River Trip Gear Essentials

The rivers are rising, your permits are secured, and the raft is pumped up. Ready to hit the river? Before you hit the put-in, make sure you’ve packed these essential but easily overlooked gear items.

Everyone remembers the big stuff–raft, dry bags, PFD, helmet, and paddle–but might miss these small but thoughtful items that make the trip more enjoyable. Durango Outdoor Exchange has many of these in stock at super low prices. Call us or stop by!

• Small drybag just for boat clothes: Many boaters love to keep a small 5-10 liter dry bag on the raft that holds exactly what you need for the water–gloves, thin fleece, and beanie.

• Small drybag for snacks: You’ll burn calories quickly and want snacks you can grab without landing. A small pouch clipped to a guy line with a few bars can help stave off that mid morning stomach pang.

• Lip balm with SPF: Desert sun on the water is brutal. Throw a bunch of these in your kit and apply regularly–one in your PFD pocket, one in your camp bag, and one in your snack bag.

• Wide-brimmed sun hat with a chin strap: Ball caps blog off and buffs don’t shade your face.

• Backup headlamp: New headlamps are lighter and last longer than ever, and a cheap backup is good insurance.

• Tape, zip ties, and Voile straps: Always handy, never out of style. 

• Camp towel: A fast-drying camp gown is a genuine comfort item.

• Sunscreen stick: Better than lotion when your hands are wet.

• Small journal: Go old school for once, then keep it. Your kids will thank you 30 years from now.

Questions? Give us a call!