If you’ve ever found yourself caught in a downpour during a camping trip, you know it can either be a total washout or an adventure to remember. Camping in the rain can be a good time, all it takes is a bit of prep work and the right gear to turn those dampened spirits into happy vibes.
7 Tips for camping in the rain
In this guide, we’ve rounded up seven of our most handy tips and tricks to help you embrace the rain for your next wet and wild trip away. To finish it off, we’ll even serve up an easy to follow camping in the rain checklist so you’ll always be one step ahead of anything Mother Nature throws at you.
1. Choose the right shelter
When the heavens open up unexpectedly, having the right shelter is a must-have. Opt for a quality waterproof tent with a rainfly to keep you dry during those surprise showers. If you often camp in an area that experiences significant rainfall, the higher the waterproof rating the better. You’ll also want to consider the size of the tent, ventilation options and ease of set-up - all factors that you’ll care about when setting up, packing down or just plain camping in the rain.
2. A trusty tarp is your best friend
Cheap and versatile, packing a tarp or two everytime you camp is always a good idea. For wet weather trips, you can set one up above your cooking and communal areas. Not only will it keep you dry but it’ll also provide extra protection for all your camping gear. Want to take your tarp skills to a whole other level. You can learn different tarp configurations and knot techniques to enhance your rain-shielding skills.
3. Invest in quality waterproof rain wear
It goes without saying - keeping dry will always keep the good vibes high. When it comes to embracing wet camping conditions, investing in quality rain gear is going to be a life saver. Packing a waterproof rain jacket and even some waterproof pants is a must. Lightweight, breathable and durable, these two essentials are designed to let you enjoy the rain without feeling soggy.
Want to take it up a notch? A set of waterproof socks are a game changer.
4. Layer up with Merino
Need to keep warm camping in the rain? Merino wool thermals will do the trick. Unlike cotton, Merino wool offers great thermoregulating benefits, even when wet, making them the perfect base layer for a rainy camping adventure.
What’s more, Merino wool is breathable, odour-resistant and flame retardant along with being natural, biodegradable and 100% renewable.
5. Plan a rain-ready wardrobe
Outside of your rainwear and Merino wool thermals, it’s always good to think about your entire outfit. Think about packing a waterproof or water-resistant hat, gloves, and boots to ensure every part of you stays as dry as possible.
6. Rain-defying camp fires
A bit of drizzle shouldn’t extinguish your love for a good campfire. To ensure you can enjoy the comforting warmth even in wet conditions, pack along some waterproof fire starters and kindling. These nifty additions to your camping gear will prove invaluable when you're faced with damp wood.
Remember to lift your fire off the wet ground by layering the floor with dry sticks or creating a platform with rocks. Once the first warming crackles of the fire hit your ears, you’ll be guaranteed to have a better time than without.
7. Camping activities you can do in the rain
Embrace the rain and plan activities that are just as enjoyable in wet conditions as they are in dry. Some great activities that will keep you dry include;
- Card games
- Board games
- Reading
- Charades
Don’t forget, you can also go out in the rain too, as long as you rug up in warm layers and don some quality waterproof outerlayers. You could do some short hikes, scavenger hunts or even fishing.
Camping in the rain checklist
Here’s our quick hit list of everything you need for a good time in the rain.
- A waterproof tent
- Extra tarps and rope
- Waterproof rain wear
- Merino wool thermals
- Waterproof or water resistant accessories
- Waterproof or water resistant hiking boots
- Waterproof fire starters and kindling
- Rainy day games like cards, board games and books
Gear up for your next rainy day adventure
Camping in the rain doesn’t have to dampen your spirits. With the right gear and plenty of good vibes, you can turn a wet escape into a memorable adventure.
So grab your rain jacket, pack those waterproof socks (trust us on these) and get ready to embrace the outdoors rain, hail or shine. After all, a little rain never hurt anyone.