River rafting is a prime way to reconnect with nature, spend time with loved ones away from distractions, and inject adventure into your life. The difference between a good trip and a bad trip, however, ties back to preparation. Before you head out on the water, read these tips from people who have learned from experience (and sometimes regrets) what not to forget.
Here are a few essentials
River rafting is a great opportunity for parents to spend some time with their children in an outdoor setting away from electronics. I took my own children recently on a river rafting trip with another family, and I learned I wasn’t as prepared as I thought I was.
Our trip was supposed to be four hours, but so many things went wrong that the entire trip actually lasted just over six hours. We had a few essentials with us, but there were other things we should have brought as well. Here is what I recommend having on hand:
Water
Water is essential, especially if you’re out in the hot sun or your trip is an extended one.
Sunblock
You might think you won’t need sunblock if your trip is going to be shorter, but you should still bring a bottle. Your trip may not go as quickly as planned or you may be splashed more than anticipated, leading to your sunblock wearing off faster. Ideally, pick one that’s eco-friendly.
Phone
Bring your phone with you in a water-proof case. You never know when you might need it in case of emergencies.
Snacks
Having some food on hand can make everyone happier. Plus, it can keep your energy up for navigating down the river.
Life jacket
You may think you’re too cool to need one, but you’re wrong. Everyone should wear a life jacket.
Sunglasses
These can stop you from squinting the whole time you’re on the river. You’d also be smart to buy a cord, like Chums, that help your sunglasses stay attached to you.
Simon Hansen
Simon Hansen, Founder and Homebrew Expert at homebrewadvice.com, a company dedicated to providing quality content on the art of homebrewing and winemaking.
Don’t forget the sunscreen
What most people forget to bring when doing outdoor activities such as river rafting is sunscreen. Contrary to what people think, simply not being exposed to sunlight doesn’t mean that one’s safe from the risks of sunburn and UV light exposure. Sunlight bounces off of surfaces such as ice and water. Forgetting to apply sunscreen before river rafting means more than just getting a bad and uneven tan, you risk being exposed to harmful light as well.
Bob Hoffmann
Bob Hoffmann, editor-in-chief at BonfireBob.com, a blog focusing on camping, fishing and the great outdoors.
Thermos flasks
I would have to recommend bringing a proper Thermos flask that can latch on to your backpack for quick access at all times. Even if you are surrounded by water while rafting, it’s always good to stay hydrated. You can also fill up the flask in small streams and always have a water supply for the day.
Thermos flasks are also good to keep your coffee hot during the morning chill when you wake up after a night of camping, or to keep your soup warm later at night. So I would recommend bringing a Thermos for its versatility for both rafting and camping afterward, not to mention it’s more eco-friendly than bringing plastic bottles.
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