5 Ways To Survive A Camping Trip In Bad Weather

It’s not quite as bad as rain on your wedding day, but it’s a close-run thing for many!

When you have spent a long time planning a camping trip, fewer things are more upsetting than finding out that rain or windy weather is expected when you intend to be sleeping out overnight. Given such an event, isn’t it better to just pack it all in and rebook the trip?

In a word, no. While wet or windy weather will make a camping trip more challenging, there is still a lot of fun to be had from camping when the weather isn’t exactly sunny, and it can always be a learning experience if the worst should happen!

So, how can you ensure that your forecasted wet weekend camping trip doesn’t become a real downer? Here are some top tips to follow.

Choose The Right Equipment

Firstly, you need to invest in high-quality camping gear that is designed to keep you dry and warm, such as a waterproof tent, sleeping bag, and rain gear. You probably won’t need a camping hammock if it is going to be pouring! Consider getting a tent with a waterproof fly and a bathtub floor to prevent water from seeping in, and a sleeping bag that is rated for the lowest temperature you expect to encounter. Make sure your rain gear is made of a breathable material, as this will prevent it from sweating and will keep you dry and comfortable.

Stay Organised

You should pack your gear in waterproof bags to protect it from the elements and bring extra tarps to cover your gear and create a dry space for cooking and lounging. A waterproof, portable shelter can also be a great investment for camping in bad weather. Bring extra clothes and footwear, and consider wearing quick-drying materials. Make sure you have a source of heat, such as a portable stove, to cook and warm yourself when it’s wet outside.

Plan Your Route Carefully

When camping in bad weather, it’s important to choose your camping site carefully. Look for areas that are sheltered from the wind, have high ground to prevent flooding, and are accessible even when roads are wet or muddy. You don’t want to get lost outside when it’s raining and cold, and you certainly don’t want to be in a tent that is flooded!

Be Mindful Of Safety

Wet conditions increase the risk of accidents, such as slipping and falling, so be extra cautious when hiking and setting up camp. Make sure you know how to start a fire and have the necessary supplies to do so, even in wet conditions. Also, it can be worth investing in clamps on your shoes if it is going to be very muddy and wet. Always pack flares if it is going to be damp, and make sure you have a compass and a way to communicate with others in an emergency, like a mobile phone with a backup charger.

Embrace the Experience

Bad weather can be frustrating, but it can also add an extra layer of adventure to your camping trip. Take the opportunity to explore new trails, read a good book, or just relax and enjoy the peace and quiet of the wilderness. And, if your tent does end up inside out and blown away, provided that you have prepared to be near a campsite with shelter, you should just chalk it up to experience!