What to Pack for Your Whitewater Rafting Trip

White water rafting is one of the most exciting activities you can engage in while in Wyoming. It is a fun, exhilarating experience that brings out the beauty of the great outdoors. While outfitters can provide the majority of rafting equipment you may need, it is a good idea to come prepared for your trip with equipment of your own. What you should bring on your Jackson Hole white water rafting trip depends on the time of year, as well as the length of your stay and the amount of rafting you will be doing. However, there are a few essentials that will help make your trip a more comfortable and enjoyable time.

Clothing

Knowing what to wear is the most essential aspect of planning your rafting trip. Cotton clothing is best avoided, as it absorbs water and can make you cold very quickly. While what clothing you will bring depends on what season you are visiting as well as the weather at the time, there are some basics you should bring year-round:

• A bag for wet clothes: When whitewater rafting, your clothes are sure to get wet! Having an extra bag around can help you separate your wet clothes, preventing mess and making laundry that much easier. Just make sure that any container you end up using can keep moisture inside itself.
• Water shoes: Most shoes are not designed for watersports, so make sure you have a pair specialized to handle wet and slippery conditions.
• An extra set of clothes: After a day in the sun and on the water, the first thing you will want to do is change into a set of dry clothes.

During the summer, or when it is hot and sunny out, it is a good idea to bring clothing that dries quickly. It is also important to protect yourself from the sun, so bring with you tinted sunglasses, a hat, and light clothing that covers your body. During the winter or cold and rainy weather, bring layered clothing including weatherproof jackets, thermal pants and socks, and a snug hat.

Personal Items

In addition to clothing, it is important to prepare yourself with some personal items only you or your loved ones are meant to use. These items should include:

• Water Bottles: Hydration is key during any form of exercise and especially when white water rafting. Bring along a portable, reusable bottle that can keep your water cold.
• Snacks: Hunger is sure to occur after a vigorous rafting session. Portable, non-perishable snacks like granola bars or trail mix are a perfect companion to a fun afternoon outdoors.
• Deodorant: That last thing you want while on your trip is body odor. A good deodorant will be long-lasting and not use overwhelming fragrances.
• Sunblock: Sunburns are a huge issue when in the outdoors that can affect you when you least expect it. Make sure to have a sunblock that is waterproof and has a high SPF. Don’t forget to reapply every couple of hours!

Extra Items

During your trip, you may want to bring some fun extra items to enhance your time outdoors. These could include binoculars, field guides, group games, or water toys. It is also a good idea to bring along extra light sources for late-night fun. Just be sure your extra items do not take up too much space or prevent you from bringing your essentials,

What Not To Bring

While in the great outdoors there is a real risk of losing track of your items and keepsakes. You should avoid bringing anything on your trip you cannot afford to lose. This can include electronics, expensive glasses, or jewelry. If you do take anything that can be damaged by water, be sure to protect it in a waterproof bag or case.

Ready to Go Rafting?

If you are interested in planning your next whitewater rafting adventure in Wyoming, Jackson Hole Whitewater has several trips available. Contact us today at 1-800-700-7238 for more information on our whitewater packages and plans.