Make Sure Your Whitewater Rafting Trip Is Lifechanging In A Good Way

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If you ask someone how their whitewater rafting trip went, it's not uncommon for them to respond by telling you their trip was life-changing. In some cases, they mean this in a good way. In other cases, they might mean it in a negative way; their rafting trip was scary or led to an injury. Whitewater rafting does come with some risks. However, there are plenty of things you can do to mitigate these risks, have a better time, and ensure your own rafting trip is only life-changing in a good way.

Book with a reputable, licensed company.

In areas where whitewater rafting is common, there are generally several large, licensed companies that guide trips. These are the companies to book with. They've spent the time and money to educate and license their guides. They have the right insurance, permits, and certificates to operate legally. Avoid small, private guides who cannot show you any proof of licensure or training. Your risk of being injured and not having your injuries covered is much higher with a non-licensed guide.

Wear a properly fitted life jacket and helmet.

Most whitewater rafting companies will provide you with a life jacket and helmet to wear. Try them on before you depart. If they are loose or otherwise do not fit well, say something. The company should be able to give you a different size. Protective gear that does not fit won't offer the best protection if you fall out of the raft.

Understand the commands before you depart.

Rafting guides will use various commands to tell the rafters what to do while rowing. For example, if your guide says "get down," that means to get low in the boat. If they say "over right," that means you all need to focus on moving the raft towards the right side of the river. Most guides will go over these commands with you before you start rafting. Listen carefully during this discussion, and if you have any questions, don't hesitate to ask. The faster you're able to act when your guide yells out a command, the safer you and the other passengers will be.

Going on a whitewater rafting trip can be a lot of fun. If you follow the tips above, it will also be a lot safer. Once you go rafting for the first time, you will be more familiar with the basics and better equipped for future trips.

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