplies (band aids, neosporin/peroxide, motrin)

Remember, this is a simple, bare-bones approach to surf trip preparation. There are other things like passports and malaria medicine that could be required depending on your destination.

If you have any comments or questions on this article, please e-mail me at surfing.guide@about.com.