BRINGING KITESURFING GEAR TO CURAÇAO

From mid-December till August, Curaçao is an incredible kiteboarding destination with steady trade winds, warm waters, and a laid-back island vibe. I have noticed that many people dream about the heights they’d jump, the rotations they’d roll, and the miles they’d slide if they only had their own kite gear with them. If you’re planning to bring your own kite gear, here’s everything you need to know to make your trip smooth and hassle-free.

Packing Your Kite Gear for Travel

Invest in a durable, lightweight kiteboarding travel bag. Wheeled bags make transport easier, but non-wheeled bags tend to be around 3 kg’s lighter and therefore might help avoid extra baggage fees, aswell airports have carts at your disposal.

What to Pack:

  • Kites: Bring 1–3 kites depending on the wind conditions and your weight. The most used sizes in Curaçao are 9m, 10m, 11m and 12m. If you are small, a 8m and 7m and if you are large, a 13m+ will be nice to bring as well.
  • Board: A twintip board is ideal. The spot is also suited for foiling. There are no waves, yet an amazing spot to practise your directional skills. A board is easily rented with us!
  • Pump: Though the kite schools will lend you a pump and the locals are friendly as well, it’s always handy to have your own. But not the end of the world if you don’t.
  • Harness & Safety Gear: Don’t forget your harness, leash, and helmet (if you use one).
  • Wetsuit or Rash Guard: The water is warm (around 26-28°C). Wetsuits are not needed. A longsleeve rash guard and cheap (polarized) sunglasses recommended for sun protection.
  • Repair Kit & Extras: Do you still have (weight) space? Pack extra bladders, valves, and a repair kit in case you need a quick fix.

Packing Tips:

  • Distribute weight: Place the heaviest items (board and kites) near the wheels of the bag.
  • Use vacuum bags: Deflate kites fully and use vacuum-sealed bags to save space.
  • Protect the board: Wrap the edges with your clothes.
  • Extra space: Use your kitebag as handluggage and fill it with your vacation clothes.

Airline Baggage Policies & Fees

Most airlines allow kite gear as sports equipment or regular checked baggage, but policies vary.

  • Check baggage weight limits (usually 23 – 32 kg in businessclass per checked bag).
  • Check baggage size limits (usually up till 158 cm with a max of 3m)
  • Some airlines charge extra fees for oversized sports equipment.
  • Label your bag “sports equipment” instead of “kite gear” to avoid unnecessary scrutiny.

Recommended airlines for traveling to Curaçao with sports gear:

  • KLM – Allows kite gear within standard baggage rules. The length, width and hight cannot exceed a total of 158 cm with a weight of max 23 kg or 32 kg (BusinessClass). Larger is allowed, a special request has to be done.
  • American Airlines – Usually charges an oversized baggage fee of $60 for a size total of 165cm. Larger is accepted for a larger fee.
  • TUI Fly – Accepts kite gear with prior notice. They charge 55eu per way for a max of 30kg and total of 158cm. Larger is allowed, a special request has to be done.

Final Tips for a Smooth Kite Trip

  • Double-check airline baggage policies before your flight.
  • Pack repair essentials in case of damage.
  • Use sunscreen, sunglasses and wear a rash guard to protect against the Caribbean sun.
  • Bring watershoes incase you are having to do the walk of shame. We kite without shoes, but beginner-intermediates can benefit from them.

Now you’re ready to bring your kite gear to Curaçao and enjoy world-class kiteboarding conditions! Need more tips?
Contact Awa Salu Kiteboarding for local advice, lessons, and rentals.