What can I do to make camping in the rain more enjoyable?

If you decide to take up camping, one day you will be confronted by a rainy day. While unexpected rain showers can dampen anyones plans, especially for beginner campers, it doesn’t have to ruin your experience.

To make camping in the rain more enjoyable, you can do the following: spend money on the right gear to stay dry, plan activities suitable for wet weather, and embrace a positive mindset. Just these three things will help you breeze through rainy days at any campsite.

Gear Up for Rainy Adventures – It’s Not Just the Tent

Think of your camping gear as a warm cozy nest within the wilds. The right choices will go a long way to keeping you dry, happy, and ready for whatever mother nature throws at you! I’m gonna assume you’ve got some money to spend.

The Right Shelter Matters: Your tent will be your castle in the storm. Look for models like the MSR Hubba Hubba, known for its waterproofness and ventilation. It’s an expensive option, but you get what you pay for. It’s a wonderful piece of kit! Add a footprint like the Tyvek HomeWrap to add extra ground protection. It’ll stop you puncturing your expensive tent.

Dry Bags are Your Friend: They aren’t only for river trips! Sea to Summit makes extremely durable dry bags that come in various sizes. Pack clothes, electronics, your sleeping bag – anything you need to keep dry must go in!

Waterproof Layers: Forget the cotton! Opt for warm, quick-drying fabrics. Look for jackets such as Patagonia Torrentshell 3L. It’ll give you reliable rain protection. Staying dry is vital for your comfort.

Footwear Choices: Your feet deserve some love too! Pack what is comfortable to you. Some people swear by Crocs when relaxing. I hope you’ll still do some hiking even if it is raining. So consider a pair of sturdy waterproof hiking boots like the Salomon X Ultra 4.

Tips for the Extra Mile

Pack some spare towels: You’ll need to wipe down gear and deal with those inevitable drips.
Trash bags have superpowers: Line your pack and store wet gear. You’ll find they have multi-use magic.
“Waterproof” isn’t always enough: Check reviews, if one hundred people say this tent isn’t really waterproof, believe them! If you already have a tent you may need to re-seal the seams. There are lots of videos showing you how to do this.

Rainy Day Activities (Beyond Hiding in Your Tent)

Rain doesn’t mean you have to abandon your camping fun. Think outside the box and turn those drizzly hours into cozy memories. You may even discover some unique nature experiences.

Tarp Power: Your rainy day lifesaver! String up a tarp (many tents will have attachment points) and create a sheltered hangout. You’ll have a dry space for cooking, playing cards, or simply enjoying the pitter-patter of rain with a drier view.

Embrace Cozy Activities: Relax under your tarp. Deal out the cards or break out your favorite board game (travel size of course). A game of monopoly will probably outlast the rain! Or just get out that book you were meaning to finish. Journaling about your camping adventures can be fun too. Embrace these simple pleasures that have become less frequent in our lives due to the invention of the smartphone.

Rainy Exploration: Gear up in those waterproof layers we discussed earlier. Don’t be afraid to head out. I’ve never been one who thinks the rain can give you a cold. Hit the forest, the beach, or just walk around the campground. The rainy ambience isn’t bad at all, notice the vibrant colors, earthy smells, and the different sounds. Just take your time and enjoy the unique sensory experience.

‘Nature walks are the simplest way to find joy without even looking for it.’ – Alex Strauss, Author of The Mindful Walker

Additional Tips

Safety First: If there’s lightning, stay inside. Don’t venture too far away in heavy downpours.

Resources: Online guides to tarp setups are plentiful, in this video, The Bear Essentials shows beginner to advanced tarp setup techniques.

The Mindset Shift: Finding Joy in the Rain

So much about enjoying rainy camping is about perspective. My mental health has never been affected by the weather and neither should yours. It’s all just life. Dropping your expectations about the weather will help you appreciate whatever day appears before you.

Attitude is Everything: Getting a bit damp is part of the camping experience! You don’t have to be unbearably positive, but a good attitude helps. Have a sense of humor rather than grumble about the rain. At least the forest is getting a drink! Focus on the fun to come, rather than what the rain might take away.

Appreciate the Change: Notice how your surroundings transform. Life is going on! Notice the vibrant greens of the forest, the raindrops splashing on the lake, and the fresh and clean smell. Rainy days really are quite unique and beautiful.

Cozy = Comfort: You tent and your tarp becomes your haven. Pile on the blankets, break out the hot chocolate, and enjoy the pleasure of feeling warm and dry while listening to the rain. Have a good laugh while playing cards or just sit quietly with a loved one. Make these moments special.

Additional tips

Mindfulness can give you that change of perspective, here are some resources that might help.

General Mindfulness Resources:

Greater Good in Action (Berkeley): Science-based practices for well-being, often including those focused on nature connection: https://ggia.berkeley.edu/
Mindful.org: Mindfulness articles and resources, some specifically on mindful walks and nature engagement: https://www.mindful.org/

Specific to Nature & Mental Health:

Psychology Today, for example, has this piece on the mental health benefits of time in nature.

Conclusion

Rain might change your camping plans, but it doesn’t mean the fun is over! With the right gear – think cozy tent, waterproof layers, and a few extras – rainy days can be surprisingly relaxing and comfortable. Planning activities and building a tarp-time hangout, or even going for a mindful walk in the rain will help you pass the time.

Most importantly, a good attitude and a willingness to accept whatever comes your way is your best protection against the rain. So, next time the forecast looks a little wet, don’t pack up and give in. Those rainy camping trips are often the most unforgettable, leading to funny stories and deeper appreciation for the next sunny day.