Commuting during the rainy season is absolutely no fun at all. It’s so difficult to keep a happy disposition when you’re braving the city’s dirty, flooded, and critter-infested streets in the middle of a heavy downpour. No wonder everyone on the road seems to become a tad crankier as the rain gets stronger.

Yes, pounding the city streets during a storm can be disheartening, but you shouldn’t let the rainy season’s gloom get to you! While commuting during a rain might never be fun, these simple measures will certainly ensure that you’ll have an easier time.

1. AVOID THE RUSH HOUR.
Heavy rains tend to make commuting extra difficult. Avoid the added hassle by steering clear of the 7:00 A.M. and the 6:00 P.M. crowd of commuters, lest you find yourself waiting for hours under the rain just to hop on a bus, a jeepney, or an FX.

2. WEAR WATERPROOF SHOES.
Rubber slippers may be a rainy day staple, but they're not exactly presentable for the office. Luckily, there are a lot of more stylish, water-resistant options out there for the fashionista commuter: dainty rubber flats, cute rain boots, and even plastic wedges. They'll keep your feet dry and cozy, and they're super comfy, too!

3. INVEST IN A STURDY UMBRELLA.
While folding umbrellas are very convenient, a lot of them also tend to be very flimsy, so make sure that yours can handle the Philippines’ crazy rainy season. Trust us, you don’t want your umbrella turning upside down or falling apart in the middle of a downpour.

4. KNOW WHERE TO GO IN CASE YOU GET STRANDED.
If you’re living in a flood-prone area, don’t hesitate to seek refuge for a night or two at the house of a relative or a close friend during a storm. They’ll surely understand your situation, especially since the alternative would mean that you would have to tread knee or waist-deep waters just to get home. You can always return their hospitality by bringing them food or a token for their home.

(Photo by tschundler via Flickr Creative Commons)