Beat the Heat this Summer: Everything you Need to Float The Bow

Calgarians know that there is no better way to enjoy a hot summer day than floating on the Bow River. At Lazy Day, we love spending time on the river and we want to share some of our favorite tips to help you have the best float of the summer!

Before you embark on your adventure, you will need to figure out what river you would like to float on. We recommend the Bow River, not only because it is a very calm river and great for all skill types, but because you can park, get into your raft, and float for a few hours. Not to mention Lazy Day Raft Rentals provides a shuttle service to take you to the starting point! It’s perfect if you’re looking for more of a chilled floating experience! 

To make your trip as smooth as can be, you will want to make sure you have everything you need. Here are a few things that we recommend taking with you along your memorable journey down the Bow River!

1. Sunscreen – it gets HOT on the river. Make sure that you apply sunscreen regularly throughout your float. There is nothing worse than getting a bad sunburn by the end of the trip. The higher the SPF the better; let it absorb well before jumping into the river.
2. Raft – Lazy Day Raft Rentals has you covered in this department. Everything that you could possibly need for your journey is provided: PFDs, paddles, safety kit, and the best part is the raft comes inflated – you do not have to lift a single finger! Not to mention, you have the raft for the entire day until dusk.
3. Reusable water bottle – You will need a cold drink! With the sun soaring, it’s important to stay hydrated while floating. Bringing a ThermoFlask or other bottle will keep your drinks cold throughout your float.
4. Waterproof speaker – Being on a raft is great fun, but having a speaker with you playing great music makes the experience even more memorable.
5. Dry bag – This is an essential item to take with you as it will keep your valuables dry and safe, giving you peace of mind that everything is well protected. Bring your own or purchase on the Lazy Day Rafts website. These are perfect to carry on your shoulder and even clip onto your raft so you can float with no worries!
6. Cooler – yes, that’s right – on a raft you have plenty of space to bring a cooler with all your favourite goodies! It’s an essential item to bring on your trip for the perfect picnic! If you don’t have your own, you can rent one of Lazy Day’s.
7. Phone protector – You can never be too cautious when floating the river. You can wear these around your neck, keeping your phone dry whilst taking great photos.
8. Sunglasses and hat – The best way to protect yourself from the rays is to wear some sunglasses and a hat. Sunglasses are important as the suns rays will reflect off the water and you need to protect your eyes! You will need some shade and a hat will be your only shade for the next couple of hours, so grab a fun baseball or bucket hat and protect your face from sunburn.
9. Water shoes – You will be stepping in and out of your raft and even jumping into the river.  There is nothing worse that wearing your favourite pair of shoes for them to get ruined! So grab a pair of water shoes or shoes that you do not mind getting wet.
10. Towel – of course, every floater needs a towel. You can keep these in your dry bag or the car at the end of your trip.

Grab everything you need for your river float and get going! Make those memories this summer with your friends and family. What are you waiting for?