Embarking on your first rafting trip is both exciting and nerve-wracking. The water, beautiful surroundings, and spending time with other rafters make for an unbelievable adventure. However, it is essential to be ready. Understanding everything from paddle commands to knowing what to bring will help you successfully navigate your first trip. Here are five tips to help you prepare for your first time on the water during a rafting trip.
Pay Attention to the Guide
The guide is the expert. Pay close attention during orientation. Your guide will explain the paddle commands. If you are unsure how to hold your paddle, now is the time to ask. Paddles can cause injuries if handled wrong. The guide will give a demonstration to ensure everyone is safe. Your guide will provide instructions on what to do if you fall out of the raft and other safety information you need.
What to Wear?
Start with your feet. You will want footwear that will stay on your feet. Do not wear slip-ons or flip-flops. A pair of sneakers that you do not mind getting wet or a pair of water shoes will be the best options. For a base layer, start with a swimsuit to help keep you dry. Continue with a quick dry shirt and shorts and pants. Leave the jeans at home. Do not wear a cotton T-shirt. Cotton, especially when wet, will not keep you warm. Consider a polar fleece for a top layer if it is a cold day. Do not forget a pair of sunglasses and a ball cap to help keep the sun out of your eyes. A wetsuit may help to keep you warm if it is cold.
Two essential items are your helmet and safety vest. Ensure they are on whenever you are on the raft. The guide will help to make sure they fit.
Know How to Swim
There is a chance you will end up in the water during your rafting adventure. It is necessary to know whatever you do, do not panic. You do not need to be an expert swimmer, but knowing how to stay calm and float is vital. If you wind up in the water, do not try to stand up. Standing up can cause problems such as foot entrapment. Foot entrapment is when your foot slides into a crack in the river’s bottom and gets stuck. Instead, position yourself on your back, and you will want to point your feet downstream.
If you find yourself that you need to swim, roll onto your stomach and swim. Point yourself in the direction you want to go and keep swimming. If you need to stop, roll back onto your back. Do not put your feet down.
It is a Workout
Be prepared to be sore after the trip. Be ready to do your share of paddling along with everyone else. If you do not use those muscles often, you will feel it. Working out before the trip will help you prepare.
Do Not Forget the Camera
You may want to leave your phone in a dry spot. However, consider taking a waterproof camera. You may want to take pictures of your surroundings and document your first rafting trip. They will be memories you will never forget.
Published by: Josh Tatunay
