Well that's too bad. You can never tell how another person hikes until you hike once with them. I don't like to invite new people to join a planned hike unless I know for sure they are able to make it. But I guess someone has to give them that first chance.
Too bad about your gear getting wet. A trash bag will do the job when the pack is just sitting. If you are carrying the pack in a storm, then you need something that accommodates the straps.
