11 Best Waterproof Backpack Selections To Stay Dry And Adventure On

Last Updated 24 Apr 2024 by Fiona Perisone

EDITOR'S PICKS

Recommended
bes overall     
YETI Panga Series Airtight Waterproof Backpack thumbnail

4.9/5

  • It can handle any outdoor trip or adventure
  • Well-made and stylish
  • Made to last
  • It has an excellent space for storage
Recommended
best value      
Breakwater Supply Meanhigh Dry Bag Waterproof Backpack thumbnail

4.7/5

  • Perfect for swimming. It can be used as a diving bag or a surf backpack.
  • Versatile enough to be used for dry and wet adventures
  • Roomy interior
Recommended
most budget-friendly
Earth Pak Waterproof Backpack thumbnail

4.7/5

  • Perfect for traveling, kayaking, biking, commuting, camping, and fishing
  • Heavy-duty bag at a low cost
  • Provides ultimate comfort while traveling
  • Compact and lightweight

MORE PICKS TO CHOOSE FROM

A waterproof backpack is a must-have item for any adventure seeker. Designed to keep the contents inside dry and protected, even in the harshest conditions. These backpacks are made from durable, water-resistant materials that prevent water from seeping through and damaging your valuable items. Plus, with a waterproof backpack, you'll have peace of mind knowing that your gear is protected from rain, snow, and even the occasional river dunk. Whether you're an avid hiker, camper, or kayaker, a waterproof backpack is an essential gear that will prepare you for any outdoor challenge.

To help you shop, we have rounded up the best waterproof backpacks below. With these waterproof backpacks, you can say goodbye to soggy clothes, damaged electronics, and ruined memories.

What Is the Difference Between A Waterproof Backpack And Water Resistant Backpack

Waterproof and water-resistant backpacks are two different things, and it's important to understand the difference between them before committing. The main difference between waterproof and water-resistant backpacks is the level of protection they offer against water. A waterproof backpack is designed to keep the contents inside completely dry, even if the backpack is fully submerged in water. It's like a regular backpack with a waterproof rain cover over it and waterproof zippers, seals, and more. On the other hand, a water-resistant backpack is designed to resist water to a certain extent, but it may not keep the contents inside completely dry if exposed to heavy rain or submersion in water.

What to Look for in a Waterproof Backpack

Waterproof backpacks come in all sorts of shapes, designs, and prices. Before you go searching for one, consider the following factors. With this knowledge, you can zero in on a backpack that suits your needs.

Durability

With any good purchase, you want something that lasts and can handle the elements. Find out what kind of protective measures are used in the pack's construction. These include things like anti-rip materials, waterproofing methods, secure sealants/closures, denier (fiber thickness of individual threads) strength, extra provided rain covers or warranties, etc.

Intended Activity

Speaking of activities, this is another factor to consider seriously. For example, a waterproof backpack designed for rainy commutes or travel is certainly different from a heavy-duty fly fishing backpack used in the middle of a river. While both packs' #1 focus is to keep your belongings safe from the elements, the intended activity greatly influences their usability.

Most urban backpacks might come with spots or loops for bike lights and laptop sleeves, whereas an outdoor-focused one will have gear loops and a totally different structure and capacity. That said, take a good look at the compartments/pockets, capacity (liters), and the overall organization of the inside of the pack to ensure it can do what you need.

Comfort

No one likes carrying anything for long, so make it as comfortable as possible. While finding comfortable padded straps is always an easy component to hunt for, be sure to also look for hip and chest straps as well for extra support.

Extra straps and an overall ergonomic design will help create equal weight distribution across your back. Finding that balance is essential, especially if your waterproof bag is heavy. That said, make sure you can handle the weight of whatever you stuff in there; it's not worth hurting yourself over.

Storage Capacity

Consider how much gear you need to carry and choose a backpack with enough storage space to accommodate your needs. Look for backpacks with multiple pockets, including a large main compartment, specialized pockets for specific gear, and exterior pockets for quick access items.

Budget

Like anything you use your money towards, be sure to stay within your budget. There will always be pricier and cheaper options, but if you keep to a range you can swallow (while checking online reviews), there's less chance you'll fall out of love with your pick.

By researching and prioritizing the factors above, you should have no problem finding exactly what you are looking for in a waterproof backpack. To simplify your search even more, check out the ones we've picked below. Happy hunting!

11 Best Waterproof Backpacks for All-Weather Adventures

YETI Panga Series Airtight Waterproof Backpack

Best Overall

overall 

4.9/5

Quality

Durability

Ease of Use

Comfort

YETI Panga Series Airtight Waterproof Backpack

Features:

  • Ergonomic shoulder straps
  • Removable chest straps and waist belt
  • Puncture- and abrasion-resistant
  • Airtight, submersible and waterproof

Yeti, yet again, proves itself to be a high-quality brand you can trust to keep your valuables safe. If you are looking for the ultimate solution for your outdoor storage needs, look no further than YETI Panga Series Airtight Waterproof Backpack. YETI Panga Series Airtight Waterproof Backpack is designed to provide the ultimate protection for your gear, no matter where your adventures take you. The backpack can keep items safe from drastic conditions, like thunderous downpours, thanks to its Hydrolok zipper and Thickskin shell. This shell is made of high-density nylon and thick TPU lamination for resisting punctures and abrasions.

Not only does this 28L pack have durable DryHaul shoulder straps, but it also has removable chest and waist straps for added stability and comfort. You can sling extra gear through the exterior gear loops if it doesn't all fit in the pack. It has a mesh pocket and a sleeve on the inside for organizational needs. Lastly, the Panga is not just your safest option but also a pretty good-looking one as well. Whether you are looking for a good hiking backpack or water sport backpack, the YETI Panga Series Bags may just be your answer.

Material

Nylon, TPU, Mesh

Item Weight

6.1 pounds

Cargo Capacity

28 liters

Dimensions

28” x 15.5” x 11”

Pros:

  • It can handle any outdoor trip or adventure
  • Well-made and stylish
  • Made to last
  • It has an excellent space for storage

Cons:

  • Expensive
  • Zipper can easily break

Breakwater Supply Meanhigh Dry Bag Waterproof Backpack

Best Value

overall 

4.7/5

Quality

Durability

Ease of Use

Comfort

Breakwater Supply Meanhigh Dry Bag Waterproof Backpack

Features:

  • Waterproof
  • Ergonomic lightweight shoulder straps and chest strap
  • Large mesh pocket
  • Side pockets for water bottles

If you're looking for a waterproof backpack that will keep your gear protected and accessible, look no further than the Breakwater Supply Dry Bag Waterproof Rolltop Backpack. For under $60, you can have this waterproof backpack. Perfect for kayaking, surfing, boating, diving, hiking, biking, and even motorcycling outings. The side water bottle pockets make this bag one of the best hiking backpacks options, as it offers convenience and accessibility.

Designed to provide the ultimate protection for your gear with its waterproof rolltop construction and fully-sealed design. It is built with mesh water bottle pockets on the side, a mesh front pocket perfect for air-drying things, ergonomic s-curve straps, reflective elements, a chest strap with a whistle, a lash tab, and a roll top. To sweeten the deal, it's made of lightweight PVC and non-chafing padding for ultimate carrying comfort.

Material

PVC tarpaulin, mesh, Neoprene Padding

Item Weight

2 pounds

Cargo Capacity

25 liters

Dimensions

10" l x 6" w x 17" h

Pros:

  • Perfect for swimming. It can be used as a diving bag or a surf backpack.
  • Versatile enough to be used for dry and wet adventures
  • Roomy interior
  • Sleek design

Cons:

  • You can't sink it underwater

Earth Pak Waterproof Backpack

Most Budget-Friendly

overall 

4.7/5

Quality

Durability

Ease of Use

Comfort

Earth Pak Waterproof Backpack

Features:

  • 100% waterproof
  • Ergonomic padded back panel
  • Padded straps
  • Heavy-duty waistbelt

For those looking to not break the bank but still get a good waterproof backpack, the Earth Pak is our pick for you! This 500D PVC pack comes in 3 sizes: 35 (perfect carry-on size), 55, and 85 liters, and it absolutely will keep your items safe with its roll-top and reinforced strip, and it can float!

For comfort, the Earth Pak has a cushioned ergonomic back panel, lightly padded shoulder straps, and a waist belt. For added safety, it not only has a reflector strip on it but also comes with a free waterproof phone case! Storage-wise, it's built with two lash tabs, a front zipper compartment on the outside for quick grab-and-go items, and other various pockets out/inside (and a key ring).

Material

PVC, Nylon lining

Item Weight

N/A

Cargo Capacity

35 liters

Dimensions

N/A

Pros:

  • Perfect for traveling, kayaking, biking, commuting, camping, and fishing
  • Heavy-duty bag at a low cost
  • Provides ultimate comfort while traveling
  • Compact and lightweight

Cons:

  • When full, the bag can be quite heavy.
  • Zipper is not durable

Adventure Pro Waterproof Day Pack

Most Versatile

overall 

4.2/5

Quality

Durability

Ease of Use

Comfort

Adventure Pro Waterproof Day Pack

Features:

  • Supertough RF-welded seam technology
  • Roll-top closure with Velcro and TPU film
  • Front mesh shove-it pocket with buckle
  • Dual side straps with double daisy chains and D-buckles

The Adventure Pro Waterproof Day Pack may just be the ultimate solution for all your outdoor adventures. Designed to take on the toughest outdoor challenges and keep your gear protected from the elements, this backpack is made for everything and to endure it all. This 26-liter pack not only features a roll-top with a side strap and velcro for extra compression but is also made of 420D TPU-coated double rip-stop nylon to make sure that your goods are safe in any scenario, especially water-based activities. With its durable, waterproof materials and fully-sealed construction, you can be confident that your gear will stay dry, no matter what Mother Nature throws your way.

Adventure Pro has also gone to lengths to ensure comfort with its ultralight construction, quick-dry shoulder straps, and sternum strap. It additionally comes with D buckles for extra exterior gear to be brought and a mesh front pocket that's ideal for a water bottle. Whether you're hiking in the mountains, kayaking down a river, or just exploring a new city, this backpack is the perfect solution for your active lifestyle.

Material

420-denier TPU-coated double ripstop nylon

Item Weight

1.75 pounds

Cargo Capacity

26 Liters

Dimensions

20" L x 12.75" W x 7" D

Pros:

  • Sturdy and durable
  • Excellent capacity and material quality
  • Quick-drying and 100% waterproof

Cons:

  • It's not comfortable for others
  • Some may find the bag too bulky

Black Diamond Creek Transit Backpack

Best for Weekend Trips

overall 

4.5/5

Quality

Durability

Ease of Use

Comfort

Black Diamond Creek Transit Backpack

Features:

  • Padded laptop sleeve
  • Zippered internal organizer pocket
  • Top access

The Black Diamond Creek Transit Backpack is designed for urban adventurers who demand style, functionality, and protection for their gear. Specifically, this pack includes urban features such as a padded laptop sleeve and reflective webbing, which make urban commuting and weekend adventure packing a breeze. Whether it's commuting to work or just running errands around town, this backpack will be your go-to for all your urban adventures.

But don't let its sleek looks and urban features fool you. The backpack is made from durable and weather-resistant materials, ensuring that your gear stays safe and dry, no matter the conditions. Featuring a zip internal organizer pocket for safe stow items, a mountain exploration-inspired design (with a top "brain" pocket), a zip internal organizer pocket for safe stow items, and waist, chest, and shoulder straps allowing comfort and proper outdoor potential.

Material

main: 800D nylon

base: 1260D ballistic nylon

Item Weight

2 pounds

Cargo Capacity

22 liters

Dimensions

24 x 10 x 14 inches

Pros:

  • Durable and waterproof
  • Heavy-duty material and straps
  • Simple but thoughtful design
  • Perfect for commuting, hiking, trail, and travel

Cons:

  • No exterior side pockets for water bottles
  • The bag's fabric takes a long time to dry out

Breakwater Supply Fogland Waterproof Submersible Backpack

Best for All Climates

overall 

4.8/5

Quality

Durability

Ease of Use

Comfort

Breakwater Supply Fogland Waterproof Submersible Backpack

Features:

  • Waterproof and fully submersible 
  • Two airtight waterproof compartments
  • 16" laptop sleeve
  • Multiple gear attachment points and side bottle pockets

Rainy forests, snowy mountains, or even sandy beaches, the Fogland is a perfect modern (and not bulky) pack for any outdoor environment. This 25L pack is made of "virtually indestructible" Hydrowall waterproof TPU, welded seams, and sealed with airtight drysuit grade zippers to protect your belongings in any condition. Breakwater Supply is so sure of its product that it even photographed it being pummeled by a waterfall.

Not only that, but this US-based company went the extreme mile to make sure you can bring everything you need. Breakwater Supply added 4 D rings, a top handle with attachment points, zipper grab handles, 2 lash tabs, 2 mesh bottle pockets, a front pocket with side grab loops, and a front buckle strap. It also has reflective elements, a molded back panel, a removable chest strap, ergonomic s curve straps, a laptop sleeve, and a front pocket for quick access items.

Material

Nylon, TPU

Item Weight

2.33 pounds

Cargo Capacity

25 liters

Dimensions

7 x 13 x 20 inches

Pros:

  • Suitable for both land and water adventures
  • Provides ultimate comfort
  • Excellent storage with multiple pockets
  • Built to last

Cons:

  • Some may find the bag too large
  • It can be difficuolt to zip and unzip

Dakine Cyclone II Dry Backpack

Best for the Beach

overall 

4.4/5

Quality

Durability

Ease of Use

Comfort

Dakine Cyclone II Dry Backpack

Features:

  • Integrated board carry system up to 15 pounds
  • Breathable ergonomic shoulder straps and back panel
  • Laptop sleeve
  • Waterproof welded construction with roll top closure

The Cyclone II was made for ocean-minded folk, specifically wave chasers. The Dakine Cyclone II Dry Backpack is designed for kayakers, surfers, and other water-based adventurers who need a backpack that can handle the toughest conditions. This 36L pack, like most others, is PU coated and has a breathable back panel, a laptop sleeve, 2 lash tabs, and a chest strap.

And for the ultimate safety of your goods, this roll-top has extra straps to latch down the top on all four sides to really keep the water out. Unlike others, and with the love of surfing in mind, the pack has an integrated board carry system, which is seriously helpful (and kind to your weary arms). Whether you're paddling through rapids or catching waves, this backpack will keep your gear safe and accessible.

Material

305D Cordura nylon ripstop

Item Weight

2 pounds

Cargo Capacity

36 liters

Dimensions

11.81 x 7.87 x 1.97 inches

Pros:

  • Excellent quality and function
  • Smart design
  • Sturdy and durable
  • Breathable and ergonomic

Cons:

  • Zipper is not durable

Ortovox Peak Dry Backpack

Best for Ski Trips

overall 

4/5

Quality

Durability

Ease of Use

Comfort

Ortovox Peak Dry Backpack

Features:

  • Rope attachment and ice axe carry
  • Removable lid
  • Hip pocket and map compartment
  • Integrated net

The ultimate snow touring backpack has arrived. The Ortovox Peak really went to the finest detail to make this the best pack for your winter adventures. Offering the perfect combination of functionality and style, this 40L pack has many waterproof backpack essentials like lash tabs, even weight distribution design, chest, hip belts, etc. But where it excels is its specific features to get you through your hut trips with ease.

The sleek and modern backpack is constructed with 2 loops (ideal for a pole or a rope attachment and ice ax), a detachable brain compartment on top for essential quick-grab items, one hip pocket for essentials and another specifically for your map, a net on the back to hold onto your helmet during heated ascents, an A-frame ski carry, and an avalanche safety pocket. Happy gnar shredding.

Material

360D nylon, TPU coating

Item Weight

N/A

Cargo Capacity

40 liters

Dimensions

N/A

Pros:

  • Lightweight design and waterproof
  • Tear- and abrasion-resistant
  • Excellent for hiking and skiing
  • Available in three colors

Cons:

  • Not enough adjustment options
  • It may not be comfortable for others

SealLine Pro Dry Pack

Best for Water Adventures

overall 

4.5/5

Quality

Durability

Ease of Use

Comfort

SealLine Pro Dry Pack

Features:

  • Bathtub-style bottom
  • 3 length adjustments harness that is also removable
  • Lash points to secure pack to boat, vehicle, rack, etc.
  • Fully waterproof construction

For those who partake in activities like kayaking, canoeing, rafting, big river running, etc., the SealLine Pro is a great selection. This pack is durable, functional, and comfortable, making it an excellent choice for any outdoor adventure. This PU-coated roll-top backpack adjusts to whatever you need it to be for these wet excursions, and it even has 4 clamp-down buckles to really keep your goods safe.

For full customization of your needs, this pack comes in multiple sizes ranging from 70-120 liters, and the harness can be removed to convert it to a conventional dry bag. With a breathable back panel, a fully adjustable suspension system, and lumbar and shoulder strap padding, your excursion will be comfortable and secure, no matter how long you're on the trail. With its waterproof construction, ample storage space, and focus on comfort, this backpack is a popular choice among outdoor enthusiasts.

Material

Vinyl lining

Item Weight

4 pounds

Cargo Capacity

70 liters

Dimensions

9 x 17.5 x 27 inches

Pros:

  • Large capacity
  • Material is thick and durable
  • Great for backcountry trips
  • Available in three colors and two sizes

Cons:

  • The bag's exterior is not tear-resistant

Fishpond Thunderhead Submersible Waterproof Fly Fishing Backpack

Best for Fishing

overall 

4.7/5

Quality

Durability

Ease of Use

Comfort

Fishpond Thunderhead Submersible Waterproof Fly Fishing Backpack

Features:

  • Fully waterproof
  • Zipper upgraded to self healing TRU Zip zipper
  • Removable interior pouch
  • Lightweight foam shoulder strap, hip belt, and molded back panel

Say hello to your new best fishing buddy. The Thunderhead Submersible Waterproof Fly Fishing Backpack is the ultimate gear solution for anglers who demand the best. Designed with the rugged demands of fishing in mind, this backpack is built to withstand the toughest conditions and keep your gear dry and protected. The Thunderhead is a nearly indestructible (or, as they call it, "bombproof") pack made of 900D TPU-coated NewStream fabric and TRU zipper closures making it fully waterproof. The NewStream fabric is also 100% made of recycled plastic water bottles making it a great eco-friendly choice.

For fishing specifically, this pack has a set of Larat gear straps that can go on either side. It also has numerous types of attachment points, including Hypalon attachment points on the shoulder straps specifically for 2-way radios and GPS systems. Finally, since fishing is not a hasty task, Fishpond made this one with a lumbar support strap, foam shoulder straps, a hip belt, and a molded back panel. Whether you're fishing in a river or kayaking to your favorite fishing spot, you can be sure that your gear will stay dry and protected with this waterproof backpack. 

Material

‎Nylon, Thermoplastic Polyurethane

Item Weight

N/A

Cargo Capacity

28 liters

Dimensions

24 x 24 x 1 inches

Pros:

  • Eco-friendly
  • It's totally sealed when zipped
  • Excellent storage capacity
  • Extremely user conscious

Cons:

  • It's a bit uncomfortable to carry

Got Bag Rolltop Lite

Best Women's Waterproof backpack

overall 

4.7/5

Quality

Durability

Ease of Use

Comfort

Got Bag Rolltop Lite

Features:

  • TPU inner & PU external coating
  • PFC- & PVC-free
  • Removable 15-inch laptoplas

When it comes to a stylish waterproof backpack for women, you must check out the GoT Bag Rolltop Lite Backpack—designed for a modern adventurer who demands style, functionality, and protection for their gear. This backpack features a lightweight, durable design and a spacious main compartment that can hold all your essentials. 

The GoT Bag Rolltop Lite Backpack features a roll top closure to ensure a tight, secure fit, and the adjustable straps make it easy to carry. The backpack also has a side water bottle pocket and a front zippered pocket for quick access to your smaller items. In addition to its practicality, the GoT Bag Rolltop Lite Backpack also comes in a variety of colors, so you can find the perfect backpack to fit your style. Whether you're hitting the trails for a hike or just running errands around town, this backpack will be your go-to for all your outdoor adventures.

material

60% Ocean Impact Plastic tissue, 16% other recycling materials, 24% non-recycled materials (zippers, upholstery foam, buckles)

Item Weight

2.25 pounds

Cargo Capacity

26 liters

Dimensions

16.5" h x (EXPANDABLE TO 25") x 12.5" w x 6" d

Pros:

  • Extremely waterproof
  • Stylish and comfortable
  • Durable and stain-repellent

Cons:

  • Removeable laptop sleeve lacks a closing

About the Author

Fiona is a veteran travel consultant, photographer and travel writer at planetrider.com. She has spent many years as a corporate travel consultant and decided to actually live the life rather than plan it for others!

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