Life Vests (Personal Flotation Devices – PFDs)

This is the rule, not an option! No matter how good a swimmer you are, a life vest (also called a PFD) keeps you floating if you accidentally take a dip. It’s a must-have for every person on the raft. Make sure it fits snugly – not too tight, but not so loose that it rides up over your ears.

Finding the Right Fit for Your PFD

Your life vest should feel like a gentle hug. It shouldn’t come up higher than your shoulders when someone pulls on it, or when you lift your arms above your head. Look for one approved by the U.S. Coast Guard; it’ll have a special stamp on it.

Helmets (for Bumpy Rapids)

If your rafting trip involves really bumpy or fast-moving rapids, a helmet is super important to protect your head. Many rafting companies provide these, but it’s good to understand why they’re used on certain rivers. They’re like a bike helmet for your head on the water!

First-Aid Kit: Your Mini Doctor on the Go

Little scrapes, small cuts, or annoying bug bites can happen anywhere, especially when you’re exploring outdoors. A well-stocked first-aid kit is like having a mini-doctor with you. It should have bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any personal medications anyone in your group needs.

Dry Bags & Dry Boxes: Waterproof Wonders

These are super important for a multi-day river trip! Dry bags are flexible, waterproof bags that keep your clothes, sleeping bag, and electronics safe from splashes, rain, or even if your raft flips over. Dry boxes are harder, waterproof containers, perfect for cameras, delicate electronics, or anything that needs extra protection from being squished.

Choosing the Right Size and Type of Dry Storage

You’ll want a few different sizes. A big dry bag (like 60-100 liters) is great for your tent, sleeping bag, and camp clothes. Smaller dry bags (5-20 liters) are perfect for personal items, a change of clothes, or a waterproof phone case. Look for durable materials and strong roll-top seals.

Quick-Dry Clothing: Your Smart Wardrobe

Leave your favorite cotton t-shirt at home for the river! Cotton stays wet forever and can make you cold. Instead, pack clothes made from synthetic materials like polyester or nylon, or even wool. They dry super fast, keeping you warmer and much more comfortable on and off the water.

Waterproof Footwear: Happy Feet on the River

Your feet need protection too! Water shoes, sandals with strong straps, or old sneakers are great for the raft and walking around camp. They protect your feet from rocks and slippery surfaces. Please leave your flimsy flip-flops at home – they float away easily!

Tent Sweet Tent: Your Sleeping Sanctuary

A good tent is your personal little fort against bugs, unexpected rain, and the morning dew. Make sure it’s big enough for you (and whoever you’re sharing with) and your gear. It’s a smart idea to practice setting up your tent in your backyard before your trip so you’re a pro at camp!

Sleeping Bag & Pad: Dreamy Nights Under the Stars

Choose a sleeping bag that’s warm enough for the nighttime temperatures where you’ll be camping. Even summer nights can get chilly by the river! A sleeping pad isn’t just for comfort; it also puts a layer of insulation between you and the cold ground, making a huge difference in how warm you stay.

Camp Chairs & Table: Relax in Style

Lightweight, foldable camp chairs are a simple luxury you’ll be so glad to have for relaxing by the campfire, eating meals, or just enjoying the view. A small, portable table is also super handy for cooking, playing cards, or preparing food.

Headlamps & Lanterns: Light Up the Night at Camp

It gets really dark out in the wilderness! A headlamp is fantastic because it leaves your hands free for cooking, setting up camp, or finding things in your tent. A small lantern can light up your whole tent or make the dining area brighter for evening activities.

Camp Stove & Fuel: Hot Meals on the Go

A portable camp stove is a game-changer. It means hot coffee or cocoa in the morning and delicious warm meals at night. Don’t forget to bring enough fuel for your stove – nothing’s worse than running out mid-meal!

Cooler: Keep Food and Drinks Fresh

A good, sturdy cooler is essential for keeping your drinks cold and your food safe and fresh for several days. Some coolers are even designed to be extra tough for river trips, often called “river coolers.”

Cookware & Utensils: Your Outdoor Kitchen Set

Keep it simple and reusable! You’ll need basic plates, cups, forks, spoons, a pot, and a pan. Don’t forget a can opener, a knife for cutting food, and plenty of large trash bags to pack out all your waste. Remember: Leave No Trace!

Sun Protection: Stay Safe from the Sun’s Glare

The sun can be very strong on the water because its rays reflect off the river, making it feel even more intense. Sunscreen (high SPF!), a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses are super important to protect your skin and eyes.

Bug Spray: Keep Pests Away from Camp

Mosquitoes and other biting bugs love to hang out near rivers, especially at dawn and dusk. A good bug spray helps you enjoy your evenings by the campfire without constant swatting and itching.

Personal Hygiene: Feeling Fresh in the Wild

A small towel, biodegradable soap (this is important to protect the environment!), toothbrush, and toothpaste are great for feeling refreshed. When using soap, always make sure you’re at least 200 feet away from the river or any water source to protect wildlife and water quality.