Packing for a rafting trip can be stressful. Rafting trips require a specific set of gear that is not typically needed for other camping trips. After spending over 50 nights on the river guiding trips last summer, I have the packing process down to a science.
If you want to go on the Best 5-Day Rafting Trip in Idaho, book with Adventure Idaho Rafting. We have the best crew, the best prices, and the most fun. Email me for a discount code [srobbins423@gmail.com].
Essential Gear for Your Rafting Trip
1. Clothing: The Basics
- Bring about three sets of clothing you are okay with getting wet and dirty. This could include athletic clothing or swimwear. These clothes should be secure on you so they don’t fall off during the rapids. Sun hoodies like this one are a lifesaver on the water, keeping you cool and dry all day while protecting you from the sun.
- Next, pack two sets of clothing for chillin’ at camp. These can include pretty much any clothes you would like, but keep it casual and comfy. Pro Tip: if you want to save your feet, change into socks and sneakers or hiking boots after you get off of the water.
- Finally, pack some layers for when it gets chilly. I would recommend bringing a set of rain gear so you are ready for any surprise weather conditions or wet days on the water. A down jacket, base layer and some wool socks are necessary for colder trips. No matter what the conditions are, I always carry a sweatshirt.
2. Gear for On the Water
- In addition to the basic clothing items you packed, you might want some more functional items for those long days shredding the rapids. If you go with an awesome company like Adventure Idaho (email me for the discount code: srobbins423@gmail.com), they will provide you with wetsuits when the water is cold during early season.
- If you have your own wetsuit, splash gear, or dry-suit, I would recommend bringing it just incase, especially if you are going in May or June.
- If you don’t have these things, there is no need to worry, just bring a good rain jacket, and you will do just fine.
- Bringing your life jacket is super nice, but make sure it is a whitewater-specific model. I use this one. Adventure Idaho will provide you with complimentary high-quality life jackets, so don’t stress if you don’t have your own.
- Bringing a small dry bag with sunscreen, sunglasses, chapstick, snacks, and a camera can be a great idea. I would recommend this drybag.
- For footwear, I recommend a solid pair of water shoes or a pair of Chaco sandals.
Pro Tip: Leave your carabiners at home unless they have a screw gate locking mechanism like this one. Our expert guides can secure all of the dry bags and water bottles in the raft so no need to worry about your gear falling out.
(Carabiners are a safety hazard because they can get caught on shoe laces and other clothing items.)
3. Camping Supplies
- Sleeping Bag: A solid bag rated for the temperatures that you will sleeping in. For the super hot months (July and August), I used a sleeping bag liner to prevent me from cooking in a sleeping bag.
- Sleeping Pad: If you book with Adventure Idaho, you will receive the most high quality sleeping pads on the river that will guarantee a great nights sleep.
- Pillow: A small and packable pillow can transform a good night’s sleep into a great night’s sleep.
- Tent?:I would recommend bringing a tent in case the weather turns, but not sleeping in it unless you have to. Bring a tent that is just big enough to fit you and your buddies. I promise you will make more memories sleeping outside under the stars. (Adventure Idaho also provides tents for guests upon request.)
4. Hygiene and other Health Necessities
- Non-perishable Foods: Consider energy bars, dried fruits, beef jerky, and a variety of candy. Bring calorie-dense snacks and let our guide’s chef up some amazing meals for you on the river.
- Water Bottle: Bring a huge water bottle and drink from it constantly; being dehydrated is one of the number one risks of rafting.
How do you stay feeling fresh on a 5-Day river trip? Dry shampoo, Aquaphor, Chapstick, Lotion, Skincare Products, deodorant, and baby wipes. Most hygiene products take up minimal space and have a travel-sized version, so go crazy.
Wrapping it up
Packing for a 5-day rafting trip doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared for an adventure filled with huge rapids and good times. Remember to check the weather and adjust your packing list accordingly. This isn’t a comprehensive list but just some basic guidelines for your packing.
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To insure that you have the best 5 day trip possible, book with Adventure Idaho. For a discount on your trip email me [srobbins423@gmail.com].
Happy Rafting!
