To make the most out of a trip always check the weather forecast beforehand. This way you will avoid any unpleasant situation because of the weather.
The best way to resolve your rainy weather woes is to come prepared before your arrival at the destination.
What to Pack
When traveling, you should prefer to pack light, but the rainy season requires you to pack a few extra things so that you are not a dripping mess on your trip. The following are a few essentials that you must have in travel packs.
1. Umbrella
This is a given whenever you are traveling during the monsoon season. You can pack a compact umbrella which is travel-friendly and saves space.
Often times, tourist spots with frequent rain have hawkers that sell umbrellas for cheap so that you can forgo the umbrella if you wish to travel light.
Choose umbrellas with vibrant colors which will make you stand out and look bright on dull, rainy days. Alternatively, you can choose bubble umbrellas which are great water repellents and allow you to see the path ahead of you.
2. Zip-lock, Waterproof Covers, and Plastic Bags
One of the laws of travel states that scenic pictures must be taken to commemorate your travel stops. So, don’t let rainy days ruin your photographic experience.
Actually, rainy backdrops make some of the best photographs. So, utilize this opportunity to the fullest.
Carry waterproof covers or pouches for your cameras, phones, and laptops. Pack reusable plastic bags to carry items that you want to protect from rain or those which have already gotten wet.
3. Portable Light and Powerbank
If you are traveling to isolated areas or less developed areas, it is likely that there will be a power outage during rain.
So, be sure to carry portable lights and extra batteries. Powerbanks keep your devices charged and are incredibly useful in blackouts.
4. Mosquito Repellents
Though the relationship of travelers with rain may be strained, mosquitoes, on the other hand, go hand in hand with rain. Remember to pack a good quality brand repellant to keep those bloodsuckers away.
Repellants come in a variety of flavors, so you can smell great while being protected from mosquitoes. Mosquitoes harbor of a variety of diseases like dengue so doesn’t let them ruin your trip by making you sick.
5. Small Towels and Tissues
Your accommodation will often have complimentary towels and tissues, although it is still a great idea to carry your own as a precaution against the heavy downpour.
Many hostels will charge extra for towels, so having your own supply will save you from unnecessary extra expenses.
6. Playing Cards, Uno, Miniature Board Games
If you choose to stay indoors during the rain or are stranded, you can pass the time by playing cards or Uno.
This will also be a good opportunity to interact with others and alleviate your mood during the depressing rainy days.
You can also cozy up with a book and enjoy a cup of coffee till the rain subsides.
What to WearClothing choices should be according to how heavy the rain is and where you plan on visiting. Just because it is raining it does not mean that you have to look drab. The weather may be gloomy and dark, but you can dress up to look bright and fashionable.
1. Clothing
Outfit choices generally depend on where you are planning to visit, though generally, the best option is to stick to synthetic clothing. Cotton clothing takes longer to dry and sticks to your skin making you uncomfortable. Jeans should be avoided for the same reason.
The best option is to stick to simple t-shirts and nylon leggings. These clothes tend to dry quickly in addition to being lightweight. You can also opt for dress shirts paired with knee-high boots for a chic look.
2. Coats
If you plan to go hiking, foldable raincoats are recommended which you can wear over other layers. For sightseeing around the city, choose trench coats to protect your outfit and hair in case of light rain.
For heavy rain, travel raincoats which extend below the hips and ponchos are great choices since they are flexible as well as breathable.
3. Boots
For many, packing rain boots may be a hassle. Thus, choose to take rain boots if you plan on visiting a farm or countryside to protect from the mud. Leather, rubber, or vinyl footwear are a good option if you are in the town or city center.
Try to avoid wearing slippers as they provide little protection and have little grip. Sneakers are also not a good option in case of heavy rain. You can also choose to wear slip-on sneakers or waterproof ballet flats to bring variety to your look.
4. Make-up
For the rainy season go with an all-natural make-up look. Use good quality primers so that your makeup lasts for a long time. Faveable has a well-researched list of the top primers so that your makeup stays flawless all day.
For the eyes use waterproof mascara and eyeliner to avoid them from running down your face. Use minimal eye makeup and choose eye shadow colors like creamy pink, light brown, pastel, and beige that will complement any outfit look.
Choose powder-based makeup instead of cream-based as it holds up better in the humid weather. For your lips choose light-colored lip tints with a matte finish such as pink or brown shades. Gloss and cream-based lip colors tend to bleed out, so should not be used.
Finally, finish your make up with a setting spray so that it stays all day long, especially if you don’t have time to do touch-ups during your trip.
Conclusion
The most important thing to keep in mind while traveling is to keep a sunny disposition no matter what the weather is. You are traveling to relax and have fun, so don’t let a little bit of rain ruin your mood.
The rain is often part of the travel experience in many places. If you manage to carefully plan how to combat the rainy weather, the rain will add to the magic of your trip.
Learn to make the best of the weather and come prepared. This way, you will enjoy yourself and let the rainy weather wash away your worries, not your fun.