Summer vacation is all about adventure, family, sun, and fun! And whitewater rafting is a fantastic experience which provides all of this and more.

Throughout the country, incredible whitewater raft guiding companies offer families the opportunity to splash and float through canyons, forests, deserts, and mountains. They are professional and friendly and happy to help you pick the right trip for you and the kids. And you probably got a great deal by letting Destination Deals find the best discounts and packages.

But now that white water rafting is officially off your bucket list and on to your calendar, it is easy to be a little intimidated by how exactly to prepare, especially if you have young children.

Here are a few tips to make sure you feel confident about what to bring and how to prepare for this new outdoor adventure.

1. Start at the Company Website

Nearly every rafting company will provide you with a list of required footwear and clothing and a few other helpful suggestions. Take them seriously! These guides are experts about the challenges provided by the river, whether it is seasonally cold water, or extreme sun exposure. They want you to enjoy yourself as much as you do, so be sure to bring whatever they suggested. On Destination Deals website we have a whole page dedicated to whitewater rafting. Look through the deals and find what you are looking for!

2. Snacks

With kids of any age, and most adults, low blood sugar is the enemy. Whether it is your toddler or your spouse, a hangry person will not enjoy the beauty of the river or the clever jokes and fun facts provided by your guide. Be sure to bring some granola bars, maybe an apple, or some trail mix to offset the physical demands of spending time in the outdoors. Even if your guide company will provide lunch, it helps to make sure your crew is stocked up and ready to get stoked!

3. Waterproof Camera

Most white water rafting companies will strongly discourage you from bringing your cell phone on the river. Whether it gets wet, dropped, or lost, the probability of something happening to this expensive piece of equipment is very high, and they do not want to be liable for it. So instead, invest a few dollars in a disposable waterproof camera to capture the moments. You will also have the opportunity to purchase their professional photographs at the end of the trip, but those shots are limited to one or at most, two spots on the river.

4. Sunscreen

All day exposure is brutal to even the most tanned skin. Not only do you risk skin damage from UV rays, but it is much more tiring to your body to be out there without protection. So slather up. Especially if you will be in higher altitude like in Colorado.

5. Ask for Recommendations 

Wondering what else to do in the town? Ask your guide! Whether it is dinner, drinks, entertainment or other outdoor destinations, your raft guide almost certainly has the inside perspective on where your time and money is best spent.

6. Tip your Guide

Unless your chosen company explicitly says they do not want you to tip the guides- you should bring a few extra bucks as a ‘thank you’ for a great trip. Choose whatever amount feels right to you, and you will definitely make their day!

So get out and enjoy the river this summer!