A great day tubing the Guadalupe River comes down to two things — picking the right spot and packing right. We can't help you forget your sunscreen, but we can help you not forget it. Here's the complete family packing list for a day on the river near New Braunfels.
The Essentials
- Swimsuit + rash guard or quick-dry shirt
- Water shoes — the river bottom is rocky in spots
- Reef-safe sunscreen + lip balm with SPF
- Hat with a strap or chin cord
- Sunglasses with a floating strap
- Life jackets for kids (and any adult who wants one)
- Towels + a change of dry clothes for the ride home
The Float-Bag
- Small floating cooler (with its own tube)
- Water bottles — hydration is everything
- Snacks: jerky, pretzels, fruit, granola bars
- Drinks in cans or pouches — no glass
- Waterproof phone pouch
- Small dry bag for keys and a $20
For Families With Kids
- Properly fitted life jacket for every kid
- Extra dry shirt and shorts in a sealed bag
- Snacks they'll actually eat
- A small pool toy for back at the cabana
- Wipes for sandy hands and faces
What NOT to Bring
- No glass. Period.
- No styrofoam — bad for the river
- Nothing you can't afford to lose
- Loose phones, expensive sunglasses, paper money
The Pro Move: Book a Cabana
A cabana rental on the Guadalupe River changes how you pack — because you have a private home base. Leave dry clothes, snacks, and valuables at the cabana, float, come back, refuel, float again. Way easier than dragging everything down the river.
Tubing FAQs
What should I wear tubing the Guadalupe River?
A swimsuit, a rash guard or quick-dry shirt, water shoes, and a hat. The sun on the Guadalupe is no joke — sunscreen and a hat are non-negotiable.
Can I bring a cooler tubing?
Yes. We recommend a small floating cooler with a tube of its own. Glass containers are not allowed on the river — cans, pouches, and plastic only.
Do I need water shoes for the Guadalupe?
Yes. The river bottom is rocky in spots and water shoes save toes. Closed-toe water sandals work great.
What should I NOT bring tubing?
No glass, no styrofoam, no anything you can't afford to lose. Phones go in a waterproof pouch or stay locked in the car. Cabana renters can leave valuables in the car at their cabana parking spot.
