The Best Waterproof Backpacks for All Occasions

Your mind is made up! It's time to get out there this weekend. You are going outdoors whatever the weather. Top on the list you need a waterproof backpack.

All your previous backpacks fell short on their promises, and your stuff got wet. An ordeal you wish to forget.

How do you ensure you get the best waterproof backpack that will not only protect your stuff but will also last this time?

Features to Look out for in Identifying the Best Waterproof Backpack

1. Waterproofness

A waterproof backpack ought to be made of highly impermeable materials. It ensures that the water doesn’t penetrate through the bag damaging the contents.

In evaluating a waterproof backpack’s permeability, we use the Ingress Protection (IP) official standards.

Several IP standards are applied in the bags we stock:

IP65- Foul Weatherproof
IP66- Briefly submersible and floats
IP68- Submersible to 6M for 60 Mins

The different standards dictate your waterproof backpack porosity level. Look out for the IP rating icons on the product pages.

IP65- Foul Weatherproof

These dry bag backpacks are lighter-weight materials making them ideal for packing in bigger bags that are more watertight.

The IP65 will keep the rain off, and your contents will remain dry for a while; however, they aren’t strictly submersible.

IP66 Waterproof Backpack

The waterproof rucksacks that fall under this category are 100% impermeable to water and succinctly submersible.

Made from tarpaulin, these waterproof rucksacks can be hauled on and off boats. Due to the type of sealing applicable to these bags, ensure you don’t submerge them in water for too long. With time the bag can potentially let water through.

IP68 Waterproof Backpack

This category of dry bag backpack is known for its impermeability level. The bag can be submerged for at least 60 minutes to a depth of up to 6 meters without the contents getting soaked.

Use this bag to keep your valuables completely protected from water. It’s the right standard bag for your phone, laptops, and other treasures you wish to take downstream.

The seal used on these bags is kept intact by the water pressure making it possible to retain the ziplock closed while in water.

2. Material Composition

The rate at which a waterproof backpack can restrict water absorption is influenced by its material composition. For this reason, as you plan on buying the backpack, get to know the material composition.

Light weight waterproof backpacks, such as the EXPED Cloudburst25, are made from Taffeta nylon and PU, then coated with a Durable Water Repellant (DWR), are the best in keeping your valuables dry from rain and spray.

With time the DWR film wears off, but the good thing is that it can be replaced with Nikwax to allow your backpack to serve you for longer.

OverBoard's heavier weight PVC tarpaulin is 100% waterproof and header wearing, but significantly heavier to carry. OverBoard bags come in three weights of material:

Classic
Pro-Sport
Pro-Light

3. Size

Go for a bag that suits you in terms of size. Your bag size will be influenced by the number of valuables you intend to carry.

You could get a 20 litres backpack for a day out cycling as it’s medium size and not too heavy to carry around. For hiking, get a rucksack of between 20-30 litres and 45 litres and above for an extended adventures outdoors.

If you want internal pockets or plan on carrying your laptop with you, consider adding the laptop tidy to create more space for your valuables.

4. Weight

Weight matters call for an act of balancing depending on the valuables you intend to carry.

You want to ensure you avoid carrying excessive weight in the pack alone.

Lightweight bags Exped bags have taped seams to ensure they remain watertight. The lightweights also hit a lower price point.

The mid-weight waterproof backpacks are made from strong tarpaulin material then surrounded with radio-frequency seams to make them completely leakproof.

Some waterproof backpacks will be heavier due to the add-on features such as chest and waist straps, bungee cords, and external side pockets.

The weight of the bag you choose will be influenced by the purpose you intend to use it for and your personal preference.

We have a wide range of waterproof backpacks under all the weight categories to choose from.

5. Sealing

The type of seal on your waterproof backpack matters a lot as it will influence how long it stays intact before cracking from the water pressure.

Most of the bags will have a roll-top seal that you are supposed to roll four times after pinching the top together, then secure with the buckle to keep the seal watertight.

To test whether you have properly secured the seal, run the bag in a bath before heading out for a real wet adventure.

Some backpacks like the Overboard have mechanical clips for sealing. Slide the clips together to make a watertight seal.

Others like the watershed have a zip-lock-style seal that runs across the backpack. You need to learn the technique used in doing the seal to ensure your bag remains waterproof.

Oil the seal on these bags regularly with the lube attached to ensure it remains functional. In case you miss the lube while outdoors, use your saliva; it works perfectly.

Why Get Your Waterproof Backpack from Us?

1. Quality

We only deal with the best quality waterproof backpacks. We always ensure that you get the best bag that firmly secures your content.

2. Variety

We have a wide variety of dry bag backpacks for every occasion. You can choose the one that suits you best in terms of colour, purpose, size, weight, and accessories you wish to have on your bag.

3. Pocket Friendly

We aim to provide you with quality backpacks at affordable prices. We go the extra mile to ensure you get value for your money.

4. Fast Delivery

If you are within the UK in a day or two, you will have gotten your backpack.

5. Free Delivery

Yes, you read right, for purchases above £50. We also offer 30 day free returns to ensure our customers get the best products possible.

Plan your outdoor adventure by getting the right waterproof backpack from us in good time. Prevent your valuables from being damaged by getting the right dry bag backpack.

Enjoy your outdoor activities without having to worry about your gear and valuables getting ruined.

Dry Pouches

Dry Tubes

Duffels

Military

Multipacks

Phone cases

Vented dry bags

Waterproof Backpacks

Dry Bags Ltd59 Lakewood CrescentBristolBS10 5HL

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Dry Bags Ltd59 Lakewood CrescentBristolBS10 5HL

Subscribe to our newsletter to receive a 10% off voucher on all our products!

Dry Bags Ltd
59 Lakewood Crescent
Bristol
BS10 5HL

Dry Bags Ltd
59 Lakewood Crescent
Bristol
BS10 5HL