This is completely up to you as an individual. Some dive shops will provide you with everything you need for your training and you don’t need to invest in anything upfront, just pay for hire. Some people prefer to have some of their own kit as this means you train with the same kit that you’ll then carry on diving with.

Having your own garments is often the best way to feel comfortable; wetsuits that are hired aren’t guaranteed to be the best size for you and can cause chaffing if ill-fitting. If you are learning abroad something like the Thermocline is a great option to take as it rolls up small and won’t get damaged.

Your own hood, gloves and boots are relatively low investment pieces that will also go a long way to providing comfort.

In terms of hardware, you may already own a mask and fins for snorkelling which will be adequate for diving too, these are nice to have as your own so you know they fit well and don’t irritate your skin.

Items such as dive computers, BCD’s, regulators, weight belts and cylinders are great to build into your dive kit over time.

If you’re lucky enough to live in or be off to the tropics on your holidays, this is a great place to learn as the water is warm enough that you can just don a wetsuit and won’t become cold quickly.

If however you’re in the northern hemisphere and it isn’t the height of summer, you’ll probably find more enjoyment learning in a drysuit. As you wear thermals underneath the totally water-tight suit, it keeps you warm and dry in cooler climates so you’ll stay comfortable and be able to concentrate on your new skills. Ask your local dive shop what they can provide to hire.