Is An Inner Tube Float Trip More Enjoyable Than Rafting?

Riverbend Staff • Oct 13, 2023

Being in nature is such a wonderful feeling, especially when exploring water sports like river tubing. It can boost your adrenaline like other water activities, but in a completely different way.


A river tubing trip can be viewed similarly like a rollercoaster, offering a new level of mystery and excitement, especially if you’ve never had this kind of adventure before.

You’re probably wondering what river tubing and rafting is exactly. Are they different and what are the pros and cons of each water activity? Keep reading to learn more!

A Tube Float for river trip

Differences Between A Tube Float and Rafting

A tube float is an exhilarating recreational water activity in which you sit on an inflated tube. Riverbend Floats tubes have a backrest for comfort and cup holder for your beverage.

Free-floating tubing is where you sit on the tube and just allow it to be moved by currents. You can also use your feet or hands to paddle the floating tube through the river.


River Rafting

Rafting is usually considered to be navigating an inflatable boat. Made from super durable materials, a raft can usually withstand the abuse of rocks and other objects in the water. While typically rowed by groups of people, this type of activity is the perfect summer outing.


Pros and Cons of Floating on a Tube vs Rafting

River floating on tubes is a fun and exciting activity for sure, but there are some potential dangers to consider before you book your tube with a tubing outfitter.

Below are the pros and cons of river tubes:

  • Water rates moderately flow with low currents so tubers enjoy a relaxing float throughout the river tubing adventure.
  • A relaxing water activity that is ideal for families that want to enjoy nature and unwind.
  • Floating on a Riverbend Floats custom tube is absolute fun on the Illinois River.
  • Tube floats use inflated single tubes that transport one person at a time. 
  • Tubers use their feet to kick and/ or their hands to paddle.


Tube vs Rafting

Now, let’s talk about the pros and cons of river rafting:

  • River rafting uses one inflatable raft to accommodate more people simultaneously.
  • Oars and paddles make navigation simple and easy the river.



To ensure a safe experience, it's a good idea to bring a cooler (up to 50 quarts), drinking water, water shoes, a bathing suit, and other safety gear. Don't bring your cell phone in the rent tubes or any sharp objects and avoid wearing flip-flops. 


Final Thoughts

If you love adventures and maximum fun while doing it alone, tubing trips may be more enjoyable than river rafting. There’s no need to worry if you’ve never tried this water sport before, it is easy and relaxing.

A float trip along the Illinois River promises a day full of great memories. Wearing the correct gea
By Riverbend Staff 09 Apr, 2024
A float trip along the Illinois River with Riverbend Floats promises a day full of sunlight, cooler water, and great memories. Whether tubing for fun, hiking, or kayaking for adventure, wearing the correct gear will help you stay comfortable and enjoy the scenery. From practical considerations to essential items and packing list, let's look at the best float trip attire and helpful tips for your Illinois stream raft excursion with Riverbend Floats, which is located in Oklahoma's picturesque Illinois River corridor in the center of the best float and recreation area in the Oklahoma Ozarks. We are the top-rated outfitter on the Illinois River, known for our exceptional customer service. Our equipment, grounds, and restrooms are extremely clean and a source of pride.
By Riverbend Staff 11 Feb, 2024
Kayaks are also designed for the intensity you want, whether a relaxing paddling on a pristine lake or challenging the rigorous rapids.
5 Tips To Beat The Heat On A Rafting Trip In Tahlequah
By Riverbend Staff 24 Jan, 2024
It is important to plan and prepare for the heat before embarking on an exciting rafting trip down the Illinois River in Oklahoma and explore the outdoors.
With Oklahoma's unpredictable weather and its uncontrollable effects on Tahlequah's Illinois River w
By Riverbend Staff 02 Dec, 2023
With Oklahoma's unpredictable weather and its uncontrollable effects on Tahlequah's Illinois River water level, it’s important to consider safety guidelines.
What Grub To Bring: Float Trip Food Ideas - Riverbend
By Riverbend Staff 12 Nov, 2023
Your choice of float trip snacks should be energy-giving and thirst-quenching, such as bottled beverages, finger foods or sandwiches that do not require a dish.
Types of Tubes for River Tubing
By Riverbend Staff 13 Sep, 2023
Floating downstream on a tube is a great way to beat the heat and enjoy the sights of nature in Tahlequah, OK.
Floater's Guide To Illinois River
By Riverbend Staff 02 Aug, 2023
Plan your leisure trip in advance so that you’ll have memorable travels with friends and family. you’ll have a great time on this famous river in Tahlequah.
Rules and Guidelines On The Illinois River
02 Jul, 2023
Make your floating or camping trip more fun and memorable by bringing the right gear, and being safe on the lake. we can bring you to places where fun awaits.
Tahlequah Float History
By Riverbend Staff 02 Jun, 2023
Have a fun time with family and friends by getting on top of your kayaks, canoes, and rafts, as many business establishments offer top-notch lodging.
Share by: