When backpacking in the rain, make sure to use a waterproof backpack, pack lightweight rain gear, cover other items in the exposed pockets of your bag, get rid of your wet clothes immediately, and use camp towels instead of cotton towels to keep you dry.
The weather can suddenly turn from beautiful, bright and sunny to dismal, gray and drizzly. When you are planning an outdoor trip, it is best to gear up for the rain and so it won't ruin your adventure. Here are some backpacking tips to help you enjoy yourself despite the rain:
Make sure to use a waterproof backpack
A waterproof backpack is the first thing you need to have on your list. You will find varieties of them in camping stores and specialty shops. Make sure you find just the right size you need depending on the type and duration of your outdoor adventure, the contents you need to put inside, and the load you can carry. Find one with straps that fit you comfortably and has outer pockets for easy access to your rain coat and tarp in the event of a heavy downpour.
Pack lightweight rain gear
Make sure you also pack rain gear with you to get on with your adventure even when it rains. Find some that are lightweight and just the right size.
* Rain coat--A rain coat is a must-have. Choose one that can accommodate your backpack, or get a poncho. Make sure the length is just right to cover your pants, but so big it will get in the way of hiking. Pack your raincoat and place it in the outside pocket of your backpack so you will have easy access to it when it begins to rain and to avoid exposing the other items stored in your bag.
* Lightweight shoes--Lightweight hiking shoes are preferable when backpacking because they easily dry and will help you avoid blisters. Make sure they have non-slip soles, too.
* Quick-drying clothes--Wear clothes that are quick-drying. Avoid cotton shirts, denim jeans, and cotton socks because they can easily absorb sweat, will get soaked and heavy when it rains, and will take a long time to dry out when wet. Wool is a better material to bring. Remember to pack up some extra clothes in your backpack.
* Rain tarp--A rain tarp, also called a rain fly, can be used as a temporary shelter you can attach to the trees. Pack a small one in the outside pocket of your bag for easy access just when you need to stop for heavy rains.
Cover other items in the exposed pockets of your bag
There may be other items, like your sleeping bag, in the outer pocket of your bag that you need to protect from rain. Roll your sleeping bag and use either the pouch that came with it or a waterproof case to keep it dry and warm.
Get rid of those wet clothes immediately
As soon as the rain stops, immediately change out of those wet clothes to avoid getting sick or worse, hypothermia. Change into warm new clothes as soon as you can and hang your wet clothes to dry.
Use camp towels instead of cotton towels to keep you dry
Cotton towels can absorb very well, but are not practical for backpacking. Aside from being bulky, they are very heavy when wet. Instead, use a camp towel which can absorb well and dry up easily and is available in most specialty shops.
As long as you have the right gear prepared for rain and any weather, you are sure to have a rewarding outdoor adventure. With these tips, you are ready to go on an adventure that not even the rain can spoil.
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