Diving insurance covers you when you’re diving.

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<div><img src="https://s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/giant-stride-media-staging/rXRRyLNs4TTV-underwater-photo-scuba-diver-moray-eel.webp" alt="Diving insurance covers you when you’re diving."></div><div><br></div><div>Scuba diving can open up a fun and fascinating new world for those who experience it. But, like all new experiences, you want to be as safe as possible when exploring this undersea world. Many new to scuba diving may think that because they have travel insurance, they're automatically covered for any accidents that may happen while scuba diving. However, travel insurance and scuba diving insurance provide different types of coverage. We’ll explore the reasons why diving insurance is recommended for both avid and casual divers, especially when traveling overseas for scuba diving adventures.</div><div><br></div><div>While it’s crucial to be covered for any accidents or illnesses you may encounter when overseas, diving insurance also covers you for specialized treatment relating to diving injuries and losses or damage to your diving equipment.</div><div><br></div><h2>Diving Insurance Prioritizes Your Safety</h2><div>Although millions of people around the world safely enjoy scuba diving, there are some inherent risks involved.</div><div><br></div><div>When you have diving insurance, your safety will always be prioritized. Your insurer may be able to recommend certain dive companies and guides in popular diving destinations that have a proven record of safety. You'll also be more likely to receive the highest quality medical treatment if you have a medical problem or emergency.</div><div><br></div><h2>Medical Coverage is Directly Related to Scuba Diving</h2><div>Your insurer typically maintains an international network of healthcare providers that provide expert care for dive-related injuries, including hyperbaric chamber sessions, care for pressure-related injuries, ear injuries, necessary evacuation, and post-treatment care.</div><div><br></div><div>The diving insurer will understand every type of dive-related injury and give quick approval for any needed treatment.</div><div><br></div><h2>Covers Your Diving Equipment</h2><div><img src="https://s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/giant-stride-media-staging/g19TThV15trQ-full-set-scuba-diving-equipment-fins.webp" alt="Dive equipment is a significant investment."></div><div><br></div><div>While travel insurance may be able to cover the costs of some of the most likely dive injuries, the insurance will only cover personal medical costs.</div><div><br></div><div>However, divers invest significant funds in their equipment. Buoyancy compensator devices (BCDs), wetsuits, masks, fins, snorkels, and dive computers are equipment that every diver relies on to provide safety and comfort. They take this equipment with them on dive trips instead of renting it at their destination. Scuba diving insurance typically also covers this equipment against damage or loss while traveling and in the water.</div><div><br></div><h2>Trip Cancellation and Interruption Expenses</h2><div>Taking a dive trip to a foreign country for a week or two can be expensive and involve substantial planning and booking. Having to cancel a trip due to illness, unforeseen travel restrictions, or the local weather conditions at your destination can be frustrating.</div><div><br></div><div>Scuba diving insurance covers trip cancellation and interruption costs. It enables you to recoup your expenses and rebook your trip for another time.</div><div><br></div><h2>International Coverage</h2><div>Having diving insurance is crucial for adventurers who love exploring the millions of fascinating dive sites around the world. Scuba diving insurance is designed to provide global coverage. However, please check with your insurer before planning a trip to some out-of-the-way countries and destinations to ensure you'll enjoy full coverage while there.</div><div><br></div><h2>Don’t Rely on Travel Insurance</h2><div>Relying on travel insurance to cover situations like emergency treatment in a hyperbaric chamber can be problematic. Travel insurance policies often exclude what they consider to be high-risk activities. Even if the policy allows for scuba diving, certain restrictions may govern the allowed depths or the number of dives.</div><div><br></div><div>It can be a long and complicated process to get the company to pay for expenses it doesn't feel are covered under the existing policies.</div><div><br></div><h2>Dive with Giant Stride in Thailand</h2><div>By having an international diving insurance policy and only booking reputable dive courses and trips, you can enjoy the magic of <a href="https://giantstridetravel.com/explore/country/thailand" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">scuba diving in Thailand</a>. Giant Stride offers valuable information about reputable dive courses, liveaboards, and day trips in Thailand.</div><div><br></div><div>Comprehensive training by certified professionals is required to enjoy the best dive sites worldwide. Being trained by knowledgeable professionals in the warm, clear waters of Thailand also gives you an extra level of insurance, and allows you to judge when a dive situation is safe or unsafe. It gives you an extra measure of confidence.</div><div><br></div><div>At Giant Stride, we provide a list of the most reputable dive courses in Thailand. We also provide lists and descriptions of high-quality liveaboards and day trips in Thailand. If you find the perfect trip or dive course, you can also book it directly through us. Experience the utmost convenience and enjoyment by booking dive trips and courses in Thailand through Giant Stride.</div>

Discover the importance of having scuba diving insurance, particularly in a foreign country. We’ll discuss the range of coverage it provides. 

Do We Need Scuba Diving Insurance?

Why Diving Insurance is Recommended

scuba diver enter with giant stride entry

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<h2><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">What is Giant Stride Entry in Scuba Diving</strong></h2><div><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Picture this: you're standing on the edge of a dive boat, the sun glinting off the water, your gear snug and ready for action. With a confident step, you take a bold stride forward and suddenly you're immersed in a whole new world. This iconic move is called the Giant Stride, a staple in the scuba diving community.</span></div><div><br></div><div><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">The Giant Stride isn’t just a means of getting into the water—it’s a rite of passage for divers. Whether you’re stepping off a sturdy boat platform or a bustling dock, this technique combines simplicity with effectiveness. It ensures your gear stays in place and your entry into the underwater is smooth and controlled. From the moment your fins break the surface, you’re already one step closer to adventure.</span></div><h2><br></h2><h2><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">What are the Proper Techniques for Giant Stride Entry</strong></h2><div><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Performing a Giant Stride entry correctly requires attention to safety and proper form. You can follow these steps to execute the technique with confidence:</span></div><div><br></div><div><strong style="background-color: transparent;">Prepare Your Gear</strong><span style="background-color: transparent;">: Ensure all your scuba gear, including your mask, regulator, and BCD, is securely in place. Double-check that your fins are on properly and that your weight belt or integrated weights are secure.</span></div><div><br></div><div><strong style="background-color: transparent;">Position Yourself</strong><span style="background-color: transparent;">: Stand at the edge of the platform with your toes slightly overhanging. Ensure you’re balanced and have a firm footing.</span></div><div><br></div><div><strong style="background-color: transparent;">Hold Your Gear</strong><span style="background-color: transparent;">: Use one hand to hold your mask and regulator in place to prevent them from dislodging during the entry. The other hand can secure your weight belt or equipment.</span></div><div><br></div><div><strong style="background-color: transparent;">Look Forward</strong><span style="background-color: transparent;">: Keep your eyes on the horizon to maintain orientation and avoid looking down, which can throw off your balance.</span></div><div><br></div><div><strong style="background-color: transparent;">Take a Big Step</strong><span style="background-color: transparent;">: Step forward with one foot, making a wide stride into the water. Avoid jumping or hopping to prevent entanglement with your gear.</span></div><div><br></div><div><strong style="background-color: transparent;">Descend Gracefully</strong><span style="background-color: transparent;">: Once in the water, bring your legs together and allow your BCD to keep you buoyant. Signal to your dive buddy or boat crew that you’re okay before proceeding.</span></div><div><br></div><div><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Practicing this technique in a controlled environment, such as a pool, can help build confidence and refine your movements. When you studying you open water certification, your dive instructor will teach you and let practice the technique until you're confident before jumping into the ocean.</span></div><h2><br></h2><h2><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Benefits of the Giant Stride Entry</strong></h2><div><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">The Giant Stride entry is more than just a convenient way to get into the water—it offers several benefits:</span></div><div><br></div><div><strong style="background-color: transparent;">Ease of Use</strong><span style="background-color: transparent;">: The straightforward technique is easy to learn, making it ideal for divers of all experience levels.</span></div><div><br></div><div><strong style="background-color: transparent;">Equipment Protection</strong><span style="background-color: transparent;">: By maintaining control during the entry, divers reduce the risk of dislodging or damaging their gear.</span></div><div><br></div><div><strong style="background-color: transparent;">Stability</strong><span style="background-color: transparent;">: The controlled nature of the stride helps divers stay balanced and oriented as they enter the water.</span></div><div><br></div><div><strong style="background-color: transparent;">Quick and Efficient</strong><span style="background-color: transparent;">: Perfect for busy dive boats, the Giant Stride allows multiple divers to enter the water swiftly without delay.</span></div><div><br></div><div><strong style="background-color: transparent;">Adaptability</strong><span style="background-color: transparent;">: Suited to various environments, from calm seas to moderately wavy conditions, it’s a versatile technique for many dive scenarios.</span></div><h2><br></h2><h2><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Common Mistakes to Avoid During Giant Stride Entry</strong></h2><div><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">While the Giant Stride is simple, there are a few common mistakes that divers should avoid:</span></div><div><br></div><div><strong style="background-color: transparent;">Neglecting to Hold the Mask and Regulator</strong><span style="background-color: transparent;">: Failing to secure these can result in the mask shifting or water entering the regulator during the entry.</span></div><div><br></div><div><strong style="background-color: transparent;">Jumping Instead of Striding</strong><span style="background-color: transparent;">: A jump can cause unnecessary impact, potentially affecting gear and posture.</span></div><div><br></div><div><strong style="background-color: transparent;">Looking Down</strong><span style="background-color: transparent;">: This can throw off balance and increase the chance of an awkward entry.</span></div><div><br></div><div><strong style="background-color: transparent;">Improper Gear Check</strong><span style="background-color: transparent;">: Not securing fins, weights, or straps can lead to discomfort or equipment loss once in the water.</span></div><div><br></div><div><strong style="background-color: transparent;">Hesitating at the Edge</strong><span style="background-color: transparent;">: Hesitation can result in a lack of confidence, leading to an unstable entry.</span></div><div><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">By being mindful of these mistakes, divers can ensure a smooth and enjoyable start to their underwater exploration.</span></div><h2><br></h2><h2><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">What is Giant Stride Entry Suited For</strong></h2><div><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">The Giant Stride entry is ideal for many scenarios and diving conditions:</span></div><div><br></div><div><strong style="background-color: transparent;">Dive Boats</strong><span style="background-color: transparent;">: Most commonly used from large dive boats with stable entry platforms. The Giant Stride allows divers to enter quickly and efficiently, even in slightly choppy waters.</span></div><div><br></div><div><strong style="background-color: transparent;">Docks and Piers</strong><span style="background-color: transparent;">: Perfect for locations where the water’s edge is elevated, and a large stride is needed to clear obstacles.</span></div><div><br></div><div><strong style="background-color: transparent;">Calm to Moderate Waters</strong><span style="background-color: transparent;">: Best suited for environments where the surface conditions are calm or moderately wavy. In rough conditions, alternate techniques might be more appropriate.</span></div><div><br></div><div><strong style="background-color: transparent;">Divers with Full Gear</strong><span style="background-color: transparent;">: Ideal for scuba divers fully equipped with tanks and other gear as it minimizes the impact on equipment integrity and diver posture.</span></div><h2><br></h2><h2><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">What are Other Entry Options</strong></h2><div><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">While the Giant Stride is widely used, other water entry techniques might be more appropriate depending on the environment and situation:</span></div><div><br></div><div><strong style="background-color: transparent;">Back Roll Entry</strong><span style="background-color: transparent;">: Often used from smaller boats or inflatable rafts, divers sit on the edge and roll backward into the water.</span></div><div><strong style="background-color: transparent;">Seated Entry</strong><span style="background-color: transparent;">: Ideal for shallow waters or unstable platforms, divers slide off the edge into the water.</span></div><div><strong style="background-color: transparent;">Shore Entry</strong><span style="background-color: transparent;">: Common in beach dives, divers walk into the water from shore, often battling waves and uneven footing.</span></div><div><strong style="background-color: transparent;">Controlled Entry</strong><span style="background-color: transparent;">: Divers carefully lower themselves into the water, often used in areas with delicate coral or rocky surfaces.</span></div><div><br></div><div><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Choosing the right entry technique ensures diver safety and comfort while preserving the underwater environment. Each method has its own set of advantages and is suited to specific scenarios, making it essential for divers to familiarize themselves with multiple entry techniques.</span></div><h2><br></h2><h2><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Why we name our website giantstridetravel.com</strong><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">&nbsp;</span></h2><div><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Giant Stride is the easiest way to enter the underwater world. It is an exciting technique. It is a fun jump. And, BAM, suddenly you feel the water temperature hitting you, and you are ready to look down for the adventure below the surface. </span></div><div><br></div><div><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">For our team at Giant Stride, our mission is to make the scuba diving booking journey as seamless and enjoyable as possible. We want the process to be quick and efficient, sparking excitement for the upcoming adventure. From booking to boarding the boat, we aim to eliminate hassles so divers can focus on the thrill of diving. That’s why we chose the name Giant Stride—it aligns with our purpose of delivering the smoothest experience for every scuba diver.&nbsp;</span></div>

Dive like a pro with the Giant Stride entry. Follow our tips to ensure a safe, stable, and hassle-free start to your underwater adventure

Giant Stride: The Iconic Scuba Diving Entry

Perfect Your Dive with the Giant Stride Entry

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Step-by-step Similan liveaboard guide by a local diver with 500+ dives. Plan your trip, choose the right boat, and dive like a pro!

Step-by-Step: A Local’s Guide to Similan Liveaboards

Fitness is needed to carry heavy scuba diving gear.

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<div><img src="https://s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/giant-stride-media-staging/CBHwxdW4OWyT-scuba-diver-ready-jump-into-water.webp" alt="Fitness is needed to carry heavy scuba diving gear. "></div><div><br></div><div>People who have only seen scuba divers peacefully floating above a reef or exploring an undersea canyon in movies or videos may often think that scuba diving doesn’t demand much effort. The truth is that most avid scuba divers maintain a level of fitness that simply makes their hobby look easy.</div><div><br></div><h2>Why is Fitness Necessary for Scuba Divers?</h2><div>Scuba diving requires a variety of sometimes heavy equipment that must be transported to the dive site and, once there, must be worn when entering and leaving the water. Diving from the shore can be strenuous and carrying the equipment can be taxing. On liveaboard and single-day dive boats, the divers have to climb up and down dive ladders to get in and out of the water wearing their equipment and tanks. The ladders can move and sway with the waves.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>Once safely in the water, the current can make swimming tiring, and even trying to stay in one place to catch sight of rare and beautiful marine creatures can be hard.</div><div><br></div><h2>PADI Open Water Dive Course Physical Requirements</h2><div>The PADI Open Water dive course requires people to be able to swim at least 200 meters freestyle or 300 meters with a mask, fins and snorkel. It also requires you to be able to tread water for at least 10 minutes. However, most experienced divers learn that these are bare minimum fitness requirements and that day-to-day diving can be more demanding, depending on the location, water conditions, and whether you're diving from a boat or from shore.&nbsp;&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><h2>Fitness for Scuba Divers</h2><div>Many divers have realized that they need to build up their stamina, strength, and endurance to get the most from their new lifestyle and hobby. Being as fit as possible also benefits their safety when entering and leaving the water and when swimming. They are also in a better position to help other, less-experienced divers who may experience difficulties.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>We've created a list of a few areas to focus on that will help get you in the best shape to enjoy open-water diving. They include:</div><div><br></div><h3>Cardio Training to Build Endurance</h3><div>Although diving typically doesn't entail a tremendous amount of swimming, having the endurance to overcome any situations that may arise is important. The sea can be strong and unforgiving, and having a high level of endurance can make your day easier and safer. Swimming laps to improve arm and leg strength is also an excellent way to improve endurance. Cycling or jogging also improves leg strength and the cardiovascular system.&nbsp;&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><h3>Strength Training to Improve Muscle Power</h3><div>High-intensity interval training (HIIT), leg exercises like squats and lunges, and upper-body workouts, including push-ups and rows, help you manage a day of diving. Strength is often needed to lift and transport equipment on the beach or rocks or up and down ladders on boats. Having the strength when you need it is crucial in an open-water environment.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><h3>Practice Meditation to Reduce Anxiety and Increase Focus</h3><div><img src="https://s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/giant-stride-media-staging/Q6ZNTLdd2tIc-scuba-diver-his-equipment-sits-on.webp" alt="A diver meditates before his dive."></div><div><br></div><div>You need mental clarity to dive effectively and avoid some of the problems that can occur in the undersea diving environment. Keeping oriented and aware of where your dive buddy and boat are can be crucial. Knowing which sea creatures to avoid and being aware of the current’s effects are also important in enjoying every aspect of your dive. Knowing when to stop and take a cleansing breath can help you avoid any trouble.&nbsp;&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><h3>Reduce Muscle Stiffness and Injuries by Stretching</h3><div>Stretching at the end of your diving day can be particularly valuable if you’re on a liveaboard and finishing day one of a multi-day dive trip. It can help prepare your body for the next day of diving, along with the inevitable lifting and donning of dive equipment. Stretching also focuses your mind on the need for rest and allows you to forget the excitement of the day and prepare your body for the next day.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><h2>Get into Scuba Diving with Giant Stride</h2><div>If you’re reasonably fit and love the outdoor lifestyle, why not enroll in a <a href="https://giantstridetravel.com/service/course" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">diving course in Thailand</a>?</div><div><br></div><div>Giant Stride offers a vast array of dive experiences from experienced dive boats and dive guides in Thailand. You can book your dive adventure directly through our website. Let Giant Stride be your guide to diving and a healthier lifestyle in Thailand.&nbsp;</div>

Read our guide to learn more about the fitness level you must maintain to enjoy scuba diving to the fullest.

Fitness Training for Scuba Divers

How to Train for Scuba Diving

Scuba divers taking a required surface interval.

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<div><img src="https://s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/giant-stride-media-staging/jJLOFTcKyS5i-group-scuba-divers-going-dive-point.webp" alt="Tag: Scuba divers taking a required surface interval. "></div><div><br></div><div>One of the major safety issues of scuba diving is regulating the nitrogen levels in your bloodstream. Every scuba course will spend time teaching you about safety steps that help you avoid getting the "bends" or decompression sickness.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>When you dive, the depth exerts increased pressure on your body and the nitrogen within your bloodstream. Divers are taught to ascend slowly from their dive and take one or more safety stops. These safety stops may last longer the deeper you’ve dived. This is to allow the nitrogen in your blood to dissipate slowly and normally.</div><div><br></div><h2>What is Decompression Sickness (DCS)?</h2><div>Decompression sickness (DCS) is caused by a sudden reduction in the air pressure around you, which happens if you surface too quickly at the end of your dive. The rapid ascent causes the nitrogen in your bloodstream to form bubbles that can become lodged in your joints and tissues, causing intense, debilitating pain. The only cure for DCS is to return your body to the same pressure and then slowly reduce the pressure, allowing the nitrogen bubbles to dissipate naturally. This is the purpose of a decompression chamber. The chamber can be set at the same pressure as you experienced during your dive and then can be slowly brought up to sea level pressure. There are typically decompression chambers in all popular diving areas that are available on an emergency basis to divers.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>Here is a list of flying and other activities that should be avoided soon after scuba diving because they increase the risks of DCS. They include:&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><h3>1. Flying</h3><div>The problem with flying soon after scuba diving is it increases the risk of DCS by subjecting you to a much greater range of differences in air pressure, thereby increasing the risk of bubbles forming in the bloodstream. Airliners normally operate with cabin pressure set at around 1,800 to 2.400 meters or so above sea level. A general rule of diving is to leave a 24-hour surface interval before and after scuba diving and flying.&nbsp;&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><h3>2. Mountain Climbing</h3><div>Mountain climbing should be avoided after diving, and you should avoid even driving to high altitudes after diving. If you must climb, do it before diving and leave a 24-hour surface interval between the activities.&nbsp;&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><h3>3. Ziplining</h3><div>While ziplines exist that offer minimal altitude variances and are perfectly safe to ride at sea-level, any ziplining that entails climbing to a high altitude before riding should be avoided within 24 hours after diving.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><h3>4. Deep Tissue Massage</h3><div>While a relaxing massage will probably be fine, deep tissue massages can increase blood flow and lead to bubble formation within 24 hours after a dive. The muscle soreness from a deep tissue massage can also be misdiagnosed as DCS when the activities happen close together.&nbsp;&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><h3>5. Relaxing in a Hot Tub or Shower</h3><div>The rules about heat and diving are a lot looser. You should simply wait at least a half hour or more before jumping into a hot bath or shower when you've been diving in a cold-water environment. Taking a hot bath too soon after cold-water diving can cause bubbles to form before your circulation can increase and safely remove them.&nbsp;&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><h3>6. Drinking After Diving</h3><div>Actions that interfere with the process of eliminating nitrogen from the bloodstream should be avoided until well after diving, and this includes drinking. Please wait a few hours after your last dive before celebrating with alcohol.&nbsp;&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><h3>7. Freediving</h3><div>The physical exertion of freediving can cause bubbles to form in your body, which can enter arterial circulation from the increased water pressure. Avoid freediving within 24 hours of a scuba dive requiring a decompression safety stop.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><h3>8. Strenuous Exercise</h3><div>The same reasons for avoiding freediving also apply to any strenuous exercise that entails heavy and rapid repeated use of joints and limbs. Let your body rest for at least 6 hours after diving.&nbsp;&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><h3>9. Skipping Surface Intervals</h3><div>Diving in a beautiful place that’s rich with marine life may cause you to consider shortening or even skipping your surface interval (the time between dives). However, failure to allow the nitrogen to dissipate naturally can increase your risk of DCS. Stick to your required surface intervals!</div><div><br></div><div><img src="https://s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/giant-stride-media-staging/jTnpd8EKT7JO-snorkel-mask-on-suitcase-sea-travel.webp" alt="Scuba equipment is a common sight when flying."></div><div><br></div><h3>10. Pay Attention to Your Body</h3><div>Learn the symptoms of DCS and be aware of any changes to your body after diving. Fatigue, rashes, nausea, and headaches can also be symptoms of other illnesses. However, if they occur soon after diving, please notify your dive buddy or dive master.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><h2>Dive Safely in Thailand with Giant Stride</h2><div>Giant Stride offers listings of the best dive courses for beginner and experienced divers in Thailand. Plus, you can browse the best dive sites, liveaboards and day-long <a href="https://giantstridetravel.com/service/day-trip" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">scuba diving trips</a> in the country.&nbsp;&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>If you’re interested in exploring the underwater beauty of Thailand, book a safe and reputable course through Giant Stride today.&nbsp;&nbsp;</div>

Every diver knows that diving and flying don't mix. We'll explain why and reveal some other activities to avoid before and after a dive.

The Rules of Scuba Diving and Flying

How Long After Scuba Diving Before You Can Fly?

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<div><img src="https://s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/giant-stride-media-staging/HA0EXrwCwc6G-tenggol-island-terengganu-malaysia-september.webp" alt="A scuba diver equalizes their ears"></div><div><br></div><div>Anyone who has spent any time in the water has probably experienced the pain that can occur if your ears are not equalized properly. It can happen in as little as two to three meters of water, so many people first experience it in a swimming pool.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>Air is trapped in the normally-closed eustachian tubes of the middle ears. During a dive the pressure of the water increases the deeper we go and this causes pain in our ears unless we equalize it to counteract the water pressure.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><h2>Equalization Methods</h2><div>There are many ways to physically equalize the ears. The most common method taught to divers is to hold your nose to prevent the escape of air and then exhale. You should notice an immediate release of the pressure and a little pop or squeaking sound as your ears equalize. If you continue to descend, you’ll have to do it again and again until you reach your target depth.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><h2>Several Equalization Techniques</h2><div>Dive courses will teach different equalization techniques, and you should learn different equalization techniques until you find the one that works best for you. Some people find that swallowing or moving their jaw while pinching their nose works better than exhaling. Some people find that thrusting their jaw forward helps them equalize. Know several of these techniques in case your favorite isn’t working for you on a dive.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><h2>Reverse Block</h2><div><img src="https://s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/giant-stride-media-staging/Azhm4tX89qYT-diver-do-safety-stop-after-diving.webp" alt="A diving safety stop helps prevent a reverse block."></div><div><br></div><div>But what happens during a reverse block in scuba diving? The reverse block happens when you’re ascending, which may surprise you if you’ve never encountered it before. Your first thought may be to equalize your ears normally, but don’t! The air in your ears is causing pain because it’s being blocked from escaping as it expands. By equalizing, you’ll just be increasing the pressure in your ears and could risk ear barotrauma, or a rupture in your ears.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>Instead, stay at your depth, and relax. Give your ears some time to equalize on their own. It can take 10-15 minutes, which is one of the reasons why you should always plan your dive leaving a safety measure of extra air in your tanks. Equalizing your ears only increases the pressure, and the pain is caused by air in your ears expanding as you ascend.</div><div>Descend back down a few meters until you feel the pressure ease. Then try ascending again at a slower rate. You should also notify your dive buddy that you’re having trouble ascending.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><h2>Causes of a Reverse Block in Diving</h2><div>One of the first things you learn when you begin diving is never to dive when you have a cold or any sinus congestion. Most reverse blocks in diving are caused by mucus in the ear canal blocking the natural air expansion as we ascend. Many divers use decongestants and other sinus relief aids to help ensure their sinuses are clear when diving and these medications may not work as effectively when you’re halfway through a dive.&nbsp;&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>The best prevention for reverse block is to avoid diving when you have a cold, allergies, or a sinus headache.</div><div><br></div><h2>Earplugs for Diving</h2><div>There are generally divided opinions on wearing earplugs for diving. Many diving associations and regulatory bodies recommend avoiding them completely, while other divers swear by them, claiming that they make equalization easier. Earplugs may be an answer to diving with an exterior ear infection, but they should never be relied on to dive with any type of sinus congestion.</div><div><br></div><div>If you choose to try them, you should buy vented earplugs, which have a small hole that allows for equalization without allowing water into the ear canal. However, you should ensure that you can also equalize your ears effectively without relying on earplugs, just in case. The plugs should never be seen as a diving shortcut that allows you to dive with a cold or sinus congestion.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><h2>Find Diving Courses with Giant Stride</h2><div>Giant Stride offers a wealth of information on reputable <a href="https://giantstridetravel.com/explore/country/thailand" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">diving courses in Thailand</a>. We have both beginner and advanced certified diving courses, plus day diving trips and multi-day liveaboard diving adventures. You can quickly and easily book a dive trip or course directly through us. Explore our website and learn everything you need to know about diving in Thailand!&nbsp;</div>

Most divers have encountered blocked ears while descending, but what is a reverse block in scuba diving? We’ll explain the concept and remedy. 