Float Trip Essentials: 29 Can’t Forget Items

There are few summer activities better than floating down a fresh body of water in beautiful sunshine. Like most outdoor adventures, a little planning and preparation will unlock a relaxing and enjoyable day on the water.

We prepared this float trip checklist that covers gear, safety, clothing, and provisions.

Download a printable float trip packing list here.

What to Bring on a Float Trip

Float Trip Gear

1. Your Vessel of Choice (This can be an inner tube, raft, canoe or kayak. Don’t forget an air pump if necessary.)

The Chillbo Chillypad Sunbathing Lake Raft is the ultimate float trip raft. The Chillypad floating water hammock won’t keep you out of the water with a tedious setup process. The floating pad for lake sets up in seconds with the convenient dual-action pump! Up and down once or twice and you’d be chilling in the water as quickly as possible.

2. Tube Repair Kit

3. Dry Bag

4. Bungee Cords

5. Ziplock Bags

6. Umbrella

7. Towel

8. Waterproof Cell Phone Case or Floating Phone Case

Float Trip Safety

9. Sunscreen

10. Chapstick

11. First Aid Kit

12. Bug Spray

13. Wet Wipes or Hand Sanitizer

Float Trip Clothing

14. Swim Suit

15. Cover Up

16. Rash Guard

17. Floating Sunglasses

18. Hat

19. Water Shoes (River Sandals or Neoprene Booties)

The SIMARI Water Shoes are one of the top rated water shoes on Amazon and a great option for float trips.

20. Dry Clothes

Float Trip Provisions

21. Water

22. Drinks

23. Snacks

24. Cooler

There are even coolers that are designed for float trips. The Cuddy Floating Cooler and Dry Storage Vessel is an amphibious floating cooler. That's right. You can float, tow or anchor this cooler on the water.

25. Ice

Float Trip Extras

26. Waterproof Camera

27. Water Guns

28. Noodles

29. Waterproof Speaker

What Not to Bring on a Float Trip

1. Books

2. Electronics

3. Expensive Sunglasses

WMP are a great brand of affordable but well-made sun glasses. You will be looking super cool.

4. Valuables

5. Unnecessary Items

Float Trip Pro Tips

• Keep it light. You don’t want to be weighed down with unnecessary gear.

• Sun protection is critical. Make sure to protect yourself from the sun.

• Drink plenty of water. If partaking in adult beverages, drink responsibly.

• Do your part. Clear your letter, pack out what you pack in, and clean up after yourself. Keep the river water clean and clear.

Don’t forget to stock up on the ultimate float trip snack—beef jerky! Lightweight, convenient, and full of protein, beef jerky will keep you fueled for your next river float adventure.

Shop our best selling Beef Jerky before you go!