There's nothing that gets a Southerner quite as excited as a Float Trip. To everyone else, those words are met with, "What's a Float Trip?" Keep reading for a down and dirty guide to what a float trip is, what you need to bring, and how to make the most of your time relaxing on the river.

What is a Float Trip?

Quite simply, a float trip is a group of friends, relatives, or associates who rent a huge raft (or three) and float down a river together. Often, one or more party members will jump overboard and swim like a fish. Groups typically pull over for lunch, because the trip takes anywhere from 4 - 8 hours. If you're going to float, plan to spend the whole day in the sunshine.

Do you see the paddles in the picture above? You'll need those to help avoid obstacles like tree branches, large rocks, and other floaters in the river.

What to Bring

There are a few essentials to bring while you float. Don't worry if you forget something; floaters are friendly people and will typically share with you if you ask them.

Sunscreen

• This is a must. You will be burned to a crisp if you forget sunscreen. Make sure it is waterproof and reapply often.

A Cooler

• Stock your cooler with plenty of ice and yummy snacky things. Try sandwiches, cherries, and chips. Bring water, and adult beverages if you like. Be sure to check local laws though; many areas have restrictions on the type of adult beverage you can bring. Also, avoid glass containers in your cooler.

A Swimsuit

• Don't bother with a towel though. It will be soaking wet by the time you are done floating. Leave it back at camp or in your car.

Sunglasses

• Bring a cheap pair. Sunglasses get lost in the river all the time.

River Shoes

• Many people disregard this one, but your float will be much more enjoyable if you have river shoes. Sometimes, the bank is rocky and they will protect your waterlogged feet.

A Dry Box

• This is great to store your phone in, or a lighter or vape if you are into that. The place hosting the Float will hang onto your keys for you, but it's nice to have a dry box (or zip-lock baggie) for a few small essentials.

When you arrive at the Float, you will be provided with a raft, paddles, and life jackets as well as transportation to the beginning of the journey. You will be picked up at the end and taken back to your vehicle, cabin, or campsite.

What to Do

While floating, just have fun! Many people drink and snack their way down the river. You can always jump out to swim, or pull over on the riverbank for a little break. You can lay on the edge of your raft for a mid-day siesta or continue your fiesta all day. Sometimes, there are rope swings along the edge of the water. Those are fun for the extra adventurous among us! Be sure to admire the scenery along the way. Each river is different, so you never know what you will find. Let me know about your favorite Float Trip memory in the comments!

Thanks for reading! I hope to see you on a Float Trip someday soon! If you'd like more information on how to travel in style and make everlasting memories, just go to http://travellifeservicesllc.com/ .

P.S. All photos are my own original photographs taken on the Illinois River in Tahlequah, Oklahoma.