White water rafting is great fun for the beginner as well as for the professional; it will exercise all your body and get you to appreciate nature at its best. However, to get into these white waters and really have fun without getting injured you need to be well prepared in advance. Here are a few things without which you should not leave for your white water rafting vacation:

Wetsuit – When rafting in any water keep in mind that you are going to get wet, no matter what so, even if you don’t mind getting wet if you stay in the water long enough there is a good chance you will get cold in the process thus investing in a wet suit is a very clever move. If you don’t want to invest in one (some are expensive) most white water rafting vacation companies will rent you one for the trip.

Waterproof shell – This too works to protect you from getting wet and in the process cold; depending on the type of river you will be rafting on (Class 3 definitely needs protection) protection may be a must. These waterproof shells too may be available for rent by the rafting companies should you not wish to invest in one.

Base layer – Synthetic underwear (long) is what is required to be the base layer of your clothing; the reason it needs to be synthetic is due to the tight fit requirements which cotton cannot provide.

Warm clothes – Carry some warm clothing like a sweater should there be a sudden change in weather; also very important is a warm hat, which will help preserve heat. Socks are next on the list and they too are a must; make sure they are of wool or fleece and not cotton. Gloves are essential as well as you will be doing the hard job with your hands and they need protection when rafting.

Footwear – The professional way to go would be with neoprene booties but regular trainers with neoprene soles will work just fine.

Other Helpful Tips

Bring some snacks on your white water rafting vacation as well; your body and mind are going to have the trip of their lives and they will need fuel to keep it going so something like an energy bar would be easy to carry and perfect to eat.

When rafting, remember not to wear any jewelry, watches and other such items that may easily be lost in the process. A white water rafting vacation is a wonderful experience that will get you soon addicted and coming back for more.