What to Do When It Rains While Backpacking?

By Michael Ferguson

A backpacking trip can be an amazing and life-changing experience, but what happens when the weather doesn’t cooperate? No one likes the idea of being stuck out in the rain while on a backpacking adventure, but it can be the reality. So, what should you do when it rains while backpacking?

The first step is to make sure you have reliable rain gear. This includes a waterproof jacket, pants and a good rain cover for your pack.

Having quality gear and making sure it is properly sealed will help keep you dry during long hikes in the rain. Additionally, make sure you wear breathable clothes that won’t get overly soggy from the moisture.

Once your gear is set up properly, it’s important to think about your destination. If you are already out in the wilderness and it starts to rain, then it’s usually best to stay put for awhile until the storm passes over. If you are heading towards a certain location, then it’s best to look for shelter along the way or plan ahead with campsites that offer some sort of protection from rain.

If You’re Already at Your Campsite:

If you have already reached your campsite and it starts raining then there are several things you can do. First, take some time to make sure your campsite is sheltered with any type of trees or other natural structures that can help block out some of the rain. If not, then look into renting tents or tarps that will protect against both wind and rain.

In case of Emergency:

In case of an emergency or if there is no shelter available, then finding ways to stay warm and dry becomes even more important. Make sure to bring extra clothes that can be used as layers for insulation and try to find or create shelter with whatever materials are available such as logs and branches.

Conclusion:

No one wants their backpacking adventure ruined by bad weather, but having a plan in place when it rains while backpacking is essential. Make sure your gear is waterproofed before leaving home and always look for shelter along your journey if possible. And if necessary, use whatever materials are available near your camp site to build a makeshift shelter or use extra clothes as insulation against wetness.

: When going on a backpacking trip, having a plan for what to do when it rains is essential for keeping warm and dry throughout your journey. Having quality waterproof gear ready before leaving home as well as looking for shelter along the way will help ensure that bad weather doesn’t ruin your adventure!