Idaho Rafting

It's important to be prepared for your rafting trip. You may encounter all types of weather and conditions. Planning ahead and having the proper gear will ensure you have a safe and enjoyable river rafting experience.

Through several decades of experience on the river, Western knows what clothing and gear will keep you smiling every second of your adventure. For your convenience, you can find all these items online with Western’s retail division, Red Rock Outfitters. Shop for your packing list now »

Gear on the River

Dry Bag
Upon arrival to the river’s edge, you will be provided a water-resistant day bag (approximately 7” x 13”). In this day bag, you will want to put those items you wish to access during the day (raingear, camera, medications, sun block, lip balm, river guidebook, etc). We recommend packing these items in a simple plastic grocery sack inside your duffle for easy transfer to your day bag at the launch site.

Gear Bag
Also upon arrival at the launch site of your trip, you will receive a water-resistant gear bag. This bag will contain your sleeping bag, sheet and ground tarp. You will put your duffle bag inside this bag, roll the top down and clip it securely to avoid getting your personal gear wet. Your personal gear bag will be available at camp each night of your trip.

• Two-piece rain suit (Not just for rainstorms - water temperatures can be chilly! Quality rain gear offers protection against the cold water when running rapids – especially early in the morning. No ponchos please).
• 2-3 swimsuits (shorts and a sorts bra, or a 2-piece swimsuit and quick-drying shorts are recommended for women)
• 2-3 quick-drying shirts (long sleeve and/or short sleeve)
• Lightweight fleece top
• 2-3 pair lightweight pants/shorts and shirt with underwear for camp wear
• 1 pair quick-drying pants (optional - for sun protection while on the river)
• 2 pair socks for use in case of sunburn or foot injury
• Sturdy water sandals or water shoes. Based on the type and condition of your footwear, you may want to consider a backup pair of sandals or shoes in case of any damage.
• Comfortable footwear for camp (optional – some
  guests prefer to change out of wet sandals or
  shoes into flip flops or other light weight shoes)
• Hat for sun protection with string or hat clip

Additional Items (May-June)

• Gloves
• Neoprene socks
• Stocking cap
• Mid-weight to heavy weight fleece jacket
• Moisture-wicking long underwear (no cotton!)
• Wool or synthetic pile shirt

• Personal hygiene products
• Plenty of sunscreen
• Sunscreen lip balm
• After-sun moisturizing lotion
• Biodegradable soap (Ivory) ALL soaps must be used in a designated spot away from the river.
• Sport water bottle with clip or carabiner
• Small towel and wash cloth
• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Small pack of tissues
• Small headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries
• Insect repellant (small container)
• Sunglasses with safety strap
• Camera – waterproof digital camera with extra batteries and memory cards recommended
• Medication if needed (cool storage is available)
• Major credit card in case of evacuation
• Cash for gratuities (Your guides will make every effort to see that your trip is enjoyable and successful. Gratuities for guides are appropriate, greatly appreciated and at your discretion, as a gesture of thanks for their professionalism and service. A suggested guideline is 10 percent of the trip cost. The common practice is to give the gratuity to the trip leader on the last night. It will later be divided equally with the rest of the crew.)

Optional Personal Items

• Plastic bag for dirty or wet clothing
• Clothespins to secure wet clothing while drying
• Disposable moist towelettes
• 2 small carabiners for clipping day-use bag and water bottle to ropes
• Personal Bee Sting Kit (if allergic)