Beyond the Packing List
How to pack like a pro for your next river trip
So, you have booked seats on an
adventure of a lifetime: a river trip. The months and weeks of anticipation are turning into reality. You sent your last work email, set your auto reply, filled out your
beer order, and bought out the sunscreen aisle from your local drug store. You’re almost there! Now…to pack. You’ve poured over our comprehensive
packing list based on our years of experience. But there are a few key items that are hard to explain in just a list and will make your trip that much more enjoyable.
Sarah Petrillo , one of our lead guides, goes “beyond the packing list” to expand on these key items:
Key Takeaways
- Pack lightweight, quick-dry gear — Skip cotton and go for moisture-wicking materials like nylon or polyester to stay comfortable and protected from the sun during your white water rafting trip.
- Bring river-friendly clothing options — Sundresses, sarongs, and merino wool underwear are versatile, breathable, and quick-drying essentials that keep you cool and comfortable both on and off the water.
- Protect your skin and stay hydrated — Invest in salves and moisturizers made for outdoor conditions to prevent dryness from the sun, wind, and water exposure common during rafting adventures.
- Don’t overlook your footwear — Use separate shoes for rafting and camp to avoid blisters and discomfort. Crocs, flip-flops, or muck boots are guide-approved options.
- Plan for fun and functionality — Pack an extra hat and a few funky costume items to embrace the playful side of river life while staying sun-safe.
- Consult the experts before you go — When in doubt about what to wear or bring for white water rafting, reach out to your outfitter or review trusted guides like Winding Waters to ensure a smooth, enjoyable trip.
Quick dry pants and long-sleeve shirt
The sun on the river can be intense and we want to stress the importance of these 2 seemingly “overkill” clothing items. Slathering on sunscreen every couple of hours is a hassle. We suggest bringing a pair of full-length pants and a long-sleeve shirt for those days when you really don’t feel like re-applying. Make sure to bring quick-dry material for time on the water, like thin polyester or nylon. You will want to avoid materials with cotton (like jeans and sweatshirts) because they take a long time to dry out. After a couple of days in the sun, your skin will thank you for covering up.
Our guide Wilson rocking full sun protection
Sundress
Sundresses and sarongs are underrated heroes of riverwear. If you're considering what to wear while rafting, a sundress offers breathability and comfort, while a sarong is versatile, cool, and protective. These pieces solve the age-old puzzle of what to wear rafting in summer and can double as white water rafting outfit options at camp. Our guides love this river dress:
NRS Women’s H2Core Silkweight Hoodie Dress
A sundress is not just practical, it also pairs well with a canyon sunset
Something funky to wear
They say what happens on the river stays on the river. . . including your questionable outfit choices. So get a little weird and bring a costume or two. Tutus, Hawaiian shirts, funky leggings, and wigs all pack well in a dry bag. If you plan on having a costume night then let us know! We will bring a costume bag so that everyone can join in on the fun.
Lookin’ good! A costume night can really spice up a river trip! (That’s Sarah, author, in the purple dress with her family & guide buddies on the Salmon River)
Salves/lotions
Skin care is one of the most overlooked packing items on a river trip. The constant exposure to water, wind and sun is guaranteed to dry out your skin. We suggest bringing moisturizer and salve to put on at night in order to prevent dry, cracked lizard skin. Some of our favorite skin care products come from both Wild Carrot Herbals & Orchard Farm Soap . Both of these family owned companies produce skin care products with locally grown & sourced ingredients. Orchard Farm is owned by one of our guide’s family ( Avery Jaeckel ). The Boathouse Shop will be carrying products from both businesses for 2022.
Extreme “lizard skin” from river wear and tear
Camp shoes
The shoes that you wear on the river should be different from the shoes you wear at camp. The straps commonly found on river shoes tend to rub and become abrasive next to wet skin. Sand and gritty pebbles also tend to cling underneath the straps, making the problem worse. You can avoid hot spots and blisters by bringing another pair of shoes to change into when you get to camp. A guide favorite for hot weather is crocs or flip-flops, because they are breathable and easy to slip on and off. For cold weather, we suggest bringing muck boots.
Extra hat
Nothing is lost to the river more than hats! Strong wind gusts, big rapids, and intense water fights often end up with hats going in the water. Bring an extra ball cap just in case. And a hat with a strap is a great idea to help keep those pesky wind gusts from stealing your hat!
Quick-Dry Underwear
Nobody wants to sit in a puddle of water all day. Unfortunately swim suit material does not dry out quickly and often leads to an uncomfortable undercarriage. We suggest wearing lightweight underwear. Our guides suggest merino wool underwear because it is soft, smell resistant, and dries out quickly.
Sarong
One of the greatest river companions you could have is a sarong: a long piece of cloth that can be wrapped or draped around the body. Sarongs are very versatile and have a thousand different uses. They especially come in handy for covering your legs or shoulders while sitting on a boat in order to protect them from the sun. On a hot day, you can dip them in the river and drape them over your body to cool off. They also work as a skirt or a changing towel in a pinch. You won’t want to leave this one out of your pack.
Cole showing us that sarongs are not just functional, but fashionable too!
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some of the most common questions about what to pack and wear for your next river trip, so you can stay comfortable, safe, and adventure-ready.
What should I wear for a river rafting trip?
Wear lightweight, quick-dry clothing made of nylon or polyester. Avoid cotton since it stays wet and cold. Long-sleeve shirts and pants protect you from the sun, while layers help adjust to changing weather. Add a hat with a strap and polarized sunglasses for sun protection.
Can I wear cotton while rafting?
It’s best to avoid cotton when rafting. Cotton holds water, takes a long time to dry, and can make you cold and uncomfortable. Instead, choose quick-dry synthetic fabrics like nylon or polyester to stay dry, cool, and comfortable throughout the day.
What kind of shoes should I bring for a river trip?
Bring two pairs: secure river shoes for the boat and comfortable camp shoes for evenings. River shoes should have straps and grip, while camp shoes like Crocs, flip-flops, or muck boots let your feet breathe and recover from the day.
Why are quick-dry clothes important on a rafting trip?
Quick-dry clothes prevent chafing and discomfort caused by sitting in wet clothing. They also help regulate your body temperature and reduce drying time. Fabrics like polyester or merino wool are ideal for staying light and comfortable all day.
Should I bring a sundress or sarong on a river trip?
Yes! A sundress or sarong is a great, versatile choice. They’re breathable, lightweight, and perfect for relaxing at camp or covering up on hot days. Sarongs can also double as skirts, towels, or sun protection for your shoulders and legs.
How do I protect my skin during a river trip?
Between the sun, water, and wind, your skin takes a beating. Use salves and moisturizers at night to prevent dryness or cracking. Pack a high-SPF sunscreen, wear long sleeves, and consider locally made natural skincare products to nourish your skin.
How many hats should I bring?
Bring at least two hats—one for the river and one as a backup. Hats often get lost in wind or rapids. Choose one with a chin strap or tether to keep it secure during the trip.
What kind of underwear is best for rafting?
Opt for lightweight, quick-drying underwear made from merino wool or synthetic materials. These fabrics wick moisture, resist odor, and dry fast, keeping you comfortable throughout your adventure.
Should I pack a costume for my river trip?
Absolutely! Many rafting trips include a fun costume night. Bring something quirky like a tutu, Hawaiian shirt, or wig. They pack light and add a festive touch to camp life.
How much should I tip my river guides?
A good rule of thumb is to tip your guides 10–20% of your trip cost. If they made your adventure safe, fun, and unforgettable, a generous tip is a great way to show appreciation.
What’s the best way to cool off on hot days?
Dip your sarong or quick-dry shirt in the river and drape it over yourself. The evaporative cooling effect works wonders in the heat. Staying hydrated and wearing light-colored clothing also helps keep you cool.
What’s one thing most people forget to pack for a rafting trip?
People often forget extra hats, lotion, or comfortable camp shoes. These small items make a huge difference in comfort and enjoyment on your trip, so double-check your packing list before you go.
Got More Questions?
Thinking “should I wear a bathing suit for white water rafting” or “what do you wear for white water rafting”? Don’t overthink it. Just avoid cotton, pack smart, and keep things functional.
Also, don't forget to tip your guides! Wondering how much to tip a raft guide? A good ballpark is 10–20% of your trip cost if your guide made your whitewater rafting unforgettable.
We’re Ready When You Are
Still sorting out what to wear whitewater rafting or what makes the best clothes for rafting? Just reach out—Winding Waters is here to help make your Whitewater Raftings experience as seamless and memorable as possible.
From river essentials to what you need for white water rafting wear, we’re your go-to crew for advice, gear, and adventure.
Hear it straight from the river! Read what other rafters had to say about Winding Waters in our
Google Business Profile Reviews—your next adventure awaits!
