Top 5 Rated Waterproof Backpacks: Buyer's Guide

Ever had a sudden downpour ruin your expensive camera gear or soak your important documents? That sinking feeling is something many adventurers know too well. Choosing the right waterproof backpack can feel like a guessing game. You see terms like “water-resistant” and “waterproof,” but what do they really mean? It’s tough to know which rating truly keeps your belongings safe when the skies open up.

Don’t let uncertainty leave your electronics vulnerable to the elements. Understanding waterproof ratings is the key to peace of mind on your next hike, commute, or boat trip. This post will break down what those confusing numbers and letters actually tell you about your backpack’s protection level.

By the end of this guide, you will confidently know how to pick a backpack that matches your needs, whether you face a light drizzle or a serious storm. Ready to discover the best defense for your gear? Let’s dive into the world of rated waterproof backpacks.

Top Rated Waterproof Backpack Recommendations

Bestseller No. 1

ECOHUB Waterproof Backpack for Women Men, 30L Roll-Top Closure Heavy Duty Dry Bag for Travel Kayaking Boating Hiking Floating with IPX8 Waterproof Phone Case (Black)

【Complete Waterproof Protection Backpack】 Ecohub dry bags waterproof utilize high-frequency stitching technology, no pinholes, 3 layers 500D PVC heavy duty woven mesh durable material, 100% waterproof and airtight to ensure your gear stays completely dry while traveling, kayaking, biking, camping, and fishing. The surface waterproof material, facilitating easy cleaning - simply rinse with water and allow it to dry.
【Quick Waterproof System】 Ecohub waterproof backpack designed with a roll-top closure and single reinforced strip to ensure water stays out. Align the straps on the top of the waterproof dry backpack after stores your gear, simply fold the bag down 3-4 times, buckle, and you are ready to go!
【Large Storage Space& Waterproof Phone Case】 30L waterproof bag equipped with pockets on both the inside and outside. A large splash-proof zipper on the outside for quick grab and go items, mesh pocket and drawstring on the front and a storage pocket on the left side for storing items while camping outdoors. The interior compartment pocket can store some important items. Our Waterproof dry bags have included IPX8 Certified 8 Inch waterproof phone case that will fit even the largest of phones.
【Unique Design】 Retaining Buckle can easily attach the dry bag to hull of boat, you don't have to worry about your dry bags being swept away by the rapids during water sports. Hook mechanism on the right side for attaching various items. Adjustable sternum strap with safety whistle. Reflective trim design for enhanced safety during nighttime travels. Floatable - The dry bag can float on water without sinking after being rolled up and buckled, so you can quickly track and retrieve your stuff.
【Multi-functional Roll-Top Dry Bag】 Ergonomic breathable padded backpanel design providing ultimate comfort by taking the weight off your back. Ecohub Waterproof dry bag backpack, waterproof, dustproof, portable, suitable for an enormous range of outdoor activities, no matter hiking, camping, climbing, biking, even water sports like floating, kayaking, swimming, rafting, boating, canoeing, fishing, surfing, rowing...all allowed. Amazing companion for outdoor enthusiasts!

Bestseller No. 2

Nite Ize RunOff Waterproof 12L Backpack - IP67-Rated Backpack - Lightweight Travel Bag with TRU Zip Technology - Outdoor Gear with Attachment Points, Adjustable Shoulder Straps & Mesh Pockets

Backpack with Waterproof Protection: This durable backpack revolutionizes waterproof protection with IP67 rated construction; this dust proof bag is submersible, compressible, and floatable
Waterproof Backpack with Advanced Zipper: Adventure awaits with this bag that uses TRU zip technology; TRU Zip offers a smooth glide and confident closure, so your belongings are protected from rainy weather and unexpected water exposure
Ultra-Light Portability: This travel waterproof backpack weighs 11.6 oz and features adjustable shoulder straps; the vertical zipper uses pull tabs for easy zipping and unzipping, so you can access your clothing, shoes, sunscreen, phone, and more
Versatile & Durable Functionality: This pack is engineered to float, submerge, and keep sand and water out; this trusty waterproof waist bag sticks with you whether you're kayaking, swimming, jetskiing, hiking through water or walking in the rain
About Nite Ize: Our inventor-driven products organize your life, protect your gear, light your way, and creatively solve everyday problems; every product is backed by our Worry Free Guarantee

Bestseller No. 3

Seektop 20L Foldable Waterproof Hiking Backpack, Ultralight Small Lightweight Daypack Packable Backpack for Men Woman

【Waterproof and Wear-Resistant Fabric】: Seektop hiking backpacks are made of high-density nylon waterproof fabric and feature waterproof zippers to prevent tearing, wear, and tear, and keep rain from getting inside the backpack and wetting your clothes, cash, cell phone, and other items. All stress points and shoulder straps are reinforced with knots to ensure durability.
【Lightweight Foldable Design】: Seektop waterproof hiking packable backpack Dimensions when unfolded: 18.5 inches long, 10.6 inches wide, 6.6 inches thick. Dimensions when folded: 7.4 inches long, 8.4 inches wide. When not in use, it can be collapsible and conveniently stored in a suitcase, backpack, or other items.
【Humanized Design】: Seektop waterproof hiking backpacks feature breathable soft padding on the shoulder straps and back panel, effectively reducing sweat while ensuring your shoulders and back remain comfortable and relaxed during your journey. The small backpack also comes with a removable and adjustable chest strap for a better carrying experience.
【Multi-Storage System Design】: Seektop lightweight folding backpack features five zippered compartments and an external suspension system, effortlessly meeting the needs of daily commuting, short trips, hiking, camping, cycling, travel, and vacations. This small backpack complies with carry-on luggage standards.
【Versatile 0pen System】: Seektop waterproof small hiking backpack is equipped with a convenient strap system and trekking pole attachment. The open strap system can accommodate different hiking equipment and multi-functional expansion pieces. The reflective design also improves visibility, making you safer at night and meeting the needs of various occasions. It is the ideal hiking backpack for outdoor activities.

SaleBestseller No. 4

SUIKIHUM Waterproof Laptop Backpack for Men & Women, Flight Approved Anti-Theft Daypack with 15.6-inch Laptop Sleeve (Black)

-Compact & Lightweight- --This 20L backpack, dimensions 16.5"/42cm (H) x11.4"/29cm (L) x6.7"/17cm (W), offers a streamlined, lightweight design, good for short trips, weekends, or commutes. It fits a 15.6-inch laptop along with other essentials, making it versatile for both work and casual outings
-Water-Resistant Protection- --Crafted with durable, water-resistant fabric, this backpack keeps your valuables dry from light rain or spills, offering peace of mind in variable weather. It provides optimal protection for your electronics, notebooks, and other essentials
-Hidden Anti-Theft Pocket- --Your peace of mind is a concern with this backpack’s anti-theft pocket, located on the back panel to keep valuable items like your phone, wallet, or passport safe from thieves
-Flight-Approved and Travel-Friendly- --This compact, flight-approved backpack fits under airplane seats and features a luggage strap for easy attachment to rolling suitcases. The 180° lay-flat design simplifies airport security checks
-Ergonomic & Comfortable- --Built with ergonomic, padded shoulder straps and a breathable back panel, which are lightweight yet durable, this laptop backpack ensures comfortable wear for extended periods. it’s the optimal daypack for college, work, or a casual weekend

SaleBestseller No. 5

Earth Pak Waterproof Backpack - Heavy Duty Hiking Backpack - Roll-Top Closure Bag - Cushioned Dry Bag Waterproof Phone Case

Complete Waterproof Protection: 100% waterproof to ensure your gear stays completely dry while traveling, kayaking, biking, commuting, camping, and fishing.
Easy To Use: Designed with a roll-top closure and single reinforced strip to ensure water stays out. Simply fold the bag down 3-4 times, buckle, and you are ready to go!
Plenty Of Extra Storage: Equipped with pockets on both the inside and outside of the bag. A large splash-proof zipper on the outside for quick grab and go items, and a built-in zippered pocket, mesh compartment, & key ring on the inside.
Safe For Travel: Compact and lightweight for easy carry on an airplane & roll top closure provides ultimate protection while traveling. Convenient D-Rings attached to both shoulder straps and MOLLE system looping both provide anchor points to latch onto while boating or biking.
Built For Comfort: Constructed with an ergonomic padded backpanel, reinforced contoured shoulder straps, and low-profile sternum strap providing ultimate comfort by taking the weight off your back. In addition, a heavy duty waist-belt relieves added pressure to help support your load.

Bestseller No. 6

Haimont Large Waterproof Duffel Backpack Roll-Top Heavy Duty Dry Duffle Bag for Boating, Travel, Motorcycle, Kayaking, Camping, 60L, Black

100% Waterproof & Durable: Haimont Dry duffel Backpack is made of high strength waterproof 500D tarpaulin material with high frequency welded seams; all major pressure points are double reinforced so that it's durable enough and reach 100% waterproof level: IPX7
Large Capacity with Multiple Pockets: Waterproof duffle 60L with large main compartment provides plenty of room to hold your luggage/ski gear/camping essentials, 1 waterproof zipper front pocket accesses frequently needed items, 1 internal zipped pocket in the middle for storing your valuables, 2 inner mesh pockets on each side, convenient for you to organize your items
Thoughtful Design: Fold-down closure system seals water out of the duffel. Top compression straps secure various-sized loads. Multiple lash points to secure to vehicle, roof rack, etc. 4 side-haul handles make for easy handling
Multiple Ways to Carry: Adjustable backpack straps that are easily attached or detached, each strap with two hanging points can be used to adjust the bag's center of gravity, adjustable & removable shoulder strap. It's flexible for you to carry it under different occasions
Multiple Uses: Haimont Dry Duffel Bag with its 100% waterproof feature is suitable for an enormous range of outdoor activities, no matter camping, climbing, biking, motorcycle, or even water sports like SUP, floating, kayaking, paddleboarding, rafting, canoeing, fishing, surfing and other adventures

SaleBestseller No. 7

MIYCOO Backpack - Ultra Lightweight Packable Backpack for Travel Camping, Hiking Back Pack Waterproof Foldable Daypack for Men Women Black

Lightweight: The lightweight packable backpack is about half the weight of a mobile phone, being folded into its inner pocket for storage and easy to open when needed. Unfolded size: 12.5 x 8.5 x 20.9 inches, folded size is only 4.5 x 3.9 x 7.8 inches
Waterproof & Durability: The waterproof backpack is made of waterproof fabric, IPX4: This rating offers protection against splashes of water, making them suitable for workouts or light rain. Heavy duty upgraded zippers and enhanced major stress points provide long-lasting durability against daily activities
Large Capacity & Multiple Compartments: Hiking backpack with 35L capacity and 3 compartments. The carry on backpack featured a wet compartment for separating dry and wet items
Survival Whistle: Equipped with a survival whistle on the shoulder strap, it is an essential item for your survival in dangerous outdoor situations
Tips: Before traveling, you can put this collapsible bag in your pocket or suitcase, and when you buy more goods on the way, this large-capacity foldable airplane backpack will show its value

SaleBestseller No. 8

G4Free 40L Lightweight Packable Hiking Backpack, Waterproof Travel Daypack

【Wet Pocket Design】100% waterproof wet pocket is designed in the back of this hiking backpack. Take this outdoor backpack for swimming or hiking to avoid getting wet or stuck in the rain. Never worry about your phone, or purse getting wet, and separate your sweaty clothes, towels, or other personal things for outdoor activities.
【Multi-Compartment Design】 This foldable backpack has 40L storage space. Featuring one main zipped compartment, a second large zipped front pocket, one front zipped hidden pouch, one front zipper compartment, and 2 side pockets. One separator and one small zippered pocket in the main compartment to organize your travel essentials or daily items.
【Lightweight & Comfortable】Weighs 1lb. Unfold size: 18.9*12.9*9.4inch(L*W*H); Fold size: 9.4x8.7inch; A true space saver. Fold the travel backpack into its pocket for storage to avoid the overweight charge. Breathable widened S-type shoulder straps with plentiful sponge padding help relieve the stress from your shoulder. The adjustable chest strap with a whistle buckle helps you lock your backpack in place securely or help to put in the luggage.
【Water-resistant and Durable】This handy hiking daypack is made of high-quality tear and water-resistant polyamide fabric. Bar-Tacks Processed at the seam will provide extra strength and long-lasting performance. Durable two-way SBS zippers are abrasion-resistant and ensure secure closure.
【VERSATILTY】This is a packable backpack that can be easily folded into the front large pocket to fit anywhere and unfolds from pocket to backpack in seconds. Lightweight backpack for travel, hiking, camping, sport, overnight trip, daily use, shopping, and more. It is the perfect companion no matter outdoor sports or leisure activities in or out of the city.

Your Essential Guide to Choosing the Best Rated Waterproof Backpack

Finding the right waterproof backpack keeps your gear dry when the weather turns nasty. You need a bag that truly protects your electronics, clothes, and important documents. This guide helps you pick the perfect companion for your adventures.

Key Features to Look For

A great waterproof backpack offers more than just basic rain protection. Focus on these essential features:

Waterproof Rating (IP Code): This rating tells you exactly how waterproof the bag is. Look for IP67 or higher for excellent protection against submersion. A lower rating might only handle heavy rain.
Closure System: How does the bag seal? Roll-top closures are the gold standard. You roll the top down several times and clip it shut. This creates a watertight seal. Zippers should be heavy-duty and preferably water-resistant (like YKK AquaGuard), not just standard zippers.
Durability and Seams: Inspect the seams. They should be welded or taped, not just stitched. Stitched seams create tiny holes where water can sneak in.
Comfort Features: Even the best waterproof bag is useless if you cannot carry it comfortably. Look for padded shoulder straps and good back ventilation.

Important Materials Matter

The material determines how long your bag lasts and how well it keeps water out.

Top Waterproof Fabrics

PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride): This material is very tough and highly waterproof. It often feels stiff but offers excellent protection.
TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane): TPU is lighter and more flexible than PVC, especially in cold weather. Many high-quality dry bags use TPU coatings.
Nylon with PU Coating: Standard nylon fabric gets a polyurethane (PU) coating on the inside to make it waterproof. Check the Denier (D) number; higher numbers (like 500D or 1000D) mean thicker, tougher fabric.

Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality

Not all waterproof bags perform the same way. Small details make a big difference.

Quality Boosters:

Hardware: Strong, non-corrosive buckles (like Duraflex or metal hardware) last longer near water.
Air Purge Valve: Some bags have a small valve. You press the air out before sealing the roll top, making the bag more compact.
Internal Organization: Waterproofing is key, but you still need pockets. Look for a dedicated, perhaps splash-proof, laptop sleeve inside the main compartment.

Quality Reducers:

Exposed Zippers: If the main compartment uses exposed, non-sealed zippers, water will likely get in during a downpour or accidental splash.
Thin Straps: Thin, unpadded straps will dig into your shoulders when the bag is full and heavy.
Poor Stitching: If you see loose threads or thin stitching where the straps attach, the bag might tear under stress.

User Experience and Use Cases

Think about where you will use your bag. This helps you choose the right size and style.

Common Use Cases:

Kayaking/Boating: You need maximum waterproofing (IP67). A bright color helps rescue teams spot you if you capsize.
Daily Commuting (Rainy Cities): You need good water resistance and quick access. A backpack style with sealed zippers might work better than a traditional roll-top duffel.
Hiking/Motorcycling: Comfort is crucial. Look for good back padding and chest/waist straps to keep the load stable on rough terrain.

Always test your new bag before a major trip. Fill it with towels, seal it tight, and submerge it in the bathtub for an hour. If the towels are dry, you have a winner!

10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Waterproof Backpacks

Q: What does an IP67 rating actually mean?

A: IP67 means the bag is totally protected from dust and can be submerged in water up to 1 meter deep for 30 minutes without letting water inside.

Q: Are waterproof backpacks heavy?

A: They can be slightly heavier than regular backpacks because of the thick, durable material. However, modern TPU materials keep the weight manageable.

Q: Can I wash my waterproof backpack?

A: Yes, but gently. You should wipe it clean with mild soap and water. Never put it in a washing machine, as the heat and agitation can break down the waterproof coatings and seals.

Q: How long do the waterproof seals last?

A: With proper care, the seals and coatings can last for many years. Avoid folding the bag sharply along the seams, which can crack the coating over time.

Q: Is a roll-top closure better than a waterproof zipper?

A: For true submersion protection, the roll-top closure is generally superior. Waterproof zippers are great for heavy rain but might fail if the bag falls into a deep puddle.

Q: What is the best size for day trips?

A: A 20-liter to 30-liter backpack usually works perfectly for day hikes, carrying snacks, a jacket, and electronics.

Q: Do I need a separate rain cover?

A: If your bag has a high IP rating (IP67), you do not need a separate rain cover. If the bag only has a lower water-resistant rating, a cover adds extra security.

Q: How do I keep items dry inside a roll-top bag?

A: Always place sensitive items (like phones or cameras) inside a smaller, sealed dry bag or Ziploc bag *inside* the main backpack for double protection.

Q: Can I use a waterproof backpack for winter sports?

A: Absolutely. The tough materials resist abrasion from snow and ice very well, and the seal keeps melting snow out.

Q: What should I check before buying a used waterproof bag?

A: Check the roll-top area for cracks and look closely at the buckles. Make sure the material is still supple and not brittle or stiff.