For those who aren't experienced rafters, an absolute must is a guide or outfitter who understands children's needs and builds around them a trip that's also fun for parents.
You can and should inform yourself, in advance, about:
Safety Matters. What is the life vest policy (it should be strict)? What is the guides' training in emergency care? What are the river evacuation arrangements?
Guides' Experience. Does the guide have proven leadership ability and practice in dealing with kids of varying ages?
Degree of Challenge. What class of rapids on the river are you interested in? (Note: Kids under 8 shouldn't be on rapids above Class III.)
Sleeping Arrangements. Are tents available? Sleeping bags? Mats to cushion sleeping bags?
Meals. What type of food is served? Can the outfitter handle special needs?
Bathrooms. Are there bathing facilities? Is there a toilet tent?
Type of Boats. Are there opportunities to learn about motor-powered versus oar-powered inflatables, dories, kayaks?
Numbers. How many people are on the trip? How many people per boat?
Work Load. What are the outfitter's expectations of paying clients with regard to help with meals, dishes, loading and unloading the boats, etc?
It's also a smart idea to ask your prospective outfitter for names and phone numbers of people who've taken the trip you're considering, not because outfitters aren't truthful but because the river experience is so familiar to them that it often doesn't occur to them to tell you things it would be nice to know. For example, since your gear is packed away in waterproof bags while you're on board the boats, wear a belt bag during the day so that you have access to things like sunscreen or contact lens refresher. Also, you might feel freer to ask another landlubber questions you'd be embarrassed to ask a guide.
Who Probably Shouldn't Go Overnight River Rafting
1. A child who doesn't relish change.
2. A child who's easily frightened.
3. Anyone who demands that life always be his/her way and doesn't welcome serendipity.
4. Anyone who needs to be clean all the time.
No Guarantees
No one can guarantee you a successful river trip, with or without kids; there are too many variables. Besides weather and river conditions, the composition of the group (when you book through an outfitter) and your capacity to live with usually minor, always unpredictable, discomforts are among the trip's unknowns. For us, that gamble is part of the appeal and the adventure.
Where are you going?
What do you want to do?
