Best Car for Scuba Diving: Top Picks for Underwater Adventures

Scuba diving is an exciting and adventurous activity that requires a lot of preparation and gear. One essential piece of equipment that many divers overlook is the vehicle they use to get to the dive site. The right car can make all the difference in the world when it comes to transporting your scuba gear safely and comfortably.

When it comes to choosing the best car for scuba diving, there are a few critical things to consider. The first is space. You’ll need a car with enough room to fit all of your gear, including tanks, weights, and wetsuits. The second is durability. You’ll want a car that can handle rough terrain and inclement weather, especially if you’re diving in remote locations. Finally, you’ll want a car that is reliable and fuel-efficient, so you can get to and from your dive site without any issues.

After researching and testing several cars, we’ve identified the top models that meet all of these criteria. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at each of these cars and explain why they’re the best choices for scuba divers. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or just starting, finding the right car can make your diving experience more enjoyable and stress-free.

Best Cars for Scuba Diving

As scuba diving enthusiasts, we know the importance of having the right gear for an enjoyable and safe dive. But have you ever considered the importance of having the right car for your scuba diving trips? A car that can comfortably fit your scuba gear, has enough storage space, and can handle rough terrain can make all the difference in your diving experience. In this roundup, we’ve researched and compiled a list of the best cars for scuba diving to help you make the most of your underwater adventures.

DRYFOB Waterproof Car Key FOB Container

We highly recommend the DRYFOB Waterproof Car Key Container for anyone who wants to protect their electronic car key while scuba diving or participating in any other water or extreme sports.

Pros

• The DRYFOB is waterproof and IPx8 rated to 330ft (100m) by an accredited lab, ensuring that your car key stays dry even at depth.
• Made of rugged heavy-duty anodized aluminum alloy, the DRYFOB won’t crack, tear, or puncture like inferior products.
• The DRYFOB is neutrally buoyant with a FOB with a positive buoyancy of 2.3oz (65g) when empty, making it easy to carry in a BC pocket.

Cons

• The DRYFOB may be difficult to open when first taken out of the package, but this can be remedied by twisting hard to open the top counterclockwise.
• The DRYFOB only fits standard car FOBs, so it’s important to ensure your car key fits before ordering.
• The DRYFOB does not come with a lanyard, bungee, ring, or clip, but it does have two attachment points that can accommodate these items (not included).

The DRYFOB is an excellent product that we’ve used on numerous scuba diving trips. Its waterproof and durable design ensures that our car key stays dry and protected, even when we’re diving to greater depths. The DRYFOB’s neutral buoyancy also makes it easy to carry in our BC pocket without adding any extra weight. While it may be difficult to open at first, we found that applying some of the supplied silicone grease to the O-rings helped achieve a waterproof seal and made it much easier to open and close. Overall, the DRYFOB is a must-have for anyone who wants to protect their car key while scuba diving or participating in any other water or extreme sports.

Scuba Choice Waterproof Dry Box

If you’re in the market for a waterproof dry box for your scuba diving adventures, the Scuba Choice Waterproof Dry Box is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• Available in multiple colors: Black, Blue, Yellow
• Inside diameter of 2.07 inches is suitable for storing sunglasses, mobile phones, car keys, and more
• Inside length of 5.04 inches provides ample space for your belongings

Cons

• May not be as durable as some other dry boxes on the market
• Some users have reported difficulty fitting larger items inside the box
• The clip may not be as secure as some users would like

We recently had the opportunity to test out the Scuba Choice Waterproof Dry Box on a scuba diving trip, and overall, we were impressed with its performance. The box is available in multiple colors, so you can choose one that suits your style. We opted for the yellow version, which was easy to spot in the water.

The inside diameter of 2.07 inches was perfect for storing our car keys, sunglasses, and a small camera. The inside length of 5.04 inches provided ample space for our belongings, and we appreciated that the box kept everything dry throughout our dive.

While the box may not be as durable as some other dry boxes on the market, we didn’t have any issues with it during our dive. However, we did find that fitting larger items inside the box was a bit of a challenge.

The clip that comes with the box is secure, but some users have reported that it’s not as strong as they would like. We didn’t have any issues with the clip during our dive, but we can see how it might be a concern for some users.

Overall, we would recommend the Scuba Choice Waterproof Dry Box to anyone in need of a reliable dry box for their scuba diving adventures. It’s not the most durable option out there, but it gets the job done and is available at an affordable price point.

Scuba Choice Tank Rack Holder Tubes

If you’re a scuba diver who frequently transports tanks in your car, the Scuba Choice Tank Rack Holder Tubes might be the solution you’re looking for.

Pros

• The tubes are 20″ long and 2″ in diameter, making them the perfect size to fit up to three tanks securely.
• Made of durable PVC material, the rack holder tubes can withstand the wear and tear of regular use.
• The rack holder tubes are designed to keep your tanks from rolling around in your car, providing a safer and more organized way to transport your gear.

Cons

• Although the tubes are advertised as durable, some customers have reported that they crack or break after a few uses.
• The rack holder tubes are not adjustable, so they may not fit all types of tanks or vehicles.
• The product does not come with any instructions, so it may take some trial and error to figure out the best way to secure the rack holder tubes in your car.

We recently tried out the Scuba Choice Tank Rack Holder Tubes on a weekend diving trip, and overall we were impressed with the product. The tubes were easy to load and secure in our car, and they kept our tanks from rolling around during the drive. We appreciated that the tubes were made of durable PVC material, which gave us confidence that they would last for many trips to come.

However, we did notice that the tubes were a bit snug for our larger tanks, and we had to use some extra force to get them to fit. Additionally, we were disappointed to discover that one of the tubes had cracked after only a few uses. While this didn’t affect the overall performance of the product, it did raise some concerns about its long-term durability.

Overall, we would recommend the Scuba Choice Tank Rack Holder Tubes to divers who frequently transport tanks in their car, but with the caveat that they may not be suitable for all types of tanks or vehicles. If you’re looking for a simple and affordable way to keep your tanks secure during transport, this product is definitely worth considering.

Scuba Choice Safety Tank Rattle Stick Signal Bell

If you’re looking for a reliable and affordable scuba diving safety signal, the Scuba Choice Safety Tank Rattle Stick Signal Bell is a great option.

Pros

• The rattle sound can be easily heard underwater, making it perfect for getting your diving buddy’s attention.
• The cover included with the rattle prevents noises when not in use.
• The magnetic cap on the end of the rattle stick prevents false chiming.

Cons

• The cap can be difficult to remove.
• The orange cap may fall off after a few uses.
• The lanyard may come loose during a dive.

We’ve found the Scuba Choice Safety Tank Rattle Stick Signal Bell to be a reliable safety signal that’s easy to use. The rattle sound is loud and distinctive, making it easy to attract your diving buddy’s attention. We also appreciate the cover that comes with the rattle, which prevents unnecessary noises when not in use.

One downside we’ve noticed is that the cap can be difficult to remove, which may be frustrating for some divers. Additionally, the orange cap may fall off after a few uses, which can be annoying. Finally, we’ve had the lanyard come loose during a dive, which can be a safety concern.

Overall, the Scuba Choice Safety Tank Rattle Stick Signal Bell is a good choice for divers looking for an affordable and reliable safety signal. Just be aware of the potential issues with the cap and lanyard.

urbanhouse BAIE 2-Tank Scuba Diving Cylinder Tank Rack with Carrying Handle

If you’re looking for a reliable and durable scuba diving tank rack to keep your tanks in place during transportation, the urbanhouse BAIE 2-Tank Scuba Diving Cylinder Tank Rack with Carrying Handle is an excellent choice.

Pros

• The rack includes three high-density foam tubes that protect the tank surfaces and fit up to two standard tanks.
• Each foam tube is designed with gear-like teeth that provide the best grip to secure tanks in position and prevent rolling around during transportation in cars, trucks, boats, etc.
• The rack is collapsible when not in use and lightweight, making it easy to carry and to store. The straps include handles on each end of the rack for convenient carrying.

Cons

• The rack is designed to hold only two standard tanks, which may not be enough for divers who need to transport more tanks.
• The rack may not fit all types of tanks, so it’s important to check the dimensions of your tanks before purchasing.
• The price may be higher than other similar products on the market.

The urbanhouse BAIE 2-Tank Scuba Diving Cylinder Tank Rack with Carrying Handle is a high-quality product that provides excellent protection and security for scuba diving tanks during transportation. The foam tubes are designed to grip the tanks tightly and prevent them from rolling around, while the high-density rubber foam provides cushioning and protection. The rack is also collapsible and lightweight, making it easy to carry and to store when not in use.

One of the main advantages of this rack is its high-density foam tubes, which are designed to fit standard tanks and provide excellent protection against damage. The gear-like teeth on each tube provide a secure grip that prevents the tanks from rolling around during transportation, which is especially important when driving on bumpy roads or on a boat.

Another advantage of this rack is its collapsible design, which makes it easy to store when not in use. The straps include handles on each end of the rack for convenient carrying, which is especially useful when transporting tanks to and from the dive site.

However, there are some drawbacks to this product. The rack is designed to hold only two standard tanks, which may not be enough for divers who need to transport more tanks. Additionally, the rack may not fit all types of tanks, so it’s important to check the dimensions of your tanks before purchasing. Finally, the price may be higher than other similar products on the market.

Overall, the urbanhouse BAIE 2-Tank Scuba Diving Cylinder Tank Rack with Carrying Handle is an excellent product that provides excellent protection and security for scuba diving tanks during transportation. If you’re looking for a reliable and durable tank rack that can accommodate up to two standard tanks, this product is definitely worth considering.

Scuba Choice Safety Tank Rattle Stick

If you’re looking for an underwater noisemaker that’s perfect for getting your diving buddy’s attention, the Scuba Choice Safety Tank Rattle Stick is a great option.

Pros

• Available in two bright colors: Green and Orange
• Comes with a cover to prevent noises when not in use
• Rattle sound can be easily heard underwater

Cons

• Could be louder
• Clip is not very secure
• Warranty is only for 30 days against manufacturer defects

We recently tried out the Scuba Choice Safety Tank Rattle Stick on a dive and found it to be a helpful tool for communicating with our dive buddies. The rattle sound is distinctive and easy to hear underwater, and the bright colors make it easy to spot.

The included cover is a nice touch, as it prevents accidental noises when the rattle stick is not in use. However, we did find that the clip is not very secure and could easily come loose if not attached properly.

Overall, we think the Scuba Choice Safety Tank Rattle Stick is a good option for divers who want a simple and effective way to communicate underwater. While it could be louder and the clip could be more secure, the bright colors and distinctive sound make it a useful tool for any dive.

Scuba Choice Diving Safety Tank Rattle Stick

If you’re looking for a reliable diving safety signal bell that won’t break the bank, the Scuba Choice Diving Safety Tank Rattle Stick is a solid choice.

Pros

• The rattle sound is loud enough to get your diving buddy’s attention underwater.
• The included cover prevents noises when not in use and makes it easy to keep the rattle stick silent.
• Available in two colors: Green and Orange.

Cons

• The sound may not be loud enough for some divers in certain conditions.
• The magnetic cap can come loose easily.
• The spring clip may not be strong enough and may be prone to falling off.

We tested the Scuba Choice Diving Safety Tank Rattle Stick on several dives and found it to be a reliable and effective way to communicate with our diving buddy. The rattle sound is loud enough to be heard underwater, and the included cover makes it easy to keep the rattle stick silent when not in use.

One thing to note is that the sound may not be loud enough for some divers in certain conditions. Additionally, the magnetic cap can come loose easily, which can be a problem if you’re not careful. Finally, the spring clip may not be strong enough and may be prone to falling off.

Overall, we would recommend the Scuba Choice Diving Safety Tank Rattle Stick to any diver looking for a reliable and affordable diving safety signal bell. It’s a great choice for beginners and experts alike.

Scuba Choice Mini Tank Key Ring

If you’re in the market for a compact and convenient key ring to carry your diving essentials, the Scuba Choice Mini Tank Key Ring is a great option.

Pros

• Available in two colors, blue and silver
• Includes silicone grease for lubrication
• Comes with a pick for removing O-rings

Cons

• The brass hook may break off easily
• The O-ring pick is not very sturdy
• The product may not come in the retail pack shown on the product page

We recently used the Scuba Choice Mini Tank Key Ring on a diving trip and found it to be a useful addition to our gear. The compact size and lightweight design make it easy to carry around, and the included silicone grease and O-rings ensure we have the necessary tools for any diving situation.

One thing to keep in mind is that the brass hook may not be very durable, as some users have reported it breaking off easily. Additionally, the O-ring pick is not very sturdy and may bend under pressure. Finally, some users have reported that the product does not come in the retail pack shown on the product page.

Overall, we recommend the Scuba Choice Mini Tank Key Ring for its convenience and usefulness, but be aware of its potential drawbacks.

Trident UVA Flex Foam Collapsible Dive Cylinder Rack Three Tanks

If you’re looking for a reliable and convenient way to transport your scuba diving tanks, the Trident UVA Flex Foam Collapsible Dive Cylinder Rack is a great option.

Pros

• The dense UVA flex foam tubes and heavy duty poly rope construction ensures that your tanks won’t roll around during transport.
• The collapsible rope ladder style design makes it easy to store in small spaces when not in use.
• Accommodates three standard air cylinders.

Cons

• Some may find the price a bit high for what seems like a few foam tubes and a piece of rope.
• Only comes in one color (purple).
• Not foldable.

We recently used the Trident UVA Flex Foam Collapsible Dive Cylinder Rack on a scuba diving trip and were impressed with its performance. The foam tubes are dense and tough, which ensures that the tanks stay in place during transport. The heavy duty poly rope is also a nice touch, as it adds an extra layer of security.

One of the best things about this rack is its collapsible rope ladder style design. When not in use, it can be easily stored in small spaces. This is a big plus for those who have limited storage space in their vehicles or homes.

The Trident UVA Flex Foam Collapsible Dive Cylinder Rack accommodates three standard air cylinders, which is perfect for most scuba diving trips. However, if you need to transport more tanks, you’ll need to purchase additional racks.

While the price of this rack may seem a bit high for what seems like a few foam tubes and a piece of rope, we found that the convenience and peace of mind it provides is worth the investment. Overall, we highly recommend the Trident UVA Flex Foam Collapsible Dive Cylinder Rack for anyone looking for a reliable and convenient way to transport their scuba diving tanks.

ORCATORCH SD01 Mini Glow Tank, Scuba Dive Strobe Beacon Diving Signal Light Night Dive Flashing Marker Light with AAA Battery, for 150M Underwater Diving (5 Colors Option) Orange

If you’re looking for a reliable and easy-to-use diving signal light, the ORCATORCH SD01 Mini Glow Tank is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The SD01 is designed to provide high visibility in underwater conditions, ensuring that divers are easily seen by other divers and boats.
• This dive marker light is powered by an AAA Alkaline battery, and the light can work continuously for up to 108 hours, allowing divers to stay underwater for extended periods without worrying about the signal light losing power.
• The diving strobe light is fully waterproof, with high-quality double-sealing waterproof O-rings, allowing it to be used in any type of diving environment without fear of damage from water exposure.

Cons

• The SD01 scuba tank light is not the brightest option out there, so it may not be the best choice for divers who need an ultra-bright signal light.
• Some users have reported that the twist on/off switch at the head can be a bit finicky, and may require some practice to get used to.
• While the SD01 is available in five colors, each LED light only has one color, so it may not be the best choice for divers who need a multi-color signal light.

We recently had the chance to test out the ORCATORCH SD01 Mini Glow Tank on a diving trip, and we were impressed with its performance. The signal light was easy to attach to our diving tanks, and it provided excellent visibility in dark or deep sea conditions.

One of the standout features of the SD01 is its long battery life. We were able to use the light continuously for several days without needing to replace the battery, which was a big plus. Additionally, the waterproof design of the light gave us peace of mind, knowing that we could use it in any type of diving environment without fear of damage from water exposure.

However, we did notice that the SD01 is not the brightest option out there, so it may not be the best choice for divers who need an ultra-bright signal light. Additionally, the twist on/off switch at the head can be a bit finicky, and may require some practice to get used to.

Overall, we would recommend the ORCATORCH SD01 Mini Glow Tank to any diver who needs a reliable and easy-to-use signal light for their diving trips. With its long battery life and waterproof design, it’s a great choice for any type of diving environment.

Buying Guide

When looking for the best car for scuba diving, there are several factors to consider. We want to ensure that the car has enough space to transport all the necessary equipment, as well as provide a comfortable and safe ride to our destination. Here are some features to look for when choosing a car for scuba diving:

Cargo Space

The first thing to consider is the cargo space available in the car. We need enough room to fit our scuba gear, including tanks, fins, masks, and wetsuits. A car with a spacious trunk or cargo area is ideal for this purpose. It’s also a good idea to look for a car with foldable rear seats, which can provide extra space when needed.

Towing Capacity

Another important feature to consider is the car’s towing capacity. If we plan on hauling a boat or trailer to our diving destination, we need a car that can handle the weight. It’s recommended to choose a car with a towing capacity of at least 3,500 pounds.

Safety Features

Safety is always a top priority when it comes to choosing a car. Look for a car with advanced safety features such as anti-lock brakes, stability control, and airbags. It’s also a good idea to choose a car with a high safety rating from reputable sources such as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) or the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

Fuel Efficiency

Fuel efficiency is another important factor to consider when choosing a car for scuba diving. We want a car that can provide good gas mileage, especially if we plan on taking long trips to our diving destinations. Look for a car with a high miles-per-gallon (MPG) rating, such as a hybrid or electric car.

Comfort and Convenience

Finally, we want a car that provides a comfortable and convenient ride. Look for a car with features such as climate control, a comfortable seating arrangement, and a good sound system. It’s also a good idea to choose a car with a navigation system or other technology that can help us find our way to our diving destinations.

By considering these factors, we can choose the best car for scuba diving that meets our needs and provides a safe and comfortable ride to our diving destinations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What features are essential in a vehicle for transporting scuba gear?

When it comes to transporting scuba gear, it’s important to have a vehicle with ample storage space. Look for a car with a spacious trunk or cargo area, as well as foldable rear seats to maximize storage capacity. Additionally, a vehicle with roof racks or a hitch receiver can provide extra space for carrying dive gear.

How do I choose a car with the best storage capacity for diving equipment?

To choose a car with the best storage capacity for diving equipment, consider the size and weight of your gear. Look for a car with a large trunk or cargo area, and make sure it’s deep enough to accommodate your dive tanks. If you have particularly bulky gear, consider a car with foldable rear seats or roof racks to maximize storage space.

What type of vehicle is recommended for frequent scuba divers?

For frequent scuba divers, a spacious SUV or crossover is a great choice. These vehicles typically have ample cargo space and can easily accommodate dive gear for multiple people. Additionally, an SUV or crossover with all-wheel drive can handle rugged terrain and provide added safety when traveling to remote dive sites.

Are there any specific car models known for accommodating scuba diving activities?

While there are no specific car models designed specifically for scuba diving, there are a few that are known for their spaciousness and versatility. SUVs like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 are popular choices, as are crossovers like the Subaru Outback and Mazda CX-5.

What should I look for in a car to ensure easy cleaning after scuba diving trips?

To ensure easy cleaning after scuba diving trips, look for a car with durable, easy-to-clean materials on the interior. Leather or vinyl seats are a good choice, as they can be easily wiped down. Additionally, a car with rubber floor mats can make cleaning up sand and dirt a breeze.

How important is fuel efficiency in a vehicle when traveling to dive sites?

Fuel efficiency is important when traveling to dive sites, as it can help save money on gas. Look for a car with good gas mileage, especially if you plan on taking long trips to remote dive sites. Hybrid or electric vehicles can also be a good choice for eco-conscious divers looking to reduce their carbon footprint.