Stay Dry and Comfy: Waterproofing Hacks Every Camper Should Know

Starting around the mid-2000s, “lifehacks” were suddenly everywhere. These unusual tips and tricks promise to make your life easier by using everyday objects in novel ways. The downside? Lifehacks don’t usually work, and even if they do, they usually have very limited applications. 

One example from the camping world? “Wear Ziplock bags over your socks to waterproof your hiking boots.” The ultimate result? An uncomfortable experience that makes a poor substitute for simply spraying your boots with a waterproofing product, which you should probably have done to start with. 

Those aren’t the kinds of “hacks” we’ll be looking into today. The waterproofing tips you’ll see here are basically just common sense — but they will definitely come in very handy if you’re new to camping.

1. Use ‘Dry Bags’ 

Ziploc Bags

Even if it doesn’t rain, you never know when things are going to get damp while you’re out camping. Dry supplies are essential, so bring several Ziploc bags to keep your gear dry and safe — one for your electronics, and one for clothes you want to keep dry. You can even create an extra layer of protection by using a slightly larger Ziploc bag over the first one. 

We would highly recommend using reusable Ziploc bags

You don’t want plastic bags lying or floating around, however, understand that these might come at a higher price so just make sure you clean them up after 🙂

2. Pitch Your Tent on High Ground

Photo by Dominik Jirovský on Unsplash

Water always flows downstream — so look for a slightly elevated location to pitch your tent. Never, ever put your tent down on lower ground, or you’ll be inviting yourself to a tent pool party. 

As a follow-up to this tip, it’s also a good idea to pitch your tent where there’s some natural protection from the rain. Look for an area with a few trees nearby, so that the leaves will partially shield your tent from the rain.

3. Place a Tarp or Tent Footprint Under Your Tent

Tarps and tent footprints are two different ways to create a ground cover that shields the base of your tent from the outside world. A ground cover increases your tent’s lifespan by making sure that small debris can’t puncture it, but it’s also great for waterproofing. That’s because condensation from the soil can cause the inside of your tent to become damp (or even downright wet). 

If you use a tarp, make sure that it’s tucked fully under your tent. If the tarp you use is larger than the base of your tent, water can build up around the edges and slowly pool underneath your tent.

Make sure to read our guide on Do You Need a Tarp Under Your Tent or Not

4. Discover Other Ways to Use a Tarp

While a properly laid tarp can serve as an excellent ground cover, these large plastic sheets are more versatile than that! Why not put up an extra “roof” above your tent to shield it from the rain, or pitch a tarp as a gazebo under which you can relax or prepare your meals — even while it drizzles outside? You can also use tarps to fashion makeshift bags or store your belongings (like camping stoves) under them.

5. Invest in the Right Gear

Waterproof Camping Gear Jackets

Sometimes, the best waterproofing tips aren’t “hacks” at all! If you want to stay dry and comfy, you’ll need all-weather gear, including:

  • Waterproof hiking boots. 
  • Wellington boots or waders (depending on what you’re planning to do).
  • A decent raincoat. 
  • A good hat, like a nylon bucket hat. 
  • A waterproof backpack cover. 

As for the clothing that will get wet when it rains, bring cordage to create a makeshift washing line to use while camping — and always, always bring extra socks. Prioritize clothes that dry quickly but are still made from breathable fabrics. Athletic gear usually strikes the right balance, but soft synthetic fleece or merino wool will keep you warm during colder weather.

Camping Dry Backpacks

Oh, one more thing — please invest in a good waterproofing spray. You’ll be able to use it on your coat, tent, and boats, and you can reapply it after heavy rainfall. 

6. Don’t Forget About Seam Sealer and Repair Kits

Seam sealer or waterproof tape can reinforce your tent’s seams and zippers, creating a protective layer where your tent is more vulnerable to water penetration. Many campers overlook this, but it can really help you out!

Bring a repair kit, too. If your tent suddenly develops leaks or punctures while you’re camping, a good tent repair kit can be the one thing that saves you from having to pack up and head home.

7. Check Out These Extra Tent Tips

Make sure there’s enough tension on your tent’s lines, because otherwise, water can pool on top of your tent when it rains — and seep in. Beyond that, keep your belongings, like your camping stove, cooler boxes, and similar items away from from your tent, or you’ll give water a path toward your tent. 

8. Make Waterproof Matches

This is the most “lifehack-like” tip on our list, but it works! Dip your matches into candle wax to create a waterproof coating. This ensures that your matches are always ready to kindle a fire, even if they get a little wet along the way. Of course, you should also prepare backup options like ferro-rods — because campers should be prepared for anything!

A Final Word

Creating a waterproof camping experience is 90 percent common sense and 10 percent “hacks.” When given a choice between mastering the basics well or learning 100 “cool tips and tricks,” always pick the first! Bringing the right gear and preparing for the fact that it will rain at some point gets you halfway to your destination. 

Little extras like using garbage bags as rain ponchos or Ziploc bags as sock covers may come in handy in last resort situations — but you should never rely solely on these “hacks” to set yourself up for a comfortable camping experience. 

At the end of the day, you and your stuff will still get a little wet. That’s OK. It’s all part of reconnecting with nature during your camping trip. As long as you come prepared, it will all pass — and your stuff will be dry again before you know it. 

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