What True REST Float Spa offers
True REST Float Spa is a chain of float tank facilities across the United States that rents private float pods by the hour. You book a session online or by phone, arrive at a location near you, float in a tank filled with salt water for a set time (usually 60 or 90 minutes), and leave. The company operates multiple locations in different states, though not nationwide — availability depends on whether a True REST facility exists in your area.
Each float pod is a private, enclosed tank filled with about 10 inches of water saturated with Epsom salt. The salt concentration is high enough that you float on the surface without effort, similar to floating in the Dead Sea. The tank is dark and soundproof, and you control the lighting and music. Most people float naked or in swimwear — the choice is yours. True REST provides towels, a shower, and a changing area before and after your session.
True REST is a commercial business, not a medical provider or insurance-covered service. You pay out of pocket for each session. Pricing varies by location and package, but a single 60-minute float typically costs between $60 and $100, with discounts available if you buy a package of multiple sessions upfront.
Key Takeaways
- True REST operates float tank locations in select U.S. cities, and you book sessions online or by phone for a private float experience.
- Each session lasts 60 or 90 minutes in a private, dark, soundproof tank filled with salt water that keeps you floating effortlessly.
- You pay per session or buy a package of sessions in advance, with single sessions typically ranging from $60 to $100 depending on location.
- True REST provides showers, towels, and changing facilities, but does not accept insurance and is not a medical treatment.
- First-time floaters should arrive 15 minutes early, shower before entering the tank, and expect some adjustment to the sensation of floating.
How to book a True REST session
Visit the True REST website and enter your city or zip code to find locations near you. Not every city has a True REST facility, so if no location appears, float tanks may not be available in your area. If a location does exist, you can view available time slots and book directly online using a credit card, or call the location to reserve by phone.
Most locations ask you to arrive 10 to 15 minutes before your scheduled float time. You will fill out a brief intake form (usually asking about any skin conditions, recent surgeries, or medications) and receive instructions on how to use the tank. First-time floaters often watch a short video or receive a walkthrough from staff. You then shower, enter the tank, and float for your reserved time. An alert (usually a gentle sound or light) signals when your session is ending.
Pricing structures vary by location. A single 60-minute float might cost $70 at one location and $85 at another. Many True REST spas offer discounts for buying packages — for example, four sessions for the price of three, or a monthly membership that gives you unlimited floats. Check your specific location's pricing page for current rates and package options.
What happens during a float session
You enter the private tank room, shower off, and step into the pod. The water is warm (usually around 93 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit, close to skin temperature) and extremely salty. Within seconds of lying back, you will float effortlessly — your body naturally rises to the surface because of the salt concentration. There is no effort required to stay afloat, and you cannot sink.
The tank is dark and quiet unless you choose to keep the lights or music on. Most floaters turn off both after a few minutes to experience sensory deprivation — the absence of external stimuli. Some people find this deeply relaxing; others find it strange at first. You are in complete control: you can turn lights or music back on at any time, and you can exit the tank whenever you want.
The typical float lasts 60 or 90 minutes. During this time, your job is straightforward to float and relax. Some people sleep, some meditate, some let their minds wander. There is no "right" way to float. When your time is up, an alert signals the end of the session. You exit the tank, shower again to rinse off the salt, and dry off in the changing area.
Common concerns for first-time floaters
Many people worry about claustrophobia in the enclosed tank. True REST tanks are large enough to move around in, and you control the door — it is not locked, and you can open it and exit at any time. The lighting is also under your control, so you can keep the lights on if darkness feels uncomfortable. Most people who worry about this beforehand find the experience less claustrophobic than expected.
Salt water in your eyes or nose is another common concern. The salt concentration is high, so even a small amount stings. True REST provides fresh water and a washcloth in the tank so you can rinse your face if needed. Avoid splashing, and if you have open cuts or fresh tattoos, check with the location about whether floating is safe for you — salt water can irritate healing skin.
Some floaters experience skin irritation if they have very sensitive skin or recent shaving. The salt can sting freshly shaved areas. Shower and dry off thoroughly after your float, and consider waiting a day or two after shaving before your first float. If you have eczema, psoriasis, or other skin conditions, mention this during intake so staff can advise you.
What to bring and how to prepare
Bring nothing into the tank itself — True REST provides everything you need. Wear whatever you are comfortable in to the facility (regular clothes), and change in the provided changing room. Bring a hair tie if you have long hair and want to keep it out of the water. Some floaters prefer to float with their hair dry; others don't mind it getting wet. The choice is yours.
Shower before entering the tank — this is required at most True REST locations. It rinses off deodorant, lotion, and other products that can cloud the water or irritate your skin in the salt. After your float, you will shower again to rinse off the salt. Plan to spend about 20 to 30 minutes total at the facility (including arrival, shower, float, and post-float shower).
Avoid caffeine or large meals right before your float. A light meal an hour or two before is fine, but floating on a full stomach or while caffeinated can make relaxation harder. Some floaters find that floating works best in the evening or on a day when they are not rushed. There is no medical requirement here — just practical comfort.
Pricing and package options
True REST pricing is set by individual locations, so costs vary. A single 60-minute float typically ranges from $60 to $100. A 90-minute float usually costs $20 to $30 more than the 60-minute rate. Most locations offer package discounts: buying four or six sessions upfront usually costs less per session than paying for single floats.
Many True REST locations offer monthly memberships for regular floaters. A membership might give you unlimited floats for a flat monthly fee (typically $150 to $250, depending on location) or a set number of floats per month at a reduced rate. If you plan to float more than once or twice, ask about packages and memberships — they often save money compared to single-session pricing.
True REST does not accept insurance. Float sessions are paid out of pocket. Some health savings accounts (HSAs) or flexible spending accounts (FSAs) may allow you to use those funds for float sessions, but this depends on your specific plan — check with your plan administrator before assuming you can use HSA or FSA money.
Finding a True REST location near you
True REST has locations in multiple states, but the chain is not nationwide. To find a location, visit the True REST website, enter your zip code or city, and see what appears. If no True REST facility shows up in your area, you may need to search for independent float tank providers instead — many cities have local float spas that operate similarly to True REST but are not part of the chain.
If you find a True REST location, check their hours, current pricing, and availability before booking. Some locations have limited hours or may be closed for maintenance. Call ahead if you have questions about first-time floater policies, intake requirements, or whether floating is safe for your specific situation (recent surgery, skin conditions, pregnancy, etc.).
Frequently Asked Questions
Is floating safe if I have claustrophobia?
The tank door is not locked and you can exit anytime. You also control the lighting, so you can keep lights on. Many people with claustrophobia concerns find floating less uncomfortable than expected because you are floating on your back in a large space, not confined in a small box. Start with a 60-minute session and let staff know about your concern when you arrive.
What if I fall asleep during my float?
Falling asleep is common and not a problem. You will not drown because the salt keeps you floating on the surface. When your session time ends, an alert will wake you. Some floaters specifically use float sessions as a way to get deep rest. If you are concerned about oversleeping, mention it to staff and they can check on you.
Can I float if I am pregnant?
Many pregnant people float safely, especially in the second and third trimesters when floating can relieve pressure on joints and the lower back. However, check with your doctor first, and tell True REST staff about your pregnancy during intake. Some locations may have specific guidelines or may recommend avoiding floats during the first trimester.
Do I have to be naked in the float tank?
No. You can wear a swimsuit if you prefer. Most floaters choose to float naked because swimsuits can bunch up or cause pressure points, but it is entirely your choice. Wear whatever makes you comfortable.
How often should I float to see benefits?
There is no standard recommendation. Some people float once a month for relaxation; others float weekly. True REST staff or your doctor can discuss what frequency might work for your situation, but there is no medical requirement or standard schedule.