Dos & Don’ts of Tubing A River

Tips for Floating the River

When it comes to tubing, a lot can go right and a lot to go wrong but there’s no denying it’s one of the best relaxing adventures you can have.

First, we’ll cover best practices & tips for tubing the river. Then, we’ll cover what you should avoid when floating.

Do: Bring floatable sunglasses

Probably the number one thing people lose when floating a river is their sunglasses. Be sure to have a floating strap for your sunglasses. I’d suggest that you get one that is bright colored as well so they are easy to spot.

Do: Pack out what you pack in

This is one place where you really need to practice ‘pack it in, pack it out’. Only douchebags leave their trash behind in the river. The best practice is to take a closable mesh trash bag to put all your trash in.

Do: Bring snacks

If you’re going to be on the water all day and especially if you are drinking alcoholic beverages, you need to make sure you put some solid food in your stomach.

Do: Put your phone in a waterproof case

After sunglasses, the most lost thing on tubing trips is phones. You want to take a selfie on the river and ‘bloop!’ into the drink it goes. Be sure to put your phone in a waterproof case, and put a cell phone tether on it.

Do: Stay hydrated aka bring lots of water

Stay hydrated on your tubing adventure! The sun and fun can lead to dehydration, so pack plenty of water – more than you think you’ll need. Reusable bottles and hydration packs are eco-friendly ways to stay refreshed, ditching single-use plastics and keeping our rivers clean.

Do: Use sunscreen, yeah put that shit on

Protect your skin, protect the planet! Slather on that sunscreen before you hit the river, and reapply frequently, especially after swimming or sweating. Opt for eco-friendly sunscreens made with reef-safe ingredients to minimize your impact on aquatic life. Look for mineral-based sunscreens that use zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as active ingredients, rather than chemical sunscreens that can harm coral reefs and other marine life.

Do: Bring a floating cooler

A floating cooler is the best way to transport all you ice cold (and responsibly enjoyed drinks) and your food. I suggest you read my post on Tips and Tricks For Tubing with a Cooler to get the ins and outs of tubing with a cooler.

What to Avoid While Tubing

Now that you’re ready to hit the river with your trusty cooler, let’s go over some common tubing pitfalls to avoid. A few simple precautions can ensure a smooth, enjoyable, and eco-conscious float.

Don’t: Bring glass or styrofoam

Leave the glass and Styrofoam at home! Not only are they banned on many waterways due to safety and environmental concerns, but broken glass can be dangerous for fellow tubers and wildlife. Styrofoam breaks down into tiny, harmful pieces that pollute the river and can be ingested by animals.

Don’t: Forget to sunscreen your legs

Don’t forget those legs! It’s easy to overlook your legs when applying sunscreen, but they can be just as prone to sunburn as the rest of your body. Even if you’re wearing a swimsuit, the sun’s rays can still reach your skin. Be sure to apply sunscreen to your legs, feet, and even the tops of your feet, and reapply regularly for maximum protection.

Don’t: Wear Flip flops on the river

Ditch the flip flops, embrace the water shoes! While flip flops might seem convenient, they’re notorious for falling off and getting lost in the river. Opt for sturdy water shoes or sandals that will stay securely on your feet, protecting them from rocks, debris, and slippery riverbeds. You’ll be able to walk more comfortably and avoid any unexpected foot injuries.

Don’t: Pack too much crap

Pack light, float right! Avoid overpacking your cooler or tube. Remember, you’ll be floating, not moving into a new home. Stick to the essentials – drinks, snacks, sunscreen, a towel, and a change of clothes if needed. The less you bring, the more comfortable and maneuverable you’ll be on the river. Plus, you’ll have more space to relax and enjoy the ride.