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🛒 Top picks for this trip
✅ Essentials Checklist
- Waterproof jacket — full spec Gore-Tex or equivalent (not 'water resistant')
- Waterproof Trousers ↗
- Waterproof boots or wellies
- Dry bags or waterproof stuff sacks for electronics and documents
- Waterproof Phone Cases ↗ case or pouch
- Quick-dry clothing (avoid cotton which stays wet for hours)
- Microfibre towels × 2 (one for you, one for kit)
- Spare shoes — always have one dry pair available
- Gaiters for muddy or flooded paths
- Compact umbrella as backup
🛒 More kit for this trip
👕 Clothing Checklist
- Waterproof jacket and trousers
- Quick-dry synthetic or merino base layers
- Waterproof boots
- Gaiters
- Multiple pairs of socks — wool or synthetic
- Sandals or footwear for accommodation (your boots will be wet)
- Waterproof hat or jacket with hood
⭐ Nice to Have
- Waterproof backpack cover
- Dry bags in multiple sizes
- Boot dryer or newspaper for drying boots overnight
- Waterproof stuff sack for sleeping bag if camping
- Seam sealer for reapplying waterproofing to older jackets
- Nikwax TX-Direct spray for refreshing jacket waterproofing
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between waterproof and water resistant?
Water-resistant or shower-proof clothing has a DWR (Durable Water Repellent) coating that causes light rain to bead off, but will wet out in sustained rain. Waterproof jackets use a membrane (Gore-Tex, eVent, Pertex Shield) that blocks water even in heavy sustained rain while allowing moisture vapour to escape. For any destination with serious rain, you need waterproof — not water resistant.
How do I pack electronics for a rainy destination?
Every electronic item should be in its own dry bag or waterproof pouch before going in your main bag. Assume your bag will get wet even with a rain cover — bags are not waterproof. A waterproof phone case lets you use your phone in rain. Keep passports and travel documents in a waterproof zip-lock bag at all times in wet environments.
How do I dry wet boots overnight?
Remove the insoles and stuff the boots with crumpled newspaper — it absorbs moisture remarkably effectively. Change the newspaper after a few hours. An electric boot dryer (a portable travel version exists) is the most effective solution. Never dry boots by a radiator or fire — it damages the materials and adhesives. Silica gel sachets placed inside help absorb residual moisture.
Not sure which suitcase size or clothing sizes you need? Check 247Sizing's luggage and clothing size guides before you pack.