What To Pack On A White Water Rafting Trip
Key Takeaways
- Pack smart for every season: Choose quick-dry, synthetic, or wool fabrics instead of cotton to stay warm and comfortable on your white water rafting trip, whether it’s summer or winter.
- Focus on rafting gear essentials: Prioritize safety and functionality with core rafting gear like life jackets, dry bags, and river shoes designed for traction and protection.
- Stay hydrated and sun-safe: Bring a reusable water bottle, waterproof sunscreen, and SPF lip balm—these small items make a big difference in keeping you healthy outdoors.
- Plan based on trip length: Rafting gear for day trips differs from multi-day or backcountry rafting—pack light but don’t skip layers, camp footwear, and waterproof storage.
- Leave valuables behind: Avoid bringing electronics, expensive jewelry, or fragile gear that can get lost or damaged on the river.
- Enjoy the experience: The right rafting gear ensures comfort and safety—but your best asset on any white water rafting adventure is an open mind and a spirit of adventure.
Ready for an adventure of a lifetime? White water rafting is an amazing experience full of moments of excitement and awe in the great outdoors. It’s best to come prepared for your trip so you can enjoy yourself no matter what may be in store.
Many outfitters, like Winding Waters River Expeditions, provide premium rafting and camping equipment, including life jackets, dry bags, tents, sleeping pads, and more. However, you are responsible for your own personal items.
What should you pack for a white water rafting trip? That depends on the type of trip, time of year, and length of the trip. For example, if you’re joining a Snake River Hells Canyon rafting trip, you’ll need gear that handles both calm waters and thrilling rapids. However, there are a few essentials for white water rafting you can’t do without no matter what kind of trip you take.
We’ve put together a detailed packing list that you can download here , or continue reading for a great overview of what you need to bring on your river rafting adventure.
Clothing To Pack For A White Water Rafting Trip
One of the first things you’ll need to pack is the clothing you will wear on your rafting trip. As a general rule, try to avoid cotton clothing. Cotton tends to get cold when wet — and you’ll definitely be getting wet — so avoid cotton in every season. The rafting gear for beginners typically includes simple, functional items like dry-fit tops, secure river shoes, and layers for warmth.
The clothing you pack will generally depend on the weather, but here are a few clothing-related items you will need to bring no matter what time of year you go rafting:
- River Shoes—Wear sturdy sandals with straps that are designed for watersports. Flip flops won’t cut it!
- Camp “Slippers”—You’ll need dry shoes to wear around camp to keep your feet safe and warm. Remember, mornings can be cold even in the summer!
- Extra Plastic Bag for Wet Clothes—You can use a trash bag or a large ziplock. Keep your wet clothes separate from your dry clothes so everything doesn’t end up soggy.
- Set of dry clothes—After a day getting splashed on the river, you’re going to want something nice and dry to change into.
For warm and sunny weather:
- Quick-dry shorts or bathing suit
- Synthetic shirt (quick-drying, non-cotton material)
- Long-sleeved sun shirt
- Sun-blocking hat—Bring a brimmed hat to protect your face from the sun
- Sunglasses—Don’t forget a retainer strap
- Rafting gear for summer trips such as breathable rash guards and UV-blocking wear
For cool, cold, or rainy weather:
- Top outer layer, such as a windproof and waterproof jacket
- Bottom outer layer, such as windproof and waterproof pants
- Sweater, jacket, or sweatshirt (fleece or wool recommended)
- Warm hat—thin, snug
- Synthetic or wool socks
- Synthetic long-sleeve shirt(s) and top layers
- Synthetic long underwear or leggings
- Rafting gear that’s insulated for warmth and safety
- Rafting gear for winter trips, like neoprene gloves and fleece base layers
Personal Items To Pack For A White Water Rafting Trip
Water Bottle
Water is your best friend on your river vacation. It’s not just carrying you down the river, it’s also hydrating your body and keeping you healthy. We recommend Hydro Flask water bottles, which are specially designed to keep your water cold. Whatever water bottle you bring, it’s a good idea for it to have a carabiner so you can easily clip it to the raft and other gear for easy access.
Sunblock
Nothing ruins a good outdoor vacation like a sunburn. If there’s one personal item you can’t do without on a white water rafting trip, it’s sunblock. Bring along a container of long-lasting, waterproof, and sweatproof sunblock, along with a sun-blocking hat and chapstick with SPF. We apply early and often on the river!
Snacks
With Winding Waters River Expeditions you will enjoy sustainable, locally grown foods during meal times, but in between you may want to have something to snack on. Only bring snacks that are light to carry and don’t require cold or hot storage.
Soap, Lotion, and Toiletries
At the end of the day, you’ll probably want to wash off that “river feeling.” Bring along some soap (we recommend Dr. Bronner’s ) and other basic toiletries to clean up after a long, adventure-filled day. Lotion is also a great idea to bring some moisture back to your sun-soaked skin. Don’t forget to throw any medications you need into your toiletry bag too!
Fun Items To Pack For A White Water Rafting Trip
In addition to the essentials like clothing and gear, you may want to pack a few fun items to enjoy during your free time camping along the river.
Here are a few extra items you may want to consider bringing:
- Camping hammock
- Swimming goggles or snorkel gear
- Binoculars
- Star gazing guides
- Playing cards
- Flashlight or headlamp (essential rafting gear for overnight trips)
- Rafting gear that’s quick dry to keep you comfortable throughout your stay
On longer expeditions like our Hells Canyon 6-Day Rafting Adventure, having compact, lightweight extras makes your evenings by the river even better. Just be sure your extra items are small, light, and easy to pack!
Packing by Trip Type & Duration
Each type of rafting adventure comes with different gear needs. Packing right ensures you're well-equipped for the journey ahead.
- Rafting gear for day trips can be minimal—sun protection, hydration, and a change of clothes are often all you need.
- Rafting gear for multi-day trips should include layered clothing, waterproof storage, camp sandals, and enough toiletries to stay clean and comfortable. (For longer journeys like our Salmon River rafting adventures, having durable, quick-dry layers makes all the difference.)
- Those planning rafting gear for extended expeditions should bring durable outer layers, extra dry bags, and lightweight gear designed for long-term use.
- If you're headed into nature’s remote areas, your rafting gear for backcountry rafting must be lightweight, rugged, and suitable for unpredictable conditions.
Choosing the Right Rafting Gear for Your Trip
Whether you're going on a single-day journey or an extended expedition, selecting the right rafting gear for your trip is crucial. Not only does it ensure safety, but it also enhances comfort and enjoyment.
- Rafting gear for kids includes snug-fitting life jackets, UV hats, and fun waterproof bags that encourage responsibility.
- Rafting gear for family trips may involve preparing with games, extra layers, and camp comforts for all age groups. (Families love our Grande Ronde River rafting trips for their calm stretches and easy camping setups)
- If you’re bringing a camera, rafting gear for photography should include dry bags, floating straps, and weatherproof cameras.
The Not-To-Pack List For White Water Rafting Trips
Almost as important as knowing what to bring on a white water rafting trip is knowing what not to bring. Some items and white water rafting just don’t mix. The last thing you want is to lose or damage your personal belongings, especially valuable personal belongings. Keep in mind, your stuff (and yourself) will be exposed to the great outdoors, so don’t bring anything you don’t want to put at risk.
Here are a few items you should definitely leave at home :
- Electronics (laptop, iPad, iPod, etc.)
- Expensive jewelry
- Expensive eyewear
If you do choose to bring electronics like your smartphone or camera, make sure you have a dependable waterproof case to reduce the risk of damage.
Get Packing and Get Going!
More often than not, our white water rafting guests find that they overpack for the trip rather than underpack. As long as you have the essential items appropriate for your trip length and weather conditions, you should be just fine.
Remember, with Winding Waters River Expeditions, you are lead by experienced, full-service guides. If you prefer a fully customized group experience, explore our private rafting charters for exclusive adventures on Oregon’s best rivers. They will make sure you are well-equipped and prepared to enjoy a trip of a lifetime. The most important things you can bring are your spirit of adventure and sense of wonder.
Frequently Asked Questions
This article humorously explores river etiquette, wildlife encounters, and the joys of summertime rafting on the Grande Ronde River.
What should I wear on a white water rafting trip?
Wear quick-drying, synthetic clothing instead of cotton, which stays cold when wet. Choose dry-fit shirts, secure river sandals, and sun protection like a hat and sunglasses. In cooler weather, layer with waterproof jackets, fleece, and wool for warmth.
What shoes are best for white water rafting?
The best shoes for rafting are sturdy, strapped sandals or river shoes designed for water sports. Avoid flip-flops or open-toed shoes—they can slip off or offer little protection. Bring a pair of dry camp shoes to change into after rafting.
What should I pack for a multi-day rafting trip?
For multi-day trips, pack layered clothing, waterproof storage bags, toiletries, sun protection, a refillable water bottle, and camp shoes. You’ll also want warm layers for cool nights and a flashlight or headlamp for use around camp.
What personal items do I need for a rafting trip?
Bring essentials like sunblock, chapstick with SPF, a reusable water bottle, lightweight snacks, soap, lotion, and any medications. Keep everything in a small, waterproof bag so it stays dry and easy to reach during your trip.
What should I not bring on a white water rafting trip?
Leave behind electronics, expensive jewelry, and valuables you don’t want to risk losing or damaging. If you bring a phone or camera, store them in a high-quality waterproof case or dry bag to protect against splashes and water exposure.
What kind of clothes should I avoid wearing while rafting?
Avoid wearing cotton because it absorbs water and makes you cold when wet. Instead, wear synthetic or wool materials that dry quickly and keep you warm. Skip loose-fitting clothes that could snag on gear or equipment.
Do I need special gear for a rafting trip?
Most outfitters provide essential gear like life jackets, dry bags, and camping equipment. You’ll just need to bring your personal clothing, footwear, sun protection, and any comfort items. Always check with your outfitter for their specific gear list.
How do I pack for different weather conditions?
For warm weather, bring lightweight, breathable layers and UV protection. In cold or rainy weather, pack waterproof outer layers, fleece, and synthetic long underwear. Always have a dry set of clothes for camp and an extra bag for wet items.
Can I bring snacks or food on the raft?
Yes, bring light, non-perishable snacks like trail mix or granola bars for between meals. Avoid anything that needs refrigeration or cooking. Keep snacks in a resealable bag or small dry bag to protect them from water and easy access.
What fun items can I bring on a rafting trip?
If you have space, pack small extras like a hammock, playing cards, goggles, or a stargazing guide. Just make sure everything is lightweight, compact, and easy to pack. Always prioritize essentials before bringing entertainment items.
How can I keep my belongings dry while rafting?
Use dry bags or waterproof cases for your gear. Keep smaller items in resealable plastic bags inside your dry bag for extra protection. Clip bags to the raft with a carabiner so they stay secure even if the raft hits rough water.
How can I prepare for my first rafting trip?
Review your outfitter’s packing list, wear comfortable water-appropriate clothing, and bring sun protection, water, and a positive attitude. Pack light but smart—focus on essentials that keep you safe, dry, and ready for an unforgettable adventure.
If you have any questions about what to bring on your rafting trip, feel free to contact Winding Waters River Expeditions by phone or email and we’ll help you with everything you need. You can also grab our detailed packing list here to print out and mark up as you prepare for your trip.
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