Night kit is recreational scuba plus lighting redundancy and a way to be seen on the surface.
A video light is not a backup if it cannot be aimed as a torch.
Core kit
- Primary torch — A beam the buddy can also use as a reference.
- Backup torch — On the person, tested.
- Tank or snorkel marker light — For the boat and the surface.
- Ordinary rec scuba kit — BCD, computer, SMB.
- Exposure suit — Nights are colder than the afternoon briefing admits.
- Whistle — Sound still works when beams do not.
Optional
- Red filter or red light — Less startling for some animals and for night vision.
- Focusing beam — For looking into holes without flooding the world.
- Gloves in temperate water — Hydroids at night.
- Compass — If the site is not a simple out-and-back.
Care
- O-rings and batteries — The failure is always at the giant stride.
- Rinse lights — Salt in the switch.
- Carry spare batteries in the dry bag — Not in a flooded pocket.
- Do not blind-test on deck — Save other divers’ night vision.
Budget bands
- First nights — Rent a good primary, own a backup.
- Regular night diver — Own both lights.
- Video — A third budget, not a replacement for the primary.
- Skip — A cheap unbranded light as the only beam.
Spend on two lights that work. The rest is already in the scuba bag.