I have never surfed before, can I join?
Absolutely. No previous surf experience is required for our classic weekend and surf camps! We will set you up with a beginner lesson and we can help you sort out the gear. Check out more info on our level one trips here.
What do the trips include?
Our trips include different things depending on which trip you select. Registration will always cover camping in Tofino, meals, and a tee-shirt, however, everything else varies depending on the trip.
Check out our trip options for more information and each trip’s breakdown.
Please note: Our standard trip prices do NOT include the following: surf gear (we can organize rentals for an additional fee), camping gear, transport to/around Tofino, and alcohol/breakfasts/lunches/snacks.
What do the trips cost?
Each trip price varies depending on what is included. Check out the trip pages for individual trip prices.
If I change my mind can I cancel?
We understand life happens and we do our best to work with you to fill your spot and issue a refund. However, please review our cancellation policy before registering.
How do I register?
Check out the available trips here and follow to the information page for the trip style you’re interested in registering for. From there you’ll find the online registration form. Please fill out the registration form entirely. We will send you a confirmation e-mail upon receipt of your registration form with some more information and payment options. You will then have 24 hours to submit your payment in order to secure your spot.
Please note, payment for registration is via e-transfer. If you wish to pay via Paypal, please email info@bitchesnbarrels.com beforehand to coordinate.
I am not 19+, can I still come?
Unfortunately not. Everyone needs to be over 19 years to participate in any of our surf experiences. But, you can still join the Bitches ‘n Barrels community in Victoria! Check out more information on our community and local Victoria events here.
I don’t know how to swim, can I still come?
Unfortunately not. All participants must be strong swimmers and comfortable swimming in variable ocean conditions. This includes, big waves, strong currents, and rips. Participants must have swimming endurance and be able to hold their breath for a reasonable period in order to participate.
What surf gear so I need?
You’ll need a full suit wetsuit (at least 4/3mm for summer, 5/4mm for winter), booties and gloves (optional in summer, but nice to have), a surf board that is appropriate for your experience level, a leash, and wax (if you’re not surfing on a soft top).
Check out our packing list (link below) for more information on what to bring.
What if I don’t have my own surfing gear?
No problem! We can get that sorted out with you. Wetsuit, booties, gloves, a surf board, and a leash are all included in your lesson. After the lesson is over we will help you rent gear for the rest of the weekend. Check out our rental program here.
What if I don’t have my own camping gear?
SportsRent in Victoria has all the camping essentials at a really reasonable price. You can also find a lot of used camping gear on Facebook Marketplace for great rates. Or you can always borrow from a friend or relative.
What kind of surfboard do I need?
If you’re new to surfing and unsure what to rent, look for something long, wide, and high volume. Anything over 9’ is a great place to start, and soft-tops are awesome for learning (we call them the confidence builders).
What should I bring?
Check out our packing list here!
Where is Tofino?
Tofino is located on Vancouver Island. It is a small town about 4-5 hours from Victoria, 2-3 hours from Nanaimo, and 2 hours from Port Alberni.
How do I get to Tofino?
The easiest option is to drive and carpool with other participants on the trip, however, if you’re on a particular schedule or can’t find a ride share buddy, you can get to Tofino by plane or by bus. If you’re planning to arrive in Tofino by plane or bus, please be sure to contact your trip leads first, as you will need to coordinate a ride within Tofino (since not everything in Tofino is walkable).
I am not from Canada, can I still come?
YES! We have had several international participants. Check into the visa requirements for your country, and then reach out to us about setting up an international payment for your registration!
Is there cellphone service in Tofino?
Yes, there’s cellphone service throughout most of Tofino, however, you may not get killer reception at some of the beaches.
Is there wifi?
Yes, the campground has wifi. We wouldn’t recommend relying on it for taking important Zoom calls, but it works to check emails and stay connected.
I’m registered for a summer trip and I want to Sleep in my vehicle. Is that Permitted?
Typically we can accommodate a couple vans/campers, however, it will vary depending on the trip and how many tents we need to fit in our space. Reach out and we will see what we can do! If you have not communicated and received approval that we can accommodate car camping on your trip, please assume you are sleeping in a tent and pack accordingly.
Please note that we cannot accommodate trailers/RVs. Basically anything considered a Class B RV or larger cannot be accommodated on our shared sites. If you’re unsure, reach out beforehand to coordinate.
Can my friend or partner sleep At the Campsite with me?
No. We cannot accommodate folks that are not registered for the trip on our campsites.
Are the trips pet-friendly?
Unfortunately not. While we truly love animals (and while our trip leads will often have their four-legged friends on summer trips), we cannot accommodate participants bringing pets. We apologize for any inconvenience.
Are there good places to eat in Tofino?
Yes! We have your dinners covered, but you’re in charge of breakfasts and lunches. If you’re not keen on cooking, fear not, there are SO many incredible restaurants and coffee shops to check out.
I have a bunch of food allergies, is that okay?
Our meals are gluten-free, vegetarian (can be made vegan), and typically nut free. If you have other allergies or dietary concerns, please contact us to discuss options.
I already know how to surf, can I still come on a trip?
YES!!! Our trips are not just for beginners. Our trips are for everyone who is interested in learning or progressing with a supportive community of rad gals cheering them on in the line-up!
I already know how to surf, can I skip the lesson?
Nope. Sorry, the lesson on classic weekend trip is mandatory as we believe everyone can learn from the experts on how they can get even better. Plus, it allows us to make sure everyone starts the weekend off on the same page and is familiar with Tofino tides, currents, rips, and surf etiquette. The instructors at Surf Sister are awesome, and they work hard to make sure that you still get something valuable out of the lesson (even if you’re already shredding).
Reunion trips often will not have a lesson, however, you must have already participated in a classic weekend trip in order to register for a reunion trip.
Can I stand-up paddle (SUP) surf?
Aside from the lesson, you can do whatever you like. Surf Sister exclusively teaches prone (regular) surfing, so you’ll have to get down on your belly during the lesson, but after that the world is your oyster.
I can’t make it for the first night, is that okay?
Sure, no sweat, it happens all the time But please plan to arrive in Tofino VERY early the morning following, since you cannot miss the lesson (starting at 9am). If you’re unsure about your travel plans, be sure to contact us beforehand.
I have to leave early on Monday, is that okay?
Sure, that’s fine. But please keep in mind that Monday morning is typically our last surf and occasionally our in-water photography session.
I want to get involved, but I can’t come on a trip. How can I join the community?
YES!!! Join the club/girl gang/community! The whole point of Bitches ‘n Barrels is to build a community of like-minded and adventurous women so you can connect, meet new pals, and plan future surf trips/hikes/adventures. You can get involved by attending one of our events in Victoria or by joining our Community Board on Facebook! Our community board is a great place to find friends for an impromptu surf mission, recruit for an upcoming adventure, post for affordable gear/swag, or find other relevant and interesting events in the community.
I have a cool event, how can I spread the word?
That is awesome! Definitely reach out to us and if it works, we will add it to our event board. You can also post it on the Facebook Community Board.
Do you guys host bachelorette parties?
Hell yes! We have not yet, but we could and we would! Contact us and we can discuss what you’re looking for and get you a quote. We are confident we could build you a pretty epic weekend for a pretty decent price.