A camping holiday is a fantastic opportunity to experience the great outdoors and can also be an affordable getaway option. However, when camping in the UK, we all know that a bit of rain can be a strong possibility.
A bit of drizzle needn’t rain on your parade! With a few simple tips and the right preparation, camping in the rain can still be a fun experience. Keep reading to discover our top tips for camping in the wet.
Monitor the weather forecast
To help you prepare thoroughly, keep an eye on the weather forecast. If the rain is only due to be light and not last the duration of your trip, you may not need to prepare as much as what you thought. Our weather is so varied you need to prepare for the worst.
Have sufficient camping gear
Firstly, it’s a good idea to give your existing camping gear a thorough check to ensure there’s no damage. Pitch your tent before you go so you can practice putting it up and taking it down. This will make it easier if you have to do it in the wind and rain when you’re away. You should then apply a waterproofing agent to improve protection from the rain.
Secondly, laying out all your equipment will help you see if there’s anything you’re potentially missing. If you’re stuck, our camping must haves blog covers all the camping essentials you’ll need.
Perhaps the most important item is a waterproof tent. You can explore our full range of tents on our website, which covers everything from utility tents to 8-person tents! Look out for ‘double skin’ options that will help prevent.
Have a dedicated area to dry things off
Having a dedicated area to dry off wet clothing is a must to ensure your tent doesn’t end up getting damp and muggy. An awning or porch is a great option to allow any wet items to dry out.
Carry spares
During wet and windy weather, it’s a good idea to carry spares of particular items in case they break or become too wet. That way you can quickly replace it or have spare to use while the other one is drying off. We recommend carrying spare:
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Towels
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Clothing
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Tent pegs
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Guy ropes
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Tarpaulin/groundsheet
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Blankets
Make sure to take even more spare towels if you’re camping with your dog! You can find more tips and advice on our camping with dogs essential guide.
Set up your tent sufficiently
During wet weather, it’s more important than ever to ensure your tent is set up correctly. It’s essential that you’ve got the right amount of tension to ensure the rain rolls off the sides and prevent water from pooling on the top.
For more advice, check out our blog on tips and tricks for the perfect tent set-up.
Keep repair kits handy
During wet and windy weather, there’s a chance you may need to make a few repairs or adjustments during your trip. We recommend carrying waterproof spray, tape and basic tools in case you need to make some quick fixes.
Keep tent well-ventilated
While you want to keep your tent as waterproof as possible, it’s also important to maintain sufficient ventilation to prevent condensation. During dry periods, be sure to open up the vents to let the air circulate.
Prepare for potential cold weather
If the weather looks like it could be chilly as well as wet, make sure you pack warm clothes. Choose your sleeping bag accordingly and look for those with double-layer insulation and shoulder baffles to keep you snug.
Sleeping off the ground will also keep you warmer and more comfortable so look at taking camping mats, air beds or camp beds.
Keep valuables waterproof
When the rain is pouring, you’ll want to make sure that your valuables are kept safe and dry. Be sure to take some bags or plastic boxes to keep valuable items and clothing dry.
Pack sensible footwear
If you plan on going on hikes during your camping adventures, sensible (preferably waterproof) footwear is a must. The rain can make the ground slippery and muddy, so it can be a good idea to pack your wellies.
Pack waterproof clothing
In addition to waterproof footwear, you’ll also need waterproof clothing. A lightweight waterproof jacket will ensure you stay dry on your outings. If the sun decides to make an appearance, you can then easily store your jacket in a backpack.
Pack your umbrella
An obvious one but make sure to pack your umbrella!
Pack a torch
Rainy weather can often lead to darker evenings, so it’s a good idea to pack a torch to help you better navigate your trails or find your way to the facilities at nighttime.
Take care when out and about
Be mindful when you’re out and about in the rain, whether that be hiking or cycling as routes can be slippery and muddy.
Don’t sleep near the sides of your tent
Regardless of how waterproof your tent may be, it’s a good idea to stay away from the sides just in case any water happens to seep through.
Never cook inside the tent
Whilst cooking outside when it’s raining isn’t practical, under no circumstances should you cook inside your tent. There’s the risk of carbon monoxide build-up as well as fire hazards. We recommend either eating food that doesn’t require cooking or heading to the local pub!
Find ways to stay entertained
If certain days are particularly rainy, it’s always worth finding ways to keep you entertained while sheltered. It could be a book, a board game or a pack of cards. Alternatively, choose a campsite that has onsite facilities such as a games room or indoor swimming pool – this is a particular lifesaver if you are camping with kids.
Don’t pack away wet items
Another obvious one is to make sure your wet clothes and other items are completely dry before packing away, as this can not only leave an unpleasant odour but can also cause mould.
And that concludes our top tips for camping in the rain. With a bit of preparation, you can still get out and enjoy nature even if there are a few light showers. Explore our full range of camping equipment on halfords.com to ensure you are fully prepped for your adventures.
