If you’re taking a trip outdoors, the most important thing to keep in mind is: Be prepared. Even if the weather forecast says that it will be mostly sunny on the date of your camping trip, know that the great outdoors is a very unpredictable place and it could rain any time.
For your comfort and safety, it’s better to come prepared and bring some important things so that your trip won’t be ruined even if the weather changes.
Here are 4 important things to remember to prepare for camping in the rain:
Bring layers for your clothing
No matter what weather it is, always bring rain gear and clothing with you. A sweater (preferably polyester or wool), a poncho or a water-proof jacket and a pair of wool socks are essentials. If you have extra space in your luggage, you can add some rain boots. These are all important in keeping you warm when it starts to drizzle – keep in mind that it can get very cold outdoors, especially at night!
Waterproof your tent
Before your trip, make sure that you spray your tent with waterproofing spray. You can also use a seam sealer to seal your tent’s seals for extra protection. Rainy or not, do these things occasionally as part of your tent maintenance.
If you can, it’s better to invest in a 4-season tent which is designed for all types of weather. If this is currently out of your budget, you can get one with a proper rainfly that completely covers the windows and all mesh vents.
Pack a waterproof bag
When you go to camp, pack important stuff inside a waterproof bag. Place your valuables here, add some dry clothes, some snacks, some food (for meals) that don’t need to be cooked and some entertainment in case you get stuck inside your tent. This way, your valuables are protected, you’ll have dry clothes, food to eat and something to do when rain gets everything else wet.
Tarps tarps tarps
Tarps can be very useful around the campsite, they’re also very handy for unexpected rain. Bring extra tarps (plus rope or paracord) to put over your tent, under your tent and on the floor inside your tent so you won’t have to sleep on wet ground. You can also use a tarp to cover your dry wood and kindling.
Don’t let the rain ruin your fun outdoors – follow these tips for camping in the rain!