Rent, buy, both, Stressin about San Blas Island Trip

[cairokid]

Hi,
Im going to San Blas Island, Panama April 9 to 19 on a kite boat trip.
Im 200lb in my birthday suit... so with gear maybe 205lb.
I have a 12m Caution kite and a 137 twin tip, been riding for about 5 years but Im not great in super light wind.
I can pay $450 and have all gear provided or I can pay 120$ for board rental only.
I was thinking of buying a 15 meter and doing the board rental, but what if I need a 17m!??
I dont have alot of time before my trip to buy, check out gear... Im stressin.. 1st world problems consume me.
Should I pay the 450 and not think about it? Or buy a 15m here, take my TT and hope that Im good?
Winds are light in the Caribbean, this will be the last vacation I get for a while and Im suffering severe FOMO.
ps. Ive read the light wind bay thread with 10 million responses but this is more about spending the money on rental or not...
Any help would be greatly appreciated.
thanks

[Rakky]

I have not visited Panama, but based on your info - considering the variable light winds and the last vacation in a while, suggest travel light and pay the $$ for the whole rental. Make sure the kite rental company in San Blas has all the kites and boards you want to ride and has the latest equipment. Consider it as cost of total package.
I rent when I go to Cabarete (DR), or Maui and overall works out a lot less stressful, lighter travel and no charge for checking board or extra luggage. As winds change day to day or even within the day, they have all the sizes and quick to change kites. And on days that I don't kite and do other activities, I don't pay for kite rental.

[Aloha]

I agree with rent but verify gear available before you pull the trigger

Big kites vs. small are like caring about what type of bus you might ride in vs. what sportscar you want to drive. The former is a lot less important when it comes to a need for personalized feel.

San Blas is unreal - enjoy ... times infinity