10 Best Waterproof Backpacks for all of Your Outdoor Adventures

After the last year, I think we can all agree that we might have been taking the wonderful outdoors for granted. But, because of this realization, people are getting outside and doing more and more activities like hiking, camping, and fishing.

An outdoor excursion can get disappointing really quickly if you don’t have the right backpack to store and more importantly, protect all of your gear. That, my friend, is exactly why you need a waterproof backpack.

If you get overwhelmed with the thought of trying to sort through thousands of waterproof backpacks, we’ve got you covered. Keep reading to see the top ten waterproof backpacks for all of your outdoor adventures this year. 

What To Look For In Your Next Waterproof Backpack

Back in the days of grade school, a backpack’s real “value” to most of us was the cool design or color. For others, it was all of the secret compartments or even speakers. Today, things are much different, even though it’s still cool to have secret pockets!

Here are the factors you should be looking for when you’re looking at a waterproof backpack.

Storage Capabilities

The number one factor when looking for any type of bag or backpack is how much storage it has. No matter what you’re doing with a backpack, you need to know that it’s going to be able to fit everything you need. Whether you’re packing food, clothes, or equipment, it all has to fit and stay safe.

When you think of packing, you might see yourself stuffing everything into a bag and strenuously struggling to zip everything up. When you need something, it always seems to be way down at the bottom, causing you to either scavenge through your bag or spill the entire contents out and search.

It’s not all about quantity and how much can be stored. It’s also important to see how the items are stored. Having separate compartments and additional pockets means all of your belongings are kept organized and convenient for when you need them.

Comfortable Fit

Another vital part of a quality backpack is how it fits you. You’ll need to search for something that fits comfortably because you’ll be carrying it around for some time with added weight from all of your items.

When your backpack is full, it’s going to be heavy, weighing you down by the shoulders and impacting your posture. In the long term, the effects of this can mean serious spinal issues and aches and pains as an effect of the poor posture caused by the weight of your backpack. 

Look for a waterproof backpack with thicker or even padded shoulder straps for comfort that you can adjust to fit you perfectly. Also, think about a sternum strap for stabler weight distribution and to keep the bag fixed in the right position.

Durable Materials

When you’re shopping for a backpack, especially for traveling or outdoor activities, it’s absolutely crucial that you get a backpack that’s made with durable materials that can stand up to the elements that come with outdoor adventure.

Depending on your purpose, you’ll also want to look for something airtight and totally waterproof or at least water-resistant. For example, kayaking would call for an airtight backpack to protect your items in case the kayak tips or takes on water, but hiking would generally require a more breathable fabric like canvas. 

Especially for outdoor adventuring, you also need to be sure that the material will last. It shouldn’t be able to rip or tear if you get snagged on a branch while out for a hike. Finally, you’ll want to make sure that your waterproof backpack is going to stay waterproof. 

Best Waterproof Backpacks for Any Outdoor Adventure

Now that we’ve talked about what to look for to find the best waterproof backpack, it’s time to actually show you some of the best waterproof backpacks that the market has to offer. Each of these backpacks checks all three boxes of great storage, made from high-quality materials, and are comfortable to wear for as long as you need to.

1. Big Horn Waterproof Drybag Backpack

Big Horn Waterproof Drybag Backpack

Specs:

  • Size: 10x24 inches
  • Volume: 30L
  • Material: PVC

The Big Horn Waterproof Drybag Backpack is a great choice for any semi-aquatic adventure. Your belongings will stay completely dry with this backpack's waterproof PVC material, outer Dry Web, and rolltop closure. This waterproof backpack offers separate compartments for wet and dry storage and also features 2 mesh side pockets.

For ultimate comfort, the Bighorn Drybag features adjustable padded shoulder straps, a sternum strap, and comfortable padding on the back that promotes airflow to reduce sweat. Plus, this waterproof backpack has 3 patriotic color options of red, white, and blue.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Reflective features for maximum safety during lower light conditions like early morning and at night.
  • Padded back support with airflow for ultimate comfort.
  • Keeps wet and dry items separate.

Cons

  • The sternum strap is not totally adjustable, which can be uncomfortable for wider shoulders and larger chests.

2. MARCHWAY Floating Waterproof Dry Bag

MARCHWAY Floating Waterproof Dry Bag

Specs:

  • Size: 11.9x26 inches
  • Volume: 40L
  • Material: 500D tarpaulin

The MARCHWAY Floating waterproof bag is a brilliant backpack truly made for the elements of outdoor life. The featured rolltop closure makes sure all your items are bone-dry and safe from moisture.

This waterproof backpack is made from high-quality tarpaulin that is resistant to tears, rips but is lightweight for easier carrying. Plus, the MARCHWAY backpack’s 40L size can fit a week’s worth of belongings or more items for a longer trip.

Not only is this material waterproof, but in the cold and heat, meaning it’s universal and comfortable in harsh weather conditions in any season. Plus, it floats, which makes it the best choice for water sports like boating or paddle boarding, and is extremely useful in an emergency

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Multiple sizes and color options.
  • Floats in case of emergency in the water.
  • Very well rated by thousands of happy buyers.

Cons

  • Even though it floats, this bag is not for being submerged.

3. Helly Hanson Copenhagen Waterproof Backpack

Helly Hanson Copenhagen Waterproof Backpack

Specs:

  • Size: 23.62x15.75 inches
  • Volume: 28L
  • Material Polyester, Polyvinyl blend

Helly Hansen is a coveted brand known for its versatile and stylish outdoor apparel. The Copenhagen waterproof backpack is made from high-quality, weather-resistant polyblends that are optimal for adventures in the snow and rain.

Another key feature of this waterproof backpack its storage capabilities, key for any backpack shopper. The Copenhagen has 2 large compartments and an additional front pocket for easy access and organized storage and alterable straps that are padded for maximum comfort.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Made with premium waterproof polyester blends.
  • The rolltop opening provides extra protection for the bag’s contents.

Cons

  • Unisex and one size, which means while the straps adjust, the bag doesn’t contour to different heights and body shapes.

4. Earth Pak Waterproof Backpack

Earth Pak Waterproof Backpack

Specs:

  • Size: 19.02x17.99 inches
  • Volume: 35L
  • Material: PVC

The Earth Pak backpack is completely waterproof meaning it’s best for keeping your gear right where the action is. It’s great for water sports like waterskiing, fishing, and more. This roomy 35L backpack has numerous storage options with splashproof zippers and still keeps everything lightweight for longer travel.

The design was created with ergonomics in mind. Not only does it have an ortho-friendly padded back, but it also features wide shoulder straps and additional sternum and waist straps for improved weight distribution and comfort.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Comfort-designed straps and padding.
  • 4 color options to choose from.
  • Bigger sizes available.

Cons

  • Although it’s effective, it’s not exactly built for comfort. It’s better for short trips, depending on the number of items in the bags.

5. Osprey Aura Backpack

Osprey Aura Backpack

Specs:

  • Size: 31.5x15.75 inches
  • Volume: 35L
  • Material: Waterproofed Nylon

When Osprey designed this bad, they absolutely made it with functionality in mind. The anti-weight suspension makes for an extreme lightweight comfortable wear and better weight distribution for hiking, camping, and so much more. It’s contoured and adjustable to perfectly fit body shape. It hugs your body, and the straps keep it in position, so it won’t sag.

This waterproof has a variety of different features including adjustable straps for your hips and shoulders, easily accessible pockets, and a removable top “lid” compartment. Even if you take off the top part, there are still plenty of pockets and compartments for easy and convenient storage of all you’re your belongings.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Numerous features for organization and storage access.
  • A lifetime warranty backs up the backpack.
  • Multiple sizes to fit every single body type.

Cons

  • When separated, the top compartment will add more weight.

6. IDRYBAG Waterproof Backpack

IDRYBAG Waterproof Backpack

Specs:

  • Size: 20x13 inches
  • Volume: 30L
  • Material: 500D PVC with Welded Seams

The IDRYBAG is a lightweight waterproof backpack for the compact carrying of everything you need when boating, fishing, or swimming. It’s made from high-grade PVC that is water-resistant and tear-proof for more rugged outdoor adventures and also includes an extra chest strap for added load stability.

In the case that you fall in water or your boat flips, this waterproof backpack is completely airtight, submersible, and floats! Even the zippers are splash-proof and rustproof.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • High-Grade waterproof material.
  • Built and guaranteed for durability.
  • One of the buckles also functions as an emergency whistle.

Cons

  • Design for functionality, but not for fit.

7. New Outlander Waterproof Backpack

New Outlander Waterproof Backpack

Specs:

  • Size: 17.2x11.2 inches
  • Volume: 25L
  • Material: Nylon

The New Outlander Backpack is 100% waterproof and tear resistant. This innovative backpack is designed with numerous features for ultimate convenience during hikes, day trips, and so much more. 

It is also multipurpose, being lightweight and able to fold into itself for compact travel. This waterproof backpack’s key features are its multiple pockets and easily accessed pouches for organized storage.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Made from rip-resistant nylon.
  • Breathable straps.
  • Versatile for different purposes.

Cons

  • No extra straps for stability for long journeys.

8. Under Armour Scrimmage Backpack

Under Armour Scrimmage Backpack

Specs:

  • Size: 12x16 inches
  • Volume: 25L
  • Material: 100% Polyester

Under Amour is a brand that’s famous for its products that are designed for performance. Using Under Amour’s patented storm technology for waterproof durability, the Scrimmage waterproof backpack is 100% weather-resistant in all seasons.

One of the best parts of this backpack is that anyone in your family can use it. It’s created for a totally adjustable and comfortable fit for any body shape and height. Plus, it’s fitted with ultra-comfortable shoulder straps with breathable mesh padding and patented HeatGear technology for breathability.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Huge variety of different design choices.
  • Fits all body sizes.
  • Versatile and durable for multiple activities.

Cons

  • Many reviewers complain that while the bag is good, the Under Amour logo peels off.

9. Xelfly Submersipack Waterproof Backpack

Xelfly Submersipack Waterproof Backpack

Specs:

  • Size: 17x10 inches
  • Volume: 18L
  • Material: TPU-Waterproofed Nylon

Made for the ultimate pairing of comfort and functionality, the Xelfly Submersipack is a backpack that’s not just waterproof, it inflates AND floats for the most possible amount of buoyancy, even when full of your gear.

This waterproof backpack is also fitted with shoulder straps that have high-grade, comfortable foam padding and sternum and chest straps for maximum comfort when carrying heavy loads. And, it has convenient pockets so you won’t have to take off the whole bag to get something.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • The quality of this backpack is back up by a lifetime warranty.
  • Handy pockets and side pouches.
  • Completely submersible and even floats!

Cons

  • There are only 2 options: 18 and 22L, which may not hold as much.

10. Vitchelo 30L Waterproof Drybag

Vitchelo 30L Waterproof Drybag

Specs:

  • Size: 26.8x12.6 inches
  • Volume: 30L
  • Material: Poly-vinyl tarpaulins

Vitchelo is an outdoor apparel company that builds its products with function and innovation in mind. Made right here in the USA, the 30L Waterproof dry bag is lightweight and made with durable rip-resistant material that even floats in emergencies.

The waterproof backpack is absolutely leakproof for protection from water, snow, and other types of moisture and has even rigorously tested for ultimate performance in that arena. And, for easy carrying, it’s fitted with a waist strap and top grip handle.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Floats in emergencies.
  • Comes with a waterproof phone case.
  • 60-day money-back guarantee.

Cons

  • Only submergible when using rolltop closure. Read directions carefully.