Camping in the Rain? Here’s What You Need

Camping in the Rain? Here’s What You Need

Blog Article

Rain camping can be a special and lovely experience, Camping in the Rain? Here’s What You Need but one must be dry and comfortable to truly enjoy it. Here's how you do it:

1. Shelter:

Waterproof Tent: This is the key. The tent should have a high hydrostatic head rating (at least 2000mm for the fly and floor), sealed seams, and a full-coverage rainfly that goes almost to the ground.
Tent Footprint: A groundsheet under your tent will shield the floor from mud, holes, and provide another layer of water resistance. Make sure it's a little smaller than your floor so water won't be able to build up between them.
Tarp: Good piece of kit. Use to provide a dry cooking or living space outside your tent, or as an overhead cover for your tent for really heavy rain.
2. Personal Equipment:

Waterproof Gear: Purchase a high-quality waterproof and breathable rain jacket and pants. Check for taped seams and adjustable cuffs and hoods.
Waterproof Footwear: Dry feet with waterproof hiking boots that provide excellent traction on wet trails. Consider wearing additional pairs of socks made of synthetic or wool material, as cotton socks will remain wet and cold.
Moisture-Wicking Layers: Wear non-cotton (such as polyester or merino wool) clothing layers under your waterproof outer layers. These materials will wick sweat and retain heat even when they become a little wet.
Waterproof Bags: Dry bags or waterproof stuff sacks should be used to keep vital items such as sleeping bags, spare clothing, electronics, and food. Even within your tent, moisture can seep in.
Umbrella or Rain Hat: Not ideal for backpacking, but the umbrella can prove useful around the campsite. A rain hat with a wide brim will protect your face and glasses from rain.
3. Camp Essentials:

Waterproof Matches or Lighter: These are necessary for cooking and heating. Keep them in a water-tight container.
Headlamp or Flashlight: With backup batteries, as daylight may be scarce in rain.
Waterproof Food Storage: Store your food in waterproof containers to avoid it getting wet.
Trash Bags: Pack out all your trash, even during rain.
Extra Towels: Microfiber towels that dry quickly are best for drying off, your gear, and the inside of your tent.
Entertainment: Bring books, games, or other indoor activities to keep you occupied when you're stuck in your tent.
4. Setting Up and Maintaining a Dry Camp:

Choose Your Campsite Wisely: Select a spot on higher ground with good drainage to avoid pooling water. Avoid camping near rivers or lakes that could flood.
Set Up Efficiently: Pitch your tent as quickly as possible to minimize the amount of rain that gets inside. If possible, set up a tarp first to create a temporary dry working space.
Pitch the Rainfly First (If Possible): A few tents make it possible to pitch the rainfly first, leaving the sleeping area to remain dry while you're setting it up.
Keep Gear Off Tent Walls: Condensation might migrate from the wet tent walls to your gear in the tent.
Ventilate Your Tent: Even with rain, having some ventilation will keep condensation in the tent at a lower level. Leave vents and windows open slightly if the rain is not blowing directly into the tent.
Designate Wet and Dry Zones: Store wet equipment (raincoats, boots) in the vestibule or a separate area from sleeping bags and dry clothing.
Dry Gear When Possible: If there is a lull in the rain, hang wet clothing and equipment under a tarp or in the tent vestibule to dry.
Pack Up Carefully: Attempt to keep your equipment as dry as possible when packing up camp during rain. Wet items should be packed separately in waterproof bags. Dry your tent and equipment out completely upon return home to avoid mold and mildew.
Camping in the rain is a bit more prep-intensive and attention-requiring, but with proper equipment and attitude, you can still have a fun and memorable outdoor adventure.