Written by Charlotte Houreau (@thenittygrittyguide)

Don't let rain dampen your festival mood! Learn essential gear tips and campsite hacks to stay dry and comfortable during rainy festivals.

Rain is just part of the adventure when it comes to outdoor festivals. Instead of letting a few showers dampen your spirits, why not embrace them? With the right preparation and a positive mindset, you can turn a rainy festival into an unforgettable experience. Imagine dancing through the downpour, splashing in puddles, and sharing laughs with friends. Here’s how to stay dry, comfortable, and make the most of a rainy festival experience.

Essential Rain Gear

First things first: gear up! Here’s what you’ll need to stay dry and stylish:

Water Resistant Packs

Protecting your belongings from the rain is a must. Water resistant packs keep everything inside dry and secure, no matter the weather. If your festival bag isn’t already waterproof, consider investing in any of the lunchbox packs as they're all designed with durable water resistant material to keep your belongings dry. Choose from the Hydration Pack which has the most storage to some like the Phone Satchel for just the essentials. 

Ponchos and Rain Jackets

When it comes to rain protection, ponchos and rain jackets are your best friends. Ponchos are like magical shields—easy to throw on, and they cover both you and your Lunchbox. Think of it as your festival superhero cape. Rain jackets, on the other hand, offer a more fitted look and better mobility for your dance moves. Look for lightweight, packable options that you can stash in your Lunchbox Hydration Pack or Lunchbox Lite when the sun makes its grand return.

Waterproof Shoes/Boots

Say goodbye to soggy and muddy sneakers and hello to waterproof footwear. Keeping your feet dry is crucial, wet feet can turn your fun into a soggy nightmare, so invest in a good pair of waterproof shoes or boots. Brands like Palladium and Timberland offer stylish waterproof options that will complement your outfits and ensure you stay dry and comfortable throughout the festival.

Quick-Dry Clothing

Opt for quick-dry fabrics that wick moisture away from your skin. Avoid cotton, which retains water like a sponge. Synthetic fabrics or merino wool are excellent choices for staying comfortable in the rain. Plus, you’ll dry off faster when the sun finally decides to show up.

Setting Up a Waterproof Campsite

A well-prepared campsite can be your haven during a rainy festival. Here’s how to create a dry retreat:

Waterproof Tent

Invest in a high-quality, waterproof tent. Make sure it has a rainfly that extends well over the sides and a bathtub-style floor to keep water out. Pro tip: set up your tent on higher ground to avoid water flooding your tent. Use a groundsheet for extra protection, and you’re all set for a dry night’s sleep.

Tarp Setup

Bring an extra tarp to create a dry communal area outside your tent. String it up between trees or poles to create a covered space where you can relax and socialise without getting soaked. This also provides a dry spot to change clothes or prepare food. Think of it as your festival living room—dry, cosy, and perfect for hanging out.

Keep It Elevated

Store your gear in waterproof bags or containers and keep them elevated off the ground. Use camping stools or crates to lift your belongings away from potential puddles. This helps keep everything dry and organized. No one likes digging through a wet bag for a clean pair of socks.

Ventilation

Good ventilation is crucial to prevent condensation inside your tent even in the rain. Open the vents or slightly unzip the rainfly to allow moisture to escape without letting rain in. There’s nothing worse than waking up in a damp, stuffy tent.

Keeping Your Electronics and Valuables Dry

Wet electronics are a festival nightmare. Here’s how to keep your devices and valuables safe from the rain:

Waterproof Cases

Invest in waterproof cases for your phone, camera, and other electronics. These cases provide peace of mind and allow you to use your devices even in wet conditions. Imagine capturing those epic rain-drenched moments without fear of ruining your gadgets.

Ziplock Bags

Pack a few extra ziplock bags in different sizes. They’re perfect for storing smaller items like your phone, wallet, and keys. For added protection, double-bag your electronics. It’s like putting your valuables in a tiny, portable submarine.

Silica Gel Packs

Throw a few silica gel packs into your electronics case or bag. These absorb moisture and help keep your devices dry. They’re like tiny, magical sponges that save your gadgets from watery doom.

Lockers

Most festivals have lockers that you can rent. So if you want to keep your valuables dry and safe, you can rent a locker typically for a day or the duration of the festival. It's a good place to retreat to in case of a downpour.

Staying Warm and Comfortable

Rain often brings cooler temperatures, so staying warm is essential. Here’s how to stay comfortable throughout a wet festival weekend:

Layer Up

Dress in layers to adjust your clothing to the changing weather. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer, add an insulating mid-layer, and top it off with your waterproof jacket. Think of it as a festival fashion onion—stylish and practical.

Hand and Foot Warmers

Pack disposable hand and foot warmers. They’re lightweight and provide instant heat, keeping you comfortable during chilly, wet weather. Slip them into your pockets or boots, and feel the warmth spread.

Dry Socks and Clothing

Always have an extra pair of dry socks and clothing in a waterproof bag. Changing into dry gear can make a world of difference in your comfort level. Plus, there’s nothing quite like the feeling of dry, warm socks after a soggy day.

Hot Drinks

Bring a thermos to fill with hot drinks. Whether it’s tea, coffee, or hot chocolate, a warm beverage can lift your spirits and keep you warm from the inside out. Share with friends and make new ones as you bond over the cosy comfort of a hot drink in the rain.

What to Do If It Rains Unexpectedly

Sometimes, the weather catches you off guard. Here’s what to do if it suddenly starts raining:

Find Shelter

Seek out sheltered areas like tents, canopies, or nearby buildings. These spots can provide temporary refuge until the rain eases up. Use this time to regroup, check your gear, and maybe even make new friends who are also seeking cover.

Use What You Have

If you don’t have a poncho or rain jacket on hand, get creative. Use a plastic bag to cover your head or backpack. A picnic blanket can serve as an impromptu rain cover for yourself or your group. Some music festivals even give out ponchos, so keep an eye out for these freebies.

Stay Positive

Rain can be a bummer, but it’s all about perspective. Embrace the rain as part of the festival adventure. Dance in the puddles, laugh with friends, and enjoy the unique atmosphere the rain brings. After all, some of the best festival memories are made when things don’t go exactly as planned.

Rain doesn’t have to ruin your festival fun. With the right preparation and gear, you can embrace the elements and enjoy a unique and unforgettable experience. Dance in the rain, splash through the puddles and make the most of the adventure. After all, some of the best festival memories are made when you least expect them. So gear up, stay dry, and let the rain add a splash of excitement to your festival journey.