I could live on the river—no question about it. In the summertime, I spend as much time as humanly possible floating, swimming, or just soaking it all in. And come winter? I spend way too much time daydreaming about getting back out there again.
Growing up in Missouri means I have access to some of the most beautiful rivers, perfect for floating and unplugging. Over the years, I’ve tested just about every float-friendly option out there, searching for the best gear that’s convenient, affordable, and fun. I’ve finally nailed down my go-to gear for the best float trips. Here’s my personal checklist for hitting the water.
Table of contents
Choose Your River Ride
Different floats, different vibes. Match your ride to the river.
Kayaks are great if you’re after something that moves quickly and gives you a little thrill. Paddleboards have this magical, almost meditative energy—perfect for finding your balance and feeling totally in tune with the water. Rafts offer that laid-back, communal vibe, perfect for kicking back with friends, pets, or kiddos.
Raft
If you’re looking for quick and easy, a raft is the way to go. I have two and they’re amazing when we want to keep things simple—especially when we’ve got pets or kids with us. Just toss everything (and everyone) in and head downstream! I don’t use them as often as my paddleboard, but for group floats or fishing, they’re a win.
Kayak
Inflatable kayaks have seriously impressed me. They’re way more budget-friendly than traditional ones, surprisingly durable, and have held up beautifully on all kinds of water. I’ve used mine over 20 times in everything from calm flows to muddy messes and they’re still going strong. Just a heads-up: they take a little longer to set up, but once you’re floating, it’s pure serenity. I will say they’re probably better suited to our softer, muddier Missouri terrain than somewhere rockier.
The Paddleboard (MY FAVE!)
The paddleboard is my absolute favorite. Fastest to set up, most comfortable to use—you can sit, stand, lay down, or do a bit of everything. Floating on a paddleboard feels like you’re hovering right on top of the water, and there’s just something about that feeling that never gets old.
If you’re buying one, make sure it has good straps and clips. I always look for boards with front and back straps so I can pack all my gear when I’m backpack camping down the river.
Psst… a quick tip: Some paddleboards come with chairs, but they always break. I finally found one that holds up, fits all my boards, and actually supports my weight. I use it on the river, in the garden, at the beach, even at the kids’ games—total game-changer. Get it here.
River Rations: Packing the Cooler
Because even the most magical float needs snacks that hit just right.
Finding “The One” in a Cooler
A good cooler is non-negotiable. You have to keep your snacks fresh and your drinks ice cold—especially when you’re floating all day under the sun.
Now, when I say it took me years to find the right river cooler, I’m not exaggerating (like I literally own 5849612 coolers). I tested so many before finally landing on the one. And once I did? I bought it in every color—because of course I did.
It holds 30 cans (plenty of room for drinks and food), has a flip lid that makes it super easy to open even when it’s strapped down, four handy pockets for all the extras, and—my favorite part—an insulated cup holder built right in. It’s the little things, right?
My Go-To River Munchies
- Sardines & Crackers
- Tuna Packets (Tuna in Sunflower Oil = Yum!)
- Turkey & Cheese Sticks
- Chunks of Pineapple
- Boiled Eggs
- Chips or Pretzels
- Pickles or Green Olives
- Apples, Bananas or Oranges
- Chicken Wraps or PB & J Sliders
- and if available, pack the leftovers from last night’s dinner!
- LOTS of Water (& coconut water!)
- Orange Juice
- Leinenkugel’s Summer Shandy (No glass!)
- Twisted Tea
Don’t forget to add eco-friendly snack bags, your reusable water bottle, and a spork to your float trip checklist!
NOTE: I do not endorse any of these food/beverage brands above. This is simply what packing looks like for me.
River Day Essentials
These are the tried-and-true items that make every float smoother, safer, and way more magical.
For Gear & Safety:
- Life Jacket
- Dry bags (different sizes)
- Waterproof phone pouch or case
- First aid kit (travel-size)
- Towel or packable quick-dry blanket
- Water shoes (a MUST for a rock bed river)
- Extra rope or bungees (for tying up floats or gear)
- Carabiners (super handy for clipping things to your board, raft, or cooler)
- Reusable trash bag or zip pouch for river clean-up
For Comfort & Fun:
- Portable waterproof speaker
- Pre-made playlist (downloaded in case of no service!)
- Paddleboard or kayak chair
- A waterproof journal for jotting down things when nature speaks to you
- Crystal or charm for your vessel
I wear a shungite necklace with me everywhere and carry a Malachite crystal in my cooler for protection. These two are river must-haves for me on my float trip checklist.
Witchy River Wear
It’s Hot Witch Summer and we’re out here looking spellbinding—with sun hats, salty attitude, and fits that don’t dig into our souls (or hips).
Accessories
A witch never leaves home without her hat—especially on the river. Sun protection and a statement? Yes, please.
Here are my faves:
and don’t forget the sunnies!
Swimwear (Kinda)
Okay, real talk: I gave up on traditional swimsuits years ago. The pinching? The wedgies? The lies??
Now I wear a comfy bralette or sports bra with high-waisted undies or boy shorts—and I’ve never looked back.
But if you aren’t into that sort of thing… here are a few I love sold by small witchy businesses: Moth & Fern & Sun-Moon Tarot
Backpack Camping & Overnight Float Trip Checklist
If you’re paddling past sunset and into the stars, you’ll need more than snacks and a playlist. Here’s what I pack when I’m making the river my home for the night (or two).
Must-Haves:
- Small, lightweight tent (I use my kids’ tent!)
- Ultralight Sleeping bag
- Sleeping pad
- Firestarter
- Lighter + backup matches in a dry case
- Lightweight cookware + utensils
- Biodegradable soap + dishcloth
- Trash bags (leave no trace!)
- Dry clothes + warm layers (it cools down fast!)
- Extra socks & undies (always.)
- Lights with extra batteries or a full charge, or use solar lights and let them charge during the float
- Toiletry bag (toothbrush, wipes, deodorant, etc.)
- Small Camping Chair (The one for the paddleboard actually works great and you won’t have to pack an extra!)
- Portable, solar phone charger
- Large waterproof bags to hold all your things
- “Tag-along” float to haul your things if you don’t have extra room on your board or kayak
- Journal for fireside reflection
Be sure you have enough water and pre-portioned food. It’s fine to plan to cook over the fire, but don’t DEPEND on it. Bring back up food that doesn’t need cooked in case of rain or wind.
Plan Your Float Trip
Do your research and find your river. Again, some are dirty/muddy, some are cleaner and sandier. Some are safe-ish while others are more dangerous. Many have campgrounds, cabins, and rafts you can rent and busses to bus you back and forth and other’s you need your own supplies and your own way of transportation. Places where you can rent rafts and camp can get pretty expensive. Buying all your own supplies isn’t cheap either, but they can potentially save you a ton of money in the long run if you plan on floating quite a bit. Lastly, be sure to reference this float trip checklist to make sure you aren’t forgetting anything!
