Common First-Time River Tubing Questions

Short answers for a first float. Start with what it is and how it differs from rafting.

What is river tubing?

Sit in a tube, float with the current, shuttle back. Details: What Is River Tubing?.

River tubing vs rafting?

Raft = boat, guide, paddle commands. Tube = you and the current. River Tubing vs Whitewater Rafting.

Do I need to swim?

You can fall in. Jacket on; skill still matters. Do You Need to Know How to Swim?.

What if I fall out?

Stay calm, jacket on, get back to the tube or shout for help. What Happens If You Fall Out of Your Tube?.

How long does it last?

A float window, not ride counts. How Long Does a River Tube Float Last?.

What should I wear / bring?

Wreckable suit, strap-on shoes; ID, sunscreen, dry phone plan. What to Wear · What to Bring.

Can I drink?

Read the livery and state rules first — this is not party advice. Can You Drink While River Tubing?.

Kids? Cost? Safe? Where?

River Tubing With Kids · Cost · Is River Tubing Safe? · Where to Go.

Ready to Float?

Ready to float? Compare river tubing near you. Start at /water.