5 must have items to make your rafting trip everything it can be
If you are running the Wild Rogue River or riding the exciting waves of the Salmon River in Idaho there are five items sure to make your trip that much better. Sometimes it's the little things that can make a world of difference.
Having a small dry bag to put in your boat can be a handy tool. This is a great place to keep that extra light fleece, sun screen, or even a small camera for easy access. Some people even like to throw in a granola bar or two for those afternoon miles between lunch and dinner. This is certainly not a must have, but those who have them find them valuable. We really like the NRS clear Dri-sto bags as it makes it easier to find your stuff quickly.
A good Headlamp is an must on a river trip. This little LED flashlight on your head makes every evening and late night camping activity easier. On lodge to lodge trips like the Rogue River rafting trip it is not AS crucial, but I still think it's an asset. Getting up after the generator has shut off, wanting to finish your late night card game, reading a book, or just walking back to your cabin or sleeping bag, these prove their worth both at the lodge and under the stars. I use mine for everything from working in a river side camp on the Salmon River to changing the oil on the car in my garage. Versatile and handy. I recommend the
Petzl Tika
Happy feet can be the difference between fun and misery. I have been on more than one rafting trip with someone who was miserable by the end because their feet had been destroyed by their river shoes or sandals. I strongly recommend spending some time and money to find a good pair that fit your feet well. For a river rafting trip I also recommend something that will stay on your feet when swimming. The only thing I put on my feet are
Chaco Sandals
, but other companies like Teva and Keen make some great sandals as well.
An important part of any vacation, but especially a rafting vacation, is capturing your memories so you can re-live them later. In the last few years a collection of GREAT waterproof digital camera's have come to the market. These are a great way to make sure you don't miss capturing the many "on the water" memories. Nobody wants to miss their son's ride through Mary's Pothole, or the scenic shot sitting in the kayaks in front of staircase falls. The pictures from the rivers perspective will be cherished for a lifetime. See my write-up on a few of the best digital camera's on the market.
Sunglass Retainers
This may be the most basic item on the list, but it's probably the most important. Sunglasses are beyond valuable on the river. Not only will they protect you from sunburned eyeballs, but a good pair of polarized glasses can be the difference between properly reading the water and ending up somewhere you don't want to be. Without sunglass straps you may not keep your precious sunglasses for very long. These are cheap, basic, and crucial. With all the options on the market we have found that only handful of designs actually work very well and we sell them all at our shop when you show up for your trip.
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