Backcountry Camping In The Rain

backcountry campingIf you are planning on spending any time at all in the backcountry, you need to be prepared for rain.

Remember that rain is good – it is what makes the backcountry special.

However, preparing for rain camping and dealing with it makes all difference. Here are a few ideas on how to handle the rain out in the backcountry.

Weather forecasts are very important in the backcountry. Before you go camping or hiking or do any other outdoor activity, make sure to check the forecast.

You could be faced with anything from scattered shower to a full-blown thunderstorm and tornado and you need to plan your trip accordingly.

Your personal effects and items like matches, socks, food, maps and first aid kits must be stored in re-sealable plastic bags.

Your sleeping is the last thing that you want to get wet, so if it comes with its own water-proof storage bag, use it. If not, use a large plastic trash bag. To keep yourself as dry as possible, remember to bring along a brimmed water-proof hat and jacket.

Treat your jacket, hat, tent and sleeping bag with water-proof spray, even if they are all “water-proof” to begin with. Before starting your trip, you need to get in shape. This probably means at least a couple of weeks of light working out and taking your multi-vitamins.

Read on for some tips on how to handle the rain while actually on the trip. Common sense is your best friend. Always keep the weather in mind and factor in the rain when you make any plan or decision.

Never choose a low-lying area to set up camp. You should always find a surface that will prevent water from collecting around your tent. An ideal campsite should be sheltered from flooding, wind, and rain.

Pitching your tent under some trees is a good idea. But stay away from the tallest tree in area, unless you want to be toasted by lightning.

Throw a mat outside the camping tent entrance to collect dirt and debris. If you don’t want to carry around the weight of a mat, you can improvise with rocks. In order to avoid creating leaks, refrain from touching the walls of tent while it is wet.

Any camper knows that you need to use a tarp under your tent. But this becomes doubly important in wet and rainy conditions. Always carry emergency flares. They come in handy if you need to ignite wet firewood to keep yourself warm.

Finally, conserve your body heat as much as you can, by keeping it well hydrated inside and dry on the outside.