When the weather turns inclement, it can be difficult to set up your tent. You will want something that is durable and water resistant with a high quality material for its walls so they don’t leak when wet or else you’ll risk getting wet yourself.
And while the easiest answer is just to wait until the rain stops, that’s not always possible.
You can stay as dry in the rain with this tent setup.
If you want to know how, keep reading!
Table of Contents
Choose A Perfect Spot
When it comes time to set up your tent in the rain, make sure that you stay safe and dry.
Stay away from water sources such as rivers and lakes. If you find yourself near a riverbed, depression in the ground or any other low lying area that may flood when it rains heavily then move opposite of where these spots are so your car has some room to escape.
To have the best chance at success, look for natural rain blocks such as under shady trees or near large boulders. If this isn’t an option consider finding high ground with plenty of room between plants so that your seeds don’t get overwhelmed by their environment before they’ve had time to grow into what you hope will one day be a vibrant forest.
Use A Tarp To Angle The Water
The tarp is an extremely useful tool for any camper. If you’re going to be camping, it’s worth investing in one of these tarps as they will save time and energy when trying set up your tent.
Try to set it up at an angle that angles water down from your tent. The rain will run off and not be able gather on top of the tarp or roll off, seeping under where you’re sitting instead. You can also hang clothes in front for a mini lounger while camping.
You can also opt for rain fly or vestibule. If you plan on camping solo, then make sure that your guy lines are long enough so as not to cause any issues with setup and take down time when using the tarp feature.
To ensure your tent is as water-resistant and durable as possible, use a heavy duty tarp or another type of underlayment. This will help keep moisture from damaging the inside by note if any part extends out past where it meets with ground cloths which could lead to leaks in other parts due rainwater collecting on these surfaces when its not anticipated for camping trips.
If Possible Use A Single Wall Tent
If you’re looking for a more rustic feel, then single wall tents are perfect. They have the appeal of simplicity with their lack in comfort and convenience but offer plenty when it comes to style.
Tents with separate rainfly can be a pain in the ass when it comes time to set up your tent. With one single wall model, all you have is just stakes and fabric that stretches over them, making for an easy setup.
Wear Waterproof Foot Wear
The last thing you would want to be soaking wet when setting up the tent is your socks and shoes.
Boots or shoes that are waterproof cost a little more than normal footwear, however they’re lifesavers when it’s rain.
Another measure of protection to think about is gaiters. They will not only keep your feet and socks from being wet, but also your bottom pants legs.
If you didn’t bring waterproof shoes, you can put plastic bags on top of either your footwear or socks and shoes. If you choose to wear them on top of your shoes, ensure that the bag is taped or tied tight to keep rain from entering.
Have A Waterproof Bivvy Bag on Hand Incase of Emergency
The bivouac shelter is the perfect emergency waterproof bag. This type of cover only requires you to relieve yourself, gather wood for cooking and warmth from dead trees along your journey – all in one easy step.
A lot of campers don’t put up a tent without one. If you’re unable to put up your tent when it rains, or even worse, your tent has been damaged, emergency shelters can be invaluable.
The campers also love them as they’re light and can easily fit inside the backpack. If you end up asleep in the bivvy, do not be surprised if find yourself getting too hot. Your bivvy bag will reflect a lot of the body heat back at you.
Life Bivy Emergency Sleeping Bag Thermal Bivvy
Wear water Resistant Clothing
When it rains, make sure you choose the right type of clothing for your camping trip. Don’t wear cotton because when wet and stretched out from all those squats in gym class back home it gets soggy fast.
The best fabrics are synthetics or laminated materials that will water beads roll off them instead soiling yourself with this pesky moisture issue known as “rained on dirt.”
Materials that can work well in the rain include nylon and synthetics, which are designed to repel moisture so it doesn’t soak into their fabric. You should also always pack a pair of waterproof boots with you if possible.
Pitch Your Tent During The Day
You’ll want to avoid unpleasant surprises while camping, which is why it’s crucial to plan your trip.
When camping in inclement weather or if you want to be safe from potential accidents, it pays off for tent dwellers take precautions beforehand. Don’t forget that even new tents have some kinks worth fixing before setting them up on your outdoor adventure.
Make sure that you set up your tent at home before leaving and do a full inspection to make certain everything is in good shape. Check for leaks, test out rain gear (and other waterproof clothing), seal all openings well-especially those near the roots of trees where water may flow through during shower storms or heavy downpours otherwise these areas could end up flooded.
How Is it Possible To Keep Your Tent Dry If Raining?
We’ve provided a few suggestions to keep your tent dry during rain including putting an awning above and underneath your tent and deciding on the ideal place to put it.
However, there’s more you can accomplish:
- Take a sponge and extra towels to dry quickly the inside of your tent in case you must set your tent in the rain.
- If your tent got wet, ensure that you ensure that you have adequate ventilation for a few hours.
- Check that your tent’s waterproof, rather than water resistant just to ensure that the tent’s interior stays dry.
- Use additional sealants on your tent seams prior to camping.
- You may want to consider tarps with additional sidewalls in the event that it is wet and windy.
- Do not wear wet clothes into your tent.
