During hunting season in Indiana, the weather changes constantly. In order to be prepared for anything, I pack a light rain suit (Frogg Toggs) that takes up very little space and is easy to carry. However, when the rain starts to fall, pulling the rain pants over my boots can be a problem.
Taking my boots off and standing on wet ground is not an option. Putting my big ol’ dirty boot through the pant legs makes a mess. I have found that carrying a few plastic grocery bags (which are handy in a multitude of ways) allows me to put a bag over my boot and then pull the rain pants over that leg. The bag slides easily through the leg of the rain pants without snagging, and it keeps the water, mud and debris off the inside of the rain pants.
Lean against a tree for balance, slip a bag over one boot and put it through the pant leg. Remove the bag before putting your foot onto the ground to avoid getting mud and debris on the outside of the bag. Bag the other boot and repeat the process. In a snap you are standing on the ground pulling up your rain pants.
Shake the water and dirt out of the bag, put it back into your pack and dispose of it when you get back to camp. When you are shopping for rain gear, keep this tip in mind and look for pants that have a leg wide enough to accommodate your boot size.
Editor’s note: The plastic bag trick also works for donning a damp wetsuit.
Great idea. I have struggled for years with this issue when such a simple solution was always right at hand. Thanks.
Plastic bags are used from long time by Santiag Boots sellers
I’m glad I thought of this. Just kidding. This is a great idea! Now if I can remember the dang bags.
one of those “why didn’t I Think of that” ideas. Thanks for the tip
The simplest ideas seem to be the best ones, and this one for boots with rain paints is a great one!! (and humbling … that it never occurred to me!)
This is a great idea. Funny how we never think of these simple little tricks. The dive masters taught us this when we used to dive Cozumel Mexico. I thought to myself at the time. Why couldn’t you have figured this one out.
Great idea! I’m going to take a couple of plastic bags and fold them up with my Frogg Toggs overalls, so that they’re there when I need them.
Everyone is saying this is a Great idea. I’m going to say it’s a very very good idea – Thanks
Very, very, very good idea.
We hunt a property with multiple creek crossings. I have used your “bag trick” for years putting on any outer lay of insulated (or waterproof) gear before “treeing up”.
Keeps the inside clean and dry.
Thanks for sharing!