Rafting can be practiced in many tourist destinations around the world. If you are planning to join a day or multi-day rafting trip, plan well and do some research before you leave. A good rafting company, the right clothing and a little knowledge of the rivers will help you enjoy the experience to the fullest.
Steps
Step 1. Research the rivers in the area where you want to raft
The rivers have a classification of rapids ranging from I to VI and which indicates the degree of difficulty. Class I includes the easiest to navigate rapids, while Class VI includes the most difficult and dangerous types of rapids. Class VI rapids are not included in commercial rafting offers and are usually non-navigable.
- Find out how difficult the river is and when is the best time to go rafting.
- Know the temperature of the water, so that you bring the right clothing.
- Find a reliable rafting company. Check online reviews on travel sites, call local chambers of commerce, or contact local parks and recreation facilities and find out which company you're interested in.
- Purchase a guide of the river you want to raft on. Many guides include rapids classification, seasonal water levels, temperatures, maps and other useful information. You can also do an online search or contact the local ranger.
- Explain the needs of your rafting group to the company of your choice. If you plan to go rafting with children or people with disabilities, or with people with special needs, please discuss this with the rafting company in advance.
- Ask the rafting company about the rapids. Make sure you and other group members are physically, emotionally and mentally capable of walking the river. Each member of the group must be prepared to swim in fast rapids, escape to safety, rescue others and follow the guide's instructions without discussion.
Step 2. Be prepared to share the raft if your group is less than 5 people
The weight of the dinghy is important when cruising Class III or higher rapids, so the guide may decide to combine your group with another to make sure the weight is balanced. If your group is large, it may be divided into different inflatables.
Step 3. Get a team-friendly attitude
You have to paddle exactly when and as the guide says. If a person does not paddle in time with the other members, the boat can go off course and end up in dangerous waters. Rafting requires each rower to use their strength as an engine as the guide leads through the rapids.
Step 4. Bring appropriate clothing with you
The swimsuit is not the best choice, because if you end up off the dinghy the swimsuit is pulled by the violent water and also in the rescue attempts and getting back on the dinghy. Wear board shorts and a T-shirt if the temperature is warm. Do not wear heavy cotton if the weather is cold, as it does not dry easily and does not keep warm. Bring dry clothes for change.
Step 5. Make sure you wear water shoes or sports shoes that can get wet
Closed shoes with a good grip sole are the best choice. Don't wear flip flops and nothing else that can slide easily. Bring an extra pair of shoes with you for change.
- A dinghy in good condition.
- An expert and certified guide.
- Life jacket.
- Helmets.
- Remi.
- A wetsuit if the weather or water is cold.
- First aid kit.
Method 1 of 1: List of Things Needed for Rafting
Step 1.
- Shorts suitable for water and t-shirt
- Sunscreen and lip balm
- Sunglasses with plastic and tear-off lenses
- Contact lenses instead of eyeglasses, if possible
- Water shoes or old sports shoes
- Waterproof camera
- Drinking water
- Waterproof bag for personal effects
- Towel
- Plastic bag for wet clothes
- Change of dry clothes
- Identity card
Advice
- Rafting companies often offer trips to different parts of the same river, so if you have small children or other companions who may be excluded from a full trip, check out different options for them.
- Rafting can be an extreme sport. Start with a class II or III rapids ride to see if you like it, then move on to more challenging rides only afterwards.
- Wetsuits can usually be rented.
