Tips for Pack-Rafting

I have been trying to go pack-rafting for years!! It's just never come together...but this year, I think I have a window to make it happen. There's just one problem - I kinda have no idea what I'm doing.

Don't worry, I'm going with some people who are regulars, but I would love to go into this with some good tips and tricks from those in the know. I would love to hear from folks who’ve done it. What are your must-know tips for a beginner? Anything you wish you knew before your first trip? Gear recs, water safety, route planning, packing—I'm all ears.

Also curious where you went for your first time and how it went! Thanks in advance!