Why a Sarong is So Right for River Travel

December 16, 2024

If you’re reading this hoping to learn one important piece of river tripping wisdom, here you go: a main principle used in packing for river or wilderness trips is everything going into a drybag or backpack needs to have either one very important purpose (sleeping bag) or the ability to serve multiple purposes (mug). When it comes to river travel, the undisputed champion of multipurpose application is a humble piece of fabric called a sarong.

While it seems that sarongs originated with cultures in the Middle East and arrived in other places along trade routes, for us, the sarong’s story starts in Indonesia. The word sarong originates from a Malay/Indonesian word, sarung, meaning to cover. And when it comes to covering, the sarong excels. 

Sarongs are usually about three feet by six feet and decorated in a variety of ways depending on the region of origin. Traditionally, people of all genders wrap sarongs around their waist to provide a tube-like lower body covering. The perfect, easy-breezy garment for local climates, sarongs have found their way into many hot places where a little air flow (think summertime in the Southwest) is a win.

How sarongs won the title of “most cherished” item in the dunnage of river folk is a story with as many versions as types of sarongs themselves, but what we know is once you’ve traveled with one of these beauties, there is no going back.

Let’s consider why a sarong will become your new best river buddy:

Unlimited Options: From a simple tube-like bottom (think towel around the waist) to more elaborately arranged jumpers, shawls, one-piece dresses, scarfs, headwraps, and bandini-tops, there are a myriad of ways to don the sarong. If we want to arrive prepared, the internet can provide instructions for numerous applications, though all we really need is motivation and imagination. 

Made in the Shade: Sarongs provide instant relief from constant sun. Whether simply draped over the head (think Middle Eastern shemagh) or suspended from other structures, sarongs help block the brightness and provide respite in the heat.

Portable Swamp Cooler: Have you ever been far out in the steamy wilds wishing you had access to an AC unit? By dunking a sarong in the river then tying it around our head, neck, or shoulders (wherever really), we create an instant evaporative cooling unit we can consistently refresh and take anywhere. Chill out!

Oh Sheet: Can we agree that naps are a fabulous part of any vacation? Catching a little afternoon dream time in a cottonwood’s shade or as the boat floats downstream is super rejuvenating and sarongs are perfect naptime blankies for cozying up without cooking. Additionally, on nights when the sun goes down but the temperatures stay up, sarongs are all we need for sleeping.

Have a Seat: I love sitting in the sand and endlessly tracing my fingers through my own personal Zen rock garden. But over the years, I’ve come to learn that for many desert travelers, sand is not a highlight. For those who prefer a barrier between themselves and the grit, sarongs can be spread out wherever and keep things a little cleaner.

Bug Repellent: Let’s face it, there are times when buzzing locals are just part of the experience. Rather than slather on repellent, sarongs can keep us covered and unavailable as food. And, extra bonus, rather than being as hot as covering up with pants, long sleeves, etc., sarongs keep the buggers aways while still letting the breeze in.

Fun: Maybe most importantly, sarongs are just plain fun. If you run out of ideas, give a sarong to a child and step back. From a pirate flag or fort’s roof to a bull-fighter’s cape or stand-up paddle board sail, sarongs bring good times.

The bottom line is, for such a small investment in cash and space in the bag, why not bring a sarong?

Now’s the time to commit to what will certainly become your next new favorite piece of gear! Step one, book a trip with Holiday River Expeditions. There are a ton to choose from and this time of year, the options are totally open. Step two, visit your local international trade/world market/import shop (or look online) for a sarong you can totally see using while on your adventure. We’re always here to help your vision become reality, just get in touch!

Eli Shostak is a Senior Lecturer of Adventure Education at Fort Lewis College. A former river guide, NOLS Course Leader, and sea kayaking instructor, he is a firm believer in the power of shared experiences in wild places. Eli is dedicated to using his expertise in mindfulness, leadership, and expedition planning to facilitate journeys for finding the personal and interpersonal benefits of exploring diverse landscapes. His favorite game to play on trips is called “Knuck Tats,” something you’ll have to ask him about.