Best Waterproof Backpacks of 2022 – Waterproof Backpacks Review

Last Updated on May 21, 2022 by Afsar

Are you looking for the best waterproof backpacks? If you are into exploring the wilderness or live in the monsoon prone area, you may want to check these fantastic waterproof backpacks. Imagine hiking for a day to camp on the top of the mountain and later finding out that all your clothes are soaking wet, thanks to the rainy season. Besides that, you might be commuting from your home to the office, and suddenly it starts raining. What about traveling while carrying your valuable gears like camera, laptop, and other electronic gears. Just a little bit of water may damage them, and the rainy season is around the corner already. If any of these situations seem familiar to you, now is the time that you buy a waterproof backpack to keep your belonging safe and sound.

In this article, I am going to share some of the best waterproof backpacks of the market. All of them won’t be able to satisfy your needs, but you will definitely find one which suits you the best. There will be a short comparison where you can compare the waterproof backpacks based on their colors and capacities. Let’s start with the comparison of the best waterproof backpacks:

Best Waterproof Backpacks 2022

All links in this table are Paid Links

Earth Pak Waterproof Backpack

Paid Link

Thousands of people love this waterproof backpack from Earth Pak for its amazing features. Earth Pak confirms that they offer 100% waterproof protection in this waterproof back. If you are into kayaking, running, biking, camping, you will definitely appreciate the performance of this backpack. It comes with a roll-top closure design which has a single reinforced strap to ensure that the water stays out of the backpack.

The capacity of this backpack is 35L. You will find pockets on both the inside and outside of this back. On top of that, a large splash-proof zipper can be found on the outside of the backpack to grab items quickly. Some may love the zippered pocket to keep the essentials. You will also find a mesh compartment and key ring on the outside. Earth Pak designers spent a good amount of time to design this backpack which is guaranteed to make life easier for outdoor lovers.

The compact and lightweight design ensure that it can be used with easy on an airplane or other vehicles. Additionally, there are convenient D-rings attached to both shoulder straps to attach more gears or things. The Molle system can come handy when you are boating or biking. Besides all these cool features, Earth Pak managed to offer superior comfort with this backpack. Ergonomically padded back panel along with the low-profile sternum strap and shoulder strap ensures a great amount of comfort. Additionally, a heavy-duty waist-belt is added, which can relieve the added pressure to help you support the load.

• Available in four different colors
• 100% waterproof protection
• Great for traveling, kayaking, hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities
• Roll-top closure is easy to use
• 35L storage
• Pockets on both inside and outside of the bag
• A large splash-proof zipper on the outside for quick grab and go items
• Built-in zippered pocket
• Mesh compartment
• Key-ring on the inside
• Convenient D-rings attached on both shoulder straps
• Shoulder straps are padded for comfort
• Low-profile sternum strap
• Heavy-duty waist-belt relieves added pressure
• Molle system looping

FE Active Waterproof Backpack

Paid Link

Mother earth lovers who appreciate environment-friendly products will surely love this Backpack from FE active. FE Active used environmentally-safe PVC to make this stunning waterproof backpack. Thick marine grade 5mm eco-friendly PVC Tarpaulin is used with high-frequency welded stitching ensures that it can withstand the harsh marine environments. It can be used for a wide range of outdoor activities like biking, kayaking, hiking, camping, and more.

The capacity of this waterproof backpack is 30L. You will find mesh side netting where you can keep your water bottles. The corded exterior can be used to hold items like yoga mats, camping gear, or other outdoor gears. Additionally, it includes upgraded high strength buckling for better insulation. This bag weighs only 2lbs. When loaded with gears, the padded shoulder straps make it comfortable to carry with ease. Also, a mesh lining ensures better airflow for better comfort. A lot of professionals and athletes prefer using backpack from FE Active. Last but not least, this is one of the best cheapest waterproof backpacks you will find in the market.

• Breathable straps for ventilation
• Reinforced one-handed strap
• Environmentally safe PVC
• Thick marine grade 5mm eco-friendly PVC Tarpaulin with
• High-frequency welded stitching
• Can be used for different types of water activities
• Mesh side netting to hold the water bottle
• Corded exterior to carry items like a yoga mat, camping gear or other materials
• Excellent value for the low price
• Padded back and straps
• Chest strap for an extra level of security

Chaos Ready Waterproof Backpack

Paid Link

Chaos Ready’s waterproof backpack is one of the best in the market for its high durability and useful features. 500 PVC Heavy-duty Tarpaulin is used to make this waterproof backpack. Due to the high-quality materials, it remains lightweight yet waterproof. If you are wondering, yes, it is still flexible. The capacity of this backpack is 22L, and the main compartment is class three waterproof with the protection from quick submersion. If you accidentally drop this submersible waterproof bag on the water, it will still float. 

Two high-quality mesh pockets on the side can be used to keep water bottles or other gears that you want to have quick access. Personally, I would keep only water-bottles and less important stuff. In that way, you can get hydrated very quickly when you are hiking or rowing. Chaos Ready uses a unique Tri-Fold Buckle System for the main compartment. In the first look, it may seem very simple, and yes it is, but it still keeps the chamber watertight. All you need to do is to roll up and buckle in to get on your way. Also, the price of this waterproof backpack is very reasonable.

• 22L Main compartment is class three waterproof with protection from quick/accidental submersion
• Will float if accidentally dropped on water
• 500 PVC heavy-duty tarpaulin makes it watertight yet flexible
• Comes in stunning Grey colors
• Has two high-quality mesh pockets on the sides to keep a water bottle and other stuff
• Front pocket to access items quickly
• Unique Tri-fold buckle system for the main compartment
• Reasonable pricing
• High-frequency welded seams
• Super easy to clean

Sak Gear Waterproof Dry Backpacks​​​​​

Paid Link

Unlike most other companies, this waterproof dry backpack from Sak Gear comes in several vivid colors. If you are into watersports, this may become a big issue as the vivid color allows us to spot the backpack very quickly on the water. 500-Denier PVC is used to seal out the elements with watertight, welded seams and a roll-down top. Sak Gear declares it as a rugged all-weather usable backpack for different types of sports and outdoor activities.

This backpack also uses a sternum clip and padded back support, which relieves pressure on the muscles. On top of that, the thick straps are also cushioned for extra comfort. Also, you will find D-rings at sides to hold water bottles or attach other outdoor gears.There are two ways you can close this backpack. You can either simply fold the roll-down the top for three times, then click on the top clip which will create an instant handle. If you don’t like this procedure, you can also use the side clips and adjust for a snug and compressed fit. Just to make sure, both of them are waterproof either way.

It is available in two sizes: 25L and 35L. Both of them features the same sleek design. There is spacious interior pocket inside to keep electronics and other valuables which separates the wet towels and swimsuits. Also, the splash-proof outer pocket can safely contain the keys, IDs, and other small things.

• 500-denier PVC to seal out the elements with watertight, welded seams and a roll-down top
• Sternum clip with padded back support provides excellent comfort
• Thick and cushioned straps for custom comfort
• D-rings at sides to hold water bottles or attach more gears
• Available in vivid colors
• Available in two different sizes: 25L, 32L
• Two simple ways to close: Both are waterproof
• Zippered protective pockets to hold electronics and separate from the wet towels and swimsuits
• Splash-proof outer pocket to safely hold keys and IDs

Yeti Panga Airtight Waterproof Bag

Paid Link

Yeti’s waterproof bag is a great example of how a waterproof bag should be made. This is an Airtight waterproof backpack with high durability that can be used by watersports lovers. Yeti Panga 28 comes with an ergonomic DryHaul shoulder strap which ensures extra comfort. The removable chest straps and waist belt provides extra stability and security when you are trekking. Yeti is so confident at their product that they claim this product outperforms any other backpacks of the market. 

Hydrolok Zipper is used in this backpack which keeps the water out of the back so you can securely keep your gears without any worry. No matter how bad the condition is, the gears will be safe inside your backpack. The Thickskin shell is made of high-quality nylon and thick TPU lamination, which is puncture and abrasion-resistant. You can use the inner sleeve and stowaway mesh pocket to keep your gears and items organized and safe. If you look at the price, you may think of it as expensive. However, if you consider all the features, you will realize that the price is quite reasonable.

• Ergonomic DryHaul Shoulder straps for extra comfort
• Removable chest straps 
• The waist belt provides stability and security
• Hydrolok Zipper keeps the water away from entering the backpack
• Thickskin Shell is made of high-density nylon and thick TPU lamination
• Interior sleeve and stowaway mesh pocket keeps gear and items organized and safe
• Great for fly fishing and other outdoor watersports activities

Idrybag Waterproof Dry Bag Dry Sack

Paid Link

This waterproof dry backpack from Idrybag is one of the highly-rated sack you can find in the market. It comes in four different colors: yellow, blue, gray, and black. Idrybag used 500D waterproof material, which is scratchproof and water-resistant. This high-quality material offers better performance, durability, and stops the water from entering the top of your bag. Once you stowed all the materials inside the backpack, you can just align the straps on the top of the bag, then grab and roll the straps up to five times to connect each side buckle to complete the seal.

It uses a honeycomb design carrying system which ensures comfort and breathability. The ergonomic mechanic design support relieves the pressure on muscles. Besides that, the thick straps on the back adjust for custom comfort. The widening handle, double reinforcement design, adjustable waist buckle, and adjustable sternum buckles with the lifeguard whistle makes it even better.

This waterproof backpack comes with both an inner and outer pocket. You can keep your valuables in the inner bag store to keep the secured. You can also use the clear front pocket to keep a flashlight, a knife, and other required items to grab your items quickly and easily. This fantastic backpack can be used in different types of sports, like biking, hiking, rowing, kayaking, and more.

• 500D waterproof material: Scratch-proof, wear-resistant, and durable
• Easy to seal
• Available in four different colors
• Honeycomb design carrying system for extra comfort and breathability
• Ergonomic mechanics design supports to relieve pressure on muscles
• Thick straps adjust for custom comfort
• Features inner and outer pocket
• Clear front pocket to access emergency items
• Adjustable waist buckle to spread the load
• Adjustable sternum buckle and lifeguard whistle

Airsson Waterproof Backpack

Paid Link

If you are looking for a cheap waterproof backpack, you need to take a look at that backpack from Airsson. Unlike most other waterproof backpacks on this list, this one has a roomy compartment. The capacity of this backpack is 40L. High-quality waterproof nylon material is used to make this waterproof backpack. It comes with a unique design which allows it to be collapsed into a handy pouch. It can fold into its inner zip pocket to avoid overweight baggage and can be unfolded it when needed.

Airsson used durable two abrasion-resistant SBS metal zippers. Breathable and sweat-absorbing mesh shoulder straps come with an extra sponge padding, which helps relieve stress from your shoulder. If you want, you can easily adjust the shoulder straps. Also, the chest strap will prevent the strap from slipping off.You will find multiple compartments in this dry backpack. These several pockets allow the user to store and organize their items more efficiently and comfortably.

It comes with a roomy main compartment where you can keep bigger items. On the other hand, the front zipper pocket can be used to hold small accessories. There are two side pockets where you can store water bottles and umbrellas. On top of that, there is also a security pocket where you can keep highly valuable items like money, passport, or IDs.

• Maximum weight capacity: 40 Liters
• Ultralight
• The unique design turns it into a handy pouch
• High-quality waterproof nylon material
• Durable 2-way abrasion-resistant SBS metal zippers
• Extra-strength and long-lasting performance
• Breathable and sweat-absorbing mesh shoulder straps
• Length of the shoulder can be adjusted for a better fit
• Chest strap prevents the strap from slipping off

Pans Military Expandable Travel Waterproof Backpack

Paid Link

Love to use tactical gears? This tactical waterproof backpack from Pans comes with tons of cool features which will make life easier for you. If you are going on a two or three-day excursions, this is the waterproof backpack you need. There are four main loading spaces in this backpack, which allows you to store and manage your belongings in a more organized way. The front compartment can hold the cell phone wallet, keys, and other small items. The middle compartment can be utilized to keep utensils, books, or maybe a plate. The main compartment can be used to carry clothes or other heavy valuable items.

There is a mesh pocket on the side to hold bottles to keep hydrated. It has the Molle system in the front where you can attach pouch, mountaineering hook, and other things. The side of the buckle can be used to make it more comfortable. Also, if you want, you can put your name or flag on the front of the velcro to make it personalized. Additionally, if you want, you can expand this backpack by zipper on the side. By looking at this waterproof backpack, you can imagine that this is one tough nut to crack. It will offer service to you for a long time with high efficiency. It can withstand the harsh marine environment and is suitable for almost all outdoor activities.

• Multi-purpose backpack
• Available in different colors
• Maximum capacity: 64L
• Walkie-talkie pouch on the back strap of the bag
• Great for different types of outdoor activities
• Molle system to attach extra pouches or velcro on it
• Four main loading space
• Cell phone and keys can be stored in the front pocket
• The main compartment can store clothes and other valuable items
• Middle compartment can store utensils, books, or a plate
• Mesh pocket on the side can hold water bottles
• Adjustable chest belt to disperse the weight
• Additional straps provided
• Can be extended by zipper on the side
• Available at a reasonable price

Nelson-RIgg SE-3040 Backpack

Paid Link

Nelson-RIgg’s backpack is one of the coolest looking backpacks out there in the market. Nelson-Rigg’s waterproof backpack is available in two different sizes: 40Liter and 20 Liter. The price of this waterproof backpack might be off-putting, but you need to consider the feature and durability of it. It is made from durable UV coated 24oz Tarpaulin PVC with electronically heat-welded seams. It features a watertight roll closure with quick-release buckles. There are two different closure methods to seal this backpack. Both over the top or down the sides extra-large buckle ensures the roll stays closed in all environments.

The inner sleeve can hold most folders, notebooks or laptops up to 15″. There are two side mesh pockets that are large enough to hold 30 oz bottles. The backpack straps are three-way adjustable and padded for extra comfort. Also, the padded back panel is equipped with Airflow System. You can also take advantage of the removable Molle Panel, which is reversible with a waterproof document or map pocket.

The front side of the backpack comes with reflective webbing and an external bungee storage system. There is an integrated front pocket which can hold optional hydration bladder (not included). In a nutshell, this is one of the best waterproof backpacks you can buy from the market.

• Capacity: 20L & 40L
• Electronically heat-welded seams
• Durable UV coated 24 oz Tarpaulin PVC
• Watertight roll closure
• Two different ways of closure methods
• The inner sleeve holds most folders, notebooks, and laptops up to 15″
• 3-way adjustable padded backpack straps
• Two side mesh pockets can hold 30 oz fuel bottles
• Padded back panel with Airflow system
• Air Purge Valve for easy compression
• Reflective webbing and external bungee storage system

Aqua Quest Himal Backpack

Paid Link

Aqua Quest’s Himal backpack is a lightweight waterproof backpack which comes in four different colors: Red, Black, Blue, and camouflage. This is a 100% waterproof backpack which is designed to be used in both daily urban use and extreme adventure. Himal can keep your belongings safe inside from the rain, snow, dirt, dust, sand, and accidental submersion. As mentioned before, this is a lightweight backpack which weighs only 1.1lb. Yes, it is that lightweight!!! A 70D RipStop fabric+TPU lamination with heat taped seams is used to keep it waterproof.

The adjustable waist and shoulder straps are soft, flexible, and dries very easily. The backside of the backpack features an Air-Mesh panel which is soft, breathable and stays comfortable all day. One amazing thing about this waterproof backpack is it can be folded into its own front zip pocket. The maximum capacity of this backpack is 20L. One downside of this backpack is this doesn’t come with any side mesh pocket to hold water bottles. However, this is still a great waterproof backpack for outdoor enthusiasts.

• Capacity: 20L
• Can be used in daily urban use or extreme adventure
• Keeps your valuables safe from rain, snow, dirt, or sand
• Weighs only 1.1 lb
• 70D RipStop fabric+TPU lamination
• Heat taped seams keep it waterproof
• Adjustable, soft, and flexible shoulder straps
• Back Air-mesh panel is soft and breathable
• Folds into own front zip pocket
• Available in four different colors
• Great for athletes, minimalists, and outdoor lovers
• Front carry handle

How to choose the best waterproof backpack?

Finding the best waterproof backpack can be tricky if you are not aware of the factors to check when making a purchase decision. If you already know what types of waterproof backpacks you are looking for, it will definitely help you land the best waterproof backpack in the market. So, without further ado, let’s start checking the factors:

Capacity

Before we get into any other factors, we need to consider the capacity of the backpack. Most of the waterproof backpacks available on the market have a capacity which ranges from 25L – 40L. Very few backpacks on the market will have a bigger capacity than 40L. One of the examples would be the three-day military waterproof backpack from Pans. It comes with a 64L capacity which allows the wearer to carry a lot of stuff at the same moment. If you are going on a three-day excursion or hiking trip, you should consider this type of big waterproof backpacks.However, for most people, 25L-35L capacity should be enough. For kayakers and camping lovers, I would say a backpack with a size of 35L is more than enough. You can stow a lot of gears and clothes for a day or two-day-long trips. If you are buying a waterproof backpack for a day to day use, I would suggest you get smaller backpacks as they are easy to carry and manage.Often overlooked, the overall capacity and the waterproof capacity of a backpack varies a lot. Not all of the backpacks will come with a 100% waterproof capacity. Some of the compartments may be waterproof, and some may not. You must be aware of this issue and inquire about it before buying it.

Water Resistant vs. Waterproof

Even though they sound similar, they are not. Simply put, waterproof means that it will completely resist the entry of water into the backpack. On the contrary, water resistance means that the product is somewhat capable of resisting water from entering the backpack to a certain extent. Since this is an article about waterproof backpacks, we featured the backpacks that are 100% waterproof. However, some of the backpacks in this list may feature a water-resistant area. The main compartment of these backpacks are waterproof, but some areas like the front pocket may feature water-resistance only.The whole waterproof vs. water-resistance misconception exists in both consumer and companies. So, some of the companies may mistake their water-resistance backpack as a waterproof backpack. You have no option but to look at the comments to see if anybody already reported the issue. If not, you can leave a question on the product listing page asking again for clarification.

Cleaning

You are looking for a waterproof backpack, but sometimes you may want to pour some water intentionally to clean it. Cleaning any bag is quite a hassle, but some manufacturers make it easier for us to clean their backpacks. If this is an issue, try to buy a waterproof backpack which has a removable inner compartment. Some of the backpacks allow the user to fold their backpacks, and those types of backpacks are relatively easy to clean.

Additional storage and pockets

Most of the waterproof backpacks will come with extra storage and pockets to allow you to manage and store more items. This allows the user to have the ability to add additional gears with the use of D-rings. If you are one of those people who prefer to have a lot of storage options, then you better look for extra pockets. Another good thing about these pockets is that they allow you to manage your items more comfortably. Front pockets will enable you to access your items more quickly. Most of the times, there are side mesh pockets that can keep water bottles, snacks, and other small items.

Compartments

The main compartment of the waterproof backpack needs to be waterproof. Sure, other compartments can be water-resistance but not the main compartment. You will be storing your most valuable items, and clothes in there. The size of the main compartment should be bigger so it can store a lot of things. Some of the backpacks even feature a couple of compartments to make life easier for the user so that they can organize their stuff more conveniently. A waterproof backpack with several compartments will allow the users to organize their things more easily. In this way, you can keep clothes in one compartment, and electronics in another.

Price

Let’s talk about the Elephant in the Room: the price. Price of the product always plays a huge role in most products. Even though most of the waterproof backpacks available on the market has a reasonable price, some of those products may come with a high price tag. Usually, these products come with more features and are made of high-quality materials. If you are okay with spending little over average, I would suggest you do that to secure the best waterproof backpack. However, there are still amazing waterproof backpacks available on the market at a very reasonable price. What I wouldn’t recommend is to buy a cheap waterproof backpack which may damage your belongings as they are more prone to leak.

FAQ

Can I clean a waterproof backpack?

Yes. Most waterproof backpacks on the market are easily cleanable. Some of the smart manufacturers even make it possible to pull out the main compartment so you can clean it with more ease. As you keep using your backpack, it may start to become dirty over time. After a couple of rough months, it may become important to clean it. However, it is not wise to clean if often, as it may reduce the longevity of the backpack.

(3 votes, average: 4.67 out of 5)

Loading...

• Fishing backpacks
• Camping cots
• Insulated lunch bags
• Best hydration backpack