Gearing up For Whitewater Rafting

Whitewater rafting can be one of the most thrilling experiences a person can have on a river. Rafting is a great way to exercise and relieve stress as well. For whitewater rafting novices it is important to stock up with all of the necessities before heading out to the water. But if you are a rafting novice you may not know exactly what you need to bring to ensure your safety and fun on the river.

The first and most important thing on any rafting trip is a life jacket. Whether you purchase your own or rent one from the location you are rafting at it is crucial for your safety to wear a life jacket – especially if you do not know how to swim. Most rafting outfitters require all guests to wear a Coast Guard-approved personal floatation device. There are other safety precautions you will take when rafting, such as wearing a helmet, check with your outfitter to ensure that they offer all necessary safety gear.

Because of this safety gear accidents are usually avoided on rafting trips, which is not to say that the trips are accident free, the most common accident is sunburn. To avoid this it is important to take a sunscreen that protects from both UVA and UVB rays. A day of rafting can be fun-filled but if it ends with sunburn it could be quite painful. You may also want to bring a bug spray to prevent bothersome bites.

Many people are unsure of how to dress when they go whitewater rafting. The best thing any rafter can do is to ask their rafting outfitter what the best clothing is for the conditions. But in the warmer summer months shorts, t-shirts and bathing suits are typically acceptable rafting apparel. You may be tempted to wear flip flops, but it is recommended to wear rafting-approved water shoes or sandals that strap to your feet. If you are going to be rafting in a colder month, in the evening or on a rapid where you will get very wet it is safer to wear a wetsuit. If you do not want to purchase a wetsuit you may be able to rent one from your outfitter. But rafting in the hot sun in a wet suit could get blistering hot, so check the weather conditions before selecting your rafting attire.

If you want to document your whitewater rafting trip it is safer to bring a water-proof disposable camera than an expensive one as there is the possibility of it getting wet. Your whitewater rafting trip will bring memories for years to come with or without a camera. If you have any other questions about what gear you may need for your trip please contact your outfitter for further specifications.

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Please Note: All Rogue Klamath River Adventures trips are conducted with the permission, approvals, required permits and licenses, and within the established guidelines of: the Oregon Marine Board; The United States Department of Interior; The Bureau of Land Management - Medford and Vale District Offices, and the Klamath Falls Resource Area; the U.S. Forest Service - Rogue and Klamath National Forests.

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