To avoid missing dives, what should divers always carry?

To avoid missing dives, divers should always carry an extensive spare parts kit. This is important because various equipment failures can occur before or during a dive, and having spare parts on hand allows divers to quickly address these issues. For example, a malfunctioning regulator or a problem with the BCD (buoyancy control device) can be resolved on-site with the appropriate spare parts, enabling the diver to proceed with the dive safely.

While having a second total diving system or delivery system might be beneficial in some scenarios, it is not as practical or necessary for the typical dive outing as a spare parts kit. Similarly, while carrying a spare cylinder may be critical in certain situations, it doesn’t address a broad range of potential equipment failures as effectively as having spare parts. Ultimately, the ability to swiftly repair or replace malfunctioning components is crucial for ensuring that divers can continue to dive without interruption.