Tubing in New Braunfels: What to Bring- Comal River Edition

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Texas summers can be absolutely brutal with really no escape unless you are inside with some A/C. Well that’s not totally true! Tubing in New Braunfels, just outside of Austin, is the perfect place to go on those hot summer days to cool off!

New Braunfels offers two main rivers in the Guadalupe River and the Comal River, and I like to think of myself as somewhat of an expert tubing them. I have been floating down these rivers for as long as I can remember, easily over 20 years of experience on the river. 

I have been on family trips, solo trips, friend trips, bachelor party trips, so if there is something to do on one of these rivers, I have done it. 

There are so many things to know about floating the two rivers, and I don’t want to drown you in a lengthy blog post, so I’m breaking it down into bite-sized segments. Check out the edition you’re interested in below!

• Best campsites- Guadalupe River

• Everything you need to know- Guadalupe River

• What to bring- Guadalupe River Edition

• Where to stay- Comal River

• Everything you need to know-Comal River

For this post, I’m just going to cover the top items you must absolutely pack to get yourselves down the river without getting too crispy, losing too many belongings, or having too many drinks (ha!).

Before You Go Rules

The packing list for the Guadalupe and Comal rivers is going to be pretty straightforward, but there are only a few major rule differences between the two, so it’s best to separate them to avoid any confusion.

The Comal River has quite a list of rules to follow, so it’s important to stick to them to avoid any unwanted fines. Rules for tubing on the Guadalupe River depend on whether you’re within New Braunfels city limits or not. Since the Comal River flows entirely within city limits, this is the packing list you’ll need to save!

If you’re floating on the Guadalupe, just make sure you know where your float is. While this list applies to both rivers, my Guadalupe River pack won’t be accurate if you’re in the city limits. Be sure to double-check this website for the complete list of rules. 

Here are the major no-nos for tubing the Comal in New Braunfels.

• No disposable containers (AKA THE CAN BAN)
• No glass
• No foam containers
• No littering
• Life jackets are recommended for weak swimmers and children under eight on the Comal River.
• No volume drinking devices
• No containers under 5 fluid oz.
• Noise devices may not be audible beyond 50 feet
• No jumping from bridges, dams, or trees into the Guadalupe River
• Coolers must have a locking mechanism on the lid (zipper, Velcro, latch, cord). The maximum size is 30 quarts. 1 cooler is allowed per person.
• Inflatable devices cannot exceed five feet in length or width

The Comal River is the river with the infamous “can ban”, which basically means no canned/disposable drinks. So planning what drinks you want to bring is very important! This ban also extends to food storage, so any snacks or lunch you bring cannot be in plastic bags.

These rules may not seem too crazy, but you would be surprised how easy it can be to accidentally break one of the rules, and be careful, there will be people searching at some checkpoints! Ive seen so many people either have to dump all their stuff out or even get a fine for violating the rules!

Floating Essentials

Tube

The Comal River is a little more strict when it comes to what style tube you can use. Most popular put-in spots are owned by float outfitters and in order to use their put-in spot you usually have to rent a tube from them. Some will let you bring a personal tube, but you still have to pay a fee and renting a tube from them is either included or only a few dollars more.

These outfitters will offer either a classic black tire tube or a river run style tube. I suggest trying to get a river run style tube as these are much more comfortable and don’t get near as hot in the Texas summer heat.

Here are a couple popular spots to put in and rent tubes from, most range from $15-$25.

• Landa Falls– My personal favorite and gives the longest float at about 3 hours.

• Rockin’ R

• Texas Tubes

Cooler/cooler Float

You’ll definitely want to bring along a cooler for your drinks and snacks. I recommend having one cooler dedicated to drinks and another for food to keep things organized. And don’t forget, you’ll need a float for each cooler. Look for cooler floats that can handle both tasks for you! Just a heads up, styrofoam coolers are a no-go! While on the Comal river, your cooler must have some form of locking mechanism and can’t be greater than 30 quarts!

Mesh Garage bag

One of the most commonly forgotten items. It’s always sad to see trash floating in the river luckily most people are responsible! You can buy these almost anywhere on the river and some places give them out for free.

Rope

A rope is a great item for groups of any size to keep in mind. Ever since my family and I started using one, our trips have been a breeze. The rope is handy for keeping your group together, ensuring you don’t get separated. Plus, it’s great for securing the cooler floats to your tube. Trust me, it can be exhausting trying to hold onto another tube for hours, especially when navigating rapids.

Paddle

It’s really up to you and your preferences. Personally, I don’t usually bring one, but it can be really useful. Some of those tubes can be quite large, and paddling with your arms can lead to some uncomfortable rashes.

A paddle also comes in handy on slow-flow days. Sometimes, with a low flow rate and a strong wind in the opposite direction, you might find yourself drifting backward. While I don’t mind going backward much, I know some folks aren’t fans of it. A paddle is an easy fix to get you moving forward again.

Life jacket

This is a good one to have for those kiddos (or dogs!). Several spots can get pretty deep and those rapids can get aggressive! It is also a rule, for tubing in New Braunfels, that if the river flow is above 500cfs, it is mandatory for all children under eight years of age to wear a life jacket and when the river flow is above 750cfs, it is mandatory for all individuals to wear a life jacket.

Attire

Swim suit

Pretty obvious here. Get something durable to hold up in the rapids and maybe a little more coverage from the sun. 

Rash guard

Trust me, you’ll definitely want some sort of rash guard while out on the river. It could be an actual rash guard or even just a towel or oversized shirt. The trick I’ve found is to either lay it on your tube behind your shoulders or drape it across your body for sun protection.

If you’re using a black tire tube, a rash guard is a must-have because those tubes can really heat up in the sun and potentially burn your skin! Plus, it’s refreshing to dunk it in the cold water and lay it across yourself for some quick relief from the sun!

Cover up

Similar to the rash guard, but you will want this for anytime you get out of the river. On some floats, on the Guadalupe, there are restaurants/bars so having something to throw on will be handy. You will also want one to put on the ride back to your campsite.

River shoes

This item is a total game-changer! I used to be against them, but once I gave in, there was no turning back. I’ve seen every kind of river shoe out there, from sandals and sneakers to even cowboy boots!

In my experience, the absolute top-notch river shoe is something like Tevas. You need something that’s both secure and durable, especially for those moments when you have to trek through rapids – it can be rough out there! Plus, when walking to and from your car, there can be some slippery slopes.

Water shoes are also a solid choice, but personally, I prefer the comfort and reliability of Tevas. I’ve had my fair share of mishaps with sandals slipping on rocks, resulting in a few banged-up toes. Closed-toe river shoes might offer more protection.

Accesories

Sunscreen

Apply before, apply during, and apply again. You will want/need it! A sunburn after tubing the river in New Braunfels for multiple hours is incredibly painful. I’d suggest getting spray sunscreen because it is so much easier to apply while in a tube. You will also want a stronger face sunscreen as well.

Sunglasses and strap

You’ll definitely want to have both of these items. The sunlight bouncing off the water can be seriously intense, and we definitely don’t want to risk damaging our eyes. You don’t need anything fancy or expensive. Just grab a basic pair along with a strap.

If you opt for a nicer pair, make sure you’ve got a strap – preferably one that floats. I’ve lost quite a few Ray Bans on the river before I finally learned my lesson. Learn from my mistakes.

Phone

I’m typically wary of bringing my phone on the river – I’ve lost two of them over the years while tubing in New Braunfels. However, I do believe it’s wise for someone in the group to bring one, whether it’s for music or in case of emergencies where someone needs to be reached.

Waterproof phone case

Similar to a sunglasses strap, consider getting a waterproof phone case if you intend to bring your phone on the water. Most of these cases come with a neck strap to prevent accidental loss. Plus, you can still use your phone while it’s safely in the case. I’ve been on float trips where we lost three phones until we invested in waterproof cases. Haven’t lost a phone in about four years since then. It’s definitely worth it!

Charger

This may or may not be necessary, but if you get the right charger pack it can fit in the waterproof phone case with your phone! This is especially helpful if your phone is being used for the music.

Speaker

Another difference in rules for the Comal! Your speaker cannot carry more than 50 feet. I will add, since the Comal river is smaller than the Guadalupe, there are a ton of people packed in smaller areas. Meaning you will definitely be hearing other groups music so maybe a speaker won’t be too necessary.

But if you do decide to bring one, a basic JBL speaker is more than sufficient. Just ensure it’s either waterproof or at least splash-resistant. If your group exceeds 8-10 people, consider bringing an additional speaker or a larger one.

Dry bag

Over the past few years, I’ve added something new to my river gear, and it’s been incredibly useful! The dry bag is perfect for stashing your cover-up, wallet/IDs, and car keys, ensuring they stay dry and safe from water damage. It’s an extra safeguard for your valuables.

Hat

Personal preference here! I love hats on the river because I like to get it wet in the river and use it to cool off my head. Bucket hats are a great option here for maximum coverage!

Cash/ID

I understand it might feel risky bringing something so valuable, and yeah, people do lose these all the time, but you’ll definitely need it. Tubing in New Braunfels isn’t free! Depending on your age, some checkpoints might ask for IDs, and having cash on hand will be useful if you decide to stop at a restaurant!

Food/Drinks-BIGGEST CHANGE WHILE FLOATING THE COMAL

Insulated cup

This could be the most crucial item to pack. With the can ban enforced on the Comal, you’re restricted from bringing any beverages in plastic or aluminum cans (or any other disposable containers). Luckily, there are fantastic alternatives available, and you might want to consider having more than one for your float.

I recommend swinging by Buc-ee’s and grabbing one of their 52oz drink jugs – they’re big enough to fit plenty of water or any other beverage you might want for your river float. Alternatively, Stanley cups are also a great option!

WATER

This is a MUST. You are on the river for hours where it is 100 degrees outside. Bring plenty of water to stay hydrated to avoid heat exhaustion/stroke! Just remember to put the in the proper container.

Other beverages

Other beverages: Alcohol is the next best thing after water for many on the rivers. You’re allowed to drink alcohol on the rivers, but remember the can ban! Put your drinks in the proper container. Just make sure to bring along your mesh trash bag! 

Word of advice: pace yourself, it is a long float!

Lunch/Snacks

Remember to bring along some snacks and lunch for your float. You can’t really go wrong here, as long as you have some food packed. Sandwiches are super convenient and they hold up well while floating. 

This one can get tricky because your food and snacks cannot be in a disposable container (ziploc bag for example).

Personally, I opt for Uncrustables—they require no prep work and are perfect for enjoying on the river. I usually just take them out of the plastic bag and put them in a Tupperware container.

Most snacks will do the trick as well. You’ll see a lot of sunflower seeds—they’re a popular choice. But any snack will work just fine!

Tubing in New Braunfels is an absolute blast, and you’re almost guaranteed to have an amazing time. Just stick to this packing list and abide by the rules, and your float will be smooth sailing with minimal worry or stress. That means more time to kick back, soak in the cool water, and take in the scenic hill country views.

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