Floating Around the New Braunfels "Can Ban"

Last year’s reinstated "can ban" ordinance makes disposable containers and large coolers on New Braunfels’ Comal and Guadalupe rivers verboten. But this shouldn’t stop you from enjoying your favorite beverages along the waterway.

If you and your friends are planning for a day at the river, follow these tips on how to legally drink on the water while doing your part to keep Mother Nature litter-free.

Where am I allowed to drink on the river?

You can drink anything you want on both rivers; it’s what you drink (or eat) out of that matters. The not-so-new ordinance applies only within the New Braunfels city limits which begins at the Gruene Bridge on the Guadalupe and includes the entire Comal River. Anywhere above the dam you are free to drink and eat from your regular solo cups, cans, and other disposables with the exception of glass and plastic containers of 5 ounces or less.

How can I drink on the river?

City officials ask that rivergoers enjoy all beverages and food items from nondisposable containers if you’re floating the river inside city limits. We've compiled a list of some good alternatives to the one-and-done outlaws.

Drinking Flask

Not used to leaving your flask at home? Well lucky for you, these bad boys are permitted on the rivers. Now, you can bring the hard stuff, and you don't even have to share.

Insulated Cup/Bottle

This insulated option is something you may already have at home. And, holding more than the average 16.9 ounce plastic water bottle makes this not just an eco-friendly choice, but a smart one as well.

Canteen

If your float gets stuck on a rock or in a tree (it happens), you can drink out of a canteen for the added layer of feeling like you’re in a movie about being stranded.

Hydration Backpack

This backpack is every festivalgoer's favorite accessory for a reason. It keeps you hydrated without the hassle of carrying around a water bottle. They hold liters and liters of water, or anything really. It's your choice.

Reusable Jug

You know those Gatorade-filled jugs sports teams dump on their coaches' heads after victories? Well, you can bring these neon baths in a jug to your next river adventure. Who knows, maybe you can make a game of it and bathe whoever makes it to the end of the river first in some sweet electrolytes.

Keg

Attention: all frat boys. Yes – technically kegs are not considered volume drinking devices, and thus are permitted on the water. The only exception to floating with your brew barrel is that you don’t drink directly from it.

What about coolers and my Jambox?

What's floating without music? A sad time, really. Well, it's a good thing coolers and speakers aren’t entirely a no-go. According to the ordinance, music-playing devices that aren’t audible within 50 feet, and coolers that don’t exceed 16 quarts are OK to bring. These rules don't apply outside the city limits; jam and pack your hearts out.

Music Cooler

Bring this music cooler if you're not a risk-taker and don't want to bring your non-waterproof speaker for a float. Sip as a personal beverage or replenish those insulated cups.

Soft Cooler Bag

This cooler is your best friend on the river. It’s the perfect size and will keep ice as well as any reusable containers or snacks at your fingertips.

---

You don't have to take our word for it, here's the official poster outlining the rules.