improvised map cases

Check REI and other sources for a “brush-on” map water-proofing/sealant. Maps still remain flexible and can be folded, but are now essentially water-proofed. They also don’t rip along the folds as readily.

Two Sheets of “Contact” Paper (aka flexible sticky laminate) will keep it plenty dry if you allow a big enough overlap on the sides.

If you print your own you can get waterproof paper to print on. I generally print on both sides of the page to save weight and hassle. I use Maptech CD’s. They’re about $100 for all of Oregon in very high detail. 1:24,000. Other states are similar cost.

Carol,
Which brand of waterproof paper do you use?

I was thinking specifically of situations where larger number of maps are being carried at once. Like the Tom Harrison Maps for the JMT, 13 or so I believe. They are on full size waterproof paper already but they are such a beautiful set, I don’t want to damage(wrinkles,folds,etc.) them too much during use. Unfortunately I am hard on my gear but I’d like to be a little bit more respectful of it.

Most recently I got iGage. $37.99/100 sheets

http://www.waterproof-paper.com/weatherproof-paper.html

I get the 11″ x 17″ and take it down to Kinko’s to have them cut it in half.

I think next time I’ll get the Rite in the Rain since it’s cheaper. $29.99/200 sheets

http://www.waterproof-paper.com/rite-in-the-rain.html

The iGage is heavier than whatever I got previously (which I can’t remember).
The lighter weight stuff was fine.

Now here’s a glimps of the future:
http://news.com.com/Making+paper+waterproof–and+writable/2100-7337_3-5823337.html?tag=nefd.top