Rafting In Alaska: How To Make The Most of It

Rafting is amongst the most popular activities in Alaska. It makes good use of the resources available in the state and allows you to unwind from your daily life and enjoy something new.

While an injury isn't very common during rafting, the risk still exists as rafting is more intense than the other watersports in Alaska.

Here's how to make the most of the activity while staying safe during your Alaska trip:

Learn How To Swim

You’re good to go if you already know how to swim. However, if you don't know swimming or aren't at least a little skilled at it, you should take a few classes before rafting.

While the organizers of the sport will, of course, take all the necessary steps to ensure your protection, you can fall out because of the raft’s rough movement.

Keep these tips in mind:

• Never stand up in the water when there’s an active current.
• Keep your feet downstream to protect your head from any hits.

Know Which River You’re Getting Into

The rivers are classified based on their level of danger. Level 1 is the easiest, while level 6 is the toughest. If you've done rafting before and feel confident enough, then you might be ready for level 6.

However, if you’re a beginner, we recommend starting off with an easier level and working your way up.

Make sure to discuss this with your tour guide and instructor beforehand and wear Alaskan apparel suited to the water’s temperature.

Choose Comfortable Clothing

While you’ll be wearing a lifejacket above your regular Alaskan gear, make sure that whatever you’re wearing is comfortable enough to not get in the way during the trip.

If you're going in the summertime, you can wear a tee-shirt or even a tank top, and if you're going in one of the colder seasons, then nautical clothing such as a sweatshirt will be a more suitable option.

Follow the Instructions

Your guide’s there for a reason. Over the years, they’ve probably been on tens, if not hundreds of rafts. Make sure you follow the guide’s instructions when it comes to sitting, paddling, leaning, ducking, etc.

General Tips

In addition, here are some tips you should keep in mind:

• No alcohol before the trip
• Don’t go rafting at night
• Never raft alone
• Know the regulations
• Let the instructor know if you’re not comfortable in your seat.

Dress for The Trip With The Right Alaskan Clothing Store

Whether you’re looking for a tee to wear underneath a lifejacket or a hoodie to wear on your glacier track, we have it all available at Lost on Land Found at Sea.

Take a look at all the nautical clothing available on our Alaskan clothing store, and purchase all the clothing and accessories you’ll need to make your Alaska trip memorable.