Weather conditions can change rapidly during a hike and beautiful sunny weather can be replaced by rain. However, with the right hiking gear and preparation, rain won’t ruin your adventure, and you will still return home with great photos and unforgettable memories.
In this article, we will present how to keep your belongings and gear dry during rainy weather.
Start with Your Backpack
The most important thing is to protect your backpack from getting wet. Sleeping bags, clothing, gear, and documents should remain dry at all costs.
Most backpacks are made of a thick fabric that can withstand light rain. However, if heavy rain is expected, you should use a waterproof cover. Many backpack covers come with a waterproof cover, but if they don’t, you can buy one separately.
The backpack cover should fit the size of your backpack. It typically has a rubber band sewn to the edge of the cover with a special adjuster for tightening. In addition to its main function, a rain cover can protect your backpack from scratches and dirt during transportation. So, you will definitely need it.
Protect the Items Inside Your Backpack
In heavy rain, even if the backpack has a waterproof cover and you are wearing membrane clothing, there is still a chance that the contents of the backpack will get wet through the shoulder straps and back.
To keep your belongings dry, you can use hermetically sealed bags to store important items like clothing, electronics, and food.
Always Carry a Raincoat
The best way to stay dry is to wear a waterproof membrane jacket and pants. However, during a summer hike, such jackets and pants are an extra weight, since you may not need them at all. In this case, you can take a lightweight windproof jacket with you.
For maximum protection, choose a high-quality breathable rain jacket for hiking. You can also wear a disposable polyethylene jacket, but take into consideration that they trap heat and moisture inside, making you wet from sweat rather than rain.
There are also poncho-style raincoats that cover both you and your backpack. However, if you already have a waterproof backpack cover, a poncho may not be necessary.
Choose the Right Footwear
Keeping your feet dry is one of the most important things for comfort and safety during a hike. Most hiking boots offer durability, good ventilation, and water resistance. Anyways, during heavy rain, additional protection is needed.
Consider purchasing membrane gaiters for your boots. Wet boots are one of the hardest things to dry during a hike, and they typically get soaked from the top down. During heavy rain, you can put gaiters under your pants, so the upper part of the boots will be as dry as possible.
Don’t Forget Your Sleeping Bag
Before heading out, pack your sleeping bag in a waterproof dry bag or, at the very least, wrap it in several plastic bags. Sleeping in a damp bag is a fast track to hypothermia.
Final Tip: There’s No Such Thing as Bad Weather—Only Poorly Chosen Gear
With the right equipment, even the rainiest hike can be a great adventure. Stay prepared, and don’t let bad weather stop you from enjoying the outdoors!
