Rain can make a camping trip tough, especially if unprepared or trying to set up in the rain. Many things can go wrong: you can find that all your clean clothing got wet. It’s practically impossible to cook anything to eat. And waking up in the puddle of mud can hardly be called a pleasant experience.
However, trips into the wilderness involve bad weather. If you avoid it, you’ll make an awful lot fewer trips. And many hardcore campers admit that some of the greatest memories are made while camping in crappy weather.
One of the ways to stay dry while engaging in your ordinary camping activities is to hang on to tactical poncho. But there are many of those. And some don’t really live up to their marketing promises.
That is why I thought it would be not a bad idea to check out the merch they have on Amazon and pick the most decent options for an extra wet camping trip.
If you are here just for a quick suggestion, I’d say go for one. It’s a good value, seriously waterproof, can be used as a blanket, and even has a heat reflective lining. It will protect you from over-sweating issues (sometimes you can get really sweaty in those ponchos).
But stick around if you can. I’ve looked into dozens of products in the category and shortlisted 7 of those. And since I’ve spent about 20 hours on this research, I hope you’ll find at least a few of the suggestions below worth considering (and save yourself some time).
Do you have a particular question about tactical ponchos? Then use the table of contents below to jump to the most relevant section. And you can always go back by clicking on the black arrow in the right bottom corner of the page. Also, please note that some of the links in this article may be affiliate links. For more details, check the Disclosure section at the bottom of the page.
Here's what we'll cover:
Best Tactical Poncho: Top Choice
Do you love feeling like a hero with a hidden identity? This poncho will surely make you feel like one and even can be your savior in the hardest situations. It’s made of 100% waterproof and windproof material. And it can be pretty useful next time you are about to brave through the harsh weather.
If you are someone that doesn’t like that hooded look, this tactical poncho snaps at the neck to make up for a hoodless option. Now, most ponchos tend to trap in heat within and make you sweat like nothing. I surely had suffered through the same when it was raining outside as well as inside.
This backfires, especially when you are someone who suffers from hyperhidrosis (a disease in which one suffers from excessive sweating). As per the latest statistics, about 4.8% population in the United States suffers from this sweating issue.
However, this head-to-toe poncho by Mambe comes with a heat reflective lining to protect you from over-sweating issues. If you have plans to spend some time out in bad weather, try this out, and you will love it for sure.
Pros
- Comes with internal pockets for storage requirements or keeping the hands warm
- Flaunts a range of sizes including small, petite, as well as extra tall
- Doubles up as a sturdy blanket
- Withstands windy, cold, as well as wet conditions
- Interior created from thick, soft, and warm, fleece (Polartec300)
Cons
- Cannot be washed by hand, machine wash only
- Pricing is on the higher end
Best poncho liner
Poncho+poncho liner combination can do more than just protect you from rains or any adverse situations. This military field gear, also known by the name “woobie blanket,” is the ultimate outdoor camping piece and survival gear.
The makers, USGI Industries, bring a multi-purpose poncho liner created from tightly woven and insulated nylon fabric.
This nylon fabric is reinforced with quick-drying polyester and wave-pattern, long-lasting quilting. This special poncho liner flaunts a compression design to help reduce the volume and space.
Pros
- Comes with eight tie cord pairs for a secure fit
- Quick-dry material for use as a bleach blanket
- Can be used as a makeshift shelter for survival needs
- Doesn’t restrict free movement in any way
Cons
- Seams tend to come off way too soon
Best rain poncho
This rain poncho by Act Fire is an ideal item for an extra nasty day to stay dry and warm. It’s super compact, so it can be carried around anywhere as per requirement, especially if you are backpacking a lot. At the same time, the extra-large size of this military raincoat poncho ensures that you do not run short when trying to save yourself from heavy rain.
Pros
- Built with a high-grade waterproof material that also resists abrasion
- Uses W/P 20000mm coating material as opposed to normal raincoats that use W/P 2000mm
- Flaunts steel grommets paired with a durable cord design
- Can be used as a shelter tent, survival rain gear, tarp, or sleeping bag
Cons
- Peeling can be seen on the upper side of the material after regular use
Lightweight poncho
Your poncho doesn’t have to be heavy to protect you from heavy rains or other issues that might surface during a tactical situation. It’s made from 100% polypropylene material, the Frogg Toggs rain poncho is just what you need for a quick backpacking session through rough terrains.
It can easily be packed into your bag without taking up much space in your backpack. It also comes with an adjustable hood that can be secured with the help of high-quality cord locks. Very handy!
Pros
- Comes with side snaps to ensure added protection
- Paired with a stuff sack to help carry additional items
- Available in four different colors
- Waterproof design with breathable material
- The inner layer comes with a soft feel
Cons
- Snaps get loose after frequent use
Camouflage poncho
This poncho can not only protect you from the heavy rains or help you keep snug during harsh weather. It can also do a great job of hiding you from the predators lurking in the wild while you light up that campfire.
Yes, the Seal3 Rain Poncho is a fantastic item that works well in a range of weather. The manufacturer offers 4-different camouflage patterns along with two bright color options. This one-size-fits-all poncho is ideal for backpack trips, survival emergencies, or hunting trips.
Pros
- Works amazingly as a backup tent
- Ideal for anyone higher than 4 feet in height
- Zippered neckline for ease of wearability
- Keeps your neck dry and warm
- Built-in billed hood to help keep the face dry
Cons
- Zippers might not be of the long-lasting variant
Best inexpensive rain poncho
Well, quality sure does come at a price, but with that being said, it doesn’t always have to be an expensive tag. And that’s the case of this hooded rain poncho.
The poncho flaunts a pull-on closure design that is easy to wear without struggling as the rain is pouring down. It’s made of high-quality waterproof polyester fabric (hence the price), but it surely gets a job done (and you don’t have to break the bank!)
Pros
- Lightweight and eco-friendly design
- Durable and breathable design
- Highly portable
- Pullover design with high-quality buttons included
Cons
- The material can be smelly
Best disposable rain poncho
If you don’t want anything fancy and just looking for a cheap, disposable rain poncho for your next trip, this option by Hagon Pro fits the bill. These are 50% thicker than your average poncho in the same category. So there’s a better chance that you’ll stay 100% dry.
Pros
- Easily fits into your pocket, backpack, or wallet
- Heavy-duty design with no need for an umbrella
- Free-size design that fits anyone
- Comes in a range of colors
- No sauna effect from overheating or over sweating
Cons
- Lacks a drawstring around its hood area
- Lacks any elastic wrapping action around the arms
Frequently Asked Questions about tactical ponchos
What is the difference between rain ponchos, rain jackets, and rain suits?
Ponchos are designed to help you through survival and emergency situations. It isn’t something you get with rain jackets or rain suits. They are also ideal for hikes, given that those stay close to your body for better movement.
How to avoid your poncho from flapping in a windy situation?
To avoid a flapping poncho, you can use a string to tie around the waist or any location that has been flapping like crazy. However, high-quality ponchos come with durable strings attached to different strategic ends to avoid any flapping.
What is so great about a poncho liner?
A poncho liner goes just below your regular poncho to help make things warmer for you. Basically, it is a 2nd level added to the poncho. There are many other ways to use your poncho liner. You can use it as a sleeping bag, blanket, pillow, seat cushion, etc.
Credits: Thanks for the photo to Canva.
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