When we were dating, my husband had a pop-up camper. As a tent camper, the pop-up seemed like a huge upgrade for me. But I always wondered, “can you use a pop-up camper in the rain?”
You can use a pop-up camper in the rain. In fact, a pop-up camper is a better option for rainy-day camping than a tent. However, you’ll have to use some precautions to stay dry while camping and ensure you don’t ruin the fabric on the pop-up camper.
Read on to learn my tips for having a great camping trip in a pop-up camper, even if it rains.
Tip 1 – Check the weather forecast
Keep an eye on the weather forecast to prepare for potential storms or heavy rain. That way, you can decide if your trip is still a go. You’ll have to weigh the options to determine if you’ll still make the trip. Obviously, you’ll want to cancel the trip in extreme or hazardous weather. Otherwise, you can still have a good time, even with intermittent or light rain.
Tip 2 – Set up camp on high ground
Choose an elevated location with good drainage to prevent water from pooling around your camper. When selecting a camping spot, look for a place not in a low-lying area or where water could potentially flow toward your camper. If you’ve already paid for a campsite in a low-lying area, ask the campground host if you can change sites.
Tip 3 – Check for leaks
Before you hit the road, inspect your camper for any potential leaks or areas where water can seep in. The advantage of having a pop-up camper is that you can get out of the elements. Before you go, open your camper (close the vents and windows) and run a hose all over the top of it.
If your camper leaks, you’ll worry about it and try to deal with it the whole camping trip.
Tip 4 – Keep windows and doors closed
Make sure all windows and doors are securely closed to prevent water from entering the camper. Also, check to make sure that your vents are closed. Sometimes I forget to close the vents and then have to mop up the water on the floor.
Tip 5 – Use a dehumidifier
Rainy weather can cause humidity levels to rise inside your camper, so consider using a dehumidifier to prevent dampness and mold. If you’re dealing with a summer storm, a dehumidifier can also make you feel more comfortable.
Tip 6 – Bring indoor activities
Pack some board games, books, or other indoor activities to entertain you during rainy periods. One of the goals of camping is to connect with your loved ones. Playing a board game is one fun way to connect with family and friends. If you’re by yourself, this is a great time to catch up on reading that book that’s been sitting by your bedside table.
Tip 7 – Pack appropriately
Bring rain gear and clothing that will keep you dry and warm. Pack plenty of towels to dry off wet gear or wipe down surfaces inside the camper.
Tip 8 – Be prepared for mud
Rain can turn campsites into muddy messes, so bring some extra towels, an outdoor rug, and a doormat to keep the mud out of your camper.
An outdoor rug is one of my favorite ways to keep dirt and mud out of the camper. We have an outdoor rug that is both decorative and functional. Having indoor and outdoor mats will also help.
The best way to keep the mud out of your camper is to have everyone take off their shoes before entering. Have a designated area near the door where everyone can store their shoes. Plus, being barefoot is fun!
Tip 9 – Keep your gear dry
Use waterproof bags or containers to store your camping gear and supplies, and avoid leaving items outside in the rain. Waterproof bags will keep your gear from getting the camper’s interior wet.
Trash bags are a great option for holding wet gear. They are cheap and can also be used for trash. I recommend having a couple of sizes, like leaf bags and kitchen bags. You can hang your items out to dry when the sun comes out.
Tip 10 – Use awnings and shelter
If your pop-up camper has awnings, set them up to provide additional shelter from the rain. Keep in mind that some awnings cannot handle a deluge of heavy rain.
Another option that will help you keep your sanity is a portable gazebo. We have the Gazelle gazebo. Buying the extra walls makes a nice dry place to relax outside of the pop-up camper and increases your overall usable floor space.
Tip 11 – Keep a squeegee handy
Use a squeegee to wipe down any surfaces that may have gotten wet inside the camper.
Tip 12 – Use a fan
To help reduce humidity inside the camper, use a fan to circulate air and promote ventilation. We like the Dwalt fan because it runs off its own battery. If you have an interior ventilation fan, you may be able to crack it open if it’s not raining too hard.
Tip 13 – Check tire pressure
Make sure your tires are properly inflated before hitting the road in wet conditions to ensure safe driving.
Tip 14 – Be mindful of driving conditions
Wet roads can be slippery, so take extra precautions when driving your pop-up camper in the rain.
Tip 15 – Open your pop-up when you get home
This might be one of the most important tips on this list. Why did I put it as number 15? Because I want you to remember. The best way to ruin the fabric in your pop-up tent is to close it up wet. If the pop-up material is canvas, leaving the tent closed up wet will disintegrate the fabric.
Of course, you have to pack it up before you leave. However, on the first sunny day you are home, open the pop-up completely and leave it open until it is completely dry. This will also prevent mold and mildew growth.