Rainy Day Commuter Gear to Protect and Keep You in Style

And let's face it, not even the fiercest downpour can keep the ever-determined Pinoy workforce at bay—unless we're talking about those instances that even lawyers would classify as an Act of God, like a super typhoon.

So, here's the drill:

Getting ready for these rainy days means gearing up, not just to battle the elements, but to safeguard our essentials without sacrificing style. We've all been there, lugging around those bulky, not-so-stylish rain gears that hardly scream convenience nor fashion. Now, imagine holding on to those on your Angkas rides in bad weather.

But it doesn't have to be that way. Let's explore some rainy-day commuter essentials that have got your back, both functionally and fashionably:

Portable Umbrellas

Caught in a sudden shower? A pocket umbrella becomes your impromptu shelter. Those long handle umbrellas might be sturdy but aren't exactly commuter friendly. Why not keep a compact two-fold or mini variant in your bag? These guys are so discreet and lightweight, you'll forget they're there until the clouds roll in.

• Tip: Longer handles and two-fold umbrellas can take on heavier rains, while three-fold and mini ones score high on portability.

Footwear Goes Waterproof

Ever toted around flip-flops to safeguard your cherished shoes from the onslaught of rain and street puddles? You're not alone. If your shoes are not water-resistant, there's a world of stylish, waterproof footwear options out there, from chic jelly sandals which are enjoying a fashion resurgence nowadays, to sneakers crafted from EVA material. And for your beloved non-waterproof shoes? You could definitely explore waterproofing sprays, but silicone rain shoe covers could be a game-changer, coming with the added bonus of being anti-slip.

Rain Jackets

There are definitely stylish rain jackets around, but they can definitely be bulky. Ever dressed for rain only to step into gloriously sunny weather by the time you reach your destination? That unpredictable weather is a daily script for the Metro Manila commuter. Enter packable jackets and ponchos—your weather-ready, lightweight allies that don’t demand extra baggage space.

Bag Raincoats and Backpack Covers

Did you know bag raincoats and backpack covers are a thing? Yes, and they're a lifesaver for those precious carryalls and tote bags we splurge on without caring whether they are waterproof or not. Choosing a bag can be a matter of style so for those rainy days that call for using your non-waterproof handbag, arm it with a bag raincoat. Carrying a backpack? Get backpack covers. Just put them on and simply remove them when you reach your destination. Or better yet, invest in a waterproof bag to keep all your gadgets and essentials dry and secure from the get-go.

Always have a back-up plan

Despite our best efforts, sometimes the rain gets the better of us anyway. Keeping a change of clothes and a towel on hand during typhoon season can make a world of difference, ensuring you're not caught off guard when the skies decide to open up.

Navigating through the rainy season with style and grace might seem like a tall order, but with the right gear at your disposal, it's perfectly manageable. So go ahead, embrace these rainy days with confidence, knowing you're fully equipped to stay dry, stylish, and prepared for whatever comes your way.

Prepare for whatever comes your way

Just as we keep ourselves dry and cozy with trusty rainy-day gears, it's equally important to consider another layer of protection for those truly unpredictable downpours in life. We are talking about insurance – think of it as that reliable umbrella that's always ready in your bag—there for you when the unexpected comes pouring down. You can pick from different plans and coverages that suit your needs and budget. A critical illness insurance plan like FWD Set for Health can cover you for up to 3x for future financial expenses if you get diagnosed with any of the 42 major critical illnesses. And the best part, if you never make a claim by age 75 then you get all your paid premiums back. If you are looking for complete coverage, FWD The One for Life allows you to choose the plan and riders that match your needs.

Just like the weather, life can be unpredictable. Being prepared for whatever comes your way is one of the smartest moves you can make. Getting insurance is not just about peace of mind and knowing that you're prepared for those "just in case" moments, but also about preparing for the future financially.

Embracing insurance as part of your life’s toolkit is perhaps the most reassuring and sensible strategy you can adopt, that you’ll thank yourself for later. Because at the end of the day, it's all about ensuring that you’re protected, rain or shine.

Helpful links:

Waterproof footwear: EVA shoes , Jelly Sandals and Rain Shoe Covers
Bag Protectors: Handbag Raincoats and Backpack Covers
Portable Rain Jackets: Packable Rain Jackets and Multi-use Rain Coats
Umbrellas: Long handle, Two-fold, Three-fold and Mini