You’ve planned the perfect camping trip, packed your gear, and set out for a weekend of adventure. But then, the skies darken, the wind picks up, and rain begins to pour. Do you call it quits?
Absolutely not! Camping in the rain can be an incredible experience if you know how to prepare well. With the right hacks, you can stay dry, keep your campsite comfortable, and even turn a rainy trip into a memorable adventure.
In this guide, we’ll cover camping in the rain hacks that will make camping in wet conditions a memorable and fun-filled one.
Choose the Right Campsite
Picking the right spot to set up your tent for camping is crucial when rain is in the forecast. This can either make or break your rainy camping experience. The fact that it is raining does not mean you can’t enjoy this outdoor adventure. Here are a few tips to keep in mind when planning to camp in the rain.
The first step is to Avoid Low-Lying Areas. Rainwater naturally collects in valleys, ditches, and other depressions.These spots are normally prone to flooding. Instead, choose a slightly elevated location where water can drain easily.
Choosing a slightly elevated spot helps prevent your campsite from flooding during a downpour. This will make your experience easier even though it is raining.
Also, stay Away from Riverbanks when choosing a campsite. As beautiful as the view might seem, camping near a riverbank during the rainy season can be dangerous. A sudden downpour can cause water levels to rise quickly. Camping too close to a river or lake could put your safety at risk.
Finally, Look for a Natural Cover. This simply means looking for dense tree canopies that will provide some shelter from the rain. However, avoid pitching your tent under dead or loose branches as they could fall in strong winds.
Remember to check the ground before setting your camp up as well. Hard-packed soil drains faster when it rains, whilst dense grass or moss can hold water and make your tent floor soggy.
Waterproof Your Gear Beforehand
Preparation is key when it comes to staying dry while camping in the rain. Rain can quickly turn your camping essentials into a soggy mess if you’re not prepared. Don’t wait until the storm hits before you start thinking about keeping your items safe and dry. The trick is to waterproof your gear before you even leave home. Here’s how to stay ahead of the storm:
Use a High-Quality Waterproof Tent. Look for a tent with sealed seams, and a durable bathtub-style floor to keep moisture out. Also, make sure your tent has a full coverage rainfly and sealed seams to help prevent leaks.
Additionally, you can Apply a Waterproof Spray to your camping gear. Treat your tent, backpack, and boots with a waterproof spray before your trip. This adds an extra layer of protection to your essentials.
Do not forget to Pack Extra Tarps and Dry Bags. Keeping a tarp under your tent acts as a moisture barrier and prevents water from seeping in. Setting up one above your tent creates a rainproof shelter that can be used for cooking and relaxing. The dry bags can help you store your clothes, electronics, and sleeping gear to keep them dry, even in a downpour.
Master the Art of Tarp Setup
A properly set-up tarp can be a game-changer when camping in the rain.This is essential as a properly set-up tarp provides a waterproof barrier, keeping you and your gear dry. A tarp is especially useful for cooking, resting.
Always use a Strong Rope to secure a tarp between sturdy trees, making sure it’s taut and angled for proper runoff. You can also create a slope that allows rainwater to drain off instead of pooling.
Remember to use a tarp as an overhead shelter for cooking and relaxing, and another under your tent to keep your sleeping area dry.
Cook Like a Pro in Wet Conditions
Cooking in the rain doesn’t have to be a challenge because it is raining. The right hack will always guide you to make your adventure enjoyable and memorable.
Bring a Portable Stove. This stove will make it easier for you to cook. This is because since it will be raining often, trying to light a fire in wet weather will be a little difficult. This is where the Portable stove comes in handy. It will help you cook hot meals that will help you stay warm and nourished during your camping trip.
You can also use Ziplock Bags for Meal Prep. All you have to do is pre-cut your veggies, marinate meat, and store ingredients in sealed bags to keep them dry. This will also help keep your meals fresh during your camping.
Opt for One-Pot or Foil Meals. During rainy camping, learn to stick to easy-to-make foods like soups, instant noodles, and foil-wrapped meals. These types of meals reduce cleanup and are hassle-free. They are also fast and easy to make.
Keep Your Fire Burning Even in the Rain
Knowing how to keep your fire from dying out during your camp is essential. This campfire will be used for cooking, staying warm and drying clothes. It can also boost morale and keep your campsite illuminated during the night.
Here’s how to keep your campfire burning:
Before you embark on your camping trip, Pack Waterproof Matches & a Windproof Lighter. These can be stored in a sealed container or plastic bag. This makes your fire starting at the camp easier and faster.
Also, you can Make DIY Fire Starters. These are easy to make and require little to no stress. Some are cotton balls soaked in petroleum jelly, dryer lint, or wax-coated wood shavings. Easy right?
Find Dry Wood Logs & Bark. Finding dry wood when it is raining might seem like an impossible task. Surprisingly this is easier since inner layers of wood do remain dry, even in wet weather. You can store some in case the weather gets fierce and you can’t step out.
Embrace the Fun of Rainy Camping
Rainy camping trips don’t have to be miserable. In fact, it can be the most peaceful and rewarding experience.
You can go on a Rainy Hike. Forests normally come alive in the rain. With misty landscapes, trails will look different.
Not forgetting the unique wildlife sightings you might see. All these beauties can be captured on your phone or camera for memories or for incredible photography opportunities.
Also, you can Listen to the Raindrops or Play Games or Read. The sound of rain on a tent is one of nature’s most soothing experiences.
This is not only relaxing but therapeutic as well. You can bring a deck of cards/board games or a good book for entertainment.
This can be a good form of entertainment when you’re bored.
Final Thoughts
Camping in the rain can be a thrilling, yet peaceful experience if you’re well-prepared. The trick is to choose the right campsite and waterproof your gear. You can also master a few smart tricks that can help you stay dry, warm, and comfortable throughout your trip.
Instead of dreading the rain, embrace it as part of the adventure!
If you want more outdoor survival tips and camping hacks then CandrOutdoors got you! Candroutdoors offers expert advice and inspiration for your next adventure. Check the website up now! Enjoy your camping.
