11 Best Waterproof Backpacks for College in 2023 (We Tested)
We test the best waterproof backpacks for college that will keep your books, laptop and gear nice and dry.
If you're looking for the best waterproof backpack for college, there are some important things to consider. You'll want a backpack that has a big space for notebooks, a padded sleeve for your laptop, and lots of pockets for your school and personal stuff. But it's not easy to find all these features in a fully waterproof backpack. Most waterproof backpacks are designed for specific sports like surfing and fishing with little consideration to everyday carry.
Luckily, we did some research and found a the best waterproof backpacks that are great for students. Most of these backpacks have been tested by us with students in mind.
Tested! Video Review
Water Resistant vs Waterproof
Before we talk about our top choices, let's get something straight. There's a difference between a waterproof backpack and a water-resistant backpack. And you should be honest about what type of backpack you really need on campus.
There are two levels of protection when it comes to keeping your stuff dry: fully waterproof and water resistant.
Waterproof: This means the backpack has a special coating on the outside fabric, sealed seams, and waterproof zippers or rolltops. It won't let any water in, even in heavy rain.
Water Resistant: This means the backpack also has a coating on the outside fabric, but the zippers and seams are not waterproof. If you get caught in a heavy downpour, water might seep through these areas. However, the coated fabric helps water slide off the outside, so your things stay dry in light rain or snow.
We tested the backpacks and rated their level of protection. We only included backpacks that are "water-resistant" or better in our list. Our ratings are based on hands-on testing and the overall design and features of the backpacks.
Now let’s move on to the backpacks.
Best Waterproof Backpacks for College
Able Carry Daily Plus
The Able Carry Daily Plus backpack is one of our favorite picks for students seeking a highly water-resistant backpack. Its waterproof X-Pac construction, combined with coated water-resistant zippers, ensures excellent protection against rain and snow. Not only is it functional, but it's also stylish in design with a really unique look that would look great on campus.
What the Able Carry Daily Plus does best is offer plenty of pockets and organization. This includes everything from quick access compartments to hidden pockets. With a dedicated 16" laptop sleeve and 11" tablet sleeve, both floating inside the backpack, your devices are well-protected.
The standout feature of this backpack is its super comfortable adjustable shoulder straps, which are generously padded. Able Carry always comes through with comfy shoulder straps and the Daily Plus is no exception.
Check out our Able Carry Daily Plus review for more details.
Features at a glance:
Protection level: Water Resistant
Made of waterproof X-Pac
Volume: 21 liters
16" laptop and 11" tablet sleeve
PATAGONIA BLACK HOLE BACKPACK
The Patagonia Black Hole backpack is really popular among college students for a good readon. It's a stylish backpack while also being a high quality enough to handle daily abuse. Plus, it has a lot of compartments to help you stay organized and keep your important school items within reach..
Each Patagonia Black Hole is water resistant and will do great in a light rain. But it's unique design is the real reason we needed to include this pack on this list. The zippers for the main compartment and top pocket are angled in a way that prevents water from falling directly on them when it's raining. This makes it leaps and bounds more water resistant than your avarage North Face or Jansport backpack - that have their zippers facing upward. When you combine this design with a water resistant material, you have a reliable backpack for college and beyond.
One last thing - if you are tired seeing a boring black backpack, you'll be pleased to know that Patagonia offers the Black Hole in a ton of different colors.
Features at a glance:
Protection level: Water Resistant
Made water repellent materials
Capacity: 32L or 25L
15” laptop compartment
Chrome Urban EX Rolltop Backpack
The Chrome Urban EX takes the protection of a drybag and blends it with features for everyday use. Simply put: this is the bag if you are looking for the best waterproof backpack for college and commuting.
The big main compartment can hold lots of college textbooks and notebooks. There is even a padded sleeve for a 15-inch laptop. But Chome Urban Ex may not be for you if you need pockets for storing smaller items. The backpack is just one big bucket.
But the lack of pockets might be worth it because the Chrome Urban Ex is built like a tank. Seriously, it's one of the toughest waterproof bags we've tested. It's made of high-quality waterproof materials and has welded seems. This means dry stuff no matter how hard it rains and a bag that will stay in piece no matter how hard you abuse it.
Features at a glance:
Protection level: Waterproof
100% waterproof rolltop design with welded seams
Capacity: 30 liters
15” laptop sleeve
RAINS Rolltop Rucksack
Who says a stylish backpack can't be water-resistant? The Rains Rolltop Rucksack is the perfect water-resistant backpack for college students who want both style and functionality. The main compartment gives you enough room for campus essentials, while an exterior laptop compartment provides quick and easy access to your tech.
Each Rains Rolltop Rucksack is made with the brand’s signature waterproof PU materials. Couple it with this construction and a rolltop design, and you have great protection from rainy days on campus.
Features at a glance:
Protection level: Highly water resistant
Made waterproof PU fabric
13 liter capacity
16" side-access laptop compartment
STUBBLE & CO THE ROLL TOP
The Roll Top backpack by Stubble & Co is really good at keeping water out, and it looks cool too. This is thanks to its special roll-top design, strong seams, and water resistant zippers. A combination for a dry experience on campus.
We like the Roll Top as a college laptop backpack because it has a plenty of pockets for small items, a roomy main compartment for books, and side pockets for water bottles. The best feature is the side zipper for quick access to your laptop. One thing this bag does well is organizational pockets.
One of our favorite things about the Roll Top backpack is how comfortable it is to wear. It has a soft padded back panel, chest strap, and adjustable straps that are designed to fit you just right. Say hello to a backpack that can keep your things dry and is comfortable enough for long days on campus.
Features at a glance:
Protection level: Water Resistant
Waterproof rolltop design with sealed seams and YKK Aquaguard zippers
Capacity: 20L
16-inch laptop compartment
THE RIDGE COMMUTER WEATHERPROOF BACKPACK
The Ridge offers a laptop backpack that's great for college and tech carry. At 20 liters, it has room for a few bulky binders and notebooks. But where it really shines is it's amazing organization. If you are a student who needs a backpack with lots of pockets for their tech accessories and school supplies, the Ridge Commuter might be the one. Inside you'll find an insane amount of organizational pockets for everyday essentials.
Along with having a waterproof nylon shell, the Commuter gives you YKK Aquaguard zippers to keep the main compartment and laptop compartment safe. The Ridge also gives you rain guards over the front pockets and side pocket to give extra protection to things like phones, wallets, or glasses, which can be easily damaged by water. It's little details like these that make the Commuter backpack such a great options for college students in need of waterproof protection.
For more details check out our Ridge Commuter Backpack Review.
Features at a glance:
Protection level: Highly water resistant
Made 600D waterproof nylon with YKK Aquaguard zippers
Lots of pockets for organization
15” shock-resistant laptop compartment
TOPO DESIGNS ROVER TECH PACK
The Topo Designs Rover Pack Tech is for college students who need a lightweight backpack that's made to last. The main compartment is big enough to hold a few larger books and notebooks, and there are zippered pockets on the outside for smaller items. The external side zipper for your laptop gives you easy access to your tech.
When you look at the Topo Designs Rover Tech Pack, you can tell it was made to keep your important stuff dry. The backpack is made from tough nylon material and water-resistant zippers but the real trick is the top lid design. Instead of zippers, the main compartment is covered by a lid that acts as a barrier from safe from rain or snow.
Features at a glance:
Protection level: Water Resistant
Made of water-resistant materials
Internal and external 15” laptop sleeves
Capacity: 24.3 liters
Timbuk2 Parker Commuter Backpack
The Timbuk2 Parker Commuter is an interesting backpack. It's expandable from 26L to 35L. Has great organization. And it built from the ground up to stay dry in anything from a light rain to a downpour.
The front of the backpack is made with highly water-resistant material for peace of mind in a light rain. But when things get serious during a downpour, the bag includes a rainfly that you can pop over the bag for full waterproof protection.
Other great features include reflective panels for safety when commuting at night. And lots of great pockets for quick access. Not only does Timbuk2 give you easy access pockets in the front for essentials but the side pockets are great for stashing water bottles or umbrellas. The Timbuk2 Parker Commuter is easily one of our favorite expandable backpacks for commuters, but it's quickly becoming one of our favorite college backpacks thanks to its great student-friendly features.
Features at a glance:
Protection level: Water Resistant
Made of water-resistant materials (waterproof with rainfly)
Expandable main compartment (26-35L)
15-inch laptop sleeve
Breakwater Supply Fogland 25L
We have to be honest and admit that the Breakwater Supply Fogland backpack might be a bit overkill for most college students. It's completely submersible and has drysuit-grade airtight zippers. So why use it as a daily school backpack?
Well, the main compartment is the perfect size for school essentials like big binders, notebooks and books. It even includes a 16-inch laptop sleeve and extra pockets for organization. And adjustable shoulder straps and a chest strap makes it easy to haul heavy loads.
Unlike many of the backpacks on this list, the Breakwater Supply Fogland is a drybag and 100% waterproof. But it's versatility lies in the design: it has usable pockets for everyday use like side pockets for water bottles. For dry bag standards, the Fogland actually functions more like a daily backpack. It was designed to keep you gear safe and dry no matter the conditions.
Features at a glance:
Protection level: Waterproof
Made of water-resistant materials
16-inch laptop pocket
Capacity: 25 liters
Black Ember Citadel R2
The Black Ember Citadel R2 is a waterproof backpack that's great for college. It's made with special waterproof materials, strong zippers, and sealed seams. This means it can keep your things dry even in heavy rain. It has a capacity of 25 liters, so it's big enough for a few books, binders, and a 15-inch laptop. We don't recommend this backpack if you are the type of student who needs to carry lots of books and binders. But for the tech-centric student it is perfect.
What's great about the Citadel R2 is that it was specifically designed for urban use. It's not like other waterproof backpacks that are mostly made for sports. It has all the features you'd expect from a modern tech bag. Inside, there are pockets and organizers to easily access your laptop, tablet, keys, and wallet. But here's the best part - the Citadel R2 is modular backpack. That means you can add extra pockets and straps if you need them.
For a closer look and a waterproof test make sure to check out our full Black Ember Citadel R2 review.
Features at a glance:
Protection level: Waterproof
Clamshell zipper design for full access to inside
Modular system allows you to customize
15” padded laptop sleeve and padded tablet sleeve
The Ridge Classic Backpack Weatherproof
The Ridge Classic Backpack is a great choice for college students who need a highly water-resistant backpack that isn't built like you are going on a kayaking adventure. It's lightweight construction and classic bookbag look makes it the perfect campus backpack. Yet it handles rain showers like champ thanks to its special outer shell made of waterproof nylon and YKK Aquaguard zippers.
For most people who are worried about getting caught in the rain on their way to clas, this backpack does a great job of keeping your important stuff dry. It's perfect for college and everyday use. We especially like the padded sleeve for your laptop, the built-in USB port for charging your phone. Plus, the sensible size of 22 liters keeps the backpack from feeling too bulky while being big enough for books and notebooks.
Features at a glance:
Protection level: Water Resistant
Made 600D waterproof nylon with YKK Aquaguard zippers
22 liter capacity
14" padded laptop sleeve
Built-in USB port for charging tech
How to Choose a Waterproof College Backpack
When choosing a waterproof college backpack, it's important to consider how you'll access the main compartment. This is where you'll keep your important items like textbooks, notes, and laptops, so you want to make sure they stay dry.
When it comes to waterproof backpacks there are three main types of main compartment entries you’ll encounter:
ZIPPER ACCESS
One type of access is through a zipper. Most school backpacks have a single zipper to open the main compartment. However, most zippers are not wateprroof, so you need to look for a backpack that has water-resistant waterproof zippers. Waterproof zippers are coated to keep water out, like ones made by YKK AquaGuard and Aquaseal.
LID ACCESS
Another type of access is through a lid. Backpacks with lids have a flap that folds over the main compartment, providing extra protection against the elements. This creates a barrier between the top of the backpack, where rain and snow can land, and the main compartment.
Usually, there is a zipper or drawstring underneath the lid to fully close and secure the main compartment. Lids are common in outdoor and technical backpacks, but you can also find them in school and everyday backpacks.
ROLLTOP ACCESS
A third type of access is through a rolltop. Rolltop backpacks have extra fabric at the top that you can roll down to close the main compartment. This type of access is very popular for waterproof backpacks because it offers great water resistance. When you compress the rolltop, it creates a seal and blocks water from getting inside. Rolltop backpacks are often seen in outdoor activities like biking, hiking, surfing, and snow sports. It's important to choose a rolltop backpack made of either waterproof or water-resistant material to prevent water from penetrating when it's wet. We have a helpful buying guide of roll top waterproof backpacks if you are interested in this backpack type.
To help figure out which type of backpack is best for you, check out our Zipper vs Roll Top Backpack guide.
Waterproof Materials
When choosing a waterproof backpack for college, it's important to consider the type of material used to make the backpack. The material should either be water resistant or coated to be waterproof.
Water resistant fabrics are woven tightly to stop water from soaking in. Some examples of water resistant fabrics are high denier nylon, polyester, and canvas. Nylon types like Cordura and Ballistic nylon are naturally water resistant and are good choices for a water resistant backpack for college. Other fabrics like X-Pac and sailcloth are also naturally water resistant.
But when it comes to making a backpack completely waterproof, you usually need more than just the fabric. That's why most waterproof backpacks have a coating to keep water out. Here are three common types of backpack coatings:
TPU Coating: TPU is a type of plastic coating that provides good resistance to wear and tear. Backpack manufacturers like using TPU because it's less likely to crack compared to other coatings, while still remaining flexible.
DWR Coating: DWR stands for "durable water resistant." It's a popular coating for rain jackets and outdoor clothing. It's breathable and strong, which makes it a good choice for waterproofing backpacks. DWR coats individual fibers, allowing water to roll off the fabric before it can seep in.
PU Coating: PU is often used as imitation leather in bags and small goods. In fabrics, PU provides durability and resistance to wear, along with good waterproofing. It's breathable and lightweight. Many backpack manufacturers prefer PU coating because it's cheaper than TPU and other waterproofing methods.
Other Features to Look For
What size backpack do you need?
The first thing you should decide when looking for a backpack for college is its size. Larger backpacks (23L+) usually have roomier main compartments and extra pockets for smaller items. If you plan on carrying lots of text books, binders and notebooks around campus then a larger backpack may be the correct choice.
But not everyone need a huge main compartment for school. College students who use their laptops for note-taking may do well with a smaller and lighter backpack with a secure laptop compartment.
If you need help figuring out which size backpack to get, check out our Backpack Size Guide.
THINK ABOUT ORGANIZATION
When looking for a waterproof backpack for college, don't forget about organization. Most waterproof backpacks are designed for specific activities like biking, surfing, and fishing. Because of this, they may not have all the pockets and organization features you need for school.
Avoid choosing bucket-style dry bags and instead opt for a backpack with more pockets. This way, you'll have space for everyday items like pens, a cell phone, and a laptop. Waterproof dry bags are good for the beach, but they lack the necessary features for a busy day on campus.
WATERPROOF OR WATER RESISTANT?
It's important to know that you'll have more backpack options if you choose a water-resistant backpack instead of a fully waterproof one. Water-resistant backpacks are usually good enough for most college students. They can protect you from sudden showers and short rainy commutes. Unless you live in a place with heavy rain or snow, a water-resistant backpack should be sufficient for college.
Waterproof backpacks for college are available, but there are fewer options and they tend to be more expensive than water-resistant ones. So think about how much protection you really need before deciding which one to get.
11 Best Waterproof Backpacks for Women - Tested and Reviewed!
We test and rate the best waterproof backpacks for women! From women’s water resistant laptop backpacks to waterproof dry bags - we have you covered!
The good news is that today there are more great waterproof backpack options than ever before!
The bad news is that for many women, finding a stylish waterproof backpack that actually fits can still be a challenge. Let's face it: a lot of backpacks are either too big and bulky or just not cute.
In this buying guide, we'll test and review the best waterproof backpacks for women based on specific criteria of fit, style and performance - you know, the stuff that really matters. Whether you are looking for the water resistant backpack for college, a go-to beach backpack or a dry bag for your next outdoor adventure, these backpacks will keep your important items safe no matter the weather forecast that day.
Left to right: Troubadour Bivy Tote Backpack, Got Bag Roll-Top Lite, Skog A Kust Backsack Dry Bag
Our favorite waterproof backpacks for women:
Troubadour Bivy Tote Backpack - Stylish water resistant laptop backpack for work and daily carry
Got Bag Rolltop Lite - Most versatile. Cute waterproof backpack for laptop, travel and outdoor activities
Skog A Kust Backsack - Best compact dry bag for outdoor activities
How We Picked
Waterproof and Water Resistant Construction
In this list we included a mix water resistant and waterproof backpacks for women to allow you to choose your level of protection based on your needs. For everyday use, water-resistant bags may be more than enough for commuting on rainy days. Yet those who plan on using their backpacks for outdoor activities like kayaking, conoing and fishing may may want to upgrade to a bag with waterproof fabric and technical features such as a sternum strap and attachment loops for accessories.
Water Resistant Backpacks - These backpacks are usually made with coated water repellent exterior fabric that allows water to roll off the exterior. Some advanced features include water resistant zippers, taped waterproof seams and special water resistant designs. Most people looking for a daily laptop backpack that can occasionally double as an outdoor pack would fare best here.
The features we look for:
Stylish design for work or travel
Treated water repellent fabrics
Water resistant zippers
Laptop compartments, interior pockets for daily organization
Waterproof Backpacks - Made of waterproof textiles with welded or taped seams and waterproof zippers or roll-top closures. These backpacks often have few zippers or access points for water to get into the interior of the bag and are the backpacks you want for outdoor activities near water or for heavy rain.
The features we look for:
Fully waterproof fabrics or materials
Waterproof zippers or roll-top closures
Taped or welded seams (instead of regular stitching)
Chest strap, waist straps and other technical features
Women’s Specific Fit
Although there are tons of great waterproof backpack options on the market, some women may still find them too large. That’s why, in this buying guide, we take special consideration of water resistant and waterproof backpacks that either have a women’s specific fit or were designed to comfortably fit those with smaller frames.
Rest assured that we won’t be recommending the same unisex backpacks in the color pink - we went out of our way to pick bags that will accommodate people with smaller shoulders and shorter torsos.
Best Women's Waterproof Laptop Backpacks
Troubadour Bivy Tote
If we had to choose our favorite women's water-resistant bag, this would be it! Each Bivy Tote Backpack is made with waterproof fabric and water-resistant zippers for peace of mind during daily commutes. Plus, its convertible design makes it perfect for everyday use.
Unlike other waterproof backpacks that look more at home on the trail, you won't shy away from wearing the Troubadour Bivy Tote Backpack into the office or on travel days when you want to look your best. The fabric feels robust without looking too sporty, and accents like the faux-leather handles and slim shoulder straps really elevate the look.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 21L
Convertible: can be worn as a backpack or tote bag
17" Padded laptop sleeve
Lots of smaller pockets for organization!
Got Bag Daypack
Available in almost a dozen cute colors, the Got Bag Daypack is a water-resistant laptop backpack that will give you peace of mind on rainy commutes and beach days alike.
Each Got Bag Daypack is made from recycled Ocean Impact Plastic with an eco-friendly waterproof coating that is free from harmful PFC and PVC, while water-resistant zippers give the Daypack additional moisture protection. Inside, you'll find a 13" padded laptop sleeve and 11L of packing room that's perfect for daily essentials or to use on fun weekend adventures.
Its compact dimensions make the Got Bag Daypack perfect for petite women who usually find most backpacks too "tall" on the back, while the adjustable padded shoulder straps make this backpack a sure fit for a large variety of body types.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 11L
13" laptop sleeve
Available in lots of different fun colors to match your style
Compact profile for a perfect fit on shorter torsos
WANDRD PRVKE Lite
The WANDRD PRVKE Lite is a versatile camera, laptop, and travel bag with a compact footprint to better fit smaller people. Not only is it one of our favorite water-resistant backpacks for women, but it's also one of our top camera bags for women, thanks to its built-in camera cube. The waterproof tarpaulin exterior and water-resistant zippers also make it ridiculously water-resistant.
What we love about the WANDRD PRVKE Lite is that it's packed with technical features for photographers and travelers alike. The exterior attachment points allow you to carry extra items like a tripod, jacket, or blanket, while the inside is equipped with a generously padded 14" laptop sleeve, lots of space, plus a built-in camera cube that can be removed on the days you want to use the PRVKE Lite as a regular daypack.
Like the look of the WANDRD PRVKE Lite but want to go a little bigger? Check out the full-sized WANDRD PRVKE.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 11-16L (expandable roll-top)
14" padded laptop sleeve
Built-in camera cube with removable dividers
Compact design to better fit narrow shoulders and shorter torsos
Chrome Urban Ex
Chrome offers a fantastic waterproof backpack for city explorers who need a tough and reliable bag for daily use with the Urban Ex. Trust us, its heavy-duty waterproof exterior and welded waterproof seams will be an absolute lifesaver if you are ever get caught in a heavy rain during a commute (plus, it makes a great backpack for groceries and other errands).
The inside of the Chrome Urban Ex is equipped with a padded 15” laptop sleeve and extra pockets to keep you organized. The reflective attachment loops on the outside of the bag allow for storage of bike u-locks and gear while providing additional safety when commuting in low light.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 20L
Fully waterproof rolltop construction
15” padded laptop sleeve
Rains Rucksack
Rains is a brand that makes rain jackets and bags to survive stormy weather and their Rucksack not only will keep you dry during rainy commutes but its cute design will make sure you look great even when the weather gets bad. The 11-liter main compartment makes the Rains Rucksack a great small daypack for those who want the protection of a waterproof backpack without the bulk a large bag.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 11L
Compact profile is great for shorter torsos
Made of waterproof PU coated fabric
Internal 13” padded laptop compartment
Ortlieb Velocity PS
Heavy rain is no match for the Ortlieb Velocity PS Pack! This waterproof daypack was originally designed for bike commuting but it can used by anyone for work, school, and running errands in the city thanks to its waterproof materials and sealed seams for ultimate protection from the weather.
One of the best features of the Velocity PS is its removable laptop sleeve, which you can keep in on work/school days or take out for beach or trail trips. The backpack's roll-top closure allows you to adjust its size, making the Velocity perfect for any activity.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 17L
Made of waterproof materials with taped seams for ultimate protection against moisture
Lightweight construction (one of the lightest waterproof backpacks available!)
Slim shoulder straps and small profile gives it a female-friendly fit.
Able Carry Thirteen Daypack
The Able Carry Thirteen Daypack is perfect for women looking for a high quality water resistant laptop backpack that means business. Rainy days ahead? No problem! Each pack is made with waterproof Ripstop Nylon and is equipped with water resistant zippers for extra protection.
In addition to a 13-inch padded laptop sleeve and plenty of easy access front pockets, the Thirteen Daypack also offers a couple of sneaky secret compartments that are perfect for busy days on the metro or while traveling. The compact size of the Thirteen Daypack is also great for women who are tired of bulky laptop backpacks. In addition to a small size, the Thirteen Daypack has s-curve shaped shoulder straps for a more comfortable female fit.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 13L
Compact design to better fit shorter torsos
Made of durable ripstop nylon with water resistant zippers
13" laptop compartment
Best Outdoor Waterproof Backpacks for Women
Got Bag Rolltop Lite
It can be tough to find a cute waterproof backpack, but the Got Bag Rolltop Lite gives us hope with its minimalist design and fun color options.
What makes this backpack special is its removable 15-inch laptop compartment. This allows you to use the Got Bag Rolltop Lite as a laptop backpack on the weekdays and a waterproof adventure pack on the weekends. Other great features include a chest strap for helping with weight distribution and a large-capacity roll-top closure that can be expanded as needed.
The Got Bag Rolltop Lite is the little sister to the full-sized Got Bag Rolltop and has been redesigned with slimmer shoulder straps and a more compact profile making it the perfect waterproof backpack for women.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: Up to 26L when expanded
Removable 15" laptop sleeve
Made of recycled materials
Womens fit: Narrower shoulder straps to better fit smaller shoulders
Skog Å Kust BackSåk
Skog Å Kust, a Swedish brand renowned for their tough waterproof bags, offers the BackSåk as an ideal option for women seeking a waterproof backpack specifically for outdoor sports and activities. It features heavy-duty PVC construction, a spacious main compartment for bulky gear, and the ability to float if accidentally dropped in the water.
The 25L version of the BackSåk has a height of 16 inches, perfect for most women with shorter torsos. We found the shoulder straps to be suitable for those with narrower shoulders. If you often find most dry bags to be too large, we recommend trying the 25L Skog Å Kust BackSåk.
Available in almost a dozen colors and patterns, the Skog Å Kust BackSåk offers plenty of options to choose from.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 25L
Interior pockets for organizing important items
Tough as nails - made with a heavy 500D PVC material with welded seams that’s completely waterproof
Breakwater Supply Fogland Lite 15L
Breakwater Supply offers a high-quality, fully waterproof backpack in a small size. This dry bag uses heavy-duty, waterproof zippers to create an airtight seal, meaning it can float on water and even be submerged!
Other awesome features include interior pockets for organization, a laptop pocket, and a fully waterproof front pocket for easy access to important items. The Fogland wouldn't be complete without some technical features, too. Each pack is equipped with d-rings on the shoulder straps and reflective accents to keep you visible in low light.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 15L
Airtight and 100% waterproof: can float on water!
High quality construction
Internal laptop pocket
Exped Typhoon 15 Pack
Whether you want to be ready for the next rain storm or like to spend your weekends on the water, the Exped Typhoon 15 is the perfect option for women who need a waterproof daypack they can take on any adventure.
What we like the most about the Typhoon 15 are all of the great features on the outside of the pack. Unlike other dry bags, the Typhoon 15 includes stretchy mesh side pockets for easy access to water bottles or other smaller items. Daisy chain loops also allow you to attach additional gear during outdoor activities, while a front attachment point allows you to clip on a bike light for safety.
Features at a glance:
Capacity: 15L
Fully waterproof thanks to roll-top closure and taped seams
Compact design for a better women’s fit
Made of lightweight waterproof materials for less bulk
Waterproof Backpack Features Explained
Choosing the right waterproof backpack is simple when you know which features to look out for. Here are some helpful tips to guide you through your next backpack purchase!
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Rolltop Backpacks
Rolltop designs offer the best waterproof protection thanks to their unique “rolltop” enclosure that creates a natural seal to protect the main compartment from moisture and dust. Usually the more you can roll down the top, the tighter the seal and the better the protection.
This is why most dry bags are designed as rolltop backpacks! When coupled with waterproof fabrics a rolltop backpack is by far the best waterproofing option.
Zipper Backpacks
Most zippers that come equipped on “waterproof backpacks” are only really water resistant. This means that they can protect against light rain or splashes but are still susceptible to water seeping through in the event of heavy exposure.
When shopping for a zippered backpack make sure that the pack is constructed with special water resistant zippers over regular zippers for that added protection.
Which is better?
For everyday carry a zippered backpack may be simpler to use as there is less fiddling with extra material and buckles to access the main compartment. Simple actions like quickly grabbing a laptop in class or at the office are much easier with a single zipper.
But few zippered backpacks can match the level of waterproof protection a rolltop backpack can provide. If you are looking for a women’s waterproof backpack that will mainly used outdoors (sports, hiking, bike commuting) then we recommend with going with a rolltop for the peace of mind.
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The first line of defense for waterproofing a backpack is with its exterior material since it is the largest surface area and where the bag is most likely to encounter moisture.
With water resistant backpacks you’ll mostly find fabrics that are coated with a waterproofing treatment so that the fabric can repel water. Dry bags and other highly waterproof backpacks may use naturally waterproof materials to make their bags watertight.
Coated Fabrics
Polyester and nylon are the two most common materials found in backpack construction. On their own they do naturally provide a little bit of protection against moisture but not nearly enough for them to offer serious protection.
As a result you’ll often see these fabrics treated with a waterproofing coating like DWR (durable water resistant), TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane plastic) or PU (polyurethane) to add additional moisture protection to the fabric. These treatments act as a barrier between the fabric and the elements allowing water to bead and roll off before it has a chance to penetrate.
Waterproof Materials
Waterproof materials are any material that is itself waterproof without the need for extra treatment. The most common are materials like TPE (thermoplastic elastomer) and PVC (polyvinyl chloride). By the way, those are just fancy terms for plastic and rubber.
Materials like TPE and PVC are usually heavier and thicker than a coated fabric. In fact, they feel more like plastic than an actual fabric but these materials are great for anyone who does activities near water and absolutely needs the protection of a dry bag. But for people who need a reliable everyday backpack, the extra weight and bulk can be overkill.
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Even if a backpack is constructed with highly water resistant or waterproof materials there are still usually a few “weak points” that can compromise how waterproof a backpack really is. These weak points are usually found in the zippers and seams.
Zippers and seams are traditionally sewed into place leaving small holes that can lead to moisture penetration. The main difference between a “water resistant” backpack and a “waterproof” one is with their treatment of zippers and seams. The problems you’ll encounter with moisture penetration isn’t with the fabric itself (that’s usually waterproofed) but with water finding its way through the stitching.
A good waterproof backpack will mitigate these weak spots by either taping or stitching their seams to add that extra layer of protection. This is the main difference between a “water resistant” backpack (that’s usually just a regular backpack with some DWR coating sprayed on on the fabric) and an actual waterproof one.
Taped Seams
Taping a seam is a simple waterproofing method that involves fusing a waterproof tape to the sewed seams to create a waterproof seal. When coupled with waterproof fabrics this seam treatment eliminates a way for moisture to sneak into the bag.
Welded Seams
Welded seams are a step up from taped seams and can be usually be found in high end waterproof backpacks. Instead of stitching the seam and taping them to create a seal, the fabric is instead fused together with heat to create a watertight bond.
Since no thread is used in this method there are no stitching holes for water to penetrate - leaving you with a 100% waterproof seam.
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