How and where to pack waterproof jackets
By: Andrew Forrest - January 2025
Packing a waterproof jacket efficiently saves space, provides quick access, and protects it. This guide will walk you through the best methods for packing a waterproof jacket while keeping it functional and easily accessible when needed.
Table of contents
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Why packing a waterproof jacket efficiently matters
- Space-saving: Outdoor gear quickly fills a backpack, and an efficiently packed waterproof jacket helps free up space for other essentials.
- Quick access: While walking in the UK, rain can pour anytime, especially here in the Northwest! Keeping your jacket accessible can prevent a wet and uncomfortable experience.
- Protecting the material: Proper packing prevents creases that could compromise waterproof membranes, maintaining your jacket's functionality.
- Gear Separation: Storing a wet jacket properly ensures the rest of your gear remains dry and clean.
Step-by-step guide: How to pack a waterproof jacket
1. Clean and dry your jacket
Before packing, ensure your jacket is:
- Clean: Dirt and grime can damage the waterproof coating over time.
- Dry: Damp jackets can lead to mildew or odours. If you must pack it wet, use a waterproof bag to contain moisture, and then ensure you dry it fully as soon as possible.
- Check out our guide on how to clean and reproof your waterproof jacket, from a jacket that doesn't repel water to one that beads and repels.
2. Choose your packing method
The best method depends on your priorities - space-saving, quick access, or minimising damage to other gear.
Method 1: Folding for a flat pack
Best for organised compartments or stacking alongside other gear.
- Lay flat: Spread the jacket on a flat surface, smoothing out wrinkles.
Mountain Equipment Lhotse jacket before being folded
- Fold sleeves: Fold the sleeves inward along the jacket's length.
Mountain Equipment Lhotse jacket with arms folded inwards
- Halve it: Fold the jacket in half vertically.
Mountain Equipment Lhotse waterproof jacket folded in half
- Create a rectangle: Fold again horizontally to create a compact, flat shape.
Mountain Equipment Lhotse waterproof jacket folded, ready for packing flat
Best for: Storing in flat compartments or packing with other folded clothes.
Folded waterproof jacket and flat backpack
Method 2: Rolling for minimal bulk
It is ideal for ultralight packing or tight spaces. I normally use this method, and depending on which jacket I have with me, I put it in the
hooded/lid pocket of my backpack or on towards the top, inside the backpack itself.
- Lay flat: Smooth the jacket on a flat surface.
Mountain Equipment Lhotse jacket before being folded for rolling
- Fold in sleeves and fold in half: Tuck the sleeves into the jacket.
Mountain Equipment Lhotse jacket with arms folded inwards, ready for folding
Mountain Equipment Lhotse waterproof jacket folded in half, ready for rolling
- Roll tightly: Roll from the hood or top to the hem.
Mountain Equipment Lhotse jacket rolled and secured with a band
- Secure the roll: Use elastic bands, straps, or the jacket's built-in cords to keep the roll compact.
Best for: Side pockets, tight spaces, or ultralight setups.
Method 3: Using a built-in pack pocket
Some waterproof jackets come with a built-in stuff sack or pack pocket.
- Locate the pack pocket: Find the built-in storage pouch, usually marked on the jacket.
- Stuff or fold: Fold the jacket to fit neatly into the pocket or stuff it in, depending on the design.
Waterproof jacket compared to the size of the can it packs down to when stuffed into the jacket pocket
- Secure it: Zip or close the pocket to keep the jacket compact.
Waterproof jacket in its stuff pocket with the zip closed, next to a can showing the small packed size
Best for: Lightweight jackets and those designed for portability.
3. Store in a waterproof bag
Even though the jacket itself is waterproof, storing it in a waterproof bag has advantages:
- Keeps gear dry: It prevents moisture transfer to other items in your backpack when you take them off. I always take two dry bags, one for my jacket and one for my trousers. My trousers always get dirtier and muddier than my jacket, so I like to keep them apart.
- Quick access: A separate bag lets you grab the jacket without rummaging through your pack.
- Additional protection: Shields the jacket from sharp objects or dirt.
Recommended Bags:
- Lightweight dry sacks.
- Compression sacks for added space-saving.
Position strategically in your backpack
Where you store your waterproof jacket depends on the weather forecast and your planned activities.
- For quick access: Place it near the top of your backpack or in an external pocket.
- For long trips: Store in a mid-layer of your pack if rain is unlikely, prioritising other essential hiking gear on top.
Additional tips for packing waterproof jackets
- Practice packing at home:
- Familiarize yourself with folding, rolling, or using the pack pocket before your trip to find what works best for your gear and backpack and what order to pack them in.
- Choose lightweight and packable jackets:
- Opt for jackets with compressible designs for easy packing. My summer waterproof is far more packable and lighter than my winter waterproof.
- Avoid prolonged compression:
- If stored tightly packed for extended periods, check for creases that may damage the waterproof coating. Always unpack on your return and hang up your waterproof jacket to maintain its shape and ensure the waterproof membrane isn't creased.
- Keep it separate if muddy:
- After wet or muddy use, store in a dedicated dry bag to keep dirt away from clean clothes.
Packing waterproof jackets - a summary
Efficiently packing your waterproof jacket is key to being prepared for unpredictable weather. Whether you fold, roll, or use a built-in pack
pocket, the goal is to make the jacket compact, accessible, and protected. Pair these techniques with strategic placement in your backpack, and
you'll always be ready to face the elements.
Happy walking!
January 2025
