You're finally able to take that dream vacation, and you can't wait to dive into the waters of some tropical location for an amazing snorkeling trip to explore the local sea life. However, you need the right gear to make it a safe and enjoyable experience. So here's a quick guide to help you choose your gear.



When preparing for your snorkeling trip, the mask is perhaps the most important piece of snorkeling gear that you can get. The key to finding a proper mask is in the fit. Your snorkel mask is what allows you to see more clearly underwater and in most cases provides a seal over both your eyes and nose.

If your mask does not fit properly, it will leak and come off while in the water. So be sure that you get a tight, snug fit.

One mistake a lot of new snorkelers make it to think that by tightening the strap on the mask it will make the mask tighter and prevent leaks. In fact, in some cases, the tightening of the strap can cause the mask to pop out of place.

Test the mask when shopping by holding it up in place and gently pressing it against your face. If it is a proper fit, the air pressure should be enough to hold it in place. There are masks in all shapes and sizes designed for men, women, and children. They come in a variety of prices ranging from $15 to $100 or more for professional quality masks -- so you should be able to find the one that is right for you. Masks can even be purchased with your correct eyeglass prescription built in.

The next essential piece of snorkeling gear is, of course, the snorkel. This is the plastic tube-like apparatus that connects you to the surface and allows you to breathe while snorkeling underwater. Most snorkels are around a foot to a foot and a half in length and some come with an additional valve for releasing excess water that can get into your snorkel from the splashing waves on the surface.

You should choose the snorkel that feels the most comfortable for you and that allows you to get a comfortable yet tight seal around the mouthpiece. The cost of snorkels is fairly reasonable -- ranging from around $10-$40.

Some people will often overlook fins when snorkeling, but they can make a big difference to your experience in the water, especially if you wish to take photos. This is because fins can help you focus the swimming energy in your legs, freeing your hands up to handle the camera. Fins can help you to swim faster and have more maneuverability in the water.

The choice of fin brand seems to be a matter of personal preference. Those swimmers entering the water from boats often find them easier to use than those walking into the water, since walking in fins can be quite awkward. Less expensive fins designed primarily for snorkeling fit right over your bare feet. More expensive fins used primarily by scuba divers usually fit over a bootie worn on the foot.

One other piece of snorkel gear that is optional, but you may want to consider is a snorkeling vest. Often offered as a free loaner or at a small cost on snorkeling trips, you can also purchase your own snorkel vest for somewhere around $25-$50. The vest helps to improve your buoyancy, especially if you plan on spending a lot of time near the surface. However, you should note that these vests aren't designed to be life jackets, and should not be relied upon by anyone who is not a good swimmer.

If you choose your snorkeling gear carefully and make sure that it all fits comfortably, you are sure to get the most out of your snorkeling trip on that next fun-filled vacation.