If you have plans to go white water rafting this summer, pay attention to what you pack for the trip. In addition to the wet suits and apparel that you will need, there are a few incidental items that belong in your bag or pack. Also, make sure to check with your rafting trip coordinator to ensure you are not responsible for bringing any rafting equipment or supplies before heading out.
Some things to tuck in your bag for your rafting trip include:
Duct tape. Toss a roll of heavy-duty tape, such as electrical tape or duct tape, in your pack. This will come in handy if you need to repair a pair of shoes or patch a raft.
Skin protection. Make room in your bag for sunscreen, moisturizer, and lip balm. You might be surprised by how harsh the sun can be on your skin when you spend the day rafting.
Slippers. If you have space, you might want to put a pair of comfy slippers or booties in your pack, too. These will give your feet a nice respite from wet shoes or boots when you take a break from rafting during the excursion.
A headlamp flashlight. A headlamp is easy to use when rafting, as you don't always have a free hand to hold a flashlight. Tuck one in your pack for nighttime rafting trips.
Plastic bags of assorted sizes. Start collecting plastic bags and baggies of various sizes. Keep a few in your pack to use as protection for your stuff when hitting the rapids.
Water bottle and cup. It doesn't hurt to have a mug or cup in your pack in case your group stops to build a fire and have a hot drink. A versatile metal mug can often be found with camping supplies in retail venues. Make sure to keep your water bottle handy, too.
Sunglasses strap. Chances are good that your sunglasses may fall off during a rafting trip; prevent mishaps by keeping them on a sunglasses strap.
Motion sickness meds. Even if you don't get seasick, the motion of a wild ride down the rapids could cause some queasiness and motion sickness. Prepare by packing some meds in your bag just in case.
Create a list of the incidental items that you might need on your inflatable raft trip, and use this when packing for your adventure. Many rafting guides and companies will provide the essentials, but be sure to tuck a few of these things in your dry bag, as permitted by the trip coordinator. Rafting is the perfect way to see the world from a different perspective and to make your summer a memorable one!
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