Pack-Rafting Mindset: Explore Without Limits

Imagine hiking deep into the backcountry, crossing rugged terrain, and arriving at a river or alpine lake. Instead of turning back or hiking around, you reach into your backpack, pull out a lightweight inflatable boat, and paddle across.

Welcome to the world of pack-rafting — a blend of backpacking and rafting that opens up a whole new frontier of wilderness travel.

What Is Pack-Rafting?

Packrafting is the use of a portable, inflatable raft (called a packraft) that’s light enough to carry in your backpack. Most packrafts weigh between 5–10 pounds and can be packed down to the size of a sleeping bag.

It’s a game-changer for outdoor adventure: hikers can cross rivers, bikers can float downstream, and paddlers can reach remote waters that are otherwise inaccessible.

Why Packraft?

Access the Inaccessible

Packrafts allow you to explore terrain that traditional hiking, biking, or paddling alone can’t reach. Fjords, glacial rivers, and alpine lakes become part of your route — not obstacles.

Multi-Sport Adventure

Pack-Rafting pairs beautifully with backpacking, bikepacking, fishing, and mountaineering. It’s ideal for epic traverses and creative, off-the-grid trips.

Lightweight and Portable

Forget the bulky kayak or heavy canoe. A modern packraft, pump, paddle, and life vest can all fit in your pack, giving you water capability without heavy gear.

Surprisingly Capable

Modern packrafts are tough. They can handle calm lakes, whitewater rapids (with proper training), and even coastal waters, depending on the model.

Types of Pack-Rafting Trips

• Flatwater Touring: Lakes, calm rivers, and slow-moving streams — ideal for beginners.

• Whitewater Packrafting: For experienced paddlers, packrafts can handle Class III and even Class IV rapids with a spray deck and proper gear.

• Expedition Travel: Multi-day, multi-sport journeys that combine hiking and paddling across remote landscapes.

• Bike Rafting: Bring your bike with you — some packrafts are built to carry a bike on the bow, allowing for creative loop routes over land and water.

Getting Started with Pack-Rafting

You don’t need to be a seasoned paddler to try pack-rafting — but preparation is key.

Gear Essentials

• Packraft (with or without spray deck)

• Paddle (four-piece designs are packable)

• PFD (life jacket) — always wear one

• Dry bags — for keeping gear safe

• Repair kit — punctures happen

• Helmet & drysuit — for whitewater or cold conditions

Skills to Learn

• Basic paddling technique

• Self-rescue and re-entry

• River reading and safety (especially in moving water)

• Packing efficiently for land and water transitions

Consider taking a packrafting course or joining a guided trip if you're new to the sport.

Respect the Water, Respect the Wild

Packrafting can take you to pristine, untouched places. With that freedom comes responsibility.

• Follow Leave No Trace principles

• Know water levels and weather forecasts

• Don’t underestimate cold water risks

• Always file a trip plan if going remote

The Packrafting Mindset: Exploration Without Limits

Packrafting isn’t about speed or competition — it’s about freedom and curiosity. It’s the joy of blending modes of travel, of reading a topographic map and dreaming up your own route, and of navigating by foot and by water under your own power.

So whether you’re looking to link up lakes in the backcountry, cross remote river valleys, or just take your weekend hikes to the next level — pack-rafting might just be your new favorite way to roam.