Be Prepared for the River

Escaping into the backcountry for a few days, or better yet a week, does more than give us a break. It gives us real, true quiet. It gives us fresh air and open spaces. It gives us a sense of the majesty of the natural world. But packing for your trip requires planning.

While there are many ways to escape into the outdoors, few are as thrilling, yet somber as the river trip. First, there’s the quiet time along the river, camp set up, food cooking on the stove, having a few brews with your friends and family. Then, there’s the serenity of floating on a glass-quiet piece of water taking in the absence of technology, traffic, and noise. Finally, there’s the rush of the rapids, the adrenaline of fast moving water, and nothing but a few oars to guide your way.

The river trip is an underestimated, yet highly rewarding experience. However the virgin voyage can be a bit overwhelming. What to pack, from how much food and water to bring, what gear and clothing to haul along, can be intimidating—and, of course, space is limited. Here, you’ll find a handy preparation list for your first float down the river. Of course, don’t forget the jerky—it holds up well over multi-day trips and it’s delicious! Check out a few of our jerky recipes for your trip and have fun.

River Trip Packing List, Self-Guided Trip

10 People, 7 Days, 2 Rafts, 2 Inflatable Kayaks or SUPs

Gear List

• Tents
• Sleeping bags
• Sleeping pads
• Pillows
• Headlamps
• Lantern
• Camp chairs
• Table
• Camera
• Games
• GPS
• River map
• River permit (if required)
• Satellite phone (consider for safety if no service)
• Waterproof watch
• Daypack for hikes
• Knives (2)
• Umbrella or other shade
• Firepan (required for most trip)
• Wood (if fires are allowed)
• Hatchet
• Otter box or Ammo can (waterproof) for phone/keys
• Dry bags
• Toilet system (washable, leak-proof), TP, hand santizer
• PFD’s (Type I, III, or V)
• Rafts, frames, oars (bring one spare per raft), pump, repair kit
• Inflatable Kayaks or SUPs
• Throw ropes (one per raft)
• Carabineers
• Cam straps

Toiletries & Hygiene

• Toiletry kit
• First Aid Kit
• UV-protectant lip balm
• Deodorant
• Moisturizing face cream
• Toothpaste and brushes
• Handsoap/sanitizer
• Bug spray
• Sunscreen
• Wash cloth
• Eyewash/eye drops

Kitchen / Food List

• 50 Gal water (based on .75 gal per person per day)
• Food (ideally prepared) for at least one more day than you need
• Snacks for on river (don’t forget the jerky)
• Water bottles
• Backpacking pots and pans, kettle, hot pads
• Cutting board
• 2 burner stove + 1 small stove
• Fuel for stoves
• Charcoal for firepan
• Lighters
• Stove-top coffee maker
• Dishwashing tubs and washing supplies (soap and bleach)
• Strainer for dish water
• Dish drying rack (mesh ideal)
• Spices and oil / butter
• Backpacking bowls, plates, silverware
• Mugs
• Sealable containers for leftovers + ziplocs
• 2 Coolers
• Dish towels
• Sealable trash system / trash bags

Clothing List

• Sun / baseball hats
• Sunglasses
• Rain jackets
• Hoodies/light down jackets/fleeces
• Pants (1 pair each)
• Shorts
• Swimsuits
• Water shoes
• Hiking shoes
• Long sleeve shirt
• Short sleeve shirt with collar
• Bandanas
• 1 Pair of socks
• Towel

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Have fun out there and always be prepared. Packing and planning for your river trip will ensure you have the best time possible. Be sure to research the area and the weather before heading out.