Your river trip is just around the corner, and you’ve finally taken a look at the packing list. If your first reaction is, “Do I actually need all of this?”—the answer is a resounding yes. But keep in mind, what you’ll need for a hot summer trip through the Grand Canyon might look a little different than what’s essential for a springtime rafting adventure in Idaho. With that in mind, here are a few key suggestions to help you pack smart—and stay comfortable—no matter where your river trip takes you.
Early and Late Season Trips
Early and late-season trips can offer an exceptional time to be on the river, but they can also produce some surprising changes in weather and temperatures. During spring and early fall trips, the sun is often lower in the sky, meaning less direct sun makes it into the canyons. Some trips will have more shade than others during these windows. Also, clothing or other items will not dry as quickly. If you get wet, it’s crucial to be prepared. Here’s a few items that can really help.
Hoody – Cotton, synthetic, fleece, wool, down—whatever material your hoody is made out of, bring it. You’ll want something warm during those chilly mornings or late evenings. We love Patagonia’s Nano Puff Hoody because it’s lightweight, water resistant, and compactable, but there are many great options out there.
Rain Gear – Rain gear isn’t just for rainy days—it can be your shield against wind, whitewater, and surprise splashes. No matter the season, it’s a must-pack essential for every rafter preparing for a multi-day river trip. Go for gear that’s 100% waterproof (not just water-resistant), and make sure your jacket has a hood and snug closures at the wrists, neck, and ankles to help keep moisture out. Skip the cheap poncho—it won’t fit under your life jacket and won’t do you any favors on the river.
Quick-Dry Undies – Let’s be real, what you wear down there can determine how you feel overall. We recommend underwear that are synthetic, compact, odor resistant and quick drying. ExOfficio’s Give-N-Go 2.0 works well on rafting trips. Best underwear ever? You be the judge.
Beanie – Bed head in the morning? No problem. Cold ears around the campfire? Not even on your radar. A beanie not only helps you retain heat, but can also help you hide the fact you haven’t washed your hair in four days.
Long Underwear – If you remember anything from this list while packing, long underwear should be that thing. It can be worn as an extra insulating layer on the boat, and dry out fast enough to keep you warm in camp.
Comfy Camp Clothes – Even though “cotton kills” rings true on the water, when you get to camp few feelings are as good as slipping into a (dry) long-sleeve cotton shirt, lightweight, packable travel dress or even your favorite pair of Levi’s. It’s always a welcome change from the damp, synthetic layers you’ve been sporting all day.
Body Wipes – When the closest shower may be three days away, you (and your travelling companions) will thank us for this recommendation. Of course, you can always jump in the river, but when you’re not in the mood for a cold plunge, body wipes can be the most comfortable way to stay clean.
Peak Summer Trips
Summer on the river can bring scorching sun, high temps, and long days on the water—which means lighter packing, but smarter choices. You won’t need as much gear as in the cooler months, but staying comfortable (and protected) still takes planning. Sun protection is key, both on the raft and during side hikes. Understanding the benefits and drawbacks of different fabrics, from quick-drying polyesters to more dense natural fibers like cotton and bamboo, can make all the difference in keeping you cool, dry, and ready for whatever the day brings
UPF-Rated Sun Shirt – An absolute must on summer rafting trips, the hooded sun shirt is nearly ubiquitous. Easier than slathering on sunscreen throughout the day, a good sun shirt will keep you protected from the rays, dry quickly, and is comfortable through long sunny days. We like both synthetic and natural fiber options for different scenarios. For really hot days, a bamboo shirt, like Free Fly’s Lightweight Hoody, is one of our favorites.
Pants – Okay, on the first 100-degree day, pants might not be your first choice. But after a series of 100-degree days, you might find that covering up your legs is a nice change. Desert evenings can be surprisingly cool and it doesn’t hurt to at least have the option of full-leg wear. Like most of the clothing we recommend, lightweight and quick-drying pants are ideal for river trips.
Flip Flops – We love Chaco Flips because of their grippy, rugged soles and various strap options. It’s nice to have a pair of flip-flops at camp when you want to let your feet dry out and breathe.
Wide-brimmed Sun Hat – Portable shade is never a bad thing when you’re outdoors in the sun. For long stretches of calm water, you likely won’t be wearing a helmet. Protect yourself and score style points while you’re at it with a wide-brimmed hat. They can also be a great option for side hikes and leisurely afternoons in camp. Just make sure it has a securing strap in case “Uncle Gusty” shows up unexpectedly.
Moisturizing Cream – Rotating through the wet-dry cycle that is a river trip will likely wreak some havoc on your skin and hands. In addition to bringing a healthy supply of moisturizing lotion, consider packing something more therapeutic for your hands. We love all-natural Super Salve that both moisturizes and works to heal minor cuts and abrasions.
Sarong – Sarongs are so unbelievably diverse they have become a must-have on all river trips for men and women alike, especially in the heat of summer when they can be used for sun protection and provide evaporative cooling when dipped in the water. Sarongs also work great for privacy while changing, as a beach towel, or a skirt…the possibilities for how to use a sarong are endless!
Still not sure what to bring? Check out our complete guide to packing for a river trip where we’ve compiled all of our best advice.
This post was originally published in 2014 and has since been updated.
Sign up for Our Newsletter
