The Ultimate Float Trip Checklist
The Ultimate Float Trip Checklist Planning a river adventure this summer? Whether it's your first float trip or your hundredth, having the right gear can make the difference between an unforgettable day and a stressful one. This Ultimate Float Trip Checklist covers everything you need for a fun, safe, and well-prepared day on the water from coolers and sunscreen to jello shots and the Jellinator. At the Jellinator, we know a thing or two about float trips. After all, we've spent plenty of summers perfecting jello shots on the river, at the lake, and everywhere in between. Use this checklist to make sure you're ready for your next adventure. Before you hit the river, make sure you've packed these float trip essentials. 1. Reserve Your Boats Early Summer weekends fill up fast. Before your trip: Reserve your canoe, kayak, or raft with a local outfitter. Plan your group size. Decide who will ride together. Confirm shuttle transportation back to your vehicle. Most outfitters bus you upstream so you finish your float right where your car is parked. 2. Choose the Right Float Length An 8–10 mile float trip is ideal for most groups. This usually allows: 4–5 hours on the river Time for swimming Lunch on a sandbar Plenty of relaxation 3. Pack Plenty of Drinks Bring more beverages than you think you'll need. Alcohol If you're bringing beer or other beverages: Choose cans instead of glass bottles. Avoid kegs if your river prohibits them. Check local river regulations before your trip. Water Don't forget hydration. Pack at least one full case of water for your group since spending hours in the sun and consuming alcohol can quickly lead to dehydration. 4. Bring a Secure Cooler A sturdy cooler is essential. Look for one that: Closes securely Can be tied down Keeps drinks cold all day Avoid foam coolers, as many outfitters and rivers prohibit them. 5. Pack Bungee Cords Bungee cords are one of the most overlooked float trip essentials. Use them to secure: Your cooler Dry bags Gear containers Food storage If your raft tips, you'll be glad everything stayed attached. 6. Bring Easy-to-Pack Food Floating all day builds an appetite. Great options include: Sandwiches Chips Trail mix Fresh grapes Beef jerky Granola bars Fresh fruit Choose foods that stay fresh inside a cooler. 7. Don't Forget the Koozies Cold drinks stay cold longer with a koozie and nobody enjoys a warm beverage after hours in the summer sun!! 8. Protect Yourself from the Sun Even on cloudy days, you'll spend several hours exposed to the sun. Pack: Sunscreen Hat Sunglasses with a retainer strap Lip balm with SPF Reapply sunscreen throughout the day. 9. Bring Extra Clothes You'll almost certainly get wet. Pack: Swimsuit Towel Dry clothes Bug spray Keep your extra clothes in your vehicle unless you have a waterproof dry bag. 10. Carry a Dry Bag Protect your valuables from water. A dry bag is perfect for: Cell phone Wallet Keys Snacks Towels Small electronics Even experienced floaters flip occasionally. 11. Wear Proper Water Shoes Skip the flip-flops. Instead, wear: Water shoes River sandals with heel straps Closed-toe water footwear They provide better traction and help protect your feet from rocks and debris. 12. Bring Jello Shots No float trip is complete without jello shots. They're a fun conversation starter and always a crowd favorite on the river. If you're making a large batch, the Jellinator makes filling dozens of cups fast and mess-free while reducing spills and wasted ingredients. Pro Tip: Use biodegradable cups and lids whenever possible to help protect rivers and waterways. Always pack out everything you bring. 13. Bring Your Dog (Optional) Many rivers welcome well-behaved dogs. Before bringing your pup: Check with the outfitter. Bring fresh water. Pack a leash. Consider the weather. If it's too hot or your dog doesn't enjoy swimming, it's best to leave them at home. 14. Wear Costumes (Optional) Float trips are even more memorable with a theme. Popular ideas include: Tropical luau Pirates Superheroes Decades themes Patriotic celebrations Matching costumes always make for great photos. 15. Capture the Memories Instead of risking your phone, consider bringing a waterproof camera. It's an inexpensive way to preserve the memories without worrying about dropping expensive electronics into the river. 16. Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker (Optional) A waterproof portable speaker keeps the party going all day. Just remember to be respectful of other groups enjoying the river. Float Trip Safety Tips A great float trip is both fun and safe. Remember to: Drink responsibly. Stay hydrated. Wear sunscreen. Respect local river rules. Never litter. Wear a life jacket when appropriate. Watch changing river conditions. Look out for everyone in your group. A little preparation goes a long way toward an unforgettable day on the water. Why Bring the Jellinator? If you're making jello shots for a float trip, you'll appreciate how much easier the Jellinator makes the process. With the Jellinator, you can: Fill dozens of shot cups quickly. Reduce spills and wasted ingredients. Create consistent servings. Spend less time preparing and more time enjoying your trip. Because unless you enjoy slow, sticky cleanup... You need a Jellinator! Let's Jellinate! Final Float Trip Checklist Before leaving home, double-check that you packed: ✔️ Reserved canoe, kayak, or raft ✔️ Cooler ✔️ Drinks ✔️ Water ✔️ Food ✔️ Bungee cords ✔️ Koozies ✔️ Sunscreen ✔️ Hat ✔️ Swimsuit ✔️ Towel ✔️ Dry clothes ✔️ Dry bag ✔️ Water shoes ✔️ Jello shots ✔️ Jellinator ✔️ Phone charger or power bank ✔️ Waterproof speaker (optional) ✔️ Camera (optional) ✔️ Costumes (optional) Now you're officially ready for one of America's favorite summer traditions. Have fun, stay safe, and enjoy the float! FAQ What should I pack for a float trip? Pack water, food, a cooler, sunscreen, a dry bag, water shoes, towels, bug spray, extra clothes, and any beverages you'll need for the day. Don't forget your jello shots if you're planning a party on the river. How much water should I bring on a float trip? Bring at least one case of water for your group, especially during hot summer weather. Staying hydrated is essential if you're spending several hours on the river. Can I bring glass bottles on a river float trip? Most rivers prohibit glass containers. Use cans or plastic containers instead, and always check your outfitter's rules before your trip. Why should I use biodegradable cups for jello shots? Biodegradable cups are a more environmentally friendly option for outdoor gatherings. Regardless of the material, always pack out all trash to help protect rivers and wildlife.
