You’ve got all your gear ready, picked out the perfect destination, and finally convinced your friends to go camping with you. However, at the last moment, the weather forecast tells you it’s going to rain over the weekend. For safety reasons, camping in heavy rain and thunderstorms is a no-go. But if safety isn’t the issue, don’t let the rain ruin your trip. Remember these 8 tips to turn rainy day camping into an enjoyable experience:
1. Be Detail-Oriented
A big part of keeping dry is preventing rain from seeping into your clothes and gear. Use rain covers (even though they’re called snow covers, there are lightweight ones for rain) or wear waterproof pants to prevent water from getting into your boots. Bring a baseball cap or other outdoor hats to keep water from dripping down your neck. Pack a few waterproof tarps to set up a “roof” that can provide a nice activity space during camping.
2. Check and Repair Your Gear
Before camping in the rain, check the seams of your tent, look for punctures and wear on the fabric, and ensure the guy lines are intact. If there’s damage, purchase the necessary accessories for repairs. If your rain jacket is old, it’s best to give it a wash because dirt can clog the pores of the waterproof membrane, reducing breathability. If the DWR waterproof coating on the outer layer is worn out, reapply it with a spray. The same goes for your hiking boots; even if they have a waterproof breathable membrane inside, if the DWR waterproof coating on the outer layer is worn out, the leather and fabric of the shoes will absorb moisture, making them heavier and less breathable.
3. Pack Smartly
Your backpack rain cover is just the first line of defense. Use plastic zip-lock bags to pack items inside your pack, protecting them from water and side-spray. Pre-assemble your tent before packing it; tie the guy lines first, and fold the outer tent in an easily deployable manner. This can speed up the tent setup process, minimizing exposure time.
4. Dress Appropriately
During outdoor activities, your clothes get wet from two sources: rain and sweat. Avoid wearing cotton underwear as they are difficult to dry once wet; opt for quick-drying synthetic fibers or lightweight wool materials. In areas with light rain, you can wear soft shells, which maximize breathability and sweat dissipation. However, if it’s cold and raining heavily, you need a hard shell rain jacket to withstand the elements. Nowadays, some rain jackets made with new materials provide reliable waterproofing while also offering comfort and breathability.
5. Use Proper Posture
During hiking, keep your arms down to prevent rain from seeping in through your sleeves. Tighten your chin to let rain drip off your hat, preventing it from dripping down your neck.
6. Wear Your Clothes Right
It’s a small detail, but it can make a big difference over time. Tuck in the hem and cuffs of your base layer clothes. Otherwise, as they absorb moisture, your clothes will slowly become wet.
7. Choose the Right Campsite
Find a well-drained area. Stay away from ravines, low-lying areas, and soft soil where water collects. Choose a spot under trees or on the lee side of large rocks to shield yourself from the wind and rain.
8. Set Up Your Tent Correctly
When pitching your tent, orient the smallest side (usually the back end) into the wind for better sleep at night. Use guy lines to secure the rainfly, making sure the edges extend beyond the bottom of the inner tent. Finally, if the ground where you’re pitching the tent is lower, place a ground tarp under the tent to prevent water from seeping in from below.
