5 Must-Know Safety Tips for Your Rafting Adventure

When you come across a rushing river during your next hiking trip, take out your packraft and have fun gliding over the water. However, before you go rafting through the rapids, it’s helpful to keep a few safety tips in mind. Take a look at these five must-know safety tips for your rafting adventure before you go.

1. Prepare for Your Adventure

If this is your first time rafting, prepare yourself for the expedition before you head out to the water. Learn how to secure yourself inside the raft, use your paddle, and control its direction. To stay safe, start on a calm, quiet area of the river and learn how to use your equipment before rushing into the rapids.

2. Note the Season

Rivers and their behaviors can change with the seasons. During the summer months, rivers are generally calm and do not have a lot of volume. On the other hand, rivers during the winter and early spring are wilder with additional water flowing in from melting snow.

3. Never Raft Alone

Unless you plan to raft on a serene lake, it’s best to never raft alone. Rivers are unpredictable, and even the most experienced rafters rarely go alone. Bringing a few friends or family members along not only makes your trip more fun, but it also makes it safer since you have a few helping hands in case of an emergency.

4. Bring Safety Gear

One of the most important must-know safety tips for your rafting adventure is to bring your safety gear. It’s called safety gear for a reason! A durable life jacket, helmet, and sturdy closed-toe shoes are all essential items to bring on your trip.

5. Read the River

Every river has different dangers that you should be aware of, including rushing rapids, jutting rocks, and sand bars. Study the river before you go rafting to ensure your safety. There are plenty of ways to find information about the river, such as asking locals, reading maps, and scouting the river from the bank.