You need to be ready to go hiking in your backpack. To do so, it needs to be designed to last and it should be waterproof, too, depending on the hiking style. A backpack that can withstand extreme weather conditions, along with the regular hiking bumps and hits, is well worth the money. Whatever you bring in your bag, you’ll want to make sure that it’s safe from sudden rainstorms when hiking the trails.
Bad conditions, water accidents, or water activities all run the risk of a bag soaking, both for you and your precious possessions. A normal hiking backpack simply won’t make it. The best waterproof backpacks for hiking prevents everything in it from exposure to water, corrosion, and leakage. These types of backpacks should typically often be easy to clean and are also made from materials that will repel water, like the sweat from our skin that will ultimately disintegrate and damage smaller bags.
In a Hurry? The test winners after 14 hrs of research
FE Active Dry Bag Waterproof Backpack – Best Value
Why is it better?
- It keeps your stuff dry very well
- Burly D-strap on top with a rubberized hand-grip that can be used for either for hanging or single-hand carrying
- Versatility of the bungee webbing on back
- Mesh side pockets that include drawstrings so you can cinch them down to securely carry anything
SealLine Urban Backpack – Premium Pick
Why is it better?
- The waterproof material and roll-top would be great for bicyclists as well
- Appears to be well made with the tough 600 denier
- Light-medium weight straps and top clip
- The roll-down strap lock works smoothly
Best Waterproof Backpacks for Hiking – Overview
A waterproof backpack for hiking should protect your things safe from water, whether you are camping or doing any everyday activities. And with that being said, by not putting them into a waterproof bag you certainly don’t want to turn your things into drenched pajamas. We’ve curated some of the best waterproof backpacks for hiking on the market right now just for you. We published a vast number of product reviews and read hundreds of articles to provide you in the industry with top-notch waterproof backpacks.
Waterproof Backpacks for Hiking Reviews
1. FE Active Dry Bag Waterproof Backpack – Best Value
The FE Active Dry Bag Waterproof Backpack is constructed with the highest quality materials on the market and can be enjoyed in all water activities to keep your dry products safe. The Cloudbreak is built with mesh net pockets on both sides of the dry bag. The netting can be used to hold quick grab-and-go items or can properly store a normal sized water bottle. A built-in drawstring lines the mesh to provide further security.
The generous volume of the Cloudbreak dry bag makes it easy to safely store a number of items. The interior pocket has a 6-inch zippered entry to conveniently store quick grab-and-go items. Designing the pocket in the interior of the dry bag allows for it to be fully waterproof. The Cloudbreak includes welded bungee cords to the exterior of the dry bag backpack. The corded exterior allows for additional items to be stored such as yoga mats, towels, camping gear, hiking equipment, and anything designated as waterproof that does not need to be included inside the dry bag.
Key Features:
- Padded shoulder straps
- Bungee cords to the exterior
- Built-in pouch
- Mesh net pockets on both sides
Specifications:
- Brand: FE Active
- Capacity: 30L
- Dimensions: 19.1″ H x 11.6″ W x 2.9″ D
- Weight: 2 lbs
- It keeps your stuff dry very well
- Burly D-strap on top with a rubberized hand-grip that can be used for either for hanging or single-hand carrying
- Versatility of the bungee webbing on back
- Mesh side pockets that include drawstrings so you can cinch them down to securely carry anything
- Not a lot of organization
2. Chaos Ready Waterproof Backpack for Hiking
The Chaos Ready Waterproof Backpack for Hiking holds 22 Litres and stands just under 21 inches when rolled down and packed. Large enough to take everything you need for all your adventures and small enough to use as carry-on luggage when flying. The main compartment holds 22L which is the perfect size to hold all your belongings for those 1 to 3-day treks. Big enough so you can bring everything you want and need but small enough so it’s not too bulky.
Two mesh pockets on the side of this dry bag backpack to ensure you have immediate access to hydration from your water bottles. Use them to keep your liquids handy or store whatever you like for easy access. The front pocket allows you easy-access to keep things out of sight but in reach. Secure Velcro holds everything in. It’s not waterproof but gives you a secure place to store anything you need quick access to like an action camera or a passport for travel.
Key Features:
- Constructed out of high-quality 500D PVC tarpaulin
- Mesh pockets
- 100% waterproof
- Padded straps
Specifications:
- Brand: Chaos Ready
- Capacity: 22L
- Weight: 1.4 lbs
- The front pocket is also nice for easy access to items
- The construction of the bag is very comfortable
- The flap above the small front pocket keeps things dry if the bag is upright
- Truly waterproof
- As with all waterproof bags like these, everything does sink to the bottom and it can be hard to locate items
3. Acrodo Waterproof Dry Bag Backpack
The patented design of Acrodo Waterproof Dry Bag Backpack allows you to use as many bags as you’d like and keep them located together. If you’re carrying only your own belongings, use one backpack. To carry two bags, simply clip together to create a double backpack. For large groups, clip multiple bags together to create a daisy chain.
This pack removes the barries and allows you to explore wherever, whenever. Rain or shine, dry land, or choppy waters, this backpack will keep your belongings dry and unharmed. So don’t let anything hold you back. It’s time to take a step towards finding adventure. This bag is definitely perfect for hiking.
Key Features:
- Side buckle to attach other bags
- Multiple color options
- Constructed from top-quality, durable materials
- Suitable for hot and cold weather
Specifications:
- Brand: Acrodo
- Capacity: 15L
- Weight: 1.4 lbs
- Build quality is nice
- Thick material with tight seems
- Definitely waterproof
- The size is also a plus
- No padding on the straps
4. SealLine Urban Backpack – Premium Pick
Lightweight and rock-solid, the SealLine Urban Backpack offers seamless all-weather commuter protection and go-anywhere versatility for weekend play. Built watertight, the Urban Backpack withstands quick submersions and will float if dropped in the water thanks to its roll-down closure and burly, welded, PU-coated fabrication.
The top-load pack features a QuickClip attachment for easy gear access and is equipped with a convenient weatherproof zip pocket. Built for comfort on the move, the Urban Backpack is equipped with deluxe waterproof and ventilated suspension with a stabilizing chest strap and stow-able waist strap as well as an internal frame sheet for load stability. Additionally, the pack has a carry handle and a light clip-loop to keep you visible on the road.
Key Features:
- Simple, effective roll-top with quick clip closure
- Padded and breathable shoulder strap, chest strap and webbing waist belt
- Accessories secure easily to the eternal attachment points
- Splashproof external zip pocket/PVC Free
Specifications:
- Brand: SealLine
- Dimensions: 22″ H x 19″ W x 2″ D
- Weight: 2.4 lbs
- The waterproof material and roll-top would be great for bicyclists as well
- Appears to be well made with the tough 600 denier
- Light-medium weight straps and top clip
- The roll-down strap lock works smoothly
- Only possible issue could be the supportive inner plastic back support that helps the pack keep form – as it sometimes gets loose from its corner flap holders and can become loose
5. The Friendly Swede Waterproof Backpack Dry Bag
The Friendly Swede Waterproof Backpack Dry Bag is a perfect combination of great, timeless design, ergonomic comfort, and many practical functions. When empty, it weighs in at only 2.2 lbs. This means you can bring a lot of things with you, when out hiking, running, skiing, skating, rafting or sailing, But it is also handy and lightweight when packing light. To enhance your visibility when dark outside, they have added reflectors to the front pocket and also to the shoulder straps.
Unique to other dry bags, there is also an added padded laptop inner pocket, organizer mesh bag, and a carabiner, on the inside on this one. This way you can find all your gadgets quickly when needed. The ergonomic back and waist straps are easily adjusted and will help you travel long distances without getting a sore back. The chest strap is also easy to adjust in height to make the backpack even more comfortable to wear and suited perfectly for you. To the strap’s buckle, they have added a practical emergency whistle that is useful when out in the woods, to get attention, or if you are in a threatening situation. You will always have it close and handy at your chest.
Key Features:
- Industrial Grade 500 Denier Polyvinyl Tarpaulin
- Two spacious mesh pockets
- Padded laptop sleeve pocket
- Ergonomic shoulder, chest and waist straps
Specifications:
- Brand: The Friendly Swede
- Capacity: 33L
- Weight: 2.2 lbs
- Thick and sturdy
- The outside pocket is handy
- The side pockets are great too
- The mesh side pockets are perfect for drinks or other things that don’t need to be kept dry
- The inside pockets are less than thrilling to say the least. It’s basically a giant trash bag with a velcro pocket to put your laptop
6. MARCHWAY Floating Waterproof Dry Bag
MARCHWAY designers firmly believe that protect your valuables is crucial for keeping a good mood during your outdoor adventures. So they designed the MARCHWAY Floating Waterproof Dry Bag to keep your stuff dry, clean, safe, and protect them from sand, dust, mud, and snow to ensure you enjoy outdoors without worry. Made from the highest quality thick 500D tarpaulin which is an ultra-tough waterproof fabric, resisting tear, puncture, abrasion, strong enough to use in most harsh conditions. However, it keeps soft and touches smooth even in extremely cold season.
Whichever adventure you are going on, such as kayaking, canoeing, snowboarding, skiing, hiking, camping, backpacking, this bag is the gear you can truly rely on. It is perfect to keep your stuff dry in any wet condition where the bag is not submerged. Its waterproof, light, compact, and durable features determine that it must be an essential part of your outdoor gear kit! This pack also includes double detachable straps, you can use either one strap for cross-body, or use two straps as a backpack.
Key Features:
- A simple roll down top seal system allows for secure airtight protection against water
- Advanced Thermo welding craft ensures flawless waterproof construction.
- With detachable and adjustable shoulder strap for different size people and various carry style
- Portable to carry due to its lightweight and easy to roll down for convenient storage
Specifications:
- Brand: MARCHWAY
- Capacity: 30L
- Weight: 1.39 lbs
- The bags are simple to use and versatile
- The color options are great, especially if your use for the bag may end up with the bag falling overboard
- The bags will float when sealed properly
- Roll top functions properly as does a click fastener
- Folding the bag over eliminates some space, which means you need to plan your space utilization carefully if you want a waterproof bag!
7. Vitchelo Waterproof Dry Bag Backpack for Hiking
Experience the great outdoors without any worries of your clothes, food items, costly electronics, or a deflated sleeping bag getting wet, soggy and spoilt with the Vitchelo Waterproof Dry Bag Backpack for Hiking. It’s reinforced seams and non-rip material. Keep survival gear safe with a scrim-reinforced vinyl bottom that ensures maximum water resistance. Hike in comfort with adjustable and padded shoulder straps as well as a waist strap. End back strain and use the pack designed to keep both you and your belongings safe.
It has a roll-top that you secure with a clip, to act as a seal. You can roll it 3 times to ensure a good seal and add air if you are going to be on the water and need it to float in the event of a mishap. Most dry bags you must carry from the top buckle strap because there isn’t a shoulder strap or appropriate handle. This one is capable of being carried by the grip handle at the top of the bag and also can be worn as a backpack.
Key Features:
- Roll-top that you secure with a clip
- There is a waist strap too for extra support
- Webbed pouches on the side that could carry water bottles
- Corded exterior at the front for gear
Specifications:
- Brand: Vitchelo
- Capacity: 30L
- Dimensions: 26.8″ H x 12.6″ W x 7.1″ D
- Weight: 2.05 lbs
- Lightweight
- Uses the slick-skin tarpaulin material all over
- Side pockets have drawstring tops instead of just elastic
- Outer face of shoulder straps has a waterproof fabric so they don’t get wet as fast in the rain
- Shoulder straps are less padded (part of the lighter weight tradeoff)
8. YETI Panga Airtight, Waterproof and Submersible Bags
The YETI Panga Airtight, Waterproof and Submersible Bags is the first non-insulated piece of gear that lives up to the standard of being built for the wild. This is the duffel bag designed for extended backcountry stays, fly fishing that takes you to the most remote rivers, and hunts that almost seem too wild to believe.
The airtight closure makes this bag absolutely waterproof and keeps moisture (and whatever else you might come across) out. The exterior fabric is tough-as-nails. The straps and accompanying lash points make it easy to haul. The hardware laughs in the face of hard knocks. So you have our permission to drag it on the dock, haul it on the boat, or chuck it overboard.
Key Features:
- Airtight and waterproof
- Ergonomic DryHaul Shoulder Straps
- With the hydrolok zipper the water stays out
- Made of high-density nylon and thick TPU lamination
- An interior sleeve and stowaway mesh pocket
Specifications:
- Brand: YETI
- Dimensions: 20″ H x 12.5″ W x 7″ D
- Weight: 3.9 lbs
- Surprisingly comfortable to carry as a backpack duffle
- When zipped tight, it is airtight enough that you can stand on it
- Tough construction
- Heavy duty and 100% waterproof
- It’s expensive but its a high-quality product
9. Skog Å Kust BackSåk Waterproof Floating Backpack
Whether you’re hiking the trails or rafting the rapids, you want to keep your stuff safe & dry, the solution is Skog Å Kust BackSåk Waterproof Floating Backpack. It is made from 500 Denier Waterproof PVC with high-frequency welded seams. Sternum clip & padded back support help relieve pressure on muscles. Thick, cushioned straps adjust for custom comfort. Handy D-rings at sides to attach water bottles & other gear.
There are 2 ways to close the bag, simply roll down the top and click the top clip to create an instant handle, or use the side clips & adjust for a snug, compressed fit – it’s IPX-6 waterproof either way! A large splash-proof outer pocket has enough room for keys, IDs and more. Plus the reflective trim surround allows you and your bag to be easily spotted in low-light conditions. Inside BackSåk has a large zippered pocket, 2 mesh pockets and a key clip – helping you to organize your gear.
Key Features:
- EVA foam padded back & cushioned adjustable straps for comfort
- Adjustable sternum strap
- Large Splash-proof exterior pocket
- Interior zippered pocket, mesh pockets and key clip
- Duraflex brand hardware
Specifications:
- Brand: Skog Å Kust
- Capacity: 35L
- Dimensions: 19″ H x 12.5″ W x 6″ D
- Weight: 2.5 lbs
- Outer pocket is just the right size for your wallet and cell, no digging around it
- Inner pocket is well designed and keeps certain items out of the bottom of the bag
- Soft frame is real comfortable
- Two ways to close the top
- Not a lot of internal organization
10. Earth Pak Waterproof Backpack
Started by two guys who love the outdoors and wanted to create innovative products that would support their ongoing passion for exploration. Behind every material, seam, and buckle they carry an unwavering spirit of adventure. The Earth Pak Waterproof Backpack is made to hold more than just the basics. Tuck in a sleeping bag, clothes for up to two, food, and more. By day, have it carry and protect all your gear. By night, use it as a camping pillow so it will never leave your side.
MOLLE system looping on the front of the bag, providing anchor points to latch onto while boating, biking, or kayaking. Or attach your favorite accessories, to take along with you on your adventures. Easily access items without having to unroll your bag with the large front pocket. This splash-proof pocket makes it easy to grab items on the go when you need them. For valuables, tuck them away in the bag’s two interior pockets both mesh and zippered, where it will be completely protected by the superior quality of your bag.
Key Features:
- 100% waterproof
- Roll-top closure and single reinforced strip
- Pockets on both the inside and outside of the bag
- MOLLE system looping
- Ergonomic padded backpanel
Specifications:
- Brand: Earth Pak
- Capacity: 35L
- Dimensions: 19″ H x 14″ W x 9″ D
- Weight: 2.5 lbs
- The straps are very comfortable
- The material is very good and sturdy
- The pack has a fairly large outside zippered pocket
- The chest strap helps to keep the pack in place
- No hip belt
Buying Guide
Weight
A standard rule is to never make it so bulky when it comes to carrying a backpack. Lumbar supports, chest straps, and compression straps can help keep the burden off the back, but the heavier the bag, the more painful it is to wear. A fully loaded backpack should not weigh more than about 20% of your body weight, although your day hiking pack should not weigh more than around 10% of your body weight.
Materials
Waterproof bags can be made of a number of different materials but nylon is by far the most used. If nylon fabric has a high thread count, it can be impressively water-resistant on its own, but also an extra water-proof coating is applied for assured protection against wet weather. Packs made of PVC vinyl, PVC, or rubber can have excellent water damage protection.
Comfort
Comfort determines how you can use your water-resistant backpack for prolonged periods of time. When you’re considering a mountain trip, make sure that you’re back is pretty lightweight and you’re going to find yourself throwing even more things into it. Selecting one of the lightest bags is important if you’re planning a long trip that might take you a few weeks. Therefore you guarantee that your hike is pleasant without any discomfort waste.
Seams
Seams are particularly critical on waterproof backpacks because you don’t want any water to come in. Whether zipper closures or roll-down closures, most can sell. When tucking under a protective lining, zips can be kept watertight, while roll-down loops can be latched and secured with anything called a water-resistant velcro.
Waterproof
The most critical factor would be understanding exactly how safe your bag is. The difference between water-resistant and waterproof is huge. This is much more complex with their varying waterproofing rates. Some waterproof backpacks are waterproof in the rain and stormy conditions but can’t be fully submerged in the water. Water-resistant bags, however, cannot handle those conditions.
Frequently Ask Questions
Do I need a waterproof backpack?
If you’re an enthusiastic hiker, a lover in water sports, or an adventurous traveler, you’ll want to invest in a pack that will keep your things safe all the time. A waterproof backpack will do all that, plus even else – it can act as a bag for your car or an internship. This one has a built-in notebook bag. You can pick from our list of backpacks that vary in price based on your use intent-there is no need to break the bank to find the right one. For travel though, we recommend you pick one from our guide on waterproof backpacks for travel.
What is the difference between water-resistant and waterproof backpacks?
A water-resistant backpack will only go as far as protecting your possessions during the rainy season. If during kayaking, your bag sinks into the water, there is no assurance that your supplies will remain intact. For these reasons, you should consider buying a good Waterproof Backpack instead of a water-resistant backpack. It will give you peace of mind under whatever situations you’ll find yourself throughout.
Conclusion
We hope this guide was helpful for finding the best waterproof backpacks for hiking as well as our guide on features to look for in a waterproof backpack for hiking. If you have any questions or concerns regarding this guide, feel free to let us know in the comments section.