Should‌ I Get‌ a‌ Waterproof‌ Backpack? Do Water Tight Bags Exist?

In the past few years, several backpack manufacturers have switched from using natural materials to synthetic materials. Synthetic materials, such as nylon, are lightweight and, in some cases, waterproof.

If you're going to carry a backpack in wet conditions or in a location that's prone to rain, a waterproof backpack might be a good option for you. 

A waterproof backpack is a backpack that prevents damage from liquids. It is like a dry bag. The exact level of water resistance a waterproof backpack is capable of will depend on the quality of the materials used in its design. Some factors to consider when choosing a waterproof backpack are the location you plan on using the waterproof backpack, the items you'll store in the backpack, and your budget.

Conclusion: Not only do the best waterproof backpacks, also known as a dry bag, keep your items safe from water, but waterproof backpacks also keep you safe from the worry of anything swimming up and biting you!

What is a Waterproof Backpack?

A waterproof backpack, also known as a dry pack, is a waterproof pack designed to keep belongings dry. A waterproof backpack is typically made from a neoprene outer fabric and interior liner. The waterproof backpack is waterproofed by rubber piping and a sealing layer of fabric or film to create a barrier that keeps items inside dry. Check out what's better, wet bag or dry bag.

A waterproof backpack is excellent for use when you are traveling, hiking, hunting, fishing, kayaking, or other outdoor activities. Making sure that all your electronics are protected from the elements is one of the main purposes of using a waterproof backpack. It is better than a regular hiking backpack.

If you are using your backpack or sleeping bag for less extreme activities, it might not be necessary to have a waterproof backpack. One item that is important to have for all outdoor activities regardless of the weather is at least one trash bag and a ziploc bag. This will make it easy to pack up any garbage you see along the way. 

A waterproof backpack is an excellent tool for outdoor enthusiasts in addition to a hiking backpack. Protecting your gear from the elements ensures you can enjoy whatever activity you are doing without worry.

What to Look For in Waterproof Backpacks

The most important thing is to know what you're looking for in a waterproof backpack or dry bag. There are a couple of things to think about when looking for the right waterproof backpack. First, make sure the waterproof backpack or sleeping bag is large enough to accommodate all of your belongings. 

You'll also want to make sure the waterproof backpack is lightweight and fits well. The last thing you want to do is carry a heavy and bulky backpack around all day. Finally, make sure it is waterproof and has a durable and strong material.

A water-resistant backpack should have a seal zipper or a roll top closure to keep water from seeping inside. Waterproof backpacks should also have ample storage, a water repellent fabric to protect the items from light rain. 

This type of fabric does not carry a guarantee for resisting a downpour. A waterproof backpack or sleeping bag should also have a watertight seam, or a welded seam, to keep water from soaking into the fabric.

Why You Shouldn't Get a Waterproof Bag

The waterproof backpack has become a very popular style of backpack. It is perfect for someone who enjoys traveling or someone who is an outdoor enthusiast. However, a dry bag is not completely waterproof. The waterproof backpacks are designed to stay waterproof with repeated use, but for the most part they are not. 

Waterproof backpacks are made with materials that are made to be water resistant, but not waterproof. A waterproof backpack will not be able to withstand exposure to water over time. The material used on waterproof backpacks is not strong enough to withstand exposure to material like PVC or vinyl. However, it’s still better than a plastic bag.

 8 ways in which waterproof backpacks are impractical

• The dry bag takes too long to dry
• The dry bag takes up too much space
• The dry bag is uncomfortable against the skin
• It's difficult to find a waterproof backpack that looks stylish
• The dry bag is expensive and pack liners are needed
• The dry bag is uncomfortable to carry
• The straps are uncomfortable
• You have to take it off to access anything inside
• You still have to use a waterproof rain cover and waterproof pack liner
• They usually don’t have the best padded shoulder straps.

Water resistant backpacks are a key piece of an outdoor enthusiast's equipment for waterproof protection. If you spend a lot of time outdoors in variable weather conditions you know the importance of a water resistant backpack. The best way to make sure your gear stays dry is by selecting a water resistant backpack with a taped, watertight zipper. 

If the zipper is not taped or a pullhead is not installed to seal the zipper grommet, it is useless in shielding your gear from moisture and is not water resistant. Don't worry about using a standard backpack when the weather is good. 

Standard backpacks work great when it's not raining, but in rain or snow, they can only do so much when it comes to keeping your stuff dry. If you plan on swimming with the bag read here. Grab that water resistant dry bag instead.

How to Take Care of Waterproof Bags

To clean a waterproof backpack, first, make sure it is fully emptied and all pockets are emptied. You will need to use soap and water, dishwasher soap, or other mild cleaners to wash the inside of the backpack. 

It is important to remember to change the water or soap periodically to avoid any residue or other buildup. After washing the inside of the backpack, it is also important to wash the outside. Use dishwashing soap or mild cleaners to get any grime off the exterior of the backpack. 

Follow with water. After your backpack is clean, you want to let it air dry for at least 24 hours before using it again

Here are a few ways to store the best waterproof backpacks. Start by taking your backpack off before storing it. This allows you to identify any leaks or tears which could lead to damage. Place it on a clean, flat surface with the opening facing up. Place a towel or blanket underneath it to keep it dry. 

Place heavier items closest to the back of the backpack, where the padded shoulder straps are. Stash essentials like your sleeping gear, clothes, and

Final Thoughts

Choosing the best backpack is imperative for your safety and waterproof protection. There are two main types of backpacks, waterproof backpacks or water resistant backpacks, and the pack that's not waterproof or water-resistant. If you're looking for waterproof backpacks, you should do some research and purchase a waterproof backpack that will protect you against wet weather conditions. 

The best waterproof backpacks typically come in three categories: Riuker, Tatonka, and Kriega. These three backpacks are usually made with three-layer construction that ensures water will not leak into the backpack, or that the backpack will not leak if it gets submerged in water. 

The outer layer, the pack liners,  of the waterproof backpack is usually made from waterproof fabric such as nylon and polyester, while

Most Frequent Questions

1. What is the difference between water repellent and waterproof?

Water repellent and waterproof are two terms that are often used interchangeably, but there is a difference between the two. Waterproof is the ability to resist water. It is a product that will not allow water to penetrate the material, such as Gore-Tex. 

Water-repellent is the ability to repel water and other liquids, such as rain and dew. It is a thin barrier that keeps the liquid from touching the surface. The repellent coating can be applied to materials such as fabric and plastic. 

The coating works by creating a barrier between the liquid and the surface of the fabric.

2. How do I make my backpack water-resistant?

When it comes to water-resistant materials, the most important property is its ability to be vapor permeable. Vapor Permeability is the property of a material which allows the passage of water vapor through the material. 

Waterproof materials have a vapor permeability, or a permeability to water vapor. For example, a raincoat is vapor permeable since water vapor can pass through the rain coat. A plastic bag is also vapor permeable since water vapor will pass through the bag.

For a few bucks you can waterproof any hiking backpack. There are three main components to waterproofing your pack. Use dry bags to protect the most important gear, a waterproof pack liner (compactor bag) to protect the inside contents, and rain cover to protect the outside of the bag. 

A pack liner Is Crucial. Your pack liner is the first layer of defense when trying to waterproof a hiking backpack. It's by far the most important piece of waterproofing equipment. The pack liner protects the entire inside compartment of your bag.

3. Is water repellent good for rain?

If you're looking for a waterproof dry bag backpack that can handle getting wet, then you're probably looking for a water repellent bag for rain. This is a type of bag that does not allow water to get in. This is helpful for keeping your things dry in the rain. 

Of course, these bags aren't waterproof (if they were, they would be called waterproof bags). Water repellent bags do not keep water out 100% all of the time. So they aren’t completely waterproof.

You want something that is completely water proof. Other gear you should invest in is backpack rain covers. A backpack rain cover is an accessory that protects the backpack or sleeping bag from the rain. The rain cover will provide protection for your backpack for up to 25 mm of precipitation. 

Features of the rain cover include an adjuster, linking strap, and no Velcro or closures. The rain cover is weather resistant and the cover is made of polyester. The rain cover is exclusively made for adult backpacks.

4. What's a good backpack for traveling?

Backpacks are a popular choice of luggage for those traveling, whether on a business trip or a vacation. For those who plan on traveling a lot, it's a good idea to invest in a good waterproof bag that is durable, roomy, and comfortable. It should also be water resistant.

Backpacks maximize a traveler's ability to carry items, leaving the hands free for maps, cameras, and other essentials. A good backpack is durable and reliable. It can be rolled through airports and sidewalks without falling apart or tearing. It should have stitched seams, with straps and zippers that hold up over time.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Fred Felton          

Content Creator / Editor

Fred Felton is a copywriter, editor and social media specialist based in Durban, South Africa. He has over 20 years of experience in creating high end content. He has worked with some of the biggest brands in the world. Currently Fred specialises in the winter outdoors space, focussing on skiing and snowboarding. He is also a keynote speaker and has presented talks and workshops in South Africa.