5 Clever Packing Tips for Rainy Destinations

Some travel destinations are notorious for unpredictable weather. As a travel writer and enthusiastic jetsetter, I’ve hiked in Hawaii, cruised on a riverboat in Savannah, and toured central London — all while it was raining. When you invest time and money into a vacation, you make the most of it, even if the weather isn’t ideal. That’s why I’m sharing a few of my practical packing tips for rainy destinations, encouraging travelers to think outside the box when it comes to traditional rain gear — so maybe you don’t need a heavy pair of rain boots or a bulky rain jacket after all. Instead, consider these creative alternatives to save space while staying dry.

Ditch the Backpack and Upgrade to a Dry Bag

Getting caught in a rainstorm with soggy gear is never fun. Instead of using a traditional backpack during your daily adventures, consider switching to a dry bag. Earth Pak’s Original Dry Bag is a go-to for adventurers. The 10L and 20L sizes feature one shoulder strap, while the larger sizes (30L, 40L, and 55L) have backpack-style straps. Each pack also includes an IPX8-certified waterproof phone pouch, which can withstand being submerged in 1 meter of water for up to 30 minutes. These bags are available in 10 color options and weigh between 11 ounces and 2 pounds .

If you’re traveling with a partner or need to organize different gear for multiple outings, having several dry bags can be beneficial. Sea to Summit offers an Ultra-Sil Dry Bag Set that includes three bags in bold, easy-to-spot colors. The set includes 3L, 5L, and 8L sizes, made from semitranslucent waterproof Cordura nylon, allowing you to see what’s inside easily.

If you’d rather stick to your backpack, there are also affordable waterproof backpack covers, such as these highly rated covers from Frelaxy, available in various sizes and colors. They’re ideal for protecting your existing gear from the elements.

Why Ponchos Are Better Than Rain Jackets

Lugging around a rain jacket can be cumbersome, especially in warm-weather destinations where a heavy, insulated jacket might not be the best fit. Instead, consider packing a lightweight poncho.

It’s best to purchase one ahead of time, as gift shops tend to take advantage of tourists by charging high prices. A five-pack of plastic ponchos costs less than $15 online. Plus, they’re packed down to the size of a credit card, making them easy to toss in a purse or pocket in case of a sudden downpour.

If you prefer a reusable style, Frogg Toggs offers several types of waterproof ponchos. The lightest model, the Ultra-Lite2, features side snaps and an adjustable hood, and it weighs only 9 ounces. It’s available in both adult and youth sizes in various colors for less than $20.

Puddle-Proof Shoe Covers

Imagine dining at an upscale restaurant in Paris when it starts to rain. You’re dressed to impress, but now you have to navigate the soggy streets of the French capital in expensive shoes. To avoid this dilemma, try packing disposable shoe covers that easily fit in your purse or pocket.

PedaShield specializes in recyclable, water-resistant shoe covers, with a 55-pair pack costing around $20. They’re made from nontoxic materials with nonslip soles for safety.

If you anticipate being in the rain for an extended period, above-the-ankle plastic shoe covers may be a better option. Nenluny offers a set of set of 10 pairs for less than $15, providing enough coverage for the entire family to have dry feet all day long.

Smart Fabrics for Damp Days

Fabric is a key factor when it comes to a comfortable day in the rain, but many natural fibers don’t fare well in wet conditions. For instance, cotton, one of the least moisture-wicking fabrics, can remain damp and humid for hours. Silk, meanwhile, is prone to shrinkage and stains, and denim, while durable, tends to become heavy when wet, making it uncomfortable to wear. Instead, opt for synthetic moisture-wicking fabrics such as polyester, nylon, or elastane (spandex).

Outdoor and sports brands often use moisture-resistant fabrics to repel sweat, but this works well for rain, too. For instance, Patagonia’s Capilene Cool Daily Shirt, available in both men’s and women’s sizes, is perfect for water-resistant layering, with recycled polyester threads that control odor and wick away moisture.

Don’t forget about water-resistant pants, either. Cotopaxi offers the men’s Subo Tech Pant made from water-resistant recycled nylon and a touch of spandex for added stretch. For women, Cotopaxi’s Cambio Jogger features a tapered leg and is made from recycled polyester.

Rainy Day Accessories You’ll Actually Use

Along with packing the right clothes and bags, it’s essential to have items for cleaning up messes and storing wet items while traveling. The compact, highly absorbent Rainleaf microfiber travel towel has a loop for hanging and drying quickly. This towel can also absorb five times its weight and is machine washable — great for hiking, swimming, sports, or simply drying off after a storm.

Sometimes, it’s not possible to dry your items before it’s time to pack up and leave. Waterproof packing bags can help you avoid unwanted dampness and odors in your luggage. Originally intended for food storage, Smelly Proof’s reusable gallon-sized smell-proof bags are perfect for wet socks or shoes. For a more stylish option, MUMI has smell- and moisture-proof laundry bags designed for travel, which keep your belongings organized and separated.

Lastly, you can prepare for unexpected rain showers during your travels with a portable clothesline. This handy accessory provides an easy way to dry multiple garments at once, whether on a hotel balcony or at a campsite. Travel-friendly portable clotheslines take up little space in your luggage, while offering peace of mind during your next adventure.

Featured image credit: shironosov/ iStock via Getty Images Plus