What to Wear for Ayung Rafting in Ubud: Full Prep & Packing Guide

Not sure what to wear or bring for Ayung River rafting in Ubud? You’re not alone, and getting it wrong can leave you uncomfortable, soaked, or hiking uphill in all the wrong gear.

Bahasa Indonesia. Pakai Apa Kalau Mau Rafting di Ayung? Ini Panduan Lengkapnya.

Why does it matter?

This isn’t just a paddle trip. You’ll descend 50 to 600 mossy jungle steps (depending on your operator), raft through shaded canyons, then climb back up Bali’s hillside heat.

What you wear and pack matters for comfort, convenience, and recovery afterward.

For a full preview of what happens during the Ayung rafting trip, see our guide on what to expect.

Let’s get you ready for the river.

Ayung Rafting Terrain & Gear Fit (Before You Choose Your Outfit)

What should you wear for Ayung rafting?

It’s not just about staying dry. You need to stay comfortable and steady while trekking jungle stairs, paddling through splash zones, and hiking steep trails in Ubud’s humidity.

Ayung’s terrain is serious. Expect mossy stone steps, shaded canyon cliffs, and riverside climbs.

Your outfit needs to:

• Dry quickly.
• Fit securely.
• Handle water and rough terrain.

Let’s go straight to the essentials.

Quick Answer: What to Wear for Ayung River Rafting in Ubud

What should you wear for rafting on the Ayung River?

Wear a quick-dry shirt, boardshorts or water leggings, and strap-on river shoes with grip. Avoid cotton, flip-flops, and loose accessories.

This gear keeps you steady on wet jungle stairs, dries fast during the ride, and helps you stay comfortable on the uphill return.

Category	Items
Wear	Quick-dry top (e.g., rash guard), boardshorts or water leggings, and strap-on river shoes with tread.
Avoid	Cotton, flip-flops, loose jewelry, or watches.

Want the full outfit breakdown? Keep scrolling for specific tips on tops, bottoms, footwear, and what to pack before your Ayung adventure.

What’s the Best Top for Rafting in Ubud?

Skip cotton. It stays wet and clings to your skin.

Choose polyester, sports fabrics, or rash guards instead. These materials dry fast and remain breathable in Bali’s humidity.

Need sun protection? Long-sleeve rash guards work well without causing overheating.

What Bottoms Should You Wear for Ayung Rafting Ubud?

You’ll be paddling, climbing, and sitting, so flexibility is essential.

Wear water leggings or boardshorts and layer a snug swimsuit underneath. It dries faster than regular underwear and makes gearing up easier riverside.

Category	Items
Wear	Lightweight boardshorts, flexible water leggings, snug swimsuit (as base layer)
Avoid	Jeans, cargo shorts, heavy fabrics (they retain water and cause chafing)

What Are the Best Shoes to Wear for Rafting on the Ayung River?

The grip is crucial. You’ll be walking down wet stone steps and climbing muddy trails after your ride.

Best options:

• Strap-on river sandals.
• Closed-toe water shoes with good tread.

Need an example? Here’s an article about What Shoes to wear for Whitewater Rafting.

Avoid:

• Flip-flops.
• Slippers or heels.

Our tip: Flip-flops won’t survive the first step. Leave them at your hotel.

Can I Wear Sunglasses or Glasses While Rafting in Ayung?

You can, but only if they’re secured. Splash zones can knock loose frames into the river.

Use a strap if you’re wearing:

• Sunglasses.
• Prescription glasses.

Optional: Sports lenses offer better safety and comfort on the rapids.

What to Bring for Ayung Rafting (Essentials + Checklist)

Getting ready for Ayung rafting?

Use this quick Checklist for what to wear and pack, then scroll down for the must-know reasons behind each item, plus operator gear tips and storage advice.

At-a-Glance Packing Checklist

Bring:

• Quick-dry shirt + boardshorts or water leggings
• Swimsuit as base layer
• Secure water shoes (no flip-flops)
• Change of clothes (top, bottom, underwear)
• Compact towel (if not provided)
• Waterproof phone pouch or lockable dry bag
• Sweat-resistant sunscreen
• Hair tie or headband

Avoid:

• Valuables
• Cotton clothing
• Heavy fabrics that retain water

Post-Rafting Must-Haves (Change of Clothes, Shoes & Towel)

You’ll finish soaked and sweaty. Once the ride ends, there’s no changing area at the riverside. You’ll hike or shuttle back to base camp before getting access to showers.

To stay dry and fresh for the rest of your day:

• Pack a complete change of clothes: dry shirt, bottoms, fresh underwear.
• Bring dry sneakers or sandals if you’re heading to lunch or sightseeing.
• Optional: a small tube of moisturizer or aloe vera for sensitive skin.

Tip:

• Most operators provide towels, but if you prefer your own, bring a compact microfiber towel that dries fast and packs small.
• River shoes are great during rafting, but you’ll want a fresh pair after.

Phones, GoPros & Storage While Rafting

Most items go to the crew before your descent, but storage methods vary by provider.

• Rafting staff usually store guests’ phones in dry bags. If you choose to bring yours, pack it in a sealed waterproof case. You’ll be fully responsible if it gets damaged or lost.
• GoPros are allowed if mounted on your helmet or chest. Or, you can use your operator’s photo or video service for hassle-free memories.
• Leave valuables like wallets, passports, and jewelry at your hotel. Even zipped pockets won’t keep them safe once they’re soaked.

Storage options: Some operators provide lockers or dry bags, but not all. If bringing essentials, use a lockable dry pouch and avoid opening it during the trip.

Do I Need a Hair Tie or Sweatband?

Yes, especially if you have long hair. Tie it low so your helmet fits securely. A sweatband helps with humidity and keeps sweat out of your eyes.

Operator Gear Differences That Affect What You Should Pack

Each Ayung rafting provider includes different gear, so check your booking details before the trip.

Some operators provide:

• Towels and lockers at Basecamp.
• Private or shared dry bags for small valuables.
• Essential gear like life jackets, helmets, and paddles.

Others may only offer:

• Basic shared changing areas.
• Minimal towel service.
• No rentals for water shoes or rash guards.

So plan:

• Bring your water shoes or rash guard. Rental availability is limited.
• Pack a towel if your operator doesn’t list it as included.
• Bring a waterproof pouch for essentials, not all dry bags are personal-use.
• Don’t assume your package includes lockers. Travel light unless your booking confirms secure storage.

What Not to Bring for Rafting in Ubud

Rafting on the Ayung River starts before you reach the water. You’ll hike down mossy stairs and climb back up in Bali’s heat, so every extra item weighs you down.

Skip bringing:

• Wallets, passports, jewelry, and even zipped pockets aren’t secure when soaked.
• Cotton clothing or heavy fabrics that trap moisture.
• Bulky bags or anything you don’t want wet.

If you must carry essentials, like a phone or a small amount of cash:

• Use a sealed, lockable dry pouch.
• Avoid accessing it during the trip.
• Check with your guide for the day’s storage options.

Local tip: The lighter you pack, the easier you’ll move on stairs and in the raft, especially under Bali’s jungle heat.

Can I Wear Makeup While Rafting in Bali?

Yes, you can, but it won’t last. River splash, humidity, and helmets will wipe it off fast. Use waterproof sunscreen instead.

Final Prep Tips & Extra Help Before You Raft

Quick reminder: Hydrate early, use the restroom before the hike, and secure your phone in a waterproof pouch before heading down to the river.

Best Day to Raft? Weather Tips & Route Planning

Need help choosing the right day, avoiding heavy rain, or beating the crowds? Check our complete guide on the best time to raft the Ayung River for weather tips, ideal timing, and route planning.

Already Packed? You’re Ready to Go

If you’ve followed this Checklist, you’re good to go!

But if you’re planning to explore other rivers, grab this next: Full Bali Rafting Gear List – What to Pack for Any River.

Still unsure what’s included with your Ayung rafting package?

Ask us directly on WhatsApp — we’ll help check if your provider offers lockers, towels, or gear rentals.