Camping is one of Australia's most popular outdoor activities and with all of the amazing plant and animal life we have around us, we totally understand why. However, camping can be challenging at times, especially when it comes to the weather. As we all know from the last few years, rainy weather can make camping a bit of a challenge. But with the right preparation, it can be an exciting and memorable experience!
To help you make this happen, we will go over some tips for camping in the rain, as well as how to properly dry your camping gear once you return home.
Preparing for Camping in the Rain
The key to a successful camping trip in the rain is preparation. Here are some tips to help you prepare for camping in the rain in Australia:
Check the weather forecast: Before heading out on your camping trip, it's essential to check the weather forecast. We use the BOM website and look at the forecast and the radar. This will give you an idea of what to expect and help you plan. If rain is expected, make sure you pack appropriate rain gear and clothing.
Choose a suitable campsite: When camping in the rain, it's essential to choose a suitable campsite. Look for an elevated site with good drainage to prevent water from pooling under your tent. Never set up your camp in low-lying areas or near streams or rivers that may flood in heavy rain.
Invest in quality gear: It is essential to invest in quality gear that is designed to withstand wet conditions. Look for a tent with a waterproof rainfly and seams that are sealed to prevent water from seeping in. We totally understand that this sounds expensive, and we won't lie, it can be. However, we are big fans of buying second hand. Look on platforms like Facebook marketplace or Gumtree to find good bargains on second-hand gear. Make sure you ask lots of questions to get the history of the gear and check it thoroughly before committing to it.
Quality wet weather clothing: It's also important to have the right wet weather clothing to keep you dry and comfortable. Invest in quality rain jackets, pants, and boots that are designed to withstand wet conditions. Look for gear made with waterproof and breathable materials to keep you dry while still allowing sweat to escape. There are so many amazing options in Australia, all with specific features. Do some research to see what you find important and then try on a few different options before you invest. We personally prefer Kathmandu options, they have features we enjoy and find them very comfortable.
Pack plenty of tarps: Tarps are an excellent way to protect your gear from the rain. Pack plenty of tarps and use them to cover your tent, gear, and cooking area. This will help keep everything dry and prevent water from pooling in areas where you don't want it. Another great option is a 4 x 4 gazebo. These are easy to put up and can be purchased from all camping stores, as well as shops like Kmart and Big W.
Bring floor coverings: When camping in the rain, it's important to have floor coverings to protect your tent and gear from moisture from the wet ground but also make it more comfortable to walk on. Bring a groundsheet or tarp to place under your tent to prevent water from seeping in from the ground.You can also bring a small rug or mat to place inside your tent to provide a dry place to stand and store gear. Having floor coverings not only keeps your tent and gear dry but also makes for a more comfortable experience.
Keep dry firewood: Keeping dry firewood is crucial when camping in the rain. Wet wood is difficult to light and won't provide much heat. Make sure you bring a supply of dry firewood, and keep it under a tarp or in a storage box to make sure it stays dry.
Bring extra towels: When camping in the rain, everything will get wet at some point. Bring extra towels to help dry off gear and keep yourself dry. Microfiber towels are lightweight and absorbent, making them an excellent choice for camping.
Don't forget waterproof storage: Make sure you bring waterproof storage containers to keep your gear dry. This is especially important for electronics like phones and cameras that can be damaged by water.
Drying Your Camping Gear at Home
Once you've returned home from your camping trip, it's essential to properly dry and store your gear to prevent mold and mildew from forming. Here are some tips for drying your gear at home:
Hang everything up: The first step in drying your camping gear is to hang everything up. Hang your tent, sleeping bag, and clothing in a well-ventilated area to allow them to air out. Don't put anything away until it's completely dry.
Use a fan: This ca can help speed up the drying process. Set up a fan near your gear and turn it on high to help circulate air and dry everything out.
Wash and dry your gear: If your gear is particularly dirty or smells musty, wash it in a gentle detergent and hang it up to dry. Before you put anything in the washing machine, check the labels on what each item suggests.
Store your gear properly: Once your gear is dry, store it properly to prevent mold and mildew from forming. Use waterproof storage containers to keep your gear dry, and avoid storing it in damn locations.
Camping in the rain can be a challenging but rewarding experience, especially in the beautiful natural surroundings of Australia. You can enjoy a memorable camping trip in the rain by preparing for wet weather with suitable gear, choosing a suitable campsite, and packing plenty of tarps, towels, and dry firewood. Once you return home, taking the time to properly dry and store your gear will ensure it stays in good condition for your next outdoor adventure. So, don't let rainy weather dampen your camping plans - with the right preparation and gear, you can embrace the rain and enjoy all the great outdoors has to offer!
If you think we forgot something you think should be here, reach out to us and let us know! We always love hearing other peoples opinions on camping.
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