Below we provide a list of the essential dive gear you will need to start taking diving classes and how much you should spend on them. You can either buy the necessary gear from an online dive shop or from your local store, but keep in mind that an online dive shop often offers a wider range of models and brands at more affordable prices than a local shop.
The next item on the list is a dive computer. Although some dive centers rent out this device, in most places they are still not available. The good news is that the price of dive computers have dropped significantly in the last years, and owning one is of extremely importance as it might just save your life if you get lost from a group during a deep dive. If you are in tight budget, you should choose an entry dive computer model of a reputable brand.
Whether you will need to buy an exposure suit will depend on where you will be diving. For example, if you are planning to dive mainly in tropical water once in a while, then buying this gear in not a priority for you. But if you are considering diving in cooler waters regularly, you might want to buy a good wetsuit immediately.
Investing in a quality BCD will really boost your diving experience and comfort. Keep attention to the location of the pockets, how the weight system works, and all the other little details that help ensure your safety and tranquility during a dive. If you will be using your BCD mostly during travel, a light-weight version will do the work. The price of this gear will depend on the features it comes with, but a mid-range BCD should fit your diving needs.
Having your own regulator doesn't only allow you to set it up the way you want but also means knowing the last time your gear was serviced. And for safety reasons, when buying a regulator, avoid going too cheap. If you intend to do night diving, consider getting your own torch.