When you’re going on a camping trip, you will inevitably be hoping for good weather. However, as every outdoors enthusiast knows, this is not always going to be the case. Even with the most carefully laid plans, the weather can change in a moment and ruin your camping experience. However, if you are properly prepared and have the right gear and equipment, you can ensure that you are ready no matter what the weather decides to do.
A sudden downpour can wreak havoc on your campsite and your mood. There’s nothing worse than sitting in a damp tent, soaking wet, freezing cold with no protection from the elements. Instead of letting the rain ruin your next getaway, be proactive and prepare for the worst. With the right preparation, you can ensure that you stay safe, warm and comfortable if rain suddenly arrives during your next camping trip.
Let’s take a look at a few wet weather camping essentials to keep you protected if there is a downpour.
Choose The Right Tent
Your tent is your primary shelter from the elements when you are camping. To keep you safe, warm and dry when it rains, you need a tent that is well-constructed, durable and waterproof. Look for a double-wall tent that will provide an additional barrier against the rain and keep condensation to a minimum inside your shelter. Sewn-in groundsheets are helpful in keeping you warm, giving you a double layer to rest on with no extra effort required on your part. Finally, choose a tent with a vestibule so you can store your belongings safely and keep the inside of your tent completely dry.
Resealable Plastic Bags
Having plenty of resealable plastic bags or dry bags will help you to quarantine any wet items inside your tent so the space doesn’t become damp. If your tent has a vestibule you can leave any wet clothing or shoes out there so you’re not dragging more moisture into your tent. Once you are inside your tent, make sure that nothing is touching against the walls, as this can lead to water seeping in through the tent material.
Dry Set Of Clothes
Always pack an extra set of warm clothes reserved exclusively for if it rains. Having dedicated footwear for inside the tent such as a pair of slippers will allow you to keep your feet warm without bringing any wet or damp boots into the tent. Your dry clothes should be put on only when all of the rest of your gear has been stowed away safely and your tent is secure. Once you are safely inside your tent, dry off and put on your wet clothes to stay cosy and comfortable.
Entertainment Options
Being stuck in a small tent for hours while the rain is hammering down outside can get boring quickly. Be sure to pack something to keep you occupied until the rain stops. A deck of cards is always a good idea. Books, magazines, a notebook and pen, painting supplies, an instrument or even a laptop can all be great ways to pass the time. However, don’t give up on the art of conversation just yet. Spend some time chatting with your campmates, play word games, tell jokes and spend some quality time together.
Always Be Prepared For The Rain
While it’s always wise to check the local weather forecast before you head off on a camping trip, unfortunately, things can change at the last minute. If you are not adequately prepared, a sudden downpour could put a serious damper on your camping experience. However, if you take the time to prepare for the rain, you can be sure that you will stay dry, warm and comfortable until the rain stops and you can get back to enjoying the great outdoors.