Rainy weather doesn’t have to ruin your outdoor adventure. With the right preparation and knowledge, you can keep the good times rolling when the heavens open. Here are our 14 outdoor hacks for rainy weather.
1. Use Dry Bags and Dry Sacks
Dry bags/sacks are the easiest way to transport your belongings when it’s rainy outside. The flexible containers have a watertight seal, ensuring that everything from food and clothes to electronics are protected.
2. Always Carry a Rain Cover for Your Pack
If you are setting off for a multi-day adventure and the forecast says there is a chance of rain, pack a rain cover for your pack. A lot of hiking packs come with waterproof covers stored in a hidden pocket but you can also buy them separately.
3. Pack Zip Lock Bags for Your Phone and Electronics
Keep your phone, electronics and travel documents safe in zip lock bags from your local supermarket. Zip lock bags come in handy for rainy weather and just in case you have a spill in your bag.
4. Wear Quick Drying, Breathable Clothing
Whether it’s rainy or sunny, quick drying and breathable clothing will help you stay comfortable. Avoid heavy fabrics that will cling to your skin and prevent airflow. Instead, opt for lightweight fabrics that won’t make you hot when it’s sunny and won’t make you cold when it’s rainy.
5. Choose a Breathable Rain Jacket to Prevent Sweaty Condensation
While quick drying, breathable clothing will help for a short period in light rain, a breathable rain jacket will be your saving grace when it gets heavy. A breathable rain jacket will keep the rain out and prevent condensation build up from body moisture.
6. Choose Waterproof Shoes
Waterproof shoes help prevent blisters and keep your feet comfortable when you’re hiking in rain. You can also get gaiters to slip on over your shoes to protect your legs from harsh weather conditions.
7. Don’t Apply Waterproof Wax or Grease to Your Shoes
Whatever you do, don’t apply waterproof wax or greases to your shoes because it affects breathability and causes body moisture to build up. Different types of shoes and materials require different steps to care for them. Before purchasing a shoe, read the tag information or talk to staff to understand the recommended care instructions. For more information check out our guide to caring for your shoes and boots.
8. Pack Extra Socks to Keep Your Feet Dry
If you know in advance that conditions will be wet, pack extra socks so you can switch out your wet ones for dry ones to keep your feet warm and dry.
9. Pack an Extra Tarp for Camping
Put a tarp over your tent or swag for overnight protection, and if you have a second one, pop it underneath your gear on the campground floor. If you can keep your gear as dry as possible by using tarps, it’s easier to set up, pack up and keep moving without the weight of wet gear and mud weighing you down.
10. Don’t Set up Camp Under a Tree
It might seem like a good idea to set up camp under a tree but it can be potentially dangerous with falling branches and lightning. Instead, find a clearing in the trees and camp there, using your tarp for protection.
11. Store Dry Wood and Kindling in Garbage Bags
If you are camping in an area that permits fires, pack and store dry wood and kindling in garbage bags to keep it dry until you use it.
12. Pack a Cooking System
Go without the hassle of making a fire by taking a portable cooking system. They are small, compact and great for cooking up a satisfying hot meal in wet weather.
13. Take a Thermos to Use as a Hot Water Bottle
Fill your thermos with hot water and bring it with you to use as a hot water bottle during your wet weather adventure. Staying warm is key to avoiding becoming sick in cold, rainy weather. Plus, a hot cup of joe can never go astray when camping or hiking in the rain.
14. Take Microfibre Towels
Microfibre towels are lightweight, compact and practical. Whether you’re wet from the rain or you’ve had a shower, microfibre towels quickly absorb water and dry efficiently so you can use them again a.s.a.p.
Don’t let wet weather ruin your adventure. Keep these hacks in mind next time you venture into the outdoors to make the most of your time in the wild. If you have your own wet weather hacks, we’d love to hear them!
Contributed by: Mountain Designs
