Planning Your Family River
Trip
There are aspects to preparing for a family river trip. Perhaps the
most important is following the guidelines of the outfitter with whom you will
travel. They know best what gear to bring, what you can expect in terms of trip
pace and day by day itinerary, how weather could effect your family rafting
trip and so on.
After you sign up for a family river rafting trip with
an outfitter they will send you a packet of information that includes a gear
packing list, rendezvous instructions, pre and post trip transportation
information, and more. Be sure to take all of this information to heart!
In addition to the info each outfitter will provide we recommend the
following items as you plan, prepare for and then participate in your family
river trip.
Involve Your Kids In Planning
Getting your child(ren)
excited about specific aspects of your family river trip will help engage them
during the trip itself. If you are so inclined, take some time before you
travel to show them maps, list animals that may be encountered on your trip,
and discuss what type of activities will be included on the trip, etc. Above
all else, consider each child's abilities and personality to ensure they have a
fun and rewarding family river rafting trip without getting in over their
heads.
Plan A Trip-Long Project
A trip-long project may help your
child(ren) enjoy the trip even more, and can provide a valuable record for
lifelong memories. One popular option is to buy your child a disposable camera
and have them create a photo essay of pictures they've taken. Another good idea
is to create a journal for your children to write in each evening at camp. They
can write, draw pictures, press flowers and go home with a running record of
the family rafting trip.
Watch The Weather
Once on the river trip,
watch the weather and heed advice from your guides in order to assure your
comfort. As you know, children (especially small ones) are more susceptible to
the elements than most adults. Bring lots of waterproof sunscreen and have your
child apply it several times a day. However, do not apply sunscreen to your or
their forehead. If it drips in your eyes from splashing or perspiration it can
sting. Also, have your child wear a hat with a bill. Also, make sure that you
have closely followed the gear and clothing requirements before the trip, in
order for you and your children to be as comfortable as possible.
 Drink Lots
Of Water
Dehydration may be the biggest hazard on any family river trip,
and the first sign is often a bad mood. Bring water bottles and have your whole
family drink lots of fresh water.This is probably the most important thing you
can do to ensure everyone has a good time.
Share Activities
Most
adventure travel outfitters encourage everyone to do as much or as little as
they want to in camp and at other times while on the trip. If your children
like to participate and lend hands, most outfitters welcome it! When deciding
on a family rafting trip, find out from potential outfitters exactly how much
hands-on participation there can be!
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