With the Texas sun shining bright and the temperatures soaring, there’s no better way to beat the heat than tubing down one of the Lone Star State’s picturesque rivers. Whether you’re a seasoned river floater or a first-timer, proper preparation is the key to an unforgettable experience. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essentials you need to bring for your ultimate Texas river float adventure.

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River Essentials

• Tubes: The heart of the adventure! Invest in a durable, comfortable tube for a smooth and relaxing ride. Consider tubes with built-in cup holders for added convenience. This isn’t absolutely necessary, most if not all tubing places will have tubes available for you to rent.

• Pump: Ensure your tubes are fully inflated with a reliable pump before hitting the water. Portable electric pumps or hand pumps are ideal for quick and easy inflation.

• Repair Kit: Accidents happen, so it’s wise to pack a repair kit with patches and glue to fix any unexpected leaks.

Apparel and Footwear

• Swimwear: Opt for a comfortable swimsuit that allows you to move freely. This isn’t the time to wear your super trendy, skimpy new suit. Go with something that you can really move around in, as you might hit rapids and need to walk or push your tube out. I personally like swim shorts or even one pieces for tubing.

• Water Shoes: Protect your feet from rocky riverbeds and sharp objects with a pair of sturdy water shoes. The Texas rivers are known for their diverse terrain, so proper footwear is essential. A lot of tubing places require footwear while floating, so definitely make sure you pick up a pair!

• Hat and Sunglasses: Shield yourself from the Texas sun with a hat and sunglasses. Stay stylish while staying cool! I would get a pair of sunglasses that you wouldn’t mind losing, because it’s likely on the river. If you can’t part with your favorite pair, though, I’d recommend a floating neck strap, just in case.

Sun Protection

• Sunscreen: A must-have for any outdoor adventure in the sun. Choose a water-resistant sunscreen with a high SPF to keep your skin safe from the sun’s rays. I like using a lotion typically, but the spray sunscreens are much more convenient when you’re floating to reapply.

• Lip Balm with SPF: Don’t forget your lips! Keep them moisturized and protected from the sun with a lip balm containing SPF. Pro tip: if you have microbladed brows, swipe some of your lip balm on top to protect them and act as a gel.

Hydration and Snacks

• Water Bottles: Stay hydrated on the river by bringing plenty of water. Consider a reusable water bottle that you can easily attach to your tube.
• Snacks: Pack non-perishable snacks like granola bars, trail mix, and fruit to keep your energy levels up throughout the float.

Cooler and Refreshments

• Cooler: Bring a waterproof cooler to keep your drinks and snacks chilled. Look for one that’s float-friendly or can be securely tied to your tube or sat inside of a tube.

• Beverages: Keep the party going with your favorite adult beverages. Remember to bring plenty of water to stay hydrated in the Texas heat.
• Drinkware: Most places do not allow glass or styrofoam on the river, so if you’re beverage of choice only comes in glass, make sure you prepare it before hand in a bottle. Koozies are also clutch while floating to keep your drinks cold.

• Garbage Bag: Be sure to collect any garbage on your float and do not litter.

Storage Solutions

• Dry Bag: Protect your valuables, such as phones, keys, and wallets, by storing them in a waterproof dry bag. This is especially crucial for those unexpected splashes.

• Waterproof Phone Case: Capture the memories without worrying about water damage. Invest in a reliable waterproof phone case for your river adventure selfies.

Entertainment

• Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker: Enhance the float experience with your favorite tunes. Bring a waterproof Bluetooth speaker to add a soundtrack to your river adventure. I personally have the JBL Xtreme 3 because it comes with a strap so I can safely secure it for the float. It is a bit pricey, but as a music lover, I found it has been worth it.

• Waterproof Camera: Most phones are waterproof nowadays, but if you’d rather not risk taking your phone in and out of the waterproof pouch, a camera might be worth investing in.

Tubing down a Texas river is an iconic summer activity, and with the right gear, it’s bound to be an unforgettable experience. As you gear up for your river float adventure, make sure to pack these essentials, and get ready for a day filled with sunshine, laughter, and the natural beauty of the Lone Star State. Happy floating!