Posted by Holly Walton on 6th Feb 2025

How to Stay Dry When Camping in the Rain

Camping in the rain might not sound like the ideal outdoor adventure, but with the right gear and preparation, it can still be an enjoyable, memorable experience. Whether you’re facing a sudden downpour on a summer trip or braving the unpredictable British weather, knowing how to stay dry is key to a comfortable camping adventure.

In this guide, we’ll cover practical tips for staying dry when camping in wet conditions and highlight some of OLPRO’s top products designed to help, including the OLPRO Scenic Shade Campervan Canopy, the versatile OLPRO Blanko, and the compact OLPRO Uno Breeze® v2 Campervan Awning.

1. Choose the Right Shelter: Your First Line of Defence

OLPRO Uno Breeze® v2 Campervan Awning

When it comes to weather protection, a high-quality awning can be a game-changer. The OLPRO Uno Breeze® v2 Campervan Awning is designed to handle the UK’s unpredictable weather, offering quick setup, reliable waterproofing, and added living space.

Key Features for Wet Weather Camping:

Waterproof Design: With a high hydrostatic head rating, it keeps rain out even during heavy downpours.
Inflatable Breeze® System: Quick to set up, reducing the time you’re exposed to rain during pitching.
Compact and Versatile: Ideal for solo travellers or couples, providing a dry space for cooking, relaxing, or storing wet gear.
Drive-Away Capability: Easily detaches from your campervan, allowing you to head out for the day without packing down the awning.

Why It’s Great for Rainy Conditions:
The Uno Breeze® v2’s robust waterproof fabric and reliable zippers ensure you stay dry inside. Plus, the added space allows you to keep muddy boots, wet jackets, and gear outside of your sleeping area.

2. Create Extra Shelter with a Canopy

OLPRO Scenic Shade Campervan Canopy

For quick, effective rain protection, the OLPRO Scenic Shade Campervan Canopy is a must-have. It’s perfect for creating an outdoor living area that stays dry even in bad weather.

Key Features:

Waterproof Canopy: Designed to handle light to moderate rain, offering shade and shelter.
Easy Setup: Attaches directly to your campervan, making it simple to put up in minutes.
Versatile Use: Ideal for outdoor cooking, dining, or just relaxing under cover.

Why It’s Perfect for Rainy Campsites:
The Scenic Shade provides an extended dry area outside your van, making it easy to enjoy the outdoors without being confined inside. Pair it with OLPRO camping chairs and a table for a cosy, rain-proof space to relax.

3. Maximise Coverage with the OLPRO Blanko

OLPRO Blanko

The OLPRO Blanko is an incredibly versatile piece of kit. It can be used as a poncho, blanket, or an alternative to a sleeping bag.

Key Features:

Waterproof Material: High-quality fabric keeps water out, whether used as an overhead shelter.
Multi-Purpose Design: Use it as a protective cover for gear.
Lightweight & Portable: Easy to pack and carry, adding minimal weight to your camping setup.

Why It’s Ideal for Rain:
The Blanko can be pitched in various ways to create additional dry spaces around your campsite and keep yourself dry on walks or sitting outside.

4. Pitch Smart: Choosing the Right Campsite Location

No matter how good your gear is, where you pitch your tent or campervan can make a big difference in wet conditions.

Top Tips for Selecting a Dry Campsite:

Avoid Low-Lying Areas: Water collects in dips and valleys, increasing the risk of flooding.
Look for Natural Shelter: Trees can provide some rain cover (but avoid areas with dead branches).
Check Ground Conditions: Choose slightly elevated, firm ground to prevent water pooling under your tent or awning.

Pro Tip: Use the OLPRO Blanko as a poncho to keep your clothes clean and dry.

5. Keep the Inside Dry: Ventilation and Organisation

Staying dry isn’t just about keeping the rain out; it’s also about managing condensation inside your tent or awning.

How to Manage Moisture Indoors:

Ventilation: Use vents and windows in products like the Uno Breeze® v2 to allow airflow, reducing condensation buildup.
Wet/Dry Zones: Set up a designated area (like under the Scenic Shade Canopy) for wet boots and rain gear.
Use Waterproof Storage: Keep clothes and sleeping bags in dry bags or waterproof containers.

6. Clothing & Gear for Wet Weather Camping

Even with the best shelters, you’ll still need to venture outside occasionally. Dressing appropriately is key to staying comfortable.

Essential Wet Weather Gear:

Waterproof Jacket and Trousers: Look for breathable fabrics to prevent overheating.
Gaiters: Keep water out of your boots when walking through wet grass or puddles.
Quick-Dry Clothing: Synthetic materials dry faster than cotton, keeping you warmer.
Waterproof Footwear: Sturdy, waterproof boots are a must for muddy conditions.

When you return to your campsite, the OLPRO Blanko is great for laying out wet gear without worrying about soaking your clean, dry space.

7. Cooking in the Rain: Stay Dry While Making Meals

Cooking outdoors in the rain can be a challenge, but with the right setup, it’s totally doable.

Rain-Proof Cooking Tips:

Cook Under Cover: Use the Scenic Shade Campervan Canopy or the Uno Breeze® v2 as a sheltered cooking area.
Elevated Surfaces: Keep your stove on a table to avoid muddy ground.
Windbreaks: OLPRO’s range of windbreaks can shield your cooking area from wind-driven rain.

Always ensure there’s enough ventilation to avoid the buildup of harmful fumes when cooking under a canopy or awning.

8. Packing Down in the Rain: Minimise the Mess

If you need to pack up camp while it’s still raining, here’s how to keep things as dry as possible:

Pack in Stages: Take down the driest items first and store them in waterproof bags.
Use the OLPRO Blanko: Lay it down as a clean, dry surface to fold tents and awnings.
Keep Wet/Dry Separate: Use separate bags for wet and dry gear to prevent everything from getting soaked.

When you get home, be sure to unpack and dry everything thoroughly to prevent mould and mildew.

Why OLPRO Products Are Perfect for Rainy Camping Trips

OLPRO designs camping gear with the unpredictable UK weather in mind. Their products are built to withstand rain, wind, and everything in between, making them ideal for wet-weather camping.

Quick Recap of OLPRO’s Top Rain-Proof Products:

OLPRO Uno Breeze® v2 Campervan Awning: Waterproof, easy-to-pitch, and provides versatile indoor space.
OLPRO Scenic Shade Campervan Canopy: Creates a sheltered outdoor living area in minutes.
OLPRO Blanko: A multi-purpose tarp for added rain protection, ground cover, or emergency shelter.