Pack list
What to bring
Big group, coolers, music, and gravel bars — the gear that makes a Missouri party float work.
Personal flotation device (PFD)
Required by law — non-negotiable even on a party float
Water shoes — not flip flops
Gravel bars are sharp and rocky. Flip flops slip off and float away. Everyone in your group needs a secure, closed-toe shoe that stays on.
Water gun or water blaster tube
The collapsible tube style lets you draw river water and shoot other floaters 30+ feet. A float trip staple.
Floating polarized sunglasses
Sun reflects hard off the water all day. Polarized lenses cut the glare — and these float if they go overboard.
Funny float trip shirt or tank
Half the fun is the outfit. River tees and tanks with float trip sayings are a whole category.
Wide brim straw hat
Sun protection and a float trip look that never goes out of style. Get one you do not mind getting wet.
Can coozie with neck strap
Keeps your drink cold and your hands free for paddling. The strap version means you do not lose it when you flip.
Waterproof floating Bluetooth speaker
JBL and UE models support multi-speaker pairing for bigger groups
Dry bag (20L)
Keep phones, wallets, and valuables dry
Inflatable cooler raft
Floating cooler or serving station — keeps drinks cold and in reach all float long
Waterproof phone pouch
Keep it accessible and dry all day
Mineral sunscreen SPF 50 (river-safe)
Conventional sunscreen washes off into the river and harms aquatic life. Mineral zinc oxide formulas protect you without trashing the waterway everyone came to enjoy.
Portable neck fan (water-resistant)
Essential for July and August heat on the water
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Where to use it
Best rivers for this kit
Best rivers for a party float: wide stretches with reliable current and good gravel bars.
Huzzah River
Missouri's high-energy party float. Narrow, twisty, crystal clear — and on a summer Saturd…
Meramec River
St. Louis's backyard river. Friendly, accessible, and built for groups.
Elk River
Missouri's premier party float destination. Wide, warm, and built for a good time with a b…
Current River
Missouri's most celebrated float river. Spring-fed, crystal clear, and lined with ancient …