Travel Blog

White water rafting is a lot more than just running the rapids when it comes to considering what rafting gear you need to have to be properly prepared.  Often you will experience multiple environments. For sure you will get wet when you go down the river and are splashed by the spray from running the white water rapids. But what about while you are waiting on shore to be picked up, what about stopping for lunch, or camping on a multi day trip? Multiple changes of clothing are necessary as are pen and paper to record some notes for your trip along with cameras that must be kept dry.

Each of these conditions require a variety of gear and temperature variation will also change the need for the layers of clothing that you may bring along with you.

Hot, sunny days won’t feel uncomfortable if you wear light, protective, and quick drying clothing. Cool days or rain can produce spectacular river images with swirling shades of color and light. If you have enough warm, waterproof gear, you won’t feel cold. You will feel alive! Having the right clothing can make the difference between enjoying a wonderful trip in the outdoors and being cold and miserable while others are enjoying the scenery and camaraderie of their white water rafting trip.

White Water Rafting Gear – List

Here is a quick list of items that you may want to consider for your next trip. If you are unsure of what you will need, speak to the organizer or guide for your white water trip. Always make sure that you are well prepared.

• Bags
• Padding and clothing
• Dry suits and wet suits
• Plastic Cases & Boxes
• Footwear
• Mens & womens casuals
• Insulation and Underwear
• Sunglasses
• Hats & Gloves
• Rainwear
• Kid’s Clothing
• Swimsuits

You may not need all of this gear for each trip, so plan accordingly to take along only what you need. Having too much gear can also be a problem as well since now you have to load and carry all of this gear. Finding that middle ground were you have everything that you need without being over prepared is a tall order if you have not been down a particular set of rapids before. The best idea is to speak to your guide or talk to people who have gone on the trip before you to find out the conditions and what white water gear you may need. Remember too that the conditions can change very rapidly due to the time of year as well as local storms that can cause rivers to rise rapidly.

Rafting Gear – Multi Day Trip

If you are planning a multi day trip, then camping and cooking gear is also something that you will need to consider. We put together a quick list of camping gear for your consideration.

• Tables
• Shelters
• Water purifiers & containers
• Cooking equipment
• Showers & toilets
• Chairs
• Sleeping gear
• Washing Supplies

Finally safety gear and repair equipment for your raft should be considered. Take a moment to consider who you want to notify about your trip. Especially about your location and expected return date. This is important since it will tell people when and were to start looking for you if you are late returning.

• Repair equipment includes:
• Adhesives & materials
• Repair parts & tools
• Cleaner and protectant
• Valves
• Pumps and inflators

Enjoy your trip and have fun. Be well prepared and you will have one of the best trips you can ever expect. Feel free to leave comments on our post about your experiences. Also about any special gear that you believe would be valuable to our readers.

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