Did you know that for a fabric to earn the “waterproof” badge, it usually needs to withstand over 1,000 millimeters (that’s a whole meter!) of water pressure without letting a single drop sneak through.
Besides acting like your gear’s personal bodyguard against water, waterproof backpacks are generally more durable than their non-waterproof counterparts. They’re made from materials that can take a beating so they tend to last longer.
However, they’re more expensive and much harder to find. That’s why we’ve researched and tested the best waterproof backpacks on the market.
In this ranking, you’ll find options that meet the waterproof mark and then some, ready to protect your cargo come rain, hail, or high water.
What Are the Best Waterproof Hiking Backpacks?
Best Overall/Best Waterproofing: YETI Panga Pack 28 | Check Price
Best Comfort: Patagonia Guidewater Backpack 29 | Check Price
Best Versatility: Fjallraven Ulvo Pack | Check Price
Best for 3+ Days Trip: Fjallraven Keb | Check Price
Best on Budget: Maelstrom 40 | Check Price
Honorable Mention: Breakwater Supply Fogland | Check Price
YETI Panga Pack 28
KEY FEATURES
PROS
CONS
I was new to YETI’s line of products when I stumbled upon this backpack. YETI is a company out of Austin, Texas, that’s well-known for its top-notch outdoor gear. They specialize in things like coolers and insulated drinkware, but as I found out, their expertise doesn’t end there.
The YETI Panga Pack 28 blew my mind with its performance. It’s the most waterproof and durable backpack I’ve had the pleasure of owning.
Seriously, you could submerge this thing in water or get it covered in mud, and everything inside stays perfectly dry. For someone who loves taking long hikes and isn’t afraid of a little (or a lot of) water, this is perfect.
Durability is another hallmark of this backpack. It resists punctures and abrasions like no other backpack.
I also love how it holds its shape. It’s rigid, which can have both positive and negative aspects.
On one hand, it can be a bit cumbersome to pack in small spaces or when not filled to capacity.
But on the other hand, it means that even if you accidentally sit or step on the backpack, your belongings inside will remain safe and protected. This rigidness also makes packing easy because you can lay things flat and organize your gear efficiently.
The shoulder straps along with the removable webbing chest strap and hip belt ensure comfort, stability, and security while you hike.
But it’s not without room for improvement. A simple external elastic pocket for a water bottle would make it even better.
Also, pockets aren’t accessible from the exterior, and it lacks some kind of quick-entry pocket on the outside. I hope YETI takes note of this for future versions.
The capacity is 28 liters, offering plenty of room for all-day hikes or even multi-day adventures. It might not be the best pick for quick, short hikes, but for anything longer, it’s fantastic.
Verdict
Do I think it’s worth the investment? Absolutely. If you’re in search of a 100% waterproof backpack, look no further. The YETI Panga Pack 28 is it. Yes, it might be a bit of an investment, but for the peace of mind and the protection it offers your gear, it’s well worth it.
And I’m not the only one who thinks highly of it. On REI’s website, this backpack has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars based on almost 300 reviews. That’s quite rare to find, and it speaks volumes about how much the outdoor community appreciates it.
Patagonia Guidewater Backpack 29
KEY FEATURES
PROS
CONS
The Patagonia Guidewater Backpack 29 is twice as light as the YETI Panga, weighing just about 2 pounds. That’s why it’s my go-to for those days when I want to feel unburdened yet confident that my gear will stay dry.
What genuinely sets the Guidewater apart is its IPX-7 rating. Simply put, it can handle being submerged in up to 1 meter of water for about 30 minutes. Your belongings are going to stay dry, no doubt about it!
Space is something you won’t run out of with this pack with the capacity of 29 liters at your disposal. There’s plenty of room for your layers, a water bladder, snacks, and more.
I appreciate the extensive loops on the exterior as well. They’re perfect for attaching trekking poles or extra water bottles. Practicality at its finest.
Even though the shoulder straps may look thin, this backpack is super comfy for long days out. Yes, if you pack it without thinking, you might find the bottom a bit unfriendly on your back. But that’s just a small trade-off for an otherwise minimal and efficient design.
An important thing to note is that the zipper might give you a tiny bit of a workout since it’s pretty tough. It’s stiff, but that means it’s sealed. No more worrying about accidental openings or the hassles of roll-top bags.
You also should remember to steer clear of the black version of this backpack because your stuff will play hide and seek in there. A brighter interior is a much better choice!
Verdict
The price tag of around $300 puts it in the same league as the YETI Panga. But, if you’re after something that balances lightweight convenience with unbeatable waterproofing, the Patagonia Guidewater is hard to beat.
It’s not just a backpack. It’s a guarantee that your gear will remain untouched by water, no matter where your adventures take you.
Fjallraven Ulvo Pack
KEY FEATURES
PROS
CONS
The versatility of the Fjallraven Ulvo is something else. Whether you’re packing for a day hike, heading to work, or even jetting off on a weekend getaway, this pack is simply perfect.
It’s spacious enough to carry all your essentials (and then some), yet it manages to look clean and sleek. Honestly, it’s as at home in the wilderness as it is in a chic café downtown.
The Bergshell fabric made from recycled ripstop nylon is tough and waterproof. I’ve taken this pack through some pretty soggy situations, and it’s kept everything inside bone dry.
The design is another win. It’s uncluttered with a white interior so you can spot your gear easily. The laptop sleeve is a dream too. Padded all around, even at the bottom, it offers peace of mind that I haven’t found in many other packs.
If you’re like me and mix outdoor adventures with a bit of digital nomad life, this feature alone is a super useful.
The pockets deserve a shoutout too. There’s a roomy zippered front pocket and two stretchy side pockets that can handle water bottles both big and small.
With a comfortable back panel, shoulder straps decked out with ventilating air mesh, and a handy chest strap, you can carry your gear without turning into a sweaty mess.
The Ulvo comes in a 23-liter version and a 30-liter version. For daily use, the 23L is a sweet spot – not too big, not too small. But if you’re looking to pack more, the 30L version is there for you. Weighing just 1 lb. 6.9 oz., it’s a lightweight option that doesn’t skimp on space.
Verdict
I’ve searched high and low for a backpack that hits all these marks – minimalist, classy, practical, and waterproof. And every time, I come back to the Ulvo.
It’s perfect as a carry-on too, thanks to its organizational pockets and spacious main compartment. It’s hard not to love this backpack!
Fjallraven Keb
KEY FEATURES
PROS
CONS
When it comes to more extended trips, say 3+ days or so, the game changes a bit. You need something bigger, tougher, and yes, waterproof.
The Fjallraven Keb isn’t your usual pick. It’s a beast with options of 52 liters and 72 liters, catering to those of us eyeing longer adventures.
At first glance, you might balk at its weight, nearly 5 pounds, which seems a lot. But once it’s on your back, the weight almost vanishes because of its excellent design and material choice.
Speaking of materials, the Keb feels like it could survive an apocalypse. It’s crafted from G-1000 and Bergshell materials that make it feel extremely durable and even bombproof.
There’s also the rain cover included. While many brands have started selling these separately, Fjallraven has gone the old-school, awesome route by including it with the backpack.
The Keb is also 3L bladder compatible, with smartly designed holes on either side. Staying hydrated isn’t going to be a puzzle you need to solve every few miles.
Verdict
The Fjallraven Keb is on the heavier side. But for a few extra pounds you get an extremely durable and waterproof backpack, suitable for multi-day adventures. The peace of mind knowing my gear is safe and secure makes it worth every extra ounce.
Maelstrom 40
KEY FEATURES
PROS
CONS
This backpack comes in at a jaw-dropping $36 and with a solid 4.7 out of 5 stars on Amazon based on nearly 1800 reviews, it’s not just me who thinks this pack punches way above its weight class.
This isn’t the kind of backpack you’d want to take for a swim across a river. But when it comes to a surprise rain shower, this backpack offers a level of waterproofing that’s more than decent for the price.
The fabric is high-quality rip-stop 210d nylon. It’s water-resistant, tear-resistant, anti-scratch, and wear-resistant. Basically, it’s tougher than it looks.
For those who love their hiking poles, you’ve got easy securing options here. And while there’s no hydration pack included (which, honestly, you wouldn’t expect at this price), there’s room to adapt with one or two from your collection.
It has 2 large zipped compartments. I managed to fit 2 sleeping bags in the larger rear compartment (that’s some serious space!).
The rear compartment is also the place with the most padding, making it perfect for those more delicate items you might be carrying. There’s a special spot for headphones or a charging cable, plus a separate hole for a hydration bladder tube.
The side pockets are massive, ready even for oversized water bottles, and there are plenty of straps, loops, and pockets all over this pack for practically anything you’d need to carry.
It’s also super comfortable. I loaded it up with about 30lbs of gear, and it felt like a dream. The design just fits right, and the stitching, while not indestructible, holds up well under reasonable loads.
However, after giving it a good home trial, I noticed some areas where the seams might give way under heavy use. This backpack is a champion for lighter loads but might tap out if pushed too hard.
Verdict
The Maelstrom 40 is a budget-friendly option for hikers who know value when they see it. It’s got the space, the comfort, and water resistance. Just remember to treat it kindly, and it’ll do the same for you.
Breakwater Supply Fogland
KEY FEATURES
PROS
CONS
The Breakwater Supply Fogland rode with me as a hiking backpack and as a carry-on, and it was brilliant – spacious with just enough internal pockets to keep things organized but not too many that you forget where you put stuff.
The laptop sleeve fit my 16″ laptop snugly, and the side pockets were perfect for water bottles and small items. There’s even a waterproof smatphone pocket that I found super handy for things I needed to grab quickly.
The Fogland is extremely versatile. It’s your go-everywhere, do-everything bag. Whether you’re commuting, heading out on a weekend adventure, or kayaking down rapids, this backpack simpy delivers.
This bag isn’t just “water-resistant”. It’s fully submersible and floats! Thanks to its high-frequency welded seams, drysuit-grade airtight zippers, and Hydrowall material, it can take a dip in the lake and come out with your gear dry inside.
However, similar to other high-end waterproof backpacks like the Patagonia Guidewater, the zippers are a bit stiff. They definitely need two hands to open and close, which can be annoying.
Again, that’s the trade-off for keeping water out, and honestly, I’ll take slightly stiff zippers over soggy belongings any day of the week.
Verdict
If you’re looking for a backpack that can handle hiking, commute, and travel, while keeping your stuff dry in any conditions, the Breakwater Supply Fogland is a serious contender.
It melds durability, comfort, and waterproof reliability in a way that few others do. Plus, supporting a company that genuinely cares about its products and customers feels pretty darn good, too.
Are All Hiking Backpacks Waterproof?
Not all backpacks are created equal and not all are waterproof. While some packs shout from the rooftops about being waterproof, what they often mean is they’re water-resistant. There is a big difference.
A water-resistant bag can handle a light drizzle, but if you toss into a river or hike through a day-long rain, you might end up with soggy gear.
On the other hand, a truly waterproof backpack keeps water out, no matter what. It’s like a dry bag, but with straps and more pockets.
Do You Need a Waterproof Hiking Backpack?
Yes, waterproof hiking backpacks are always good to have because even if you’re not planning on trekking through a monsoon, weather can be unpredictable and accidents happen.
A waterproof backpack has many other practical uses, shuch as:
- Protection against spills and leaks while traveling or commuting with your laptop.
- Keeping your gear dry while camping or kayaking.
- Peace of mind during outdoor activities. You won’t have to worry about your belongings getting wet or damaged, allowing you to focus on enjoying your activity.
- Durability in harsh conditions. Waterproof backpacks are often made with durable materials that can withstand rough terrain and abrasions.
In short, if your hikes take you to places where rain is as common as beautiful views, or if crossing rivers is part of your regular trail, like in Zion National Park, then yes, a waterproof backpack isn’t just nice to have, it’s essential.
Why Hiking Backpacks Are Usually Not Waterproof?
Finding a 100% waterproof hiking backpack is hard to find. That’s because while the fabric of most hiking backpacks can generally shrug off water, the real challenge lies in the seams and zippers.
These parts are tough to make completely water-tight. They can leak, especially when put under strain from all the gear you’re carrying or if they catch on something while you’re blazing your trail.
Another point is about the design of most hiking backpacks. Many are top-loaders, which means they open from the top. This design makes it difficult to seal them up tight against water.
Plus, adding the necessary seals and protective barriers to make every nook and cranny waterproof would crank up the cost and the weight of the pack. That’s not ideal when you’re trying to keep your load light and your wallet somewhat full.
Conclusion
Waterproof backpacks are hard to find, might ask a bit more from your wallet, and they aren’t the featherweights of the backpack world.
But think about it, if you’re someone who finds joy in hiking through rain-soaked trails or doesn’t shy away from crossing a river, this is an investment that pays back in spades!
I hope that this article ends your search for the ultimate waterproof hiking backpack, and now you can hit the trails with confidence, no matter what the weather brings.
Lukas Heller
Hey there! I’m Lukas, co-founder of BigfootHiking.com, alongside my adventurous wife Martha. Originally from Germany, I landed in Phoenix, Arizona, in 2015, where I’ve been scouting out new trails ever since (though they’re getting scarce!). By day, I’m a software developer, but my heart belongs to hiking – I’m always plotting our next trip. When I’m not coding or on the trails, you’ll find me hanging out with our Pit Bull, Zeus.
