The 8 Best Waterproof Backpacks for Unpredictable Scenarios

Weather can be unpredictable — both in day-to-day life and when out in nature. And while we still haven’t figured out how to control the skies, intrepid craftsmen have figured out plenty of ways to help protect you and your gear against the unpredictability of Mother Nature. That includes creating waterproof and water-resistant outerwear, shoes and boots, and even carry solutions.

It’s the latter of that group we’re interested in focusing on today. More specifically, we’ve rounded up a collection of one of the most ubiquitous haulers, the backpack, that are far more weatherproof than your average JanSport. Whether you live in the rainy PNW, find yourself frequently trekking through the rainforest, or you just want a solid travel bag that isn’t going to spring a leak and ruin your laptop computer, you’ll find it on our list of the best waterproof backpacks.

Unfortunately, there’s no official regulation that dictates whether a brand can call something “waterproof” or not. Yes, there are standards outlined by the IP system which show exactly how waterproof or water-resistant something can be, but there’s no requirement for brands to use this in the creation of a product. Therefore, what’s waterproof to one organization might not be anything other than water-resistant to another. That being said, there are a few things you can look for that will tell you whether something is actually waterproof, water-resistant, or even completely submersible. These metrics are as follows:

IP Rating: Most obviously, if a piece of gear has been waterproof-tested to IP standards, brands will outline that clearly on their site or even on the piece of gear’s tags. The IP system can be fairly confusing, but if you understand how it works things are simpler to understand. At a glance, what you need to know is this: the higher the number, the more waterproof a piece of gear is. Something that has an IPX6 rating is splashproof, but something that is IPX8 can be fully submerged.

Exterior Materials: Without some kind of IP rating, it’s somewhat difficult to tell just at a glance what bags are waterproof and which aren’t. But if you see TPU laminates (or similar materials) in the exterior construction, there’s a pretty good chance that the fabric is at least impenetrable to moisture. It’s also helpful when brands, on their websites or on labels, mark that fabric is 100% waterproof. There are also some materials that are extremely water-resistant, but not impenetrable to moisture. Don’t be fooled by believing that GORE-TEX makes something completely impenetrable. Yes, it will likely keep out even the heaviest rainfall, but complete submersion will yield a different, soggier result.

Closures & Seals: Almost as important as the material itself, the seals and closures will determine true waterproofing. Something with stitched seals is inherently not waterproof, as moisture can slip between the seams. However, seams that are welded or taped are going to be far more water-tight. Similarly, there are both water-resistant and waterproof zippers — so keep an eye out for that. Lastly, many truly waterproof bags rely on hearty roll-top closures to create a waterproof seal. Not all of these closures are truly waterproof, but they can be extremely good at fending off impending moisture.

Submersion: The easiest way to see if something is truly waterproof or just extremely water resistant is to see if the brand themselves make claims as to whether it can be completely submerged. Bags that are submersible are a point of pride and will almost always be outlined as such. If a bag’s description doesn’t mention this factor, you’re better off assuming it can’t be submerged.

Ortlieb Velocity Backpack

Best for Urban Commuting: Although it’s decidedly more city than country — and it can’t be fully submerged — Ortlieb’s Velocity Backpack is undeniably one of the best weatherproof haulers for city-going commuters. We’re looking at you, urban cyclists. With a 20L capacity, it’s plenty roomy for most folks and their everyday carry. But its flip-top closure and waterproof coated polyester canvas exterior will ensure that no water creeps inside. It’s also available in a number of colors, including a hi-vis yellow that’s perfect for staying safe in gray, stormy weather.

Sea To Summit Ultra-Sil Dry Day Pack

Best Budget Backpack: It comes as no surprise to anyone familiar with the outdoor gear brand that Sea To Summit’s Ultra-Sil Dry Day Pack is the most affordable here. Also great for those looking to shed some weight, the 22L pack can compress into an impossibly-small stuff sack of just 5″x2.5″x1.5″ with a carabiner attachment. You’ll still get an exterior made from 30D siliconized CORDURA for superior durability and strength, reinforced shoulder straps, double-stitched seams with high-density PU tape, and a double hypalon roll-top.

Filson Dry Backpack

Best for Camping: Founded in Seattle way back in 1897 as an outfitter during the Klondike Gold Rush, Filson knows a thing or two about building superb, water-resistant gear. But they may have outdone themselves with their Dry Backpack — at least when it comes to waterproofing. You see, this bag is actually submersible thanks to its water-tight roll-top closure and PU-coated nylon exterior. The large main compartment is also complemented by a smaller zippered external pouch and another inside. All told, this is a relatively compact waterproof backpack with plenty of space for day hikes in any weather or even across bodies of water.

Black Ember Citadel Minimal Pack

Best for Everyday: Probably the stealthiest and definitely one of the best-looking traditional-style backpacks on our list, Black Ember’s Citadel Minimal Pack might just be the best urban waterproof hauler we’ve ever come across. Not only is it built from a proprietary Micro-Hex waterproof fabric, but it also features exacting laser-cut details and bonded seams that allow it to stave off just about any storm and keep all your gear inside dry and safe. Mate that to comfortable EVA shoulder straps, a stabilizing sternum strap, YKK AquaGuard zippers, and aircraft-grade aluminum hardware and this bag is definitely deserving of its place here.

patagonia Guidewater Backpack 29L

Best for Boating: It should surprise nobody to see a big, outdoor-focused brand like Patagonia on our list. But that doesn’t mean they didn’t earn their spot. The first truly, fully-submersible pack on our list, their Guidewater Backpack certainly ranks amongst the best out there. Built with burly 100% recycled nylon plain weave with 200D polyester lining (also 100% recycled), this 29L vest-compatible pack is a compact weatherproof hauler that would be perfect for single-day hiking trips or cycling through inclement weather with an IPX7 rating. Weighing just over 2lbs, it also has hydrophobic shoulder straps and back panel that don’t absorb water. The handy gear loops on the back also allow this to be modular and versatile for multiple scenarios, with an ambidextrous net scabbard on the back panel for easy stowing.

YETI Panga Backpack

Best Overall: A good deal more compact and easy to carry than their ultra-sturdy duffel bag of the same name, the Panga Backpack boasts a similar construction in a more manageable silhouette perfect for short-term adventures. Weighing 3.9 pounds in total, this bag can haul 28L worth of gear inside its main compartment, but also has a modular grid on the exterior for some additions that might not otherwise fit. It also features an airtight HydroLok zipper and waterproof ThickSkin Shell — comprised of high-density nylon and a TPU laminate. That alone would garner this bag a spot on our list, but it’s also got some handy organizational pockets inside as an added bonus.

Subtech Pro Drybag 55L

Most Extreme: A backpack with the spirit of a duffel, Subtech’s Pro Drybag sports unique construction unlike any on this list. Fully submersible to 50m, the 55L pack is made for the most extreme conditions with airtight zippers and shockproof construction, but can be expertly organized inside as well. It can also double as a floatation device in a pinch. A favorite of military personnel, the bag features aircraft-grade alloy hooks and a super strong cobra buckle. You’d think a backpack this tough wouldn’t be very comfortable, but this Subtech bag is actually highly ergonomic on your back and shoulders.

Arc’teryx Granville 25 Backpack

Best for Travel: If anyone is surprised that Arc’teryx offers one of the absolute best waterproof backpacks available, then they haven’t been paying attention to just how superb the Canadian outdoor brand actually is. For this 25L Granville bag, it offers intuitive organization that includes a light-colored interior for easy searching, internal dividers, a laptop sleeve, and an easy-access top with a hidden pocket underneath for stashing smaller pieces of gear. Not to mention, the shoulder straps and AeroForm back panel are ventilated for those times when you need to hurry through airport terminals.

What’s The Difference: Waterproof vs. Water-Resistant

The key to just how weatherproof a piece of gear is can be found in how well it repels moisture of any kind. Find out how that works and what the difference is between waterproof and water-resistant on our comprehensive guide.