Camping is an activity that some look forward to all year. In many regions of the US, summer presents the only weather suitable for camping. However, even summer isn’t exempt from a little inclement weather. If the skies darken during a hike, you want the security of knowing your gear is protected. Here are a few tips on keeping your gear waterproof!
Buy It
Buying gear may seem painfully obvious, but people often forget to check for waterproof qualities when purchasing gear. Carefully read label and descriptions when purchasing bags and tents to determine how waterproof they are. Different types of outdoor gear fabrics will vary in their repellent strength — some are resistant, while others are completely waterproof. There are also variations in style that can affect the waterproof strength of some types of gear. Tents with a solid bottom that rises up a few inches on the sides, called “bathtub” floors, prevent water coming in through seams on the ground.
Related article: Protect Your Valuable Gear with a Dry Bag or Case
Bag It
Before loading up a pack, line the inside with a large plastic bag; a regular trash bag should be sufficient. The top of the bag should extend above the top of the pack to ensure all of the space inside is being used. Similar types of gear and supplies can then be put in smaller individual plastic bags with locking seals. This will protect your gear from rain pouring in from above, as well as water soaking in from the ground or accidental submersion in a puddle or stream.
Treat It
If you already have camping gear that’s not constructed from waterproof materials, you can still get great waterproof protection from the multitude of products on the market. These waterproofing solutions come in spray or soak form, and will keep your gear waterproof for many uses before they need to be reapplied. Set up your tent before you actually take it camping, and go over the seams with a sealant, as well as treating the rest of the tent with a waterproofing agent, and you’ll be amazed how high and dry you stay this summer!
Related article: How to Care for Your Camping Gear
Photo from KAL VISUALS/Unsplash
