When I dream of travel, a rainy day is never part of the plan. And yet… Mother Nature doesn’t always consult my itinerary. (Rude!) That’s why my #1 travel packing tip is simple: don’t leave home without a raincoat.
A raincoat seems like such an easy thing to remember—but somehow, it’s also one of the easiest items to forget, especially when the weather at home is perfectly fine. Over the years, though, I’ve learned that packing a raincoat is one of my smartest travel essentials. Whether it’s tucked into a suitcase, slipped into a backpack, or tossed in the backseat, my raincoat has been the MVP of many trips.
Plan for Unpredictable Weather While Traveling
Let’s be real—weather is always unpredictable even on vacation. And since crossing my fingers has never worked reliably, I always plan for the possibility of rain.
If you’ve read this far, you might be wondering, “What is up with this girl and her raincoat?”
The answer is simple: experience.
I’ve encountered rain in Ireland, England, Canada, and more than a few tropical island ports while cruising. The most memorable (and intense) rainstorms were in Scotland and Italy, where torrential downpours nearly ruined the trip. While it wasn’t ideal to explore St. Andrews Cathedral or spend our final day in Venice under heavy rain, having the right travel rain gear meant I could still explore instead of missing out.
Think Layers When Packing for Travel
When packing for a trip, I always consider the temperatures and conditions I might encounter and plan to pack layers for travel. Sometimes it’s not rain but wind, cold, and damp air that makes sightseeing uncomfortable. A simple combination of a tee shirt, sweatshirt, and a raincoat as a top insulating layer can make all the difference.
If the weather improves, I layer down and stash the extra piece in my day bag—one of my favorite travel comfort tips for staying warm without overpacking.
What Kind of Raincoat Is Best for Travel?
The most important feature of a great raincoat is simple: it must be waterproof.
When shopping for the best raincoat for travel, look specifically for the word waterproof. Don’t confuse it with water-resistant or water-repellent. A truly waterproof raincoat allows rain to roll right off instead of soaking in. It will dry quickly, often just needing a good shake, and most importantly, keeps you dry during sightseeing days.
My favorite raincoat has snaps in just the right places, deep pockets, and a hood that actually stays in place in the wind. And yes, a high-quality raincoat may cost a little more, but it’s one of the most worthwhile travel gear investments you can make.
The Best Way to Pack a Raincoat
Keep your raincoat easily accessible when traveling, especially if the forecast is uncertain. Pack it in your carry-on or in the outside pocket of your suitcase so it’s handy if it’s raining when you arrive. While exploring, stash your raincoat in the bottom of your day bag so you can grab it at the first sprinkle.
My advice? Try to resist thinking, “Oh, it’s not going to rain.” Trust me—it’s far better to carry a raincoat and not need it than to need one and wish you had packed it. I’ll admit, I’ve packed my raincoat and never used it—but when the weather turns, I’m always grateful it’s part of my travel packing checklist.
I wish you endless sunshine on your travels—but if not, at least you’ll be prepared.
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