Trail notes

Rain Check: Keeping a Roof Bag Dry

How our bags keep water out, and how to help them.

Three lines of defense

• The shell: coated PVC tarpaulin that water can't soak through.
• The seams: heat-welded instead of stitched, so there are no needle holes.
• The zipper: covered by a storm flap or 6-inch Velcro flaps.

Your part

1. Close the zipper all the way and press the flap flat along its whole length.
2. Point the zipper side away from the prevailing rain if you park for a long time.
3. Pack a sleeping bag in a trash bag if it absolutely cannot get damp; belt and suspenders.
4. After the trip, let the bag dry open before folding it away.