Searching for “river floating near me” is often the first step toward a relaxing summer day outdoors. If you’re in Minnesota, the Rum River offers a scenic setting where you can cool off, enjoy the sunshine, and spend time with friends or family.
A little preparation can make your river float much more comfortable. From sunscreen and drinking water to the right clothing, knowing what to pack helps you spend less time worrying about forgotten items and more time enjoying the river.
Use this guide to prepare for your next day of Rum River tubing and floating.
What to Bring for River Floating on the Rum River
You don’t need to bring your entire outdoor gear collection for a day on the river. Focus on a few essentials that help keep you comfortable, hydrated, and prepared.
Sunscreen
Sunscreen should be near the top of your packing list. You may spend several hours exposed to direct sunlight while floating, and sunlight reflecting off the water can add to your exposure.
Choose a water-resistant, broad-spectrum sunscreen and apply it before getting on the river. Bring it with you so you can reapply as needed, especially after swimming or spending extended time in the water.
Plenty of Drinking Water
Floating down the river might feel relaxing, but spending hours outside in warm weather can leave you dehydrated.
Bring enough drinking water for the length of your trip. On particularly hot days, consider packing extra water rather than relying on a single small bottle.
A reusable bottle that closes securely can help prevent spills while you’re on the river.
Comfortable Swimwear
Wear clothing that you don’t mind getting completely wet. A swimsuit is an obvious choice, but you may also want a lightweight shirt or rash guard for additional sun coverage.
Quick-drying clothing is generally more comfortable than heavy cotton once you’re out of the water.
Water Shoes or Secure Sandals
The riverbed and shoreline can contain rocks, sticks, mud, and other natural debris. Water shoes or secure sandals can help protect your feet when entering and exiting the river.
Avoid loose flip-flops that can easily fall off and float away.
Sunglasses and a Secure Hat
Sunglasses can make a sunny float much more comfortable. Consider using a strap or retainer so they don’t disappear into the river if they fall off.
A lightweight hat can also provide additional protection from direct sunlight. Make sure it fits securely enough to stay on while you’re floating.
Waterproof Storage
Anything you bring near the water has a chance of getting wet.
Use a waterproof pouch or dry bag for items such as:
- Phone
- Car keys
- ID
- Cash or cards
- Other small valuables
Even with waterproof storage, consider leaving unnecessary valuables at home or securely stored elsewhere.
What Should You Wear for Rum River Tubing?
Choosing the right clothing can make a big difference during a long float.
For warm summer weather, consider wearing a swimsuit with lightweight, quick-drying clothing. Water shoes are useful for getting in and out of the river, while sunglasses and a hat provide additional sun protection.
Avoid bringing clothing or accessories that are expensive, difficult to replace, or easily lost in the water.
Dress for the Weather
Check the forecast before leaving home. Minnesota summer weather can change, and temperatures may feel different once you’re on the water.
On especially sunny days, consider adding a lightweight long-sleeve sun shirt. If cooler weather is expected, bring dry clothes that you can change into after your float.
What Food and Drinks Should You Bring?
A day on the Rum River can work up an appetite. Depending on the length of your float and the rules of your tubing provider, you may want to pack simple snacks.
Choose foods that are easy to store and don’t create much waste, such as sandwiches, granola bars, fruit, or other portable snacks.
Most importantly, bring plenty of water.
Before packing a cooler, food, or other beverages, check the current policies of your tubing provider. Rules about coolers, containers, and what can be brought onto the river may vary.
What Should You Leave Behind?
Packing light can make your river floating experience easier.
Avoid bringing anything you would be upset to lose or damage. Phones, expensive jewelry, loose accessories, and other valuables can quickly disappear in moving water.
Glass containers should also be avoided. Broken glass creates a serious hazard for you and other people using the river.
Whenever possible, bring only what you need for the float.
How to Prepare Before Your Rum River Float
Good preparation starts before you arrive at the river.
Check the Weather
Look at the local weather forecast before your trip. Thunderstorms, heavy rain, extreme heat, or other conditions can affect your plans.
Weather upstream may also affect river conditions, so follow any guidance provided by your tubing outfitter.
Review River and Tubing Rules
If you’re renting tubes or using a shuttle service, review the provider’s current policies before arriving.
Check information about:
- Check-in procedures
- Parking
- Shuttle transportation
- Age requirements
- Life jacket policies
- Cooler rules
- Prohibited items
- Float times
- Hours of operation
Checking these details ahead of time can prevent surprises when you arrive.
Protect Your Belongings
Decide what actually needs to come onto the river. Keep essential items in waterproof storage and secure anything that could easily fall out of your tube.
When possible, leave unnecessary valuables behind.
Plan for the End of Your Float
Bring a towel and a dry change of clothes for afterward. You may also want dry shoes waiting for you once you’re finished.
Knowing how you’ll return to your vehicle is equally important. If your tubing provider offers transportation or a shuttle, understand where and when you’ll be picked up.
Tips for a Better Day of River Tubing
River floating is supposed to be relaxing, and a few simple habits can help keep it that way.
Stay Hydrated
Drink water throughout your trip rather than waiting until you feel thirsty. Hot temperatures and prolonged sun exposure can make dehydration easier than you might expect.
Keep Your Gear Secure
Attach or securely store anything you bring with you. Sunglasses, hats, bottles, phones, and sandals can quickly get separated from you once they’re in the water.
Respect the River
Help keep the Rum River enjoyable by taking everything you bring with you when you leave.
Secure wrappers and other lightweight items so they don’t blow or fall into the water. Never intentionally leave trash along the riverbank or in the river.
Follow Local Safety Guidance
River conditions can change. Follow posted rules and instructions from your tubing provider, and use appropriate flotation equipment.
If conditions don’t look safe, postponing your float is better than taking unnecessary risks.
Frequently Asked Questions About River Floating Near Me
What do I need to bring for river tubing?
Common essentials include sunscreen, drinking water, swimwear, secure water shoes, sunglasses, a hat, waterproof storage, a towel, and dry clothes for afterward. Check your tubing provider’s rules before packing coolers, food, or other items.
Can I bring my phone while river floating?
You can, but keep it in a reliable waterproof case or dry bag. Because phones can easily be lost in the water, consider leaving yours behind if you don’t need it during the float.
What shoes are best for river tubing?
Water shoes or secure sandals are usually better choices than flip-flops. They can protect your feet while walking along rocky or uneven riverbanks and are less likely to float away.
How long does a Rum River float take?
Float times can vary depending on the route, river conditions, water levels, and the tubing provider. Check the current estimated float time before your visit so you can plan the rest of your day.
What should I pack after river tubing?
Keep a towel, dry clothes, and dry shoes available for after your trip. Sunscreen and additional drinking water can also be useful once you’re off the river.
Looking for River Floating Near You? Explore the Rum River
If you’ve been searching for river floating near me, a day on the Rum River can be a fun way to enjoy Minnesota’s warmer months.
The key is simple: come prepared. Pack plenty of water, sunscreen, comfortable swimwear, secure footwear, and waterproof storage for your essentials. Check the weather and current river rules before leaving, and avoid bringing valuables you don’t need.
With the right preparation, you can spend less time managing your gear and more time enjoying a relaxing Rum River float.