Can I print this packing list?

Yes. Tap the "Print Checklist" button above the list, or use your browser's print menu (Cmd+P or Ctrl+P). The list is formatted to fit one page.

What's the one thing first-timers always forget?

Water shoes or sandals with a back strap. Flip flops slip off in the river and bare feet on hot rocks at the take-out is brutal.

Do I need to bring a tube?

Only if you're doing a DIY float on the Blanco. At outfitters on the San Marcos, Comal, and Guadalupe, tubes are included. See the tube rental guide .

Can I bring a glass cooler or glass bottles?

No. Glass is banned on every Texas tubing river. Cans and plastic only. Read the full river rules .

Printable Tubing Packing List for Texas Rivers

Quick answer

Wear swimsuit and water shoes. Bring sunscreen, waterproof phone pouch, cash, ID, water, and your drinks (cans only). Skip glass, white clothes, and your nice phone. See the full packing rationale.

Print Checklist

Wear

Swimsuit
Quick-dry shorts/top
Hat with strap
Sunglasses with strap
Water shoes or strap sandals

Bring

Sunscreen (reef-safe SPF 50+)
Waterproof phone pouch
Towel for the car ride home
Cash for tip ($5-$10)
Driver's license / ID

Drinks/Food (cans only)

Drinks in cans
Water (1 liter per person minimum)
Snacks in waterproof bag
Trash bag for your trash

Optional

GoPro with float strap
Floating bluetooth speaker
Sunshade umbrella for the bus wait
Aloe vera for after

Smart Extras Most People Forget

A small dry bag for car keys and phone. A change of clothes for the drive home. Aloe gel because you will get sun. Cash for the shuttle driver tip.

Leave These at Home

Glass anything (banned). Styrofoam coolers (banned). Your good phone (use a cheap backup or a true waterproof case). White clothes (the river silt will stain). Anything you can't afford to lose.

For Group Trips

Add: a designated tube-tether rope, a group cooler tube, a paid sober driver, and a meeting-spot pin you all share before phones get wet. See the group float guide.