Drying and Storing Gear After a Wet Trip
Packing up in the rain is part of camping. What happens after you get home decides whether your gear lasts for years or develops mildew within a week. Drying everything thoroughly before storage is the single most important step.
Tents and tarps
Unpack the tent as soon as possible and set it up or hang it loosely in a ventilated, shaded place until completely dry, including the seams and stake pockets. Mildew can start within days on damp fabric and leaves stains and odors.
Shake out dirt and debris before storage.
Sleeping bags and clothing
Dry sleeping bags fully, turning them occasionally. Down bags can clump when wet; drying on low heat with clean dryer balls, following the care label, helps restore loft. Wash and dry clothing according to fabric instructions.
Store sleeping bags loose in a large breathable sack, not compressed.
Check down products closely after drying; any remaining clumps mean moisture is still trapped inside. Synthetic jackets and bags dry faster but should also be stored loose. Rain shells benefit from washing with a technical cleaner and, if water no longer beads, from a durable water repellent treatment applied according to the label.
Boots and small items
Remove insoles and laces, stuff boots with newspaper and let them dry at room temperature. Avoid direct heat from fires or radiators, which can damage leather and adhesives.
Open and dry stuff sacks, first-aid kits and electronics cases, and replace any items that got soaked.