How to Stay Protected from the Rain in Northern France During Your Stay?

Flooded streets and traffic jams are just some of the things that make the rainy season really inconvenient on the Opal Coast, especially for working people.

But it's not enough to wake up two hours earlier or take detours to get to work on time, you also need to prepare for what the weather can do to your health.

According to the Ministry of Health, diarrhoea and other illnesses are common during the wet season. Just as it's well known that rain in the North can lower your mood. But the trickiest part is ending the day soaked after getting caught in a downpour… In this article, we'll give you tips to protect yourself from the rain every day.

1. Keep your umbrella within reach

As well as protecting you from the rain, umbrellas act as a shield against colds, coughs, fever and flu. It's your first step towards better health, so keep one in your bag every time you leave the house. If you'd like a more innovative and practical version, take a look at the chapeau parapluie, an improved umbrella. The umbrella hat lets you stay protected from the rain while keeping your hands free.

The umbrella hat is widely used by tourists, as shown in this photo taken on the Opal Coast.

2. Wear a raincoat

Gone are the days when the only raincoats we knew were those plastic ponchos you can buy at the corner shop. While they work most of the time, there are of course other options. Raincoats also come as foldable rain jackets and belted trench coats that can be both practical and stylish. If you can, find one with a large hood to protect your head, and a fairly roomy fit so you can always wear clothes underneath for extra warmth.

3. Leather, rubber or vinyl shoes

Although it can be very tempting to wear slippers in this weather, try not to. They offer very little protection or grip should you happen to slip from time to time. You also don't need to wear those incredibly bulky rain boots, especially if you're just popping into town in Wimereux. Instead, invest in leather boots or rubber and vinyl shoes, or any other waterproof pair you already have at home. As well as being effective protection against the rain, you can easily find styles that match the rest of your outfit.

4. Think about quick-drying clothes

Whether you're heading out for a museum visit or just a simple walk around town, it's essential to pack quick-drying clothes such as shirts and tights. When it rains, you can easily wear them without worrying about waiting a long time for them to dry in time to leave. You know the North and the Opal Coast… Rain can arrive quickly.

5. Small towels and paper tissues

These items are usually already provided in your accommodation if you've booked a rental, which saves you space in your personal luggage. Still, it's always best to have your own towels and packets with you, as you'll never know how quickly you'll use them.

6. Waterproof bags and other rain covers

Now that you're covered from head to toe, it's time to think about the rest of your belongings. For your phone, make sure you have a waterproof pouch with straps to keep it in. If you're carrying a bag that won't fit under your coat, give it a rain cover, which you can buy almost anywhere online and in department stores. There are also waterproof cases for your bulkier gadgets, like laptops, if you need to bring one. Finally, grab some reusable plastic bags to carry extra items you don't want to get wet, or to hold anything that didn't survive the rain.

7. Portable lighting

This isn't the most important point, as power cuts remain rare. If you're afraid of the dark or simply want to feel safer moving around the streets or your room, it's worth having a powerful torch or head torch. And don't forget to bring spare batteries!