Not every camping trip will go as planned. Things can take a turn for the worst while you’re out hunting, fishing, or otherwise enjoying yourself. It’s still possible to have a fun, exciting, fulfilling camping trip even when the weather does not agree with you. It’s all a matter of preparation. Don’t cancel your trip. Just read on to learn what you need to know about camping in bad weather.
Check the Forecast
This may seem like an obvious tip, but it’s still worth mentioning. You won’t know how to prepare for the weather if you don’t know what weather to expect. The weather leading up to your trip will fluctuate, and on the day of your trip, you might see a forecast of clear skies.
Don’t be fooled by this. Things can shift in a matter of moments. Check the weather the week leading up to the trip and during the trip. Regardless of the forecast, pack and prepare for the worst. Make sure your supplies are compact enough to accommodate all your gear. You don’t want things to get overcrowded.
Choose Your Campsite
Based on the weather reports, you need to choose a campsite wisely. Don’t set up camp on grounds that are prone to flooding, regardless of the weather reports. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.
Set your campsite as high as possible so that you can avoid flood paths. Doing so will also help you keep an eye on the whitetail deer grazing and bedding below if your camping trip includes a hunt. And it’s okay if you need to travel a little to get near the water for cleaning. You don’t want to be confined to one spot when you’re camping anyway.
Buy a Good Tent
You always need to ensure you have the proper shelter for the trip. A good tent makes the difference between good memories and bad memories. You’ll definitely remember your trip if your tent fails to protect you.
Consider buying a hard-shell or soft-shell rooftop tent. The difference will depend on the purpose of your trip and how long you intend to keep your tent. Choose one that caters to your needs the most. The advantage? No matter which style you choose, with these tents, you’ll always be on high ground.
Bring Waterproof Gear
Think waterproof. You need the proper rain and snow gear for your trip. All your clothing items need to come with an insulation element, so you don’t lose any body heat. Your jackets, pants, and shoes are your first line of defense against hypothermia and flying debris. Pack ponchos in your pack every time you plan to hit the trail.
Items you bring along, such as your cell phone and battery packs, will need protection. Store them in Ziploc bags if it does rain. You’ll need waterproof containers in all sizes to keep your things safe, dry, and close by. After weathering the storm, change into dry clothes to avoid getting sick.
Camping in bad weather is doable now that you know how to prepare yourself. Packs your bags and get ready for some real fun!