Taking a few minutes to clean and dry gear after a trip can prevent unpleasant surprises next time.
Post-trip checklist
- Dry the tent and rainfly: Air them thoroughly, including seams and groundsheet, before storage.
- Loft the sleeping bag: Store it loosely in a breathable sack or as the manufacturer recommends, not tightly compressed for months.
- Maintain the water filter: Follow the exact maker’s cleaning, sanitizing and storage instructions. Some filters should not be air-dried internally or treated with tap water in the same way as others.
- Clean metal gear: Remove dirt and moisture; use an appropriate corrosion inhibitor on suitable metal surfaces, avoiding food-contact contamination.
- Check the next-trip kit: Replace used first-aid supplies and inspect batteries, straps and seals.
Good gear care is less glamorous than buying something new, but it helps protect your investment.
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