Recommended Gear
With our combined 6+ decades guiding rafting trips throughout the world, we know that the difference between an enjoyable experience and a miserable one often comes down to what you bring. Our recommended gear contains items we’ve tested and depend upon ourselves. We have included mid-range and higher-end products for each category to set you up for success.
For those looking for more information, we also have articles on choosing rafting footwear, what to wear rafting, feminine hygiene on rafting trips, Grand Canyon packing list, gear for hiking into a rafting trip and our favorite Grand Canyon reading.
When shopping, keep these three guidelines in mind:
- On the water can be a harsh environment particularly when in the desert like Grand Canyon. When it comes to rain gear, UPF clothing and footwear it pays to invest in higher quality products.
- Protecting yourself from the intense sun should be taken seriously.
- Be sure to read over your outfitter’s packing list and ask why you need to bring a certain item if you don’t understand.
If you have questions, give us a call!
(928) 526-4575
Endurance: Shackleton’s Incredible Voyage by Alfred Lansing: This true story of survival, leadership, and adventure follows Sir Ernest Shackleton’s 1914 Antarctic expedition. It’s a gripping tale that will leave you in awe of the human spirit’s capacity to overcome the most challenging conditions.
A Walk in the Woods: Rediscovering America on the Appalachian Trail by Bill Bryson: For a lighter, more humorous read, join Bryson on his attempt to hike the Appalachian Trail. It’s a story filled with laughter, historical insights, and the quirky dynamics of an unlikely pair of hikers.
Learn more about selecting rain gear for your river trip.
Fleece works in camp and on the river while down packs smaller but can only be used in camp because it stops working when wet.
Wool based long underwear typically doesn’t get as smelly as the fleece underwear but it is more expensive. On cold weather trips having two sets is nice, one for the river and a dry set for camp.
All the logo items are sold by our partner New Headings.
Check out our article on shoes and sandals for Grand Canyon rafting trips.
Check out our article on sunscreens for water sports for more options.
We also have a blog post with links about our favorite Grand Canyon reading.
Our packages include the basic gear and apparel you’ll need for your white water adventure! The cost is discounted compared with purchasing as individual items. All packages are filled through our partner New Headings.
Higher-end Products
(Duffle Bag is optional)
Mid-range Products
(Duffle Bag is optional)
Higher-end Products
(Duffle Bag is optional)
Mid-range Products
(Duffle Bag is optional)
Our outfitting partner, New Headings, offers rental gear. All rentals will be sent to you at home giving you a chance to make sure everything fits and works before you leave for your trip. Pack them in your luggage, take them with you, and return them to New Headings upon your return home. See some of the popular rentals below.
Start Packing for Your Next Adventure
Tips and tricks regarding the right gear and how to pack it. See All Our Gear Posts
Sun Protection while Whitewater Rafting
When planning a rafting trip through the canyon, it’s important to consider how to best protect yourself from the sun. The combination of all day exposure and reflected sunlight off the water can be intense. Proper protection allows you to get the most out of your trip and avoid sunburn, heat exhaustion, or even skin damage.
Rafting Toilets in Grand Canyon
One of our most commonly asked questions here at Rivers & Oceans is the inevitable “What is the bathroom situation when rafting the Grand Canyon?”. While we wish it was just as simple as plumbing pipes and flushable toilets, we’re here to talk about The Groover, which is the next best thing.
Our Favorite Books for Grand Canyon Rafting Trips
Here are some of our favorite Grand Canyon rafting books for those interested rafting the Colorado River within Grand Canyon. This post just scratches the surface of the best writing on the Colorado River through Grand Canyon.
Keep Reading > Our Favorite Books for Grand Canyon Rafting Trips
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