What to Pack for Rafting the Vjosa in Permet
Good news: you don't need much. We provide all the technical gear — you just bring a few personal items and a change of clothes. Here is the simple, complete list so you arrive ready and don't over-pack.
Ask Us AnythingThe Short Version
Wear swimwear or quick-dry clothing and secure footwear that can get wet. Bring a full change of dry clothes, a towel, and sun protection. That's really it — we provide everything technical, including the wetsuit when it's needed.
What to Wear on the Water
Dress for getting wet — because you will. The ideal outfit is swimwear with a quick-dry top or rash guard over it. Avoid cotton (t-shirts, jeans) because it soaks up water, stays cold, and takes forever to dry. In spring, when the snowmelt water is cool, we provide a wetsuit to keep you warm; in the summer heat, swimwear and a light quick-dry layer are usually all you need.
You will be out in the open for a couple of hours, so think comfort and sun. Our Permet family and beginner trips are relaxed, but the same clothing advice applies to everyone.
Footwear — Get This Right
This is the one thing people most often get wrong. You need footwear that is secure and stays on your feet, even in moving water:
- Best: sport sandals with heel straps, or purpose-made water shoes.
- Fine: an old pair of trainers you don't mind getting wet.
- Avoid: flip-flops (they float away instantly) and bare feet (the banks are rocky).
Spare Clothes & Sun Protection
You will finish the trip soaked, so a full change of dry clothes and a towel are essential — leave them in the car or at base and enjoy the reward of dry clothes afterwards.
The Vjosa runs through an open valley with little shade, so sun protection matters more than people expect. Apply waterproof sunscreen (SPF 30+) before you launch, and bring a hat and sunglasses (ideally with a strap) for the calm stretches. Reapplying afterwards is a good idea too.
What We Provide (So You Don't Pack It)
No need to bring or rent any technical gear — it is all included:
- The raft and paddle
- A certified helmet and life jacket
- A wetsuit when the water is cool
- Waterproof dry bags for your phone and small valuables during the trip
- A full safety briefing and instruction before you launch
Leave anything you cannot afford to lose at your accommodation. For everything else about the trip, our main Vjosa River rafting page and FAQ have you covered.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I wear for rafting the Vjosa?
Wear swimwear or quick-dry clothing that you don't mind getting wet, plus secure footwear that stays on your feet, such as sport sandals with heel straps or old trainers. Avoid flip-flops and cotton. In cooler spring conditions we provide a wetsuit; in summer swimwear and a quick-dry top are usually enough.
What footwear is best for rafting in Permet?
The best footwear is something secure that can get wet and will not float away — sport sandals with heel straps, water shoes, or an old pair of trainers. Flip-flops are not suitable because they come off in the water. Bare feet are not recommended as the riverbanks can be rocky.
What does Rafting Albania provide?
We provide all the technical equipment you need: the raft and paddle, a certified helmet and life jacket, and a wetsuit when the water is cool. We also provide waterproof dry bags for your phone and small valuables during the trip, so you only need to bring personal items and a change of clothes.
Should I bring spare clothes and sun protection?
Yes. Always bring a full change of dry clothes and a towel for after the trip, since you will get wet. Sun protection is essential on the open river — apply waterproof sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) before you launch, and consider a hat and sunglasses with a strap for the calm stretches.
Packed and Ready? Let's Raft the Vjosa
Bring yourself and a change of clothes — we'll handle the rest. From €40 per person.
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