1. Prepare for the Worst
The Boy Scouts have the right idea when it comes to camping. Their motto, always be prepared, is the best way to prepare for a trip. You can check the weather reports and hear about calm seas or low-pressure systems and believe those forecasters, who have a tendency to be wrong a lot, or you can just prepare for any situation ahead of time. Carry rain gear and gear to protect you in high winds. Rain and wind are the biggest obstacles that can sour a camping trip faster than a black bear eating all your grub. Consider the worse case scenarios when packing for a camping trip.
2. Secure the Tent
The longer the stakes you carry, the better chance you have of saving your tent from being blown away in a storm. Tent stakes should be made of steel or heavy aluminum and be at least 12 to 18 inches long so that you can pound them deep into the earth. A t-shaped stake gives added protection and holding power. Don't forget to bring a mallet or axe with which to pound the stakes into hard ground. Open any air vents on the tent while you're riding out the storm to let some of the wind pass through.
3. Look for Natural Protection
If you expect winds to kick up during the night or if while hiking you get caught in a windstorm, then look for a place that will give you more natural protection from the high winds. Big rocks, caves and stands of thick trees can block some of the wind from blowing away all your gear, ending your camping trip. Stash any extra gear that will not fit inside your tent in a hole or under a rock.
4. Pack it in
Sometimes the weather drives you home anyway. If you are caught in a big storm and need to pack quickly, at least take enough time to inventory your supplies as you gather your gear. Hiking back to your transportation may require you to dig through that gear for the first-aid kit or food, so know where it is. Tie gloves or hats to your jacket so they don't get blown away as you retreat. Also be sure to unpack your tent and other gear that may have gotten wet as soon as you get home. Let your gear air out so that mold doesn't grow.
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