Is it preferable to buy snorkel gear before going to Aruba, or is renting daily the way the go?

You have to consider how important snorkelling is to your vacation. My husband and I used to rent until a vacation experience caused us to realize how much we wanted to snorkel while on vacation. While in Cuba, my mask seemed to fit on shore but when we got into the water it leaked so much I could not stay under for more than a minute. My husband, who wears glasses, could see much without his glasses. Before our next vacation, we bought all our own gear. Now wherever we go, we know our snorkels are clean, our masks will fit, and my husband will see (he got perscription lenses in his mask). If you think this is something you will do every time you are on vacation, I think it is worth buying your own gear.

The way I look at it, part of snorkel equipment consists of a mouthpiece. How comfortable are you with someone else's mouthpiece in your mouth? <BR> <BR>We bought our own for that reason, but also because we wanted good quality. If space is a consideration, maybe get your own head gear, and get the fins locally.

We always bring our own snorkeling gear while on vacation. We know it fits us well, is clean and we like to be able to travel around an island and snorkel in different locations. It packs pretty flat and doesn't take up too much room in the suitcase. We also carry it in mesh snorkling bags so it can dry quickly and be carried easily. And if you plan to snorkel alot, the cost of renting every day can exceed the cost of buying.

If you plan on doing a lot of snorkeling, DEFINITELY buy your own quality equipment....it packs easy, and you don't have to worry about having to pick it up and return it everyday if renting.