Your Guide to Preparing for Whitewater Rafting

Whitewater rafting is an adrenaline filled adventure that combines the thrill of navigating roaring rapids with the beauty of the great outdoors. Whether you are a fist time rafter or a seasoned paddler, proper preparation is essential for a safe and enjoyable experience. In this guide, we will cover everything you need to know— including what to wear, what to pack, and what to expect during your trip.

What to Wear for Whitewater Rafting 

The best start to any activity is being properly dressed, whitewater rafting is no exception. Wearing the proper clothes will set you up for a safer, more comfortable, and more enjoyable trip.

• Quick-Drying Clothing: choose moisture-wicking fabrics like polyester or nylon to stay comfortable. These types of clothing will dry quickly and stay comfortable throughout your trip. Avoid cotton on the river as it absorbs the water and stays wet and heavy. 

• Swimsuit: a swimsuit is a great base layer, and sometimes all you need in warm-weather rafting. We suggest swim bottoms or shorts with more coverage to protect your legs from the bumpy surface of the raft. 

• Footwear: shoes or sandals with secure straps that will stay on your feet. Socks will get wet and uncomfortable so it’s best to leave those at home. Some whitewater rafting outfitters have specific rules on the type of footwear allowed, so we suggest checking their website or giving them a call for more info.

• Accessories: A hat or visor with a secure strap for sunny days. Typically, class IV whitewater trips require helmets or other head protection. Sunglasses: through decades of research, we have found that the more expensive your sunglasses the more likely you are to lose them to the river. Luckily, there is an easy (and relatively cheap) solution: Chums, Croakies, or a different type of strap to keep your sunglasses securely attached to you. 

• Weather Considerations: 

Whitewater rafting can be a great experience in all types of weather if you are prepared. Knowing the air temperature, water temperature, and predicted forecast can make-or-break your adventure. Check out the best time to go whitewater rafting blog for more info!

• Warm Weather: a rash guard or lightweight shirt protects you from the sun. Most whitewater rafting takes place in the summertime with the river waves being a great way to escape the heat. 

• Cold Weather: Wet suits, splash jackets, or dry suits keep you warm in the cold water. Some whitewater rafting outfitters provide this gear either to rent or included in your trip. They can provide a recommendation for gear based on the specific location and season of your raft trip. 

What to Bring for your Whitewater Rafting Trip 

Having the right things packed will help your whitewater adventure to be the best it can be. 

• Essentials: Sunscreen: Even on colder or overcast days you are exposed to UV rays. Reusable Water Bottle: Staying hydrated when you are out on the river is essential. Many times, outfitters provide a secure spot to store water bottles on the river.

• Personal Gear: Waterproof bags for valuables. If you want to take your valuables on the river with you it will be necessary to have a dry place to keep them. Some whitewater rafting outfitters provide secure places like lockers for on-land storage. 

• Dry clothes and a towel for after the trip. Once you get off the river you will want a change of clothes and towel to dry off. Often, during your trip, you can leave these things in your car or lockers. 

• ID and required check-in paperwork. If you are going with an outfitter there will likely be paperwork prior to your trip. Often this paperwork can be filled out digitally before hand. Check with your outfitter to understand their procedures and requirements. 

• Optional Extras: GoPro with a helmet mount for capturing memories. Some outfitters have regulations on cameras, check with them for specifics. Cash for tipping your guide and buying souvenirs.

What to Expect During your Whitewater Rafting Trip 

Knowing what to expect will give you the confidence to fully enjoy your whitewater trip. This section focuses on trips with professional whitewater outfitters. 

• Arrival and Check-in: arrive a few minutes early for check-in, paperwork, and river preparation. We suggest at least 15 minutes so you are not rushed and have time to fill out paperwork, store your valuables, get changed, and anything else you need to do to prepare for your time on the river. 

• Gear Fitting: You will be fitted with a Personal Floatation Device (PFD, also known as a lifejacket) and depending on the level of whitewater and season you might also need a helmet or warm gear (see weather considerations above). 

• Safety Orientation: The guides and staff will give you a safety briefing that includes what to expect from the whitewater rafting run you have chosen, paddling techniques, commands, and what to do if you fall out of the raft. 

• On the River: 

• Rapids are classified from Class I (easy, flat water) to Class V (expert-level). Many outfitters offer different sections of river that have specific classes of whitewater. See what whitewater is right for me blog post for more info!

• Expect teamwork! Paddling in sync with the other people in your raft is key to navigating the river successfully.

• Listen to your guide: they are there to make sure your experience is as safe and fun as possible.

• Getting splashed: on many sections of river there will be opportunities to jump out of the raft and swim. Even if you prefer the security of the raft, you will get splashed by the waves in the rapids. 

• Breaks and Stops: Many trips (especially full day trips) include breaks for lunch, swimming, or exploring scenic spots. 

• The Unexpected: While nature is beautiful, she can be unpredictable. Weather can change quickly, water levels can fluctuate, and temperatures can vary on the river. Whitewater rafting comes with inherent risks but choosing a reputable and experienced outfitter will help to mitigate those risks and give you the best experience on the river.

Pro Tips for a Great Whitewater Rafting Experience 

Our best advice for making the most of your whitewater rafting trip.

• Listen to Guides and Staff: the outfitters and staff are there to keep you safe. They are professionals and have the skills and experience to make your experience the best it can be. Many guides have been working on their rivers for years and have extensive knowledge of the flora, fauna, and history of local areas. Ask your guide to share their best stories with you. 

• Stay hydrated and fuel up before your adventure: Nothing kills the fun like being hungry. Have a snack before your trip and keep your water bottle nearby. 

• Don’t overpack: most outfitters provide all the necessary equipment, and a lot of extra stuff gets in the way. 

• Embrace the adventure: whitewater rafting is fun and exciting, go with the flow and trust that you can take on the thrills. 

After Your Trip

Finish on a high note with just a few more details.

• Change into Dry Clothes: getting out of your wet gear as soon as you can makes you more comfortable 

• Check out the Photos: many outfitters have photographers that capture the fun. You can view and purchase these photos after the trip. 

• Look for Souvenirs: some outfitters have gift shops with rafting merch! Grab something to remember your trip by, get gifts for friends that were unfortunate enough to be excluded from this adventure, or find an accessory for your new outfit. 

• Plan Your Next Adventure: now is the perfect time to book your next whitewater trip. Maybe you are ready to step up to the next level or know someone that must try whitewater rafting with you the next time you go.