If you heed no other words of my advice, know this: tarps are your best friend when you are camping in the rain. Yes it rained, and we can admit, sun would have been nice. Camping during the rainy season shouldn’t be a tall order for you regardless of whether you are a rookie or a veteran. Rain/sun shelter (optional) - Some car campers like to bring a pop-up shelter or dining fly that can protect their dining area from sun and rain, and for some models with screened walls, insects. You’re on holiday after all, so take some time to recharge! Before you leave, make sure to pack some extra tent pegs with you. These tips will make you construct a campfire in the rain, relish the musical pattern of the rain and relax stress-free in the tent. Following the pitching of the tent, the next thing you should do when camping in wet weather is to create a rain-free area to act as a ‘living room’ while you camp. If you find your waterproof jacket leaking in water, reproof your jacket and you can save it from disuse. Their prime advantage is that they can be reused endlessly and are therefore kinder to the environment than normal plastic bags. There are plenty of reasons to stay at home. Many frontcountry campgrounds do not allow you to tie ropes to trees, but if you can, you can use a rope and tarp to create a rain shelter or wind screen. Tents with sewn-in groundsheets will also handle things better and give you a double layer to sleep on without any extra effort required whatsoever. Most waterproof pants look like parachute pants from the … Make the most of every weather! Definitely cook over the campfire, that was delicious. When exiting shelter in your tent and going out into the rain, put your wet waterproof gear on again so there’s no waste of dry gear. However, do not try to make a fire or use a stove in this area as these are a fire hazard. From cards and dominoes to a classic game of charades, there are plenty of ways to keep the fun going inside. Survival camping in the rain does not require much equipment, but you will still need to know what to do to get the most out of the basics you should already have in your everyday carry (EDC) bag. Because the rain CAN and WILL put it out completely, while making your hot coals wet and cold. Consequently, we stayed far drier than our friends who didn't use a tarp. 1. Work is too busy, the drive is pretty far, camping is a commitment — real talk — packing takes forethought, and you might not sleep that well. 3) Pack smart. As before, take care to leave the inside of the tent dry and pack the wet side of the tent away from the dry one. Waiting for those golden sunny spells might mean you’ll be postponing your camping trip for months ahead, which then means you’re missing out on making fun memories and spending time outdoors all because of some rain. Think of the items that are most easily destroyed by water first, such as fire-starting materials, books, money, electronic devices, food and other perishables, and wrap them up in plastic bags for protection. Here are 8 basic tips for staying dry while camping in the rain, along with essential outdoor gear you'll need. Outdoors enthusiasts tend to be know where the best places are to set up camp, fish, hunt, and ultimately find comfort in nature without the hubbub of city life. Once inside, you’ll have to mind the condensation. If you expect the rain to be pouring down the entire day, you should consider setting up a tarp. You want the right pair of shoes or be willing to go barefoot, and you should for sure have a rain jacket. Here are some tips for camping in the rain to help you stay happy and dry when the liquid sunshine starts falling from the sky. It is inevitable, if you go camping, eventually at some point you will be camping in the rain. With blankets you also get that cosy camping feel that makes listening to the rain outside your tent an enjoyable experience. The fact that the weather is not favorable does not mean you cannot have fun. These large waterproof structures provide ample space to roam around, set up a table and relax camping-style while smugly listening to the sound of the pattering rain nearby, instead of getting soaked in it. When you’re out camping, you will have limited access to modern comforts. The cold wind breeze after a downpour and you, the kids, or the entire family, staying dry all night, is undoubtedly the most satisfying experience you’ll ever encounter. A … But we went anyways. Find the Right Tent Site. Socks and other components of your gear that you aren’t wearing should also be wrapped in plastic bags, which are very effective at keeping water out while being super cheap and easy to get your hands on. Under a tree or a tarp will work fine. Not all tents are made as strongly as others in terms of their waterproof ratings, so if you’re using a regular pop-up or multi-purpose tent, it may be more likely to soak through than one that was designed for water to bounce right off. It’s easy to be outside in the sun, but it’s rewarding to witness weather patterns roil overhead. Keep your towel out of the rain. We saw lightening, heard thunder, and watched the wind pick up and down. Don’t pass the time simply sitting inside the tent and listening to the rain. A gentle slope, away from rain puddles, pools, rivers or other conglomerations of water should do nicely. Rain happens. Camping in the rain can be a really enjoyable experience, provided you take the proper steps to ensure that you and your family are prepared. Your tent needs to be reliable and 100% waterproof. Camping torches and lighting are always a must-have on any camping trip but particularly if you’re pitching a tent under overcast, gloomy skies that cast little light to show your way. Anything upwards of 5,000mm of waterproofness and 5,000mvp of breathability will keep you securely watertight and well-ventilated. Use a hand-held torch for exploring your outdoor neighbourhood, a headtorch to shine some light while you’re pitching your tent, and a lantern to light up your camping space for reading, eating etc. The secret of camping in the rain is having the right … That last one’s compelling…don’t you think? Why not play some real-life X Factor with some good old-fashioned singing? When we talk about clothing suitable for rain camping, … Dominoes: although it’ll work better with a flat surface, this could still be a go in the tent. Your kit should consist of the basics such as waterproof jackets, waterproof trousers and waterproof boots, as well as a fleece and base layer if the temperatures are low. And pop the rainfly in a separate plastic bag too while you’re at it. Camping in the rain has different challenges if you are tent camping or RV camping. Finally, check before you go that your tent doesn’t have any tears or rips in it that would let water in easily. You need to stay positive: Showers will pass, and you will dry off. Packing your non-waterproof gear properly is incredibly important when you are camping and could potentially see some rain. As you know, Mother Nature has a mind of her own so be prepared with ponchos , tarps and umbrellas just to name a few. If your tent is a bit worn , you should prepare it by applying a heavy duty water repellent and sealing the seams with a waterproof seam sealer . 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