Complete Dive Gear Package Guide (UK)

Dive gear packages promise savings and convenience. Sometimes they deliver. Often they include compromises you'll regret. Here's how to evaluate UK package deals honestly.

## Quick Picks

*Always verify cold water rating before purchasing any UK package*

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What Packages Typically Include

Standard dive gear package: BCD, regulator with octopus, gauges, gear bag.

Complete package: Above plus wetsuit, mask, fins, boots.

Premium package: Above plus dive computer.

Prices range from around £800 for basic packages to around £2,500 for complete premium setups.

The Savings Reality

Package discounts typically run 15-25% versus buying individually. On a £2,000 setup, you might save £300-500. That's meaningful.

However, savings disappear if package items don't match your needs. A £200 saving means nothing if the included wetsuit doesn't fit UK conditions or the regulator isn't cold water rated.

When Packages Make Sense

Beginners who need everything: If you're buying BCD, regulator, wetsuit, and computer simultaneously, packages offer genuine savings with matched equipment.

Budget-conscious buyers: Package deals make quality gear accessible at lower total cost than buying premium items individually.

Those without strong preferences: If you don't care about specific brands or features, package items work fine.

When to Buy Separately

Specific feature requirements: If you need a particular BCD style, regulator type, or computer feature, packages rarely match exactly.

Quality priorities: Package items tend toward mid-range. If you want premium grinder or regulator, buy separately.

Fit-critical items: Wetsuits and masks in packages often disappoint. Fit varies too much for one-size-fits-most approach.

UK-Specific Package Concerns

Cold water regulators: Ensure package regulators are environmentally sealed. Tropical-focused packages may include unsealed regulators unsuitable for UK temperatures.

Wetsuit thickness: UK packages should include 7mm suits. If the package offers 5mm, it's designed for warmer waters.

Integrated weights: UK divers carry more weight. Verify BCD weight capacity meets UK requirements (8-12kg typically).

What's Usually Missing from Packages

Packages commonly exclude:

Hood (essential for UK): Add around £30-60

Quality gloves (UK-appropriate): Add around £30-50

Torch (recommended for UK): Add around £50-100

SMB and reel (essential for UK): Add around £40-80

Budget extra £150-300 on top of package price for UK-specific accessories.

UK Retailers Offering Packages

Simply Scuba offers competitive packages with good brand selection. Online ordering with returns accepted.

Mike's Dive Store provides packages with personal service and fitting assistance.

Local dive shops often bundle training courses with equipment packages. The fitting support and ongoing relationship may justify price premiums.

BSAC and PADI centres sometimes arrange group purchases for members with club discounts.

Package Evaluation Checklist

Before buying any package:

1. Is the regulator cold water rated? (Essential) 2. Is the wetsuit 7mm or appropriate for UK? (Essential) 3. Does BCD weight capacity meet UK needs? (Essential) 4. Can you try on fit-critical items? (Important) 5. What's the returns policy? (Important) 6. What warranty and service support exists? (Important)

## Package Brand Comparison

Understanding what different brands offer in their packages helps you make informed decisions.

Scubapro Packages Scubapro offers premium packages with their Hydros Pro BCD and MK25 EVO regulators. Cold water performance is excellent, but prices run higher than competitors. Expect around £2,000-3,000 for complete setups. UK service network is excellent.

Mares Packages Mares provides good mid-range packages with their Rover and Dragon BCDs paired with various regulator options. Price point around £1,200-2,000 for complete packages. Good value for recreational UK diving.

Cressi Packages Cressi offers entry-level packages at accessible prices. Their Solid or Start BCDs with MC9 or AC2 regulators suit beginners. Packages around £800-1,500. Ensure regulator is cold water rated for UK use.

Apeks Packages British brand Apeks focuses on cold water performance. Their packages pair Exotec or Black Ice BCDs with XTX or XL4 regulators. Premium pricing around £1,500-2,500 but designed specifically for UK conditions.

## How to Negotiate Package Deals

UK dive shops often have flexibility on package pricing, especially for complete setups.

Ask about substitutions: Most shops will swap package items for alternatives at adjusted prices. Want a different regulator? Ask if they'll credit the included one toward your preferred choice.

Bundle training: If you're also taking courses, negotiate combined discounts. Many shops offer 10-20% off equipment for students.

End of season deals: September-November sees better package prices as shops clear summer stock. Winter diving isn't for everyone, so demand drops.

Ex-demo and display models: Shops often discount lightly-used demonstration equipment. Ask about warranties and service history.

## Package vs Individual: Cost Comparison

Let's break down a typical UK diving setup both ways:

Individual Purchases: - BCD (Apeks Black Ice): £475 - Regulator (Apeks XTX50): £550 - 7mm Wetsuit (Fourth Element Proteus II): £350 - Dive Computer (Shearwater Peregrine): £450 - Mask, Fins, Boots: £180 - Total: £2,005

Comparable Package Deal: - Complete package with similar spec: £1,600-1,800 - Savings: £200-400

The package saves money, but individual purchases let you choose exactly what suits your diving style, body shape, and preferences. Most experienced UK divers buy individually after their first setup.

## Our Recommendation

Packages can offer genuine value for beginners buying complete setups. Verify cold water suitability before purchase. Budget extra for UK-specific accessories not typically included.

For divers with specific preferences, buying individually usually delivers better long-term satisfaction despite higher initial cost.

## Not Sure Which Approach?

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