Anyone who dives regularly will eventually face a simple but not so easy question:
Do I really need this piece of equipment?
The range of gear available is huge. Knives, lights, SMBs, signal devices, shakers, backup tools, spools, clips, spare parts—many of these items make sense. And yet, the question keeps coming up whether we carry something because it’s useful, or simply because we feel it should be there.
Essentials are not up for debate
There are items that, for me, are non-negotiable.
A dive computer is one of them. A torch as well—not only for night or cave dives, but also during daytime dives to look into crevices or communicate with your buddy. In many regions or at certain dive sites, equipment like an SMB or a knife / cutting tool is mandatory or strongly recommended.
This type of equipment is not about appearance.
It’s about safety—and safety always comes first.
Then comes the grey area
Things get interesting with equipment that isn’t strictly required.
Signal devices like whistles, rattles, shakers or acoustic alarms. Surface signaling mirrors. Backup lights on easy dives. Small gadgets you carry “just in case”.
There is no clear right or wrong here.
But there is one important question: Why am I carrying this?
Function or impression?
Sometimes it feels like equipment is carried to make an impression—especially on less experienced divers. Lots of D-rings, lots of metal, lots of gear hanging from the BCD. This can come from insecurity, a desire to appear experienced, or simply the feeling of being extra prepared.
That doesn’t need judgment—but it does deserve reflection.
More equipment doesn’t automatically mean more safety. Often it means more weight, more drag, more things that can get tangled or need managing.
My personal approach
Personally, I like to carry a shaker. Not to make noise for the sake of it, but to calmly and clearly get my buddy’s attention when needed. For me, it’s a practical tool—nothing more.
At the same time, I have no interest in turning my BCD into a collection of D-rings covered in gear. It’s heavy enough already. I want to move freely underwater, not feel like a floating toolbox.
Context matters
Whether you need something always depends on context:
- Where am I diving?
- Who am I diving with?
- What conditions can I expect?
- How well do I know the dive site?
A signal device can be very useful in current or with larger groups. A surface mirror can be a real safety bonus in areas with boat traffic. In other situations, these items may never be used.
Both are fine—as long as the decision is conscious.
Less is not always better—but often more honest
For me, it’s not about diving with as little equipment as possible.
It’s about diving with meaningful equipment. Carrying things I understand, can use confidently, and would actually rely on if needed.
Everything else can stay on shore.
An invitation to an honest question
Maybe the most important question about dive equipment isn’t:
What do others carry?
But rather: Why do I carry this—and would I miss it if it wasn’t there?
Diving feels best to me when equipment supports the experience instead of distracting from it. When it adds safety without becoming a stage. And when it does exactly what it’s meant to do: help—not impress.