Translation of aflojar

One of the most difficult problems I have (and I am sure that others have it too) is getting used to the superficiality of the life in the US. To be superficial means to me not to be able to recognize.
Right after desert it started to rain and it poured so that the entire camp got flooded. A few minutes later the electricity disappeared because of the water and we were sitting in the dark.
Unfortunately, the boat's maneuvering system broke down and we were told that we could not take it. We were furious, but decided to make the best out of the situation. The offered to take the Red Dragon instead.