We all hope for lovely weather when we go camping; however, we know how unreliable the weather forecast can be.

Rainy days can either make or break a getaway. A camping trip is what you make of it, and it can still be enjoyable, even in the rain. In this article, we have put together some tips for what to do if it rains on your camping trip.

Gear for wet weather

It is always better to be prepared for a ‘just in case’ situation. One essential thing for the rain is a waterproof tent. The last thing you want is to wake up at 2am with water dripping through the tent and onto your face.

Before pitching, look for firm, level ground and avoid dips where rainwater could collect. Secure every guy line and check your pegs regularly, as saturated ground can become soft. Keep equipment away from the tent walls and do not allow belongings to block the ventilation points. 

We sell many waterproof tents in store and online, such as the Camp Pro Waxham 4 Poled Tent. It has a durable 75 Denier polyester flysheet with a 3,000mm waterproof rating, so you can camp confidently even when the weather changes.

A durable groundsheet also helps protect the inside of your tent from damp ground. The Waxham 4 includes a PE groundsheet, so you will not need to purchase one separately. For more advice, check out our guide on how to weatherproof a tent or awning.

For clothing, always bring extra socks; you will probably need more than you think! A lightweight waterproof shell jacket for the summer showers and a thicker one for the winter. Waterproof or water-resistant shoes and quick-drying towels are a must after going exploring, and knowing your tent is dry when you get back is an added bonus. In our store, we stock a range of clothing to get you ready for your camping trip. Come in today for socks, jumpers, jackets, gillets and more. 

Staying dry and comfortable

Keeping the tent’s ventilation points open, even during rainy weather, will help reduce condensation and prevent the interior from feeling damp. 

If you spot condensation build-up, have a designated absorbent sponge or cloth to wipe the tent walls down to prevent the water from dripping onto any of your belongings. If you have a larger tent, keep any wet gear such as shoes and coats out of the sleeping areas.

We see tents and awnings with condensation build-up all of the time. This is often mistaken for rain, so we put together a guide on how to deal with condensation inside your tent. Take a look for some more tips. 

Cooking in the rain 

If you are using a BBQ to cook your food throughout your trip, consider getting some waterproof matches or fire starter cubes, which light even when damp.

Alternatively, you could take a camping stove as a backup if lighting a fire is not working or if it is too dangerous to create a fire. When cooking, try to stick to one-pan meals or easy prep meals, as you don’t want to be standing in the rain any longer than you have to.

Never attempt to cook inside a tent or awning; there is a high risk of carbon monoxide poisoning and fire hazards. Always prioritise setting up outside in the open air.

If all else fails, another option is to find a local pub for a nice hot meal and drink!

Fun things to do on wet days 

Some of the obvious things you can do on wet days include playing board and card games, reading a book, drawing or colouring, and writing.

But just because it is wet does not mean you cannot go outside. Go and enjoy a rainy walk; it is often a lot quieter, and you may find you have the place to yourself. You could explore the area you are staying in and visit museums, cafés and restaurants. The weather does not have to create a barrier and ruin your plans.

Something to always bear in mind is your safety. Have a first aid kit just in case anyone slips or trips on the campsite. Be aware of areas that are susceptible to flooding in heavy rain, especially near rivers, and keep an eye on the weather forecast. If severe weather, strong winds or flooding are expected, follow the campsite team’s instructions and be prepared to change your plans or leave the site.

Will you let the rain stop you?

Just because the weather is not perfect or quite as you pictured, you can still have a great time. If you are missing any gear that you think would benefit you on your next camping trip, take a look online or come and visit us at our store in Blofield, Norfolk; our team are always happy to help.