Packing Tips

What to Wear on a River Trip

Below is an overview, broken down by the time of the year, of what to wear on the river and at camp. While you’ll still need the basics (toothbrush, water bottle, toiletries), refer to this guide for tips on staying warm, beating the heat, and packing efficiently. This is what we wear, and what we suggest you wear, on the river and at camp.

For a PDF packing list that covers everything, you can view our packing guide here:

Download our Packing Guide

On Water

For late May through mid June trips, we provide wetsuits and a splash top (think of it as a raincoat for rafting) to help keep you warm. We also recommend wearing a good base layer that can get wet. The key is being able to layer up or down, so you can enjoy fun whitewater, be able to hike, and yet stay comfortable throughout the day.

  • Base Layer: Synthetic or wool you don’t mind getting wet.
  • Neoprene Socks/Booties: Keep feet warm in cold water; neoprene socks can go under river shoes.
  • Neoprene Gloves: Especially helpful if your hands tend to get cold.
  • Splash Pants or Rain Pants: To layer over the wetsuit for extra warmth.
  • Swimsuits or Quick-Dry Shorts (2–3 pairs): Ideal under a wetsuit or on warmer afternoons.
  • Rain Jacket & Rain Pants: Weather can shift rapidly.
  • Sturdy, Comfortable Shoes: Must work well for hikes and wet conditions.

At Camp

When you’re at camp, comfort is key, and layering is your friend. Think cozy sweatpants around the campfire but be prepared to adapt if temperatures change.

  • 2-3 Changes of Clothes: Enough to stay fresh without overpacking.
  • Comfy Fleece or Sweatpants: Perfect for cooler evenings.
  • Hiking or Quick-Dry Pants: Ideal if you plan on walking around camp or taking short hikes.
  • Insulated Jacket (Fleece, Down, or Synthetic): Keeps you warm once the sun goes down.
  • Synthetic or Wool Base Layers: Great for extra warmth if temperatures drop.
  • Wool Socks: Retains heat even if damp, and perfect for chilly nights.
  • Beanie or Wool Hat: Helps keep you toasty around the campfire.
  • Activewear: For hiking, running, or whenever you want extra sun protection.

On Water

Summer trips can still bring temperature swings, but generally offer warmer weather. Sun protection becomes key, while still be able to layer up if the weather changes.

  • SPF Long-Sleeve Shirts (2–3): Rash guards, fishing shirts, or any sun-protective top.
  • Hat: Baseball cap, wide-brimmed hat, or sun hat.
  • Swimsuits or Quick-Dry Shorts (2–3 pairs)
  • Sarong or Lightweight Cover: To drape over legs or shoulders.
  • Rain Jacket & Rain Pants: Storms can pop up quickly.
  • Wool or Synthetic Base Layers.
  • Shoes for Hiking: Comfortable, sturdy sandals or shoes.

At Camp

At camp, wear comfortable, layerable Clothes, evenings can still drop into the mid-50s.

  • 2–3 Changes of Clothes: Quick-dry or comfortable pants, shorts, shirts.
  • Lightweight Fleece, Sweatpants, or Leggings: Perfect for cooler evenings.
  • Wool or Synthetic Base Layers.
  • Activewear: For short hikes around camp.
  • Sweatshirt, Light Jacket, or Fleece

On Water

Early fall can bring cooler mornings and evenings, but warm daytime fishing. Most of the fishing will be done from the raft. Before your fly fishing trip we will send out a fishing report email, that will cover the flies we’ve been using and if you need a fly rod, which we’re happy to provide.

  • Fly Rods: On our September fly fishing trips, we provide 9-foot, 5-weight rods for every guest. You’re also welcome to bring your own personal rod, just be sure to pack it in a sturdy hard case for safekeeping.
  • Our guides carry essential fishing supplies, including fishing nets, floatant, nippers, and leader. However, if you want to keep frequently used items within easy reach, consider bringing a personal fishing lanyard, vest, or small bag for added convenience.
  • Wide-brimmed hat, or sun hat: This will help you with sun protection, and maybe even more importantly an errant cast by your fishing partner. We fish guests from the bow and stern of each fishing boat.
  • Polarized Sunglasses: Great for sun reflection of the water, identifying the fly, and protection from the fly.
  • SPF Long-Sleeve Shirts (2–3): Fishing shirt, or any long sleeve sun-protective top.
  • Quick-Dry Pants Long Pants: Having a pair of quick dry pants can be nice for additional warmth in the mornings, and sun protection in the afternoons.
  • River shoes: Our rafts are self bailing, so your feet will get wet. Choose footwear you’ll be comfortable fishing in. If you prefer wading boots, please remove any spikes beforehand. If you like fishing in Chacos, Keens or other sandals, consider wearing neoprene socks to keep your feet warm on chilly mornings.
  • Rain coat and rain pants.

At Camp

When we’re at camp, you want to be comfortable, and also able to layer. The temperatures at night will vary but typically will get down to the mid-50s.

  • 2-3 Changes of Clothes: Enough to stay fresh without overpacking.
  • Comfy Fleece or Sweatpants: Perfect for cooler evenings.
  • Hiking or Quick-Dry Pants: Ideal if you plan on walking around camp or taking short hikes.
  • Insulated Jacket (Fleece, Down, or Synthetic): Keeps you warm once the sun goes down.
  • Synthetic or Wool Base Layers: Great for extra warmth if temperatures drop.
  • Wool Socks: Retains heat even if damp, and perfect for chilly nights.
  • Beanie or Wool Hat: Helps keep you toasty around the campfire.
  • Activewear: For hiking, running, or whenever you want extra sun protection.

Gear that IRJ Provides

Overnight Waterproof Bag

Overnight Waterproof Bag: A large overnight waterproof bag (34″ tall, 52″ circumference) holds all your camp essentials, including the sleeping bag we supply. You can pack directly into this bag or first use a soft-sided duffle and slide it in.

Day Bag (On-River Bag): A smaller waterproof bag (29″ tall, 28″ circumference) for items you’ll need during the day—like a rain jacket, camera, sunscreen, medications, or a warm layer.

Sleeping Kit

Three-Person Tent: Accommodates up to three, though we recommend two for comfort. Solo travelers get a tent to themselves.

20-Degree Synthetic Sleeping Bag: A freshly laundered sleeping bag. You’re welcome to bring your own if you prefer.

Sleeping Pad: 2-inch-thick, high-density foam for a comfortable night’s sleep.

Beverages

We bring a variety of non-alcoholic and alcoholic drinks, along with cocktail ice and fresh limes each evening. Glass containers aren’t a problem.

Non Non-Alcoholic: Sparkling waters, Coke, Diet Coke, and non-alcoholic beers.

Alcoholic: Pacifico, Coors Light, alcoholic seltzers, and local craft beers.

Wine: We partner with an Idaho wine distributor; selection varies with the meals.

Hot Drinks: Fresh-roasted cowboy coffee, tea, and hot chocolate