An old saying goes, “In the spring, a young man’s fancy turns to thoughts of love.” This may be true in other states, but in Missouri, the “fancy” of many men, women and children of all ages turns to thoughts of floating, for all warm weather months! If you have taken advantage of the float trip opportunities in Missouri, you understand the urge to “get out there;” if you have not, then it is time to begin your sojurn into this great water activity.
With some 30 rivers available for floating throughout the state, anyone can find a waterway withing a reasonable distance. And if you are a “newbie” to this great vacation option, you can find all that you need by contacting any of the hundreds of vendors that offer equipment, supplies and services. In addition to that, however, there are important tips for those who venture into floating for the first time.
- Clothing: Obvioiusly, floaters spend a great deal of time in swimming suits. As you “bake” on the water, however, it is wise to have a t-shirt and a towel, to cover exposed body parts. Even sunscreen wears off, especially if you have stopped and gotten into the water along the way. DO NOT wear flip-flops – get some tight-fitting water shoes with a rubber sole. You will be grateful when your fellow travelers have lost their flip-flops and are painfully walking barefooted!
- Food and Drink: You have lots of options here. You can bring a cooler along with snacks and drinks, but be certain that it closes tightly. Many a floater has overturned and lost everything out of a cooler, and hunger and thirst can destroy an otherwise great day! Alcohol is allowed on Missouri rivers, but be aware that many float trips have been ruined by it. Other beverages are preferable because they will keep you hydrated and, of course, rational! Save the alcohol consumption for after the trip, around a camp fire where you are within walking distance of your tent or cabin! Floating is for enjoying the scenery, communing with nature, and enjoying good company!
- Safety: Expect that you will capsize at least once. While many parts of our rivers are shallow, many are also quite deep. And currents are unpredictable. Forget the even tan – wear your life jacket at all times! If you have children with you, it might be a good idea to have a “tie” from their life jacket to yours – being separated from a child, once overturned, is a panic you do not want to experience!
- Leave the technology on the shore! Do you really want to risk your cell phone, your ipod, or your ipad? I think not! Floating without the devices is really a great experience!
- Accept the fact that you will forget something you need. Not to worry! If you have booked your float through any reputable vendor, there will always be the opportunity to purchase whatever you have left behind or lost due to mishaps on the river!
- Respect and Protect the environment. Certainly, you understand the need to have a container for your trash, preferably a netted bag that will hold cans, bottles, and plastic. Most float vendors will even provide such bags, asking that you not only use them for your trash, but for other trash that you find along the way. Do your part!
For the budget conscious “city dweller,” nothing beats a Missouri float trip. You can choose to totally “rough it,” with tent and only outdoor cooking; you can choose to bring your own camper and hook up to utilties at the camp site; or you can select a cabin dwelling, with all of the comforts of home. No matter which option you select, your day(s) on Missouri rivers will be an unforgettable experience and one that you will want to repeat often!
