The best waterproof backpack of 2025

National Geographic

07-03-2025

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A damp park map, a soaked granola bar, a fried laptop—there's nothing worse than water seeping into your travel gear. The only reliable way to keep your valuables dry in wet conditions is to store them in a waterproof—as opposed to a water-resistant—backpack.
'Water-resistant' typically means the product's exterior has been treated with a finish like Durable Water Repellent (DWR) coating. That offers partial protection from light rain or brief moisture exposure, says U.K.-based travel landscape photographer Sebastien Coell . But if your bag accidentally tips out of a kayak, there's a good chance your gear will be damaged.
A waterproof backpack is often constructed of rubber, vinyl, or specialized coated fabrics that can withstand heavy rain, snow, and even brief submersion in water. After consulting with full-time travelers like Coell and wading through online reviews, we think the Breakwater Supply Fogland Waterproof Backpack is suitable for most travelers. This sturdy backpack has the highest IPX rating we could find (IPX is a measurement manufacturers use to determine how well a product can withstand water).
Features such as a high-density nylon weave and welded seams help make this bag submergible for up to half an hour, according to the brand. It's also a great all-around pack, with room for a 16-inch laptop and safety features for hiking way out in the sticks.
If that's not quite your speed, then keep reading. We've got a few more top-notch waterproof backpacks to cover your needs.
The best waterproof backpacks
When shopping for waterproof backpacks, it's important to read through product descriptions. Some backpacks have water-repellent or water-resisting finishes, which may not be fully sealed against wetness. In other words, they won't protect your things in a prolonged downpour or underwater.
Your best bet is to look for backpacks that are made with technical fabrics, such as a dense nylon weave and/or water-blocking materials like Gore-Tex. Check zippers for waterproofing too. When in doubt, you can always purchase a backpack cover. Read on for more details about our top picks.
Best waterproof backpack overall: Breakwater Supply Fogland Waterproof Backpack
Breakwater Supply Fogland Waterproof Backpack
Buy it now at Breakwater Supply
Why we like it: Breakwater Supply's waterproof backpack is a solid choice for travelers, especially those who love water activities. According to the brand, this bag's Hydrowall 420 denier nylon TPU (a dense weave), welded seams, and zero stitching mean this backpack is submergible. Once zipped up, it can sit underwater for over 30 minutes without a drop sneaking in, according to the brand—plus, it floats.
We love the lightly padded ergonomic shoulder straps for comfy long hikes and the built-in safety details, like reflective panels and an emergency whistle. It's also got all the features travelers would expect of a backpack: a 16-inch laptop sleeve, a water bottle side pocket, and attachment points for extras.
Keep in mind: You may be tempted to fill this backpack to the brim. But the brand recommends maxing out the Fogland backpack at 10 percent of your bodyweight to prevent injury.
Product details: Capacity: 15-25L | Dimensions: 17 × 13 × 5 in. | Weight: 1.7 lbs. | Material: Nylon | IPX rating: IP68
Best waterproof laptop backpack: Stubble & Co. Everyday Backpack 20L
Stubble & Co. Everyday Backpack 20L
Buy it now at Stubble & Co.
Why we like it: A quality backpack should come with a dedicated laptop pocket. Stubble & Co. takes it up a notch with a separate, padded laptop compartment. Located in the back, it fits computers and tablets up to 16 inches.
In addition to a secure spot for your laptop, there's also a large main compartment with multiple pouches, two easy-access exterior pockets for essentials, and a mesh pocket for wireless headphones, which is conveniently located on the straps. We like that the weatherproofing extends to the seams.
Keep in mind: The zippers on this backpack are water-resistant, not waterproof, which means water may leak in. This brand doesn't list an IPX rating, so we don't recommend dunking this backpack in any water.
Product details: Capacity: 20L | Dimensions: 11.8 x 18 x 5.5 in. | Weight: 2.2 lbs. | Material: Recycled PET | IPX rating: N/A
( Here are more of our favorite backpacks for travel )
Best waterproof travel backpack: Helly Hansen Stockholm Backpack
Photograph courtesy Helly Hansen
Helly Hansen Stockholm Backpack
Buy it now at Helly Hansen
Why we like it: Waterproof technology is constantly improving, and the Helly Hansen Stockholm Backpack is loaded with the latest features. Rainy climate travelers and water-activity enthusiasts alike will appreciate the waterproof exterior (made of polyvinyl chloride-coated polyester) and roll-top compartment for extra insurance against the elements.
Heavy packers will appreciate the size. At 28 liters, the Stockholm Backpack has enough room to fit a weekend's worth of clothes and essentials. The two zippered exterior pockets—a larger one in the front and a secret one on the back—are great for storing items you need easy access to. The padded, adjustable shoulder straps help keep you comfortable on long travel days.
Keep in mind: There are no additional pockets inside the backpack's main compartment.
Product details: Capacity: 28L | Dimensions: 17.1 x 11.8 x 5.9 in. | Weight: 2.2 lbs. | Material: Polyester | IPX rating: N/A
Best waterproof fishing backpack: Patagonia Guidewater Backpack 29L
Photograph courtesy Patagonia
Patagonia Guidewater Backpack 29L
Buy it now at Patagonia
Why we like it: The Patagonia Guidewater Backpack is a great companion for anglers. Built with a submergible design, including a hydrophobic back panel and shoulder straps, it can handle accidental dips or splashes.
It's got a light, comfortable vest-like construction, plus multiple attachment points for pliers or a net, as well as an adjustable rod holder. Those nifty points can also hold the organizer that detaches from the main compartment, so you can keep essentials like streamers or flies within easy reach. With up to 29 liters of room in the largest available size, you won't have to sacrifice any gear for your favorite fishing spot.
Keep in mind: Although this backpack comes with lots of fishing-specific features, it lacks a few backpack basics like a water bottle compartment.
Product details: Capacity: 9-29L | Dimensions: 3.5 x 9 x 21 in. | Weight: 2.1 lbs. | Material: Nylon and polyester | IPX rating: IPX7
( These tough duffel bags are endlessly versatile )
Best small waterproof backpack: Arc'teryx Granville Zip 16 Pack
Why we like it: The Arc'teryx Granville Zip maxes out at 16 liters, making it ideal for toting just a few essentials or on short excursions. It'll do a good job of keeping your things dry, thanks to the N400r-AC² ripstop fabric coated with DWR for extra protection against the elements.
Despite its compact size, the Granville Zip has plenty of organizational features, including a convenient top pocket for grab-and-go items and a mesh laptop sleeve in the main compartment. The shoulder straps are padded and come with built-in ventilation for a more comfortable carry.
Keep in mind: This backpack does not list an IPX rating and isn't submersible. While it can handle light rain or splashes, it's not recommended for use in heavy downpours or water-based activities.
Product details: Capacity: 16L | Dimensions: 19.2 x 22.4 in. | Weight: 1.9 lbs. | Material: Nylon | IPX rating: N/A
Best waterproof hiking backpack: Fjallraven Bergtagen 38 M-L
Photograph courtesy Fjallraven
Fjallraven Bergtagen 38 M-L
Buy it now at Fjallraven
Why we like it: Thanks to the Fjallraven's waterproof Bergshell fabric, you can go chasing waterfalls on your next hike. This PFAS-free backpack is designed for mountaineering with pole holders, side compression straps, and a detachable top lid, plus a hip belt for extra support. Like most technical bags, it's more sturdy than cushy with a wooden frame that helps distribute weight.
Because this style is made for climbing, it has more internal pockets than external ones. There's just one simple stretchy compartment on the outside for a water bottle. At 38 liters, hikers have plenty of room for a multiday adventure.
Keep in mind: Because this bag is great for keeping out wetness, it's a big hit among winter sports enthusiasts. Some reviewers note the thick material may not be comfortable for lugging around during the summer.
Product details: Capacity: 38L | Dimensions: 22 x 11.4 x 7 in. | Weight: 3.5 lbs. | Material: Recycled polyamide | IPX rating: N/A
( Our writer hikes 3-4 times a week. Here are her favorite daypacks )
Best waterproof roll-top backpack: Osprey Downburst 36L
Photograph courtesy Osprey
Osprey Downburst 36L
Buy it now at Osprey
Why we like it: Roll-top backpacks aren't just great for stuffing in extra souvenirs. Zach Lazzari , a travel insurance agent, who specializes in watercraft policies for tourists, says he prefers these foldable styles because you can compress them to get an extra seal.
The Osprey Downburst offers even more security against the elements than other roll-tops—it folds over twice and locks down with buckles. That extra-tight design paired with the quick-drying recycled nylon fabric make this backpack a good bet for water adventures.
It also comes with a plethora of practical features, including two water bottle pockets, pole loops, and a built-in whistle on the sternum strap. It even has a handy belt pocket for storing smaller items. Even better, the external sleeve doubles as a reservoir pocket, turning this waterproof daypack into a hydration pack too.
Keep in mind: While the Downburst can fit a ton of gear, it doesn't offer much in the way of organization. The IP5 rating means this backpack blocks water but likely won't completely protect your stuff if it falls into water.
Product details: Capacity: 36L | Dimensions: 25.6 x 13.8 x 12.6 in. | Weight: 3.4 lbs. | Material: Recycled nylon | IPX rating: IP5
( Small but mighty—these are the best travel umbrellas )
Best waterproof camera backpack: Lowepro ProTactic BP 450 AW II Camera and Laptop Backpack
Photograph courtesy B&H
Lowepro ProTactic BP 450 AW II Camera and Laptop Backpack
Buy it now at B&H
Why we like it: Any amount of water leaking into a camera bag could mean disaster for expensive lenses, making a waterproof pack a must for photographers. This Lowepro backpack includes a cover for an extra layer of protection.
Australian landscape photographer Lisa Michele Burns is a longtime fan of the brand's foldable covers, which pop out from a pocket located at the base.
In addition to staying dry, this versatile backpack is built with customizable interior dividers for two DSLR cameras and up to eight lenses, plus a 15-inch laptop sleeve. Several attachment points secure tripods and other accessories, while a padded waist belt helps even out weight and doubles as a utility belt with space for a water bottle and other small things.
Keep in mind: With all of its camera-specific features, this backpack doesn't have much room for non-photography related items. It's only waterproof with the protective cover on.
Product details: Capacity: 25L | Dimensions: 20.5 x 14.2 x 8.7 in. | Weight: 6.3 lbs. | Material: Nylon and polyester | IPX rating: N/A
( Here's how to pack light for a weekend trip )
How we chose the best waterproof backpacks
When it comes to choosing the best waterproof backpacks, there are a few key factors to consider. Here's how we evaluated waterproof backpacks for this list:
• A waterproof label: We only included backpacks that were labeled as waterproof (or came with a waterproof cover). We did not include backpacks that are water-resistant.
• Capacity: The backpacks on our list have capacities ranging from nine to 38 liters, so there's an option for a variety of needs and activities.
• Materials: We favored backpacks made with recycled materials, according to brand descriptions.
• IPX rating: This is a waterproofing standard used to measure how well a product can withstand water. We included the IPX rating (waterproofing level) for each bag when available.
• Versatility: While all of our top picks are great for outdoor activities like hiking and camping, we also looked at versatility for everyday use or transport.
• Practical features: We looked for backpacks with practical features like multiple pockets, compression straps, pole loops, and laptop pockets.
• Third-party reviews: In addition to consulting experts, we analyzed the experiences and opinions of reviewers who have tested these backpacks in real life.
Tips for buying a waterproof backpack
Choose a high IPX rating
According to Burns, an IPX rating indicates how well a product can withstand environmental conditions. An IP0 rating means the backpack offers no water protection, while an IP8 rating means that submerging a product in up to 13 feet of water won't damage it.
The higher the IPX rating, the better. But Coell recommends a waterproof backpack with a rating of at least IP6. That will ensure your gear stays dry in heavy downpours or during prolonged exposure to the elements.
In IPX ratings with two numbers (like the Breakwater Supply Fogland Backpack), the first number indicates how well the device is sealed against solid object ingress from a zero to six scale. The second number indicates the seal against water ingress.
Pay attention to closures
Waterproofing is virtually useless if a bag's zippers can't handle water. Burns says she's noticed zippers on many waterproof backpacks are only water-resistant, leaving the contents vulnerable to water damage. Carefully read through product descriptions to see if the zippers are also waterproof. If not, plan to purchase a waterproof backpack cover, especially if the forecast calls for lots of rainy days.
Remember that water-resistant doesn't mean waterproof
The terms 'water-resistant' and 'waterproof' may seem interchangeable, but they're not. Coell urges travelers to remember that water-resistant backpacks offer only partial protection. 'Water-resistant items are better suited to light rain or brief exposure to moisture,' he says, adding that waterproof items offer the highest level of protection when it comes to keeping items dry.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a waterproof backpack and a water-resistant backpack?
A waterproof backpack is made of technical materials (such as Gore-Tex) and/or denser weaves that offer the highest level of defense against moisture (some are even submergible). A water-resistant backpack typically has a DWR finish that repels water, but doesn't guarantee complete protection—especially against heavier rainfall or submersion for long periods of time.
What is the best material for a waterproof backpack?
According to Coell, the best material for waterproof backpacks are Gore-Tex fabric, Dyneema Composite Fabric (DCF), TPU-coated nylon, PVC, and X-Pac.
How do I keep my backpack from getting wet in the rain?
In addition to choosing a waterproof backpack, you can also add a rain cover over your backpack, pack your gear in dry bags or waterproof containers inside your backpack, and make sure all zippers and openings are properly closed.
People, Outside, Medicinal Media, Self, and HuffPost. Emily Blackwood is a freelance service journalist based in San Diego, California. Her work has been published in Stylist, Apartment Therapy,, Medicinal Media,and HuffPost.
*Although we are sharing our personal opinions of these experiences or products with you, National Geographic is not endorsing these experiences or products on behalf of anyone. It has not performed product safety testing on any of these products, did not manufacture them, and is not selling, or distributing them and is not making any representations about the safety or caliber of these products or experiences for individual consumers. Prices and availability are subject to change from the date of publication.