>>2576625There are several things that need to be waterproof.
Your shelter (tent) should be waterproof when you buy it. If you go really cheap, you can buy a product called Seem Seal (I think it’s just silicone, but I’m not certain) to brush onto the seams of your tent to waterproof it. They’re made of waterproof fabric, but the seams sometimes aren’t. Tarps are great as well, as they give a living space that isn’t totally enclosed like a tent. Again, the fabric is waterproof but the seams might not be. And I’m not talking about the blue hardware store tarps.
The easiest way to protect the items in your backpack is to line the inside of it with a trash compactor garbage bag. A contractor bag works as well, but they’re usually much bigger. It’s a cheap, simple solution that nearly everyone with half a brain does. Your pack gets wet but the contents stay bone dry.
You’ll want a small, waterproof bag for your food. It’s always best to hang your food and toiletries from a tree, even if there aren’t bears in your area (rodents are a bigger problem). You don’t want your food rained on.
As for keeping yourself dry, it really depends on temperature, wind, and the type of rain storm. A safe bet is a poncho, because they’re cheap, work well in milder showers, and are well ventilated for warmer temps.
Or just go out when it’s not going to rain and figure it out later.
