5 Tricks to Help You Survive the Heat on a Rafting Trip

There’s nothing quite like a rafting trip on a hot summer day—sun shining, water splashing, good vibes all around. But let’s be real: hours (or days) under the blazing sun can take a toll if you’re not prepared.

The good news? Staying cool on a river trip isn’t hard if you know a few key tricks. Whether you’re worried about heat exhaustion or just want to avoid feeling fried, these our some of our best tips to help you beat the heat and keep the fun flowing now matter how hot the temps.

And if all else fails, do what we do to stay cool on the river…jump in!

How to Beat the Heat When You’re Rafting

1) Put on sunscreen like it’s your job.

Wearing sunscreen goes without saying, but it’s the frequency that you put it on that’s key. You want to avoid sunburn at all costs, otherwise, you’ll really find out what hot feels like.  Lather up first thing in the morning, before you hit the water, after every swim or rapid, and any time the boat stops. Yes, you’ll feel a little greasy, but you’ll thank yourself later. Want to keep it river-friendly? Here are some of our favorite eco-friendly brands.

2) Keep your clothes on (seriously).

It might seem counterintuitive when it’s blazing hot, but staying covered can actually help you stay cooler—and protected. Lightweight, breathable UPF clothing is your best friend on the river. It blocks UV rays better than sunscreen alone (especially in those easy-to-miss spots), and keeps you from feeling roasted by mid-day. If you’re only investing in one piece, make it a long-sleeve UPF shirt.

3) Take your shirt for a dip.

No time for a full dip, or just don’t feel like getting fully wet? Dunk your shirt, hat, bandana, sarong, or whatever you’ve got handy, and throw it back on. It’s a quick, easy way to cool down when the sun’s relentless and the next rapid’s just around the corner. Bonus: no awkward re-entry into the boat required.

Pro tip: In extreme heat, a cotton shirt or sarong can be an ideal pick over a synthetic layer since it provides evaporative cooling. If you’re headed out on a desert river trip like Grand Canyon or Cataract Canyon, or know you’re in for a heat wave when you’ll be rafting, cotton is actually your friend despite the oft-shared “cotton kills” advice you typically need to keep in mind in outdoor environments.

4) Keep your water bottle at the ready and drink often.

Staying hydrated is not really an option, it’s a must. Keep your water bottle handy by clipping it to a strap on the boat with a carabiner and drink frequently, even if you’re not feeling thirsty. Dehydration can sneak up fast, and one of the first signs is crankiness (don’t be that person on the raft). Once a day, it’s also a good idea to toss in some electrolyte powder to keep your salt and mineral levels in check.

5) Be a shade hunter.

Do you ever notice how it feels almost 10-degrees cooler in the shade? That’s because your body can stay cooler when the sun isn’t directly hitting your skin. Whether it’s under a riverside tree, tucked into a rocky alcove, or beneath an umbrella rigged up by your guide, always take advantage of those shady spots. Pro move: grab a cold drink and park yourself in the shade with your feet in the river. That’s peak river life.

This post was origanly published in June 2021 and has since been updated.

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