Can I bring my children on a rafting trip?

A summer is not complete without a fun family trip. This year, you’re looking to do something more exciting and outdoorsy than previous years. Maybe you have always wanted to experience whitewater rafting, but are unsure if your kids can handle the trip. Here are some things you should know about whitewater rafting and if you should bring your kids on the trip.

Before you plan your trip, ask the whitewater rafting outfitter of your choice what the age restrictions are for whitewater rafting. Typically, children as young as four years old can enjoy a whitewater rafting trip, but outfitters will generally suggest six years or older for their trips. You can always go for a half-day rafting trip to ensure that the young child does not get too tired or too scared for the duration of the rafting.

Taking kids out on a first rafting trip requires a slower, gentler rafting time. Plan a trip where there are plenty of stops so you can reassure your child that they are safe and make them comfortable if they seem to be uptight and worried. Class 1 and class 2 are the perfect levels of rafting for children of all ages, giving them little engagement but still the thrill of whitewater rafting. Remember that tiny waves to you might feel like giant rapids to a child.

Safety is always the most important to all rafters, but it comes a bit differently with younger rafters aboard a raft. They must have a certified life jacket that fits them perfectly, according to their age and weight. They also need a helmet that fits them and is proper for them in order for the helmet to keep them safe.

Keeping a child comfortable is the most important part to make rafting enjoyable for them. They might be scared and nervous about the idea, so you will want to inform them of what they can expect well beforehand, and keep them by your side during the trip. It is easy for a little kid to get scared while whitewater rafting.

All in all, you can take your child on a whitewater rafting trip as long as they fit the rafting outfitter’s criteria. If the company does not have strict rules, keep in mind how old your child is and how well they will be able to handle rafting a river. Taking a newborn baby along for rafting is not the best idea, whereas your five year old might have a blast during the whole trip.

About the Author

American Adventure Expeditions is pleased to bring you this article on can I bring my child on a rafting trip. American Adventure does river rafting in Colorado, and primarily do Arkansas River rafting trips. If you are interested, check out their website today.