7 Tips for Camping in the Rain

Wet weather can put a dampener on any occasion but it doesn’t have to ruin your glamping adventures. In this blog, we’ll cover some of the best ideas for camping in the rain so you can get out and about during the classic countryside downpour.

From packing preparation to selecting the right tent, our Boutique Camping experts will help get you ready for any weather from soggy festival nights to wet weekends in the wilderness. 

Are you in the market for a glamping tent to take on your adventures? We’ve got a brilliant range of bell tents that hold strong come rain or shine.

Prepare in Advance

This may seem like one of the most obvious tips for camping in the rain, but the easiest way to deal with wet conditions is to check the weather forecast in advance. This should be a staple for any trip but many campers in a rush will forget to do this and get caught out. 

Knowing what the weather is going to look like when you take your trip means you can pack the appropriate tent accessories and clothing in advance. To make sure you’ve got everything you need whatever the weather, check out our ultimate glamping checklist before you set off. 

Pick the Best Tent

If preparation is one of the key elements for camping in the rain, then preparing the right tent to bring is equally important. A waterproof tent is the easiest way to keep yourself dry and cosy whilst resting. 

We’d recommend our bell tent plus model for comfortable camping in all weather conditions. This tent has miracle webbing straps instead of traditional guy ropes, allowing for strong and sturdy resistance in rain and wind. These straps also redirect rainpour away from your tent to help keep you dry.

Another great option is the Star Bell Tent which features a steep arched overhang which allows rainfall to flow quickly away from your tent and your precious belongings. We also have a wide range of waterproof tents

Whatever your choice, we have a wide range of waterproof tents at Boutique Camping and all of our tents are treated with water-repelling agents so each of our stunning models can hold up in wet weather!

Protect Your Tent

One of our top tips for camping in the rain is to use protective products on your tent before you find yourself on a wet weekend away. One of the easiest ways to be ready against rain is by protecting your tent with a water repellent. This formula can be washed into your bell tent by hand (or in the washing for smaller models) to create a protective barrier that allows water to slide off the cotton surface rather than being absorbed. 

This will not only help to keep you warm and dry but also help fight against potential mould growth that occurs when the fabric gets damp. A groundsheet protector is also essential for reducing the chances of mildew by protecting your groundsheet from condensation and rainwater.

It’s important to note that all our bell tents come pretreated, but you should maintain this process to maximise the life of your tent. 

Another way to give you an extra layer of protection is by adding a specially designed protective tent cover into the mix. Made from waterproof material, this type of cover goes over the top of your bell tent and provides a barrier against mud, water and debris. The great thing about a cover like this is it’s a simple, lightweight addition to your camping kit that can be set up quickly should the weather take a turn. 

Something as small as a rain cap can also have a huge impact as this will stop any rain coming in through the top of the A-frame spike. Unlike other brands, our rain caps are screw-on for an extra tight and secure fix. Our tents also come with handy spares!

Keep Yourself and Your Tent Warm

With wet weather usually comes wind and colder temperatures, so it’s important to ensure both you and your tent are warm and cosy when you settle down after your adventures. To keep yourself warm, be sure to pack thermals, thick waterproof coats and extra socks should you encounter any puddles!

A portable wood-burning stove is the ultimate glamping accessory to keep yourself toasty and comfortable on rainy nights. Easy to transport to and from wherever your campsite is, a stove is a great option for warmth and also allows you to create some tasty meals. 

Ensure Your Tent Has Adequate Airflow

Whilst you’ll want to keep your tent secure and warm when it’s raining, it’s important that once the rain has stopped you allow for ventilation inside 

Once it’s dry outside, open all windows and doors of your tent to let the air in. This is crucial in helping to dry out your tent properly and stop issues like mould and dampness that can ruin your beautiful bell tent. A multidoor bell tent is the perfect option for camping trips that might get drizzly, as they allow for maximum airflow through the tent. 

A tent with multiple doors is also ideal for creating designated exit and entrance sites to avoid tracking mud and water around your groundsheet.

Spares, Spares and More Spares

During the damp and drizzly season, it’s always good to pack spares of everything. Be sure to pack spare clothes, socks and shoes should your campsite become muddy. Spare towels are also a great idea to dry yourself or your pets before you get into your tent.

You should also make sure you’re prepared with a range of tent spares, which all of our Boutique Camping come with, for good measure. Extra tent pegs will always come in handy should some get lost. 

Additional guy ropes, especially reflective ones like these can be brilliant for helping to secure or ‘double stake’ your tent for extra hold in windy weather. If it's dark and gloomy their reflective sheen should ensure you don’t trip or fall over any ropes. 

Choose the Right Campsite

If you know it’s going to rain, you should plan where you’re going to camp accordingly. Avoid sites and areas that are uneven and prone to pooling as this could cause flooding in your tent. Be sure to also steer clear of riverbanks, streams, the bottom of hills or anywhere else where water naturally flows. 

The best place to pick when camping is to find somewhere as dry as possible with additional shelter. A spot with a few trees can act as an additional source of natural cover, but be sure to avoid areas directly under trees or branches should they fall. If you’re not sure where to set off for your adventures, take a look at some of the best places to go camping in the UK to get you inspired. 

Bell Tents for Every Occasion with Boutique Camping

If you’re not afraid of a little water, it’s time to take our advice for camping in the rain and get out in the open exploring. At Boutique Camping, whichever one of our bell tents you choose, you’re walking away with a high-quality, luxury tent that can let you relax in comfort and safety all year round. 

We know we’ve got so many amazing options for bell tents, so it can be hard to choose just one option for you. Get in touch with our experts and we’ll be able to advise you on the right model for your adventures as well as give you some tips on the best accessories to pair with your purchase.