💧
Everything Gets Wet
If it can't get soaked, it goes in a dry bag. Your sleep gear and dry clothes are what you protect most.
On a river trip, everything gets wet unless you keep it dry. Pack light, pack smart, and label it all.
If it can't get soaked, it goes in a dry bag. Your sleep gear and dry clothes are what you protect most.
Cotton stays wet and cold. Wear quick-dry synthetics — nylon, polyester, or a swimsuit — while paddling.
Put your name on every item. Pack light — you carry your own gear, and less stuff means less to lose on the river.
1) A large dry bag for camp clothes, sleeping bag, and anything that must stay dry. 2) A small day dry bag for on-water essentials (sunscreen, snacks, meds). 3) A duffel for the drive and base. The Summit provides the boats, paddles, PFDs, and helmets — you bring the personal gear below.
Before you pack a single dry bag, watch this walkthrough of the New River Experience — it shows what the week looks like and what you'll actually need.
▶ New River Experience — Trip Webinar
This is what you actually wear and reach for in the boat. Quick-dry only.
Everything here lives in your large dry bag so you have warm, dry clothes and a cozy bed every night on the riverbank.
Less is more on a river. These either get ruined, lost, or aren't allowed.
The Summit Bechtel Reserve provides your kayak/raft, paddle, PFD, and helmet, plus crew cooking gear and most food. Confirm the official packing list and health requirements with the trip leaders before you buy anything — then pack it dry, label it, and get excited.