Back from a damp walk? Don’t leave your jacket scrunched in the bottom of your rucksack. Even when the outside looks dry, cuffs, pockets and folds can hold moisture.
Take it out as soon as you get home. Empty the pockets, open the zip and spread the jacket on a suitable hanger or drying rack so air can circulate. Turn out damp pocket linings where practical, and give the cuffs and hood room to dry.
Check the care label before using heat or washing products. A radiator might seem like a shortcut, but direct heat may not suit the garment. Let it dry thoroughly before folding it away.
Finally, check for mud around the hem and fastenings so it doesn’t sit there until your next outing.
Field tip: Unpack, open, air. Your next walk starts with how you finish this one.