How to Bike in the Rain Without Arriving Like a Drowned Squirrel

Riding your bike in the rain isn't ideal—but sometimes, it's your only option. And honestly? With the right gear and a few smart habits, you can show up to class or work without looking like you crawled out of a storm drain.

Here’s how to stay (mostly) dry, ride safely, and not feel like a soggy disaster all day.

What to Keep at Home (or in Your Backpack) for Rainy Bike Days:

1. A Good Rain Jacket or Poncho

  • Lightweight, waterproof, and ideally with a hood that fits under your helmet
  • A poncho covers more of your legs and backpack but can flap around—try both and see what works for you
  • Bonus: bright colors or reflective strips = visibility

2. Waterproof Pants or a Change of Bottoms

  • Rain pants are amazing if you’re biking often
  • Or keep a dry pair of leggings, jeans, or joggers in your backpack or at work/class

3. Plastic Bags (Trust Me)

  • For your wet jacket or poncho once you arrive
  • For your shoes if you bring dry ones to change into
  • Also great for separating soaked stuff from electronics

4. A Backpack Rain Cover or Dry Bag

  • Keeps your laptop/notes/phone from becoming toast
  • Or line your backpack with a plastic bag in a pinch

5. Gloves (Water-Resistant if You Can Swing It)

  • Cold wet hands = miserable
  • Even cheap knit gloves help cut the wind

6. Fenders for Your Bike

  • No fenders = the dreaded mud stripe up your back
  • They’re cheap and easy to install—worth it!

How to Ride Safely in the Rain:

  • Go Slower – Wet roads = less traction
  • Brake Earlier – Brakes take longer to engage when wet
  • Watch for Oil Slicks – Especially at intersections
  • Avoid Painted Lines and Metal (Manhole Covers, Grates) – These get super slippery
  • Be Visible – Use lights and wear bright or reflective gear
  • Take Turns Wider and Slower – Lean less, steer more
  • Check Tire Pressure – Slightly lower pressure can improve grip

At Your Destination: What to Do With All Your Wet Gear

  • Bring a plastic bag for your poncho or jacket
  • Hang up your gear if there’s a rack, back of a chair, or spare cubby
  • Stash wet gloves or socks in a baggie to keep your backpack dry
  • If you're doing this often, keep a small “bike commute box” with extra socks, deodorant, and a towel at your locker/desk/dorm

Grab our free Rainy Day Bike Commuter Checklist + Tips on our FREE Resources page

And for more real-life hacks to help you thrive on your own, grab a copy of Unsolicited Advice for the High School Graduate: A Practical Guide for Becoming Independent

 

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