Keeping your kit clean and dry when you’re trekking or at camp is vital. An excellent day’s hiking can be completely spoiled if rain gets into your gear, leaving your clothes and other items damp and unpleasant to wear or use. So what is the best backpack to choose to protect your gear from the elements?
To help you make this important decision, we’ll look into multiple aspects of each backpack: the waterproofing, the space available, the comfort, the durability, the extra features, and the price to give you the complete picture. We’ll also look at various backpacks, from 100% waterproof dry bags to water-resistant options that still protect you from bad weather.
As a quick overview, a dry bag such as the Earth Pak Waterproof Backpack is your best bet for water-based trips. If you only need to keep out the elements, a water-resistant backpack such as the TianYaOutDoor 70L Hiking Backpack is the way to go.
Best Waterproof Backpacks
- Earth Pak Waterproof Backpack (Top Pick)
- HEETA Waterproof Dry Bag (Budget Buy)
- Piscifun Waterproof Dry Bag
- TianYaOutDoor Hiking Backpack
- FENGDONG Waterproof Backpack
- 4Monster Hiking Daypack
- N NEVO RHINO Internal Frame
- Loowoko Hiking Backpack
Compare Top Waterproof Backpacks
| Product | Overall score | Bottom line | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
 Earth Pak Waterproof | 86 |  100% waterproof comfortable dry bag | Check out on Amazon |
 HEETA Dry Bag | 78 |  Basic and affordable dry bag | Check out on Amazon |
 Piscifun Dry Bag | 82 | Slick and very affordable dry bag | Check out on Amazon |
 TianYaOutDoor | 80 | Military style water-resistant backpack | Check out on Amazon |
 FENGDONG Backpack | 74 | Mid-sized water- resistant backpack with good organization | Check out on Amazon |
 4Monster Hiking Daypack | 70 | Foldable, water-resistant day bag | Check out on Amazon |
 N Nevo Rhino | 78 | Water-resistant hiking bag in many sizes | Check out on Amazon |
 Loowoko Backpack | 76 | Water-resistant campers backpack | Check out on Amazon |
Detailed Analysis Of The Best Waterproof Backpacks
Before beginning our analysis of the best waterproof backpacks, it should be noted that there are several ways to prevent your gear from getting wet.
The “waterproofing” method that is appropriate for you will depend on the adventure you plan to experience.
The most protective option is to purchase a verified dry bag that creates a watertight seal that can prevent water from getting into your kit, even if it’s completely submerged in water.
This, of course, is ideal if you’re on a kayaking or rafting trip, but not always necessary otherwise. Suppose your gear is only likely to be exposed to bad weather.
In that case, water-resistant or repellent backpacks may be a more comfortable solution, particularly if you’re expecting to hike over long distances, carry heavy gear or wear your bag for considerable periods.
Alternatively, another option is to choose a backpack style that suits you with a waterproof rain fly or covers included.
A waterproof cover should be sufficient to keep out the vast majority of rain and water and keep your gear dry when you reach camp.
100% Waterproof Backpacks
To begin with, we’ll look into totally waterproof options for a more extreme water-based adventure.
1. Earth Pak Waterproof Backpack: 35L / 55L / 85L
Overall score: 86
Advantages
- 100% waterproof
- More comfortable than most dry bags
- Pockets inside and outside
Disadvantages
- Price
Waterproofing
The Earth Pak is the ultimate in water-based luggage solutions and is guaranteed to be 100% waterproof if correctly used.
This roll-top style bag must be folded over multiple times and then buckled, and a reinforced strip helps make it completely watertight.
This design is ideal for use on a water-based trip or any boat-based adventure.
Space and features
With 3 sizes, you can opt for a large day-sized pack, a medium-sized, or an extra large to suit every trip. The space is divided with pockets outside and inside the bag, meaning it is not just an ordinary stuff sack.
Designed to prevent drops from getting into your kit, there’s a splash-proof zipper for easy access.
This well-designed bag also floats on water, has a reflective panel, so it’s easy to see in the dark, and has rings and a looping system so that you can attach your pack securely if you’re in a boat or kayak.
Comfort
Unlike many dry bags, the Earth Pak has a comfortable back panel and double straps with a waist belt to relieve pressure, making it far more comfortable to carry for long distances than other single-strap dry bags.
Durability
Made from 500D PVC, the Earth Pak is made by a company that prides itself on heavy-duty gear designed for extreme adventures.
Price
Priced between $60-$70, the Earth Pak is not the cheapest waterproof backpack available. However, it won’t break the bank either, and we believe it’s excellent value for such high quality and design.
2. HEETA Waterproof Dry Bag for Women Men, 5L/10L/20L/30L/40L
Overall score: 78
Advantages
- 100% waterproof
- Wide range of size options
Disadvantages
- No pockets for organization
- No padded straps or extra features for comfort
Waterproofing
By incorporating a seamless design, this dry bag will ensure that your belongings stay water free for most water-based sports like kayaking or rafting.
Although it is not intended for underwater use, it will keep your kit dry on boating trips or wet weather outings.
Space and features
The HEETA waterproof dry bag comes in 5 size options ranging from 5L to 40L, and although the largest size will be appropriate as a day or overnight bag, you won’t be able to use any of the options for a longer trip.
The HEETA is a simple but effective waterproof solution without a ton of added features or pockets for organization; however, it is transparent, making it easy to locate your items stored within.
Comfort
This dry bag does come with double adjustable shoulder straps, so you can opt to use it as a backpack or as an over-the-shoulder bag.
Unlike the Earth Pak, however, these straps aren’t padded, there’s no waist belt, and it won’t be comfortable to carry heavy loads over long distances.
Durability
The thick waterproof material makes this backpack durable for outdoor camping or water-based activities.
Price
Ranging from around $13-$25 depending on your size, this is an excellent affordable option if you’re looking for simplicity and waterproof protection for your belongings.
3. Piscifun Dry Bag, Waterproof Floating Backpack 5L/10L/20L/30L/40L
Overall score: 82
Advantages
- 100% WaterProof index rating
- Waterproof phone case included
- Durable
Disadvantages
- Not as comfortable as a standard hiking bag
Waterproofing
Designed by a company specializing in fishing gear, these PVC waterproof backpacks have a 100% WaterProof index rating.
As with the other backpacks of this style, complete protection from water is achieved through the roll top and buckle system, and the fully welded seal will keep your belongings bone dry even on the wettest of trips, particularly journeys on rivers, lakes, or the sea.
Space and features
You can choose from 5, 10, 20, 30, or 40L options, which, like for the HEETA pack, are perfect for day or overnight trips but may not be enough for adventures with gear that are longer than more than half a week.
Each Piscifun bag has a touch-friendly waterproof phone case, meaning you can still use your phone for messages or navigation without the risk of water damage.
A mesh pocket on the outside of the pack also gives you easy access to belongings that don’t need as much protection from the elements, like a water bottle or navigation equipment.
Comfort
With adjustable shoulder straps, you can spread the load evenly across your back, keeping your pack stable. There is some padding, but not the cushioning you might expect from a normal hiking backpack.
Durability
As with the Earth Pak, the Piscifun is made from 500D PVC, making it a tough and durable companion on any adventure.
Price
Costing between just under $25 to under $35, the Piscifun is not the most budget dry-bag option, but it’s great value for a slick bit of kit.
Water Resistant Backpacks
If you’re about to embark on a single or multi-day kayaking trip, a backpack with a 100% waterproof rating will be necessary.
On the other hand, if you’re taking a camping trip and expect the weather to be wet, this kind of protection is unnecessary.
You’ll likely have a better trip using a water-resistant backpack designed for camping and comfort.
4. TianYaOutDoor 70L Hiking Backpack
Overall score: 80
Advantages
- Large volume for a longer trip
- Made from durable and water-resistant material
Disadvantages
- No internal pockets for organization
Waterproofing
Although not waterproof, this military-style backpack has been designed with water-resistant material tested for long-duration use outdoors.
While taking this pack on a water-based adventure is not recommended, it will give your kit great protection if you encounter rain during a camping or hiking trip.
Space and features
With 70l of space, this backpack can store your essentials and gear for longer trips.
While there are no internal pockets for organization, side pockets can be securely fastened with a zipper so that you can separate the belongings you need the most access to.
This pack is also designed with a military-style system for attaching extra items and equipment, meaning that not all your gear needs to fit inside your pack.
Comfort
With a waist strap to help evenly spread weight, and padded shoulder straps over a mesh to ensure ventilation, the TianYa should be a far more comfortable way to transport your gear than a standard dry-bag style option.
Durability
Designed for hiking, trekking, climbing, and hunting, with anti-scratch material and reinforced straps, this durable piece of kit should be fit to be your outdoor companion for many years.
Price
At around $55, we think this is excellent value for a large, heavy-duty backpack that offers protection from wet-weather conditions.
5. FENGDONG 40L Waterproof Lightweight Hiking, Camping, Travel Backpack
Overall score: 74
Advantages
- Multiple compartments for easy organization
- Comfortable to carry
Disadvantages
- Not big enough for longer trips
Waterproofing
As it’s not 100% waterproof, the Fendong won’t be appropriate for water-based activities.
However, it is constructed with water-resistant polyester material, making it perfectly suitable for any land-based trekking or camping journey in difficult elements.
Space and features
At 40L, the Fendong functions better as a large day or overnight bag than for a longer trip where lots of gear is needed.
Unlike with the TianYa pack, there are multiple compartments in the design, making it easy to organize all the items and tools you’ll need around camp, saving you time and hassle.
Comfort
With well-padded straps and a breathable backing panel, you should be able to keep cool and comfortable when traveling, even in the wettest or sweatiest of conditions.
Durability
Created to be durable with reinforced stress points and tear-resistant material, the FengDong water-resistant backpack can withstand extreme trips and should last for many excursions.
Price
With a price within the $30-$40 range, it’s cheaper than the TianYa backpack but does come with less space if you’re looking for a bag to carry a lot of gear.
6. 4Monster Hiking Daypack, Water Resistant Lightweight Packable Backpack for Travel Camping Outdoor
Overall score: 70
Advantages
- Lightweight
- Foldable into a carry bag
Disadvantages
- Small
- Not particularly durable
Waterproofing
This lightweight daypack is water resistant to enjoy a casual day out without your valuables getting wet, regardless of the weather conditions.
Space and features
At only 16L in capacity, this is a small bag that could be used for a day trip or outing and is unlikely to be useful for any excursion where you need to carry a significant amount of gear.
The most notable feature of this water-resistant bag is that it handily folds down into its own carry bag, which is the size of a wallet and can fit easily into any bigger backpack to be pulled out easily for a day away from camp.
Comfort
Even though the straps aren’t padded, they are breathable and shock-absorbing, meaning that the 4Monster Hiking Daypack should be relatively comfortable to carry so long as it is not overfilled.
Durability
Compared to military or extreme-sport grade backpacks, this foldable daypack is not going to be able to compete.
However, it is made of tear-resistant nylon that helps reduce tears from branches or rocks while hiking.
Price
You can find the 4Monster Hiking backpack priced upwards of $17 on sale for under $40 full price, making it potentially the cheapest of our water-resistant backpack options.
Backpacks With a Waterproof Rain Cover
Another sensible option if you’re looking for weather protection is to choose a hiking backpack with a rain cover that will keep out most of the dampness.
You can also up your waterproofing levels by keeping your belongings in plastic bags inside your backpack.
7. N NEVO RHINO Internal Frame Hiking Backpack 40/50/60/65/80L
Overall score: 78
Advantages
- Many sizes to suit your needs
- Excellent organization inside the bag
Disadvantages
- Price
Waterproofing
The backpack itself is not water resistant. However, it includes a waterproof rain cover that should prevent most dampness from getting into your clothes and gear.
While the N Nevo Rhino won’t be appropriate for extremely wet conditions, the rain cover should offer more than enough protection from normal levels of rain exposure.
Space and features
The N Nevo Rhino comes in 5 sizes, ranging from 40L to 80L, so you can choose a backpack that is perfect for a weekend or longer trip.
To make organizing your clothes and camping items an effortless task, there are several pockets alongside the main compartment, including two top pockets, a hydration pack pocket, an inner pocket, a mesh pocket, and several side and waist pockets for easy access.
In addition, there’s a separate compartment for a sleeping bag, making it perfect for campers.
Comfort
As with other well-made backpacks, mesh padding is breathable on the back panel for comfort, and an easily adjustable waist belt supports the well-padded shoulder straps.
Durability
Scratch-resistant and high quality, this nylon bag with sturdy zippers and close stitching are intended to last through many excursions.
Price
Ranging around $70-$90, this is the most expensive of the options we’ve looked at, but we think the great functionality and the added benefit of the rain cover make it worth it.
8. Loowoko 50L Hiking Backpack
Overall score: 76
Advantages
- Useful straps for attaching camping gear.
- Space for sleeping bag
- Comfortable wear
Disadvantages
- Not completely waterproof
Waterproofing
As with the N Nevo Rhino, the Loowoko’s waterproofing ability is due to its rain cover, which should prevent the damp getting in all but the most inclement conditions.
Space and features
With 50L of capacity, this is a medium-sized bag with plenty of room for all your clothes and food inside since you can attach your roll mats or other camping gear to the 8 useful straps on the outside of the bag.
There’s also a specially designated sleeping bag compartment.
Comfort
With no internal frame, this is intended to be a lightweight solution to your packing needs.
The shoulder straps are wide enough to be comfortable all day, and the back support is elasticated and ventilated for an all-around pleasant carrying experience.
As with all our backpacks (as opposed to the dry-bag option), it’s likely to be far more comfortable to carry over long periods or distances.
Durability
Based on customer feedback, Loowoko has updated their hiking backpack to have stronger zippers, tougher fabric, and straps, so you should not have too many concerns when taking this bag on a wet-weather trip.
Price
Be prepared to pay between $40-$55 for this mid-size bag. While it’s not the most affordable option, you’ll get a good level of comfort and a decent bag size for your dollars.
Final Thoughts
Whether you need something 100% waterproof on a multi-day kayaking journey or just a water-resistant pack to keep your kit dry after a wet day’s hiking, we’ve got you covered.
Choose from the backpack style that suits you most in terms of style and comfort and set out on your next adventure, reassured that your gear will stay dry.