Ever hiked in the pouring rain, eager to change into the dry clothes inside your pack, only to find out they were soaking wet when you finished? We sure have, which is why we created this list of the 13 best waterproof backpacks of 2024. These weatherproof packs will keep you and your gear dry on any humid or wet-weather adventure out there.
Whether you’re searching for collapsible daypacks, personal item carry-ons, or high-capacity adventure bags, we’ve got you covered. Our list includes backpacks for every scenario — traveling, hiking, cycling, or rafting — and will satisfy the needs of both minimalists and glam globetrotters.
We waited for the rain to fall, then thoroughly tested and reviewed packs from some of the most trusted names in the industry, including Patagonia, Osprey, Breakwater Supply, and Matador. From this firsthand experience, we put together a list of 13 of 2024’s best waterproof packs on the market, and are here to share them with you.
Table of Contents
Best Waterproof Backpacks of 2024
- Best Overall: Breakwater Supply Fogland
- Ultralight Pack: Zpacks Bagger ULTRA
- Fully-Submersible for Life on the Water: Patagonia Guidewater
- Collapsible Daypack: Matador Freerain22
- Best on a Budget: Osprey Transporter
- High-Capacity Roll-Top on a Budget: Earth Pak Summit
- High-End Pick: Mission Workshop Fitzroy
- Laptop Bag for Commuters: Timbuk2 Parker
- Built for Travel: Tortuga Travel Backpack
- Ultralight Hiking Daypack: Hyperlite Mountain Gear Daybreak
- High Capacity Backpacking Bag: Gossamer Gear Mariposa
- Built for Cycling: Rapha Roll-Top
- Waterproof Cooler Backpack: RTIC
- Factors We Considered When Analyzing Products
- Final Thoughts: Best Waterproof Backpacks of 2024
Best Overall Waterproof Backpack
Breakwater Supply Fogland
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Weight: 2.4 lb | 1.1 kg
Capacity: 25L
Materials: Hydrowall 420D Nylon TPU
If you spend a lot of time in wet climates, the Breakwater Supply Fogland should be on your shortlist. It’s completely waterproof, fully submersible, and designed for boating, fishing, and other types of high-precipitation adventure travel. It’s our favorite waterproof backpack of 2024.
With a high-density 420D nylon shell, the Fogland is built to withstand rugged voyages into the worst Mother Nature has to offer. It sports a trekking pole loop, dual water bottle pockets, daisy chains, and a convenient front pocket for high-use items. We also love its sleek style, ultra-comfortable padded back panel, and thoughtful (but not overboard) set of pockets.
Its clean and minimalist design will feel at home both on land and at sea. For its adventure-forward use case, I’m having trouble finding many downsides aside from its firm zippers which take a little zipper lube to break in. Don’t splurge for a YETI Panga; the Fogland is a lighter and more full-featured option for $100 less.
Why We Like the Fogland: It’s fully submersible, sleek, highly durable, has dual water bottle pockets, and is more full-featured and affordable than comparable YETI bags.
What to Keep in Mind: Its zippers are tough to use at first and take a little while to loosen up.
Best Ultralight Pack
Zpacks Bagger ULTRA
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Weight: 10 or 12 oz | .30 or .34 kg
Capacity: 25L or 40L
Materials: ULTRA Polyethylene 100D & 200D, 3D spacer mesh
Looking for a backpack that’s lighter than air and keeps your gear dry? Here it is — at just 12.6 ounces, it’s the lightest pack on this list. It has weather-sealed zippers that keep your stuff dry even in a downpour. It’s Noel‘s go-to personal item pack for travel and day hiking.
The Bagger ULTRA is stripped down to the essentials. It’s easy to load and unload, with just one main compartment, a front pocket, and dual side water bottle pockets. The weather-sealed zippers work like a charm, but the minimal shoulder strap padding could get uncomfortable if you load your pack over 20 pounds.
If you value function over form, the Bagger ULTRA is a minimalist’s dream for weekend traveling, short overnighters, or as a secondary pack on longer adventures. You’ll sacrifice a bit of comfort for a lot of weight savings, so if you’re looking for a more padded and feature-rich pack, look elsewhere.
Why We Like the Bagger ULTRA: It’s as light as a feather, has fully-sealed zippers, sports dual water bottle pockets and a giant front pocket, and comes in two sizes.
What to Keep in Mind: This is a genuinely minimalist pack, so don’t expect many frills.
Fully Submersible for Life on the Water
Patagonia Guidewater
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Weight: 2.20 lb | .99 kg
Capacity: 29L
Materials: 100% recycled polyester with TPU film laminate and DWR finish
The Patagonia Guidewater is our top waterproof backpack for life on the water, and it has the chops to prove it. It’s a very well-reviewed pack geared towards fishermen, and is a top pick for anyone needing a versatile ‘on-the-water’ bag that can take a beating. Throw as much water at it as you please; nothing inside the Guidewater will get wet.
This bad boy sports a 29-liter capacity that’s ideal for long days on the water, wet hikes, or quick weekend getaways in tropical climates. Its padded shoulder straps and back panel ensure a comfortable carry, but with no external pockets on the outside, you’ll be limited by stashing everything in its main compartment.
Lack of pockets aside, it is compatible with attachable Patagonia fishing accessories, which can be purchased a la carte on the Patagonia website. The Guidewater is made from recycled materials in a Fair Trade Certified factory, making it a sustainable option for the Earth-first buyers among us.
Why We Like the Guidewater: It’s fully submersible, relatively rugged, made from sustainable materials, and is built to accessorize with Patagonia fishing attachments.
What to Keep in Mind: The zipper can be hard to get unstuck if snagged on clothing inside.
Collapsible Daypack
Matador Freerain22
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Weight: 10.6 oz | .30 kg
Capacity: 22L
Materials: Waterproof Cordura
The Matador Freerain22 pack will pack down to the size of a grapefruit and weighs a meager 10 ounces. But don’t let its small size fool you; it’s made from a 30D waterproof Cordura fabric with sealed seams and rocks a roll-top closure that locks out downpours. Its front zippered pocket makes for easy access to your high-use essentials.
The Freerain’s primary downside is its lack of back and shoulder padding, but that’s a tradeoff for its miniscule collapsed size in your luggage. That also makes it a no-brainer to bring along for travel, day trips, and as a backup bag for all other occasions.
The Freerain 22 is probably the least durable and waterproof bag of the bunch, but if you’re an unapologetic ultralight traveler, this backpack should be on your list of top contenders.
Why We Like the Freerain22: It’s as lightweight and compact as they come, can be packed into a pocket-sized pouch, rocks dual water bottle pockets, and is quite durable considering how thin the material is.
What to Keep in Mind: This pack has a lower capacity and zero padding on the shoulder straps.
Best on a Budget (Sub-$100)
Osprey Transporter
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Weight: 1.8 lb | 0.82 kg
Capacity: 20L
Materials: 400D Recycled polyester
The Osprey Transporter offers a lot of bang for your buck; it’s lightweight and minimalist and rings for under $100. It’s perfect for budget-minded day hikers, peak baggers, and nimble urban dashers. If you like the design but need more storage capacity, check out the larger Transporter 36.
The Transporter is a compact carry for the essentials. It doesn’t have any external pockets, but its tech-forward internal design will make it excel as a wet-weather around town bag. We love it’s ventilated foam back panel, which acts as a frame and prevents the dreaded sweaty back syndrome. It has a hip belt, though you’ll likely never load this pack heavy enough to need it.
This pack comes in four or five different colors and a number of different iterations within the Transporter Family. It lacks the fancier bells and whistles you’d expect from more expensive Osprey bags, but will keep your gear dry all the same. For those who value simplicity and affordability, the Transporter is a solid choice.
Why We Like the Transporter: It’s pretty darn lightweight, has excellent internal organization, rocks a vented back panel, and is priced to sell.
What to Keep in Mind: Its smaller capacity will limit its use, and its side water bottle sleeve is a bit awkward.
High-Capacity Roll-Top on a Budget
Earth Pak Summit
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Weight: 3.0 lb or 1.36 kg (55L) | 3.5 lb or 1.60 kg (85L)
Capacity: 55L or 85L
Materials: 500D PVC
Are you seeking a high-capacity roll-top bag that won’t break the bank? That’s the Earth Pak Summit, a no-frills, top-loading ‘dry bag’ pack for anyone needing to haul a lot without paying a lot. It’s offered in three sizes: 35-, 55-, and 85-liters, all under $100.
The Earth Pak’s roll-top closure is simple and effective. Made with thick PVC, this bag will float but is not rated as submersible, so unless you’re a scuba diver, this bag will probably keep your stuff dry. The pack’s padded shoulder straps and breathable back panel keep were comfortable upon the first wear, but seem a little cheap and may lose their cushion after a while.
This large and waterproof bag won’t win any beauty contests, and its main compartment lacks dividers or pockets. But when you seal that roll-top closure, your stuff will stay bone dry (and your bank balance will thank you later).
Why We Like the Summit: It has a huge internal capacity, comes in various colors, and is the most budget-friendly pack on this list.
What to Keep in Mind: It doesn’t have much internal organization or water bottle pockets and seems to be made from cheaper materials.
Our Favorite High-End Pick
Misson Workshop Fitzroy
Weight: 3.3 lb| 1.63 kg
Capacity: 40L
Materials: Waterproof 1000D nylon with urethane coating
The Mission Workshop Fitzroy is a high-end, top-loading technical and luxury backpack. Hand-made in San Francisco, this bag is a durable and stylish choice for anyone wanting the best. It’s built for anything, from trekking through the wilderness to navigating the concrete jungle.
The Fitzroy’s 40-liter capacity, waterproof 1000D nylon with urethane coating, and roll-top closure make it perfect for extended trips. It also features a padded 17″ laptop sleeve. But with a limited number of pockets, it might be more challenging to organize than some. Also, its weight and price tag are higher than average.
Mission Workshop is a favorite made-in-the-USA option among backpack connoisseurs, and the Fitzroy is bound to get you compliments anywhere you go, from Rodeo Drive to the Amazon rainforest.
Why We Like the Fitzroy: It’s as well-engineered as they come, has 40 liters of storage, and utilizes multiple straps to optimize weight distribution. It’s currently on sale for nearly 50% off!
What to Keep in Mind: It seems the Fitzroy is about to be discontinued. Get it while you still can!
Laptop Bag for Commuters
Timbuk2 Parker
Weight: 3.1 lb | 1.40 kg
Capacity: 26L
Materials: Polyethylene, polyurethane, Cordura, nylon
The Timbuk2 Parker is one of the most streamlined, upscale, functional, and well-made waterproof backpacks on this list. For many urban bicycle commuters in rainy areas, it’s undeniably seductive. I’m going to ask Santa for one this year.
The Parker has a rugged outer shell, a waterproof liner, a removable rainfly, plus a side access pocket for 15″ laptops. Bonus features include reflective panels on the shoulder straps and rear panel, as well as magnetic compression straps and pockets… the sweet union of solid functionality and luxury features.
The Parker isn’t as well-padded as some may wish, and the zippers can be stiff. But it’s also extremely well-reviewed, reliably dry, and is one of the best looking bags on this list. If you’re an urban professional in wet environments, this might be your shiniest badge of commuting pride.
Why We Like the Parker: This pack is quite stylish, has multiple compartments and great internal organization, comes with a rain cover, and boasts a lifetime warranty.
What to Keep in Mind: Reviewers note that it has stiff zippers and only fits up to 15-inch laptops.
Built for Travel
Tortuga Travel Backpack
Weight: 4.5 lb | 2.04 kg
Capacity: 40L
Materials: Nylon, polyester
Frequent flyers, take note: this behemoth is the largest carry-on size many airlines allow. Its waterproof material should keep everything dry inside, but the bigger story is how amazingly comfortable it is. Fully loaded, the Tortuga Travel Backpack can be heavy when packed with a few weeks’ worth of gear, but it keeps all that weight balanced. Here’s how:
Extra-thick padding on the back panel, shoulder straps, and hip belts cushion the load, and the highly adjustable harness system keeps the weight close to your body. Inside, the clamshell-style Travel Backpack has a padded pocket for 17″ laptops, plus many other organizing pockets.
If you travel frequently and want a stylish backpack that keeps gear dry and organized, check out this beauty. Whether you’re a digital nomad, a backpacker, or George Clooney in “Up in the Air,” the Travel Backpack by Tortuga is a high-capacity option to consider.
Why We Like the Travel Backpack: It’s as roomy as carry-ons get, wins loads of awards, carries comfortably for long periods, and sports incredible internal organization. It’s a do-it-all one-bag travel pack.
What to Keep in Mind: This pack will get heavy when fully loaded and is a bit pricey.
Ultralight Daypack for Hiking
Hyperlite Mountain Gear Daybreak
Weight: 1.3 lb | .60 kg
Capacity: 17L
Materials: DCH15
I wish I’d had this pack in northern Spain for my day trips that didn’t require a lot of gear. With its innovative nylon composite material, the Daybreak can withstand even the most intense rainstorms. The cherry on top: it’s also quite comfortable, and its clean design is versatile enough for both town and trail.
Feature-wise, the Daybreak doesn’t disappoint. This rock-solid pack has a streamlined design that’s both lightweight and durable. It has a roll-top closure that keeps your goodies dry, and there’s even a hydration port. The only cons to consider are its higher price and modest internal volume.
Overall, the Daybreak is a good match for people seeking a reliable waterproof daypack that can pull double-duty in urban and outdoor environments. This pack is worth considering if you value high-quality gear and don’t mind paying a bit extra for it.
Why We Like the Daybreak: Its cutting-edge ultralight design, durable materials, and incredibly well-engineered build will ensure years of high-intensity use wherever you take it.
What to Keep in Mind: This pack is pretty expensive, and its 17-liter capacity will limit how much gear you can carry.
BUY ON HYPERLITE MOUNTAIN GEAR
High-Capacity Bag for Backpacking Trips
Gossamer Gear Mariposa
Weight: 1.9 lb | .87 kg
Capacity: 60L
Materials: 100 & 200 denier high-tensile strength nylon
The Mariposa’s reputation as one of the most comfortable ultralight backpacking gear haulers earned it a spot on this list. Its 60-liter capacity will tote all your gear for long backpacking trips while still providing the other critical features you look for in a pack.
It’s full-featured, with many pockets, a hydration sleeve, and even a removable lid that doubles as a fanny pack to hold snacks and other essentials. Sure, it’s a bit pricey, and some may not like its opaque external mesh pockets, but it’s well worth a look if you’re in the market for a reliable high-capacity pack.
No matter how full you stuff it, the Mariposa won’t carve into your back every time you shoulder it. You’ll appreciate its comfort, quality, and durability for years to come. If I was only allowed one backpack for the rest of my life, this might be it.
Why We Like the Mariposa: It’s an incredibly spacious backpack with loads of pockets and thoughtful features. It’s highly rated in the backpacking community and wins awards, year after year.
What to Keep in Mind: It’s not extremely durable and is on the expensive side.
Built for Cycling
Rapha
Weight: 2 lb | .93 kg
Capacity: 30L
Materials: Oil-waxed nylon
This lovely roll-top is very close to my heart because I used it every day when I lived in Amsterdam. Made by Rapha, a cycling- and commuting-focused company, this backpack was created primarily for cyclists, but it’s also versatile enough to serve as a minimalist one-bag travel option.
It has plenty of pockets and a single spacious main compartment, perfect for those who know exactly what they’ll need on short trips. The lack of a waist belt is a bit of a head-scratcher, but this shouldn’t be an issue if you’re looking for a cycling-only pack.
If you want a durable and functional backpack, this Rapha roll-top has a large reflective stripe for commuting, and its extra-rugged waxed nylon construction is built to last. Yes, it’s relatively heavy, but for those needing a reliable pack to keep their gear dry, cycle out and give this a go.
Why We Like the Rapha: Its slick roll-top closure, stylish design, durability, and functionality make it one of the most well-rounded packs on this list.
What to Keep in Mind: It’s not the most comfortable on long rides and lacks a waist belt.
Waterproof Backpack Cooler
RTIC
Weight: 8 lb | 3.60 kg
Capacity: 20 to 30 cans
Materials: Heavy-duty nylon
Keep your beverages cold and your food fresh — that’s precisely what the RTIC backpack cooler does (and far better than most). The RTIC’s waterproof design is ideal for a day at the beach, on a boat, in the countryside, or for any outdoor activity involving food and drink. Think of it as a fridge you can carry on your back.
The RTIC will keep your ice solid for days and your food and beverages frosty, thanks to its premium insulation and welded seams. It’s completely waterproof, with the only downside being its sheer bulk and weight.
The RTIC is basically a well-insulated cube with shoulder straps. No, it won’t fit under your airplane seat, but it’s ideal for tailgating, camping, boating, and many other outdoor adventures. If you’re looking for a packable cooler that’s built to last, grab this one.
Why We Like the RTIC: It’s very well-insulated, floats in the water, comes in many different colors, and is affordable compared to similar cooler packs on the market.
What to Keep in Mind: It’s the heaviest and bulkiest pack on this list, especially when loaded with beverages.
Factors We Considered When Reviewing Products
In making this list, we considered a wide range of factors to share only the best of the best products with you. Here are some of the key factors we took into account:
Materials
Waterproof backpacks are only as good as the materials and fabrics used. We looked for backpacks made with durable and proven waterproof materials like ULTRA, oil-waxed nylon, and DCH150. We also considered the quality and design of zippers, buckles, and other hardware, as well as assembly issues such as the stitching or sealing of seams.
The main material of your pack is the top factor to examine when considering the overall waterproofness of the product.
Functionality
Being waterproof is a good start, but backpacks must also have the everyday features people want and use. We looked for backpacks with padded laptop compartments, multiple pockets for organization, easily accessible water bottle pockets, daisy chain tie-down loops, hydration ports, ventilated back panels, and roll-top or airtight closures.
Check out Thule’s excellent “backpack parts” post to learn more about this topic.
Comfort
The frameless packs listed here put most of the load on the shoulders, so padding and adjustability are essential. Other straps help balance the load — hip belts, load lifters, and sternum straps, for example. We aimed to include packs with ample padding and multiple straps for maximum comfort.
Always read buyer comments first in regards to long-term comfort. Cheap backpacks may feel comfortable at first but can put a strain on your shoulders after long periods of wear.
Durability
A waterproof backpack must not only withstand the elements but also the wear and tear of regular use. We looked for backpacks made with abrasion-resistant materials and favored those with reinforced stitching and other no-fail features.
If your pack tears, it’s no longer waterproof. Some of the bags less durable bags on this list, like the Freerain22, should be babied a bit to ensure they don’t wear out and let the moisture in.
Weight
Every ounce counts when you’re on the move, so we kept weight in mind and included a handful of ultralight backpacks to stay true to our mantra. But remember, there’s always a tradeoff — less weight often means sacrificing comfort features and/or durability. Saving a few ounces on pack weight won’t matter much if you’re going to load it full of heavy gear
Storage Capacity
A waterproof backpack must hold all your gear and keep it dry, from your clothes, food, and supplies to your laptop. We included an array of packs with varying storage options, from 17 liters up to 85.
Within that internal storage should exist functional compartments and well-placed pockets. We’ve also included a few backpacks with compression straps and other volume-adjusting features.
Price
For most of us, price is always a factor when choosing a product. That’s why we’ve tried to cover the financial spectrum, from budget-friendly basics to high-end dream packs. As a cyclist, I’m happy with my middle ground Rapha, but in my dreams, I’m wearing the Timbuk2 to wow the folks at the metro station or the Mariposa to turn some heads on my next backpacking trip.
Final Thoughts: Best Waterproof Backpacks of 2024
Has our list of the best waterproof backpacks of 2024 inspired you to schedule your next rainy-day adventure? The 13 packs we recommended are designed and built with water- and weather-resistance in mind, so they’ll keep your gear dry and safe, even in the wettest of conditions.
Whether you’re a traveler, fishermen, hiker, cyclist, or simply looking for a new EDC pack, this list has you covered — from collapsible daypacks to high-capacity adventure bags — and from trusted brands like Breakwater Supply, Timbuk2, Patagonia, and Zpacks.
Do you have any tips, wet-weather gear recommendations, or drenched gear stories? If so, please share them in the comments section below. Don’t let a little water spoil your next adventure — grab one of these waterproof backpacks and get out there. Keep exploring, and stay dry!
Last Updated on March 30, 2024
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