grand canyon - what to pack

  • Government issued photo ID

  • Rain gear - Don't go on your trip without rain gear! The water temperature on the Colorado River during the summer runs a cold 50 degrees! It is important to have a quality rain jacket with hood and pants. Waterproof, impermeable layer not “water-resistant.”

  • Synthetic long underwear- medium weight. Top & bottom.

  • Footwear - Plan to bring 2 pairs of footwear, one to wear on the raft and one in camp and on hikes. Quality river sandals with a closed toe are highly recommended. For the river shoes, we suggest something with a closed toe. Keen Newport, Salomon Cross Amphibian and Astral Brewer are top picks for closed toed shoes. For a more conventional river sandal, the original Teva and Chaco Z1 are our choices. The second pair should be comfortable for hikes and camp, preferably wearable with socks.

  • Socks – bring numerous pairs of socks for hiking and for camp.

  • Jacket- Lightweight down puffy or fleece sweater.

  • Long pants -light-weight, fast-drying material for sun protection.

  • Shorts - quick drying material – nylon works well.

  • Shirts -at least one long sleeved for sun protection.

  • Underwear

  • Swimsuit/Swim Trunks

  • Hat

  • Gloves – Great for hand protection from sun, wind, sand. Also useful for holding on during whitewater.

  • Small towel and washcloth.

  • Biodegradable soap and shampoo such as Dr. Bronners or any castile soap.

  • Headlamp and spare batteries – NOT a flashlight.

  • Quart sized water bottle- High quality such as Kleen Kanteen or Nalgene

  • Medication – Bring twice what you need

  • Sunglasses – (Consider bringing a spare pair also).

  • Insect repellent - small can

  • Chap-stick – Bring several so that you always have it available.

  • Sunscreen- Opt for sensitive skin with a high SPF since you’ll be applying often.

  • Hand Lotion/Moisturizer- Fragrance/chemical free works great for dry skin.

  • Personal Hygiene products- Shaving kit, deodorant, toothpaste, toothbrush, hair brush, etc.

 

Optional Items to Pack

  • Baby wipes or Wet-wipes

  • Bandanna

  • Carabineers – Handy for clipping day bags and water bottles to raft.

  • Cash – Good to have for souvenirs and if you want to purchase a fishing license.

  • Optional personal items - solar shower, book, playing cards, small instrument, Frisbee, etc.

  • Personal first aid items – The outfitter supplies extensive first aid supplies, but you may bring more if needed/desired.

  • Personal Items–Passengers may bring their wallets, credit cards and airline tickets with them on their trips. Don’t forget your government issued photo ID. They should be stored in zip lock bags, in the bottom of your waterproof bag.

  • Ziploc bags - Handy for storing wet items & keeping things dry.

 

What Will Be Provided for You

  • Rafts and all boat equipment

  • Life jackets

  • Waterproof bag for your river duffle (being shipped to you)

  • Personal day bag—always accessible, waterproof—7" x 14"

  • Meals - expertly prepared and cooked

  • All Beverages (including beer, wine and the harder stuff)

  • A Kelty Tent (although you may prefer to sleep under the stars)

  • Sleeping bag (for you to keep!)

  • Sleeping pad & cot

  • Small pillow and pillow cover

  • Camp chairs

  • Camping toilet facilities, toilet paper and supplies

  • First Aid supplies

  • Mule duffel service to carry your belongings out of Grand Canyon

  • Grand Canyon River Guide – Each guest will receive their own copy. This guide book describes the history, geology, archaeology, and natural history, and comes with a detailed mile- by-mile map of the river. Many people use this like a journal to record their trip hikes, camps and unique things that happened, so they can remember all the details after the trip