The whole idea behind going on a river tubing trip is relaxation and fun. Tubing is normally done at a relaxed pace with minimal interruption except for some minor rapid or tube chute interference. If you are not into underwater adventure such as cave diving then tubing will do.

You will need to carry a cooler on your trip and this can be placed in a separate tube and properly wedged. If possible, place the cooler in a tube that is ¾ inflated and then fully inflate it for a tighter grip. If you encounter rapids or “tube chutes" your cooler will need to be positioned to withstand them lest the contents be spilled out. It is highly recommended that you carry a bungee cord and utilize a cooler that can have its top closed easily with a bungee. However, in case you fall off your tube and the cooler falls off as well, there will always be someone to help you out. With other tubers in the river as well as a guide from the tubing establishment, you can be assured that you and your cooler are in safe hands, make sure you thank them for rescuing you both.

When getting into the water, you may face a bit of a challenge especially if you are not utilizing an outfitter. In some states, the legal points of access are where bridges cross a river that is navigable so it would do you good to remember that when doing it yourself. The easiest option is to select an outfitter from the various tubing companies in your State. Jump into the water and remember it will be definitely cold so don’t waste time messing around. Use the rope to tie the cooler tube to another tube and remember to tie the trash bag too.

Moving around the water will require that you float around passively or turn your back toward the place you want to head to and then paddle backwards; this is much easier than attempting to paddle forward. You will need to go easy on the paddling as excessive paddling may result in tubing rash; a red rash that appears on your arms. No worries though, the rash will disappear in a day or two

Once you are in the water, its time to relax and talk to people that are floating around solo. You can invite the solo tubers to float with you.