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French7 essential tips for wet-weather camping - Panergy
Rain. We know it does wonderful things and is essential to our survival, but sometimes it feels like the relative that you had to invite to your wedding.
It’s unwelcome, makes for an awkward situation, and kills the mood.
One instance where rain can have a negative impact is when you’re camping. But rather than letting a downpour deter you from exploring this incredible country of ours, simply prepare yourself for wet-weather camping.
To help you out, we’ve put together a series of great tips for camping in the rain.
1. Be well-equipped for rainy camping
If it does rain when you’re camping, it’s important to have the right equipment to minimise the weather’s impact.
Some items that you’ll need to pack are obvious: warm clothing, including raincoats, gumboots, beanies, and gloves. In addition:
- Pack a spare set of clothes in a waterproof bag to insure against a worst-case scenario.
- Bring rain ponchos - they may well be your best friend.
- Old towels are great for mopping up any water.
- Take several tarpaulins, as they protect against the rain and also shield wind.
- Be armed with loads of plastic bags and zip lock bags – you’ll always find a use for these when it rains. As a bonus, they are cheap, take up minimal room, and are extremely lightweight.
2. Is your tent really waterproof?
Another item you’ll absolutely require is a waterproof tent, complete with a rain fly. But it’s no good realising after the fact that your tent won't repel liquid. Test it out before you head away – this may mean simply setting up the tent in the backyard and giving it a spray with the garden hose. The simple task will you save you plenty of grief if it turns out your tent isn't quite so waterproof after all.
3. Think about the best place for your tent when it's raining
When you get to your BIG4 campsite, look at the surrounds and consider where best to place your tent. Are there any puddles of water around? Is the tent placed on the flattest part of the ground? Will the ground ably support your tent pegs? Be sure to put a waterproof tarp underneath the tent as well as over it.
Having ventilation in your tent is important for avoiding condensation, so placing a tarp over your dome should help to prevent rain sneaking in through its ‘windows’.
If there is a downpour, keep your bedding and other items away from the tent walls, as this will avoid water leaking inside. There is a science behind this tip, but all you really need to know is that this simple action could avoid putting a huge dampener on your camping trip. Literally.
4. Plan indoor activities when it's raining
If you are at a wet campsite, it’s important that you and the family are kept entertained. Books, magazines, a pack of cards, and board games are great items to have with you for wet-weather camping. There are many rainy day activities that you can enjoy, from taking advantage of BIG4 parks with indoor or heated pools, or stepping out to explore museums, art galleries, or caves.
5. Laugh it off
Don’t let a rainy campsite get the better of your mood. If the rain arrives, be in a positive frame of mind and embrace the challenges it presents. After all, it is only rain. Sure, it’s a nuisance, but so was Uncle Ken when he decided to make an impromptu speech at the wedding. And if you survived that experience, you can survive a few drops of water.
What's more, you'll likely find that camping in the rain and its associated activities will make for great stories and brilliant memories, even if you don't appreciate it at the time.
6. Be safe when it's raining
However, if Mother Nature is releasing a fury of epic proportions, don’t be afraid to call it quits or to postpone your getaway. There are no prizes for attempting to withstand the harshest of elements. Stay safe. Please.
7. Dry out camping equipment if it's wet
Once home, be sure to dry out your tent and any other damp equipment. This will avoid these items becoming smelly or damaged and should ensure they are ready to use the next time you take a camping trip...hopefully with some better weather.
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