Essential Gear for River Trips
As the weather warms in the spring, the river flows increase and a whole new world opens up for exploration. Traveling by water is an accessible adventure option that allows you to explore remote places from a unique perspective.
There is nothing better than looking up at huge canyon walls dwarfing your boat. You are able to get away from the crowds, bond with your small group, and really feel like you are one with nature, but without having to rough it too much.
There are many ways to venture into the boating world, from kayaks to stand-up paddleboards to rafts. There are guided trips and private trips and each type of boating has its own set of essential gear items. We’ll focus here on river rafting, but you can use it as a starting point for other kinds of river trips as well.
DAY TRIPS
Day trips are a great way to get out with your friends and have some fun while not breaking the bank or having to take a week or more off of work. Rafting day trips, from exciting whitewater, runs to mellow flatwater floats, usually don’t require a permit and can be a great activity for your next trip. My favorite spots for river mini-vacations include Moab to run the Daily; Buena Vista, CO to run Brown’s Canyon or Numbers; Fayetteville, WV for the Gauley or the New; and the Snake River outside of Jackson Hole.
When you’re on the river without a guide, it is always a good idea to know your limits and be realistic about your own level of experience. You’ll need to rely on your own abilities to read water and react appropriately if anything goes wrong. But with the added responsibility, you also gain a lot more freedom (e.g., enjoying a casual adult beverage with a canyon wall or the Tetons in the background). When stepping into the private boating realm you also have to start investing in your own gear. You are able to fine-tune your setup to increase your overall comfort and enjoyment. You will want to bring along the same items as you would on a guided trip, but there is some gear you’ll probably want to add to your collection as well.
Layering pieces in a dry bag
When you are heading out on the river for a day trip with friends it is always a great idea to bring along some extra layers. You never know when that three-hour float could turn into a five- or six-hour adventure. A splash top, a warm synthetic layering piece like a Hydroskin, and a beanie are always great pieces of gear to have around. Keeping them, along with any other prized possessions, drily is key. A dry bag like the SealLine Discovery Dry Bag comes in many sizes and colors to help you stay organized. Or, a clear bag like the SealLine See is great because you don’t have to dump all your stuff on the floor of the boat when you are trying to find your camera. If a camera isn’t really your style, it is somewhat inevitable that your smartphone will come along for the ride. It didn’t happen if you didn’t ‘Gram it, right? Lifeproof makes some amazing waterproof phone cases that allow you to keep taking pictures or playing music without worry.
PFD with a river knife
Once you venture out with your own crew, you will need to have your own PFD. The good news is, you get to wear a PFD that’s comfortable, fits well, and has the features you need. If you are kayaking you definitely want to find something with a lower cut under the arms, but make sure there is still sufficient flotation and rib protection. A Type III PFD is great for any whitewater adventure. I am a huge fan of everything Astral makes and they have great zipper-front and pullover options. With a PFD purchase, it is a great idea to add on a river knife like the NRS Co-Pilot. Safety should be first and foremost and if a boat flips and a limb gets caught in a rope, you want to be able to cut yourself free. Plus, knives are cool; just be sure it has a blunt tip so you don’t accidentally pop the boat.
MULTI-DAY
Multi-day trips are hands-down my favorite type of river adventure. You are able to access some of the most remote places in the country while living the same luxury lifestyle you would car camping. Bacon for breakfast, delicious cocktails, sleeping pads that are actually comfortable, and costume wardrobes worthy of any music festival: what more could you want?
Overnight dry bag
An essential piece of gear to any multi-day trip is the overnight dry bag. You need to keep your sleeping bag and clothes dry while you float from camp to camp. The dry bag should be at least 60L (3660 cubic inches) to accommodate your essentials. The SealLine Boundary Dry Pack is my go-to bag for every trip; it fits your tent, sleeping bag, clothes, and any beach attire you would need. It also comes in a variety of sizes, depending on your needs. If you prefer a bag without backpack straps, the Watershed Colorado is a great option.
