The 23 Best Waterproof Backpacks to Buy in 2023
Whether it be your next beach trip or unfortunate timing on your evening commute, it's likely you'll find yourself wanting to carry along the necessities in conditions where you might get wet. This makes a waterproof backpack of some kind a must have to purchase for your upcoming trips or as a "just in case". To that end, we've scoured the best waterproof backpacks that you can buy in 2023.
Backpack shopping isn't always as easy as it sounds, especially if you are looking backpacks with specific features (which in this case would be waterproof). No worries—we rounded up some of the best on the market. These bags come highly rated and vetted. Scroll down to check out our selections.
RELATED: The 26 Best Waterproof Sneakers to Keep You Covered This Spring
The Best Waterproof Backpacks, at a Glance
Best Overall Waterproof Backpack - Lululemon New Crew Backpack, $98
Also Great - Unigear Trop-Storm BP 35L Waterproof Backpack Marine Dry Bag, $89.99
Easiest to Carry - Mountain Warehouse Tempest 25L Backpack, $53.99
Best Gym Waterproof Backpack - Gymshark X-Series 0.3 Backpack, $38.40
Best Travel Waterproof Backpack - Black Diamond Blitz 20L Backpack, $37.46
Best University Waterproof Backpack - Osprey Ultralight Dry Stuff Pack, $45.40
Best Men's Waterproof Backpack - YETI Panga 28, $300
Most Technical Waterproof Backpack - Chrome Industries Urban Ex Rolltop 26L Backpack, $120
Best Laptop Waterproof Backpack - Timbuk2 Spire Laptop Backpack 2.0, $109
Best Waterproof Backpack for Hiking - Fjällräven High Coast Rolltop 26, $115
Best Outdoor Waterproof Backpack - L.L. Bean Adventure Pro Day Pack 26L, $129
Best Small Waterproof Backpack - Rains Rolltop Rucksack, $125
Best Waterproof Backpack for Traveling - Patagonia Black Hole Pack 25L, $149
Best Waterproof Backpack for Work - The North Face Commuter Backpack, $129
Best Design- Filson Dry Backpack, $210
Best for Cold Weather - Arc'teryx Granville 20 Backpack, $220
Most Versatile Waterproof Backpack - Mission Workshop Rhake Backpack, $435
Best Luxury Waterproof Backpack - CÔTE& CIEL Black Medium Isar Obsidian Backpack, $254
Best Lightweight Waterproof Backpack - Tumi Nottaway Backpack, $475
Best Commuter Backpack - Veilance Nomin Backpack, $800
Most Affordable Waterproof Backpack - Stowaway Packable 20L, $800
Best Hiking Waterproof Backpack - SIMMS Dry Creek Z Backpack, $299.95
Also Great - The North Face Borealis Backpack, $99
1. Lululemon New Crew Backpack
Image credit: Lululemon
Best Overall Waterproof Backpack
Pros: Durable, functional, nice design
Cons: Hard to fit water bottle
This backpack from Lululemon is definitely a waterproof backpack to add to your shopping list. There's no frills or fancy business to be had here, only a solid backpack at great value. It's not strictly waterproof, but is coated in a water resistant fabric that will shield your belongings from the elements. Great for those looking for a high quality backpack without having to spend too much money.
2. Unigear Trop-Storm BP 35L Waterproof Backpack Marine Dry Bag
Image credit: Unigear
Also Great
Pros: Functional and versatile
Cons: Causes discomfort after a few hours
Similar to the Lululemon bag, this backpack comes at a very reasonable price, with the added benefit of full waterproofing. It's worth noting that the main cavity of the backpack is a single compartment. This bag is great as a commuter or travel bag, or for light camping. Reviews mentioned discomfort after hours of wear when hiking, so maybe this isn't your best bet if you're looking to get outdoorsy.
3. Mountain Warehouse Tempest 25L Backpack
Image credit: Mountain Warehouse
Easiest to Carry
Pros: Has multiple compartments and is comfortable
Cons: Gets heavy after a while
This backpack from Mountain Warehouse features a foldable top common with waterproof bags, with the addition of a laptop compartment inside. It's fully waterproof, but has a soft and breathable mesh on the back to ensure a comfortable wear. Combined with the reflective strip, this is a great option for someone commuting on a bike.
SHOP NOW AT MOUNTAIN WAREHOUSE, $53.99
4. Gymshark X-Series 0.3 Backpack
Image credit: Gymshark
Best Gym Waterproof Backpack
Pros: Durable, has four zip pockets, adjustable shoulder straps
Cons: Bag only comes in one size
Gymshark is well known for their sports apparel, and their entry into the backpack market is everything a gymrat could want. The polyurethane shell will keep all the sweat and grime off of your precious meal prep, which has its own pocket. the super clean design paired with the contrasting zipper pulls is sure to turn heads next time you go in for a pump.
5. Black Diamond Blitz 20L Backpack
Image credit: Backcountry
Best Travel Backpack
Pros: Smaller alternative to bigger backs, lightweight material, good quality
Cons: Not as durable as other bags
As one of the premier climbing brands, you can count on Black Diamond to put out a quality backpack. At just 20 liters, it's smaller than most of the roster, but holds just enough for your next alpine trip. The material is ultra lightweight but maintains its durability, and the pack features a one-handed closure for easy access. It's also hydration compatible, so should you have a bladder to bring with you it'll fit right in.
SHOP NOW AT BLACK DIAMOND, $37.46
6. Osprey Ultralight Dry Stuff Pack
Image credit: Osprey
Best University Waterproof Backpack
Pros: Has more than one compartment and an external pocket, is comfortable, versatile, and durable
Cons: Small volume
This pack from Osprey is the perfect option for a day bag when you need some extra carrying capacity, but space is at a premium. With a roll-top main compartment, external pocket, and chest strap it has just enough to take you to where you need to go. As an added bonus, once you're there you can simply pack the backpack into its own pocket for easy carry.
7. YETI Panga 28
Image credit: YETI
Best Men's Waterproof Backpack
Pros: Durable with comfortable shoulder straps, effective at keeping out water, has multiple compartments for storage
Cons: On the expensive side
Planning on getting drenched? This is the bag for you. With just the main compartment in a super waterproof shell, this backpack is exactly what you want for a day at the beach, paddle boarding, or some jungle exploration. With a cool design, the YETI bag will provide you with everything needed for your upcoming water adventure.
8. Chrome Industries Urban Ex Rolltop 26L Backpack
Image credit: Backcountry
Most Technical Waterproof Backpack
Pros: Sturdy construction, features a laptop sleeve, comfortable shoulder straps
Cons: Not as spacious as other backpacks
If the Stingray is the perfect beach bag, then this is its urban counterpart. With much the same construction, the Chrome Industries bag tones it down on the reflections and neon, bringing you a sleek look with nothing extraneous. It features a laptop sleeve on the inside that can fit up to a 15" computer, as well as D-rings on the shoulder straps for your keys and a padded bike panel.
9. Timbuk2 Spire Laptop Backpack 2.0
Image credit: Timbuk2
Best Laptop Waterproof Backpack
Pros: Can hold up to a 17" laptop, comes with more than one pocket
Cons: Isn't as spacious as other backpacks
Timbuk2 just upgraded one of their best-selling bags ever, and the results are fantastic. It has plenty of storage, fitting up to at 17" computer. The bag also comes with two front pockets to stash anything from your phone to your sunglasses, so you have everything you need for your daily grind. The attached daisy chain on the outside is also extra convenient for U-locks and carabiners.
10. Fjällräven High Coast Rolltop 26
Image credit: Fjällräven
Best Waterproof Backpack for Hiking
Pros: Filled with technical features, has shoulder pads, side pockets, eco-friendly
Cons: Only comes in one size
Fear not hipsters, your beloved Fjällräven has made a waterproof bag that even you can enjoy. Known for their classic Kanken backpack (which is also quite water resistant I might add), the Swedish company has been committed to quality since the 1960's. This bag comes with all the usual trimmings from a roll-top to a nicely padded back and shoulders, but has the added bonus of being made from recycled nylon, so your mind can rest as easy as your traps.
11. L.L. Bean Adventure Pro Day Pack 26L
Image credit: L.L. Bean
Best Outdoor Waterproof Backpack
Pros: Has a lot of space, comfortable to wear, multiple compartments
Cons: Can get bulky when fully packed up
This is the quintessential backpack from the all-American classic that is L.L. Bean. Made from 100% waterproof TPU with taped seams to boot, there's no way water is going to be interrupting your day. the pack comes with an additional shove pocket on the outside as well as two daisy chains on either side for maximum utility.
12. Rains Rolltop Rucksack
Image credit: Rains
Best Small Waterproof Backpack
Pros: Nice design, affordable, minimalist style, small and easy to carry
Cons: Not practical for outdoors
If all of these bags are looking a little too hiking forward or you're bored of black, Rains has got you covered. Their waterproof backpack matches the smooth and minimal style of the rest of their catalog, made from a similar polyurethane material. The clasp on this one may not be the most practical for outdoor applications, but the signature carabiner and pull strap make the backpack instantly recognizable. Great for a commuter with a focus on aesthetics.
13. Patagonia Black Hole Pack 25L
Image credit: Patagonia
Best Waterproof Backpack for Traveling
Pros: More than one size, thick shoulder pads, spacious with room for all of your essentials, more than one color to choose from
Cons: Too small for backpacking trips
There isn't really much to say about this backpack, because it really sells itself. It's got all the top side and interior pockets you could want, and has an additional laptop compartment. If this size feels a bit too small you can always bump up to the 32L variant. the only downside we can find is that the top pocket does get wet on occasion since the pack doesn't have a roll-top. Just don't keep any electronics or paper in there and you're good. Oh, and did we mention the backpack is made from 100% recycled materials?
14. The North Face Commuter Backpack
Image credit: The North Face
Best Waterproof Backpack for Work
Pros: Multiple interior pockets, has a latch closure, mesh dividers, comfortable shoulder straps
Cons: Straps run small compared to other backpacks
Made with work in mind, The North Face packed this backpack full of interior compartments and mesh dividers so you can stay as organized as possible on the go. Our favorite feature of this pack is the magnetic latch closure on the main compartment, which makes opening and closing easy as pie.
SHOP NOW AT THE NORTH FACE, $129
15. Filson Dry Backpack
Image credit: Filson
Best Design
Pros: Functional, durable, versatile, made with nylon tarpaulin fabric
Cons: On the expensive side
Filson is based in Seattle, Washington, so you can bet your bottom dollar that they known how to make a waterproof backpack. This is a straightforward piece of equipment, made simply for water protection. The backpack is made from nylon tarpaulin fabric that's coated with thermoplastic polyurethane, and all of the seams are welded together so water simply can't get through. If you're planning on some whitewater rafting or fly fishing, this is your go to.
16. Arc'teryx Granville 20 Backpack
Image credit: Arc'teryx
Best for Cold Weather
Pros: Great for traveling and day trips, easy to access, more than one compartment
Cons: On the expensive side
The Arc'teryx Granville backpack perfectly straddles the line between a utilitarian messenger bag and refined urban backpack to create an all-purpose bag that can handle pretty much anything you throw at it. The flap to access the main compartment feat5ures a propriety one-handed latch for easy access, and underneath are secondary pockets to stash small items.
17. Mission Workshop Rhake Backpack
Image credit: Mission Workshop
Most Versatile Waterproof Backpack
Pros:Very spacious, can hold your laptops, chargers, and other smaller belongings, comfortable shoulder straps
Cons: On the expensive side
You might be thinking to yourself, "Wait, that's not a cooler," and you would be right. Unbeknownst to many, however, Mission Workshop also makes some top of the line backpacks. This one is unique due to its rather rigid construction, which makes it ideal if you're carrying stuff that needs a little more safety.
SHOP NOW AT MISSION WORKSHOP, $435
18. CÔTE& CIEL Black Medium Isar Obsidian Backpack
Image credit: Farfetch
Best Luxury Waterproof Backpack
Pros: Stylish, easy to carry, more than one compartment
Cons: On the pricey end, smaller than other backpacks
For those who have been bored to death by all of the backpacks thus far, this one's for you. While odds are its not the most practical, this backpack is easily one of the most sculptural and beautiful packs on the market. It's made from water resistant material, and the alien looking flap conceals the zipper to the main compartment.
19. Tumi Nottaway Backpack
Image credit: Tumi
Best Lightweight Waterproof Backpack
Pros: Lightweight, bag gets registered to you with an I.D., TSA friendly
Cons: On the expensive side, only one size available
If you're in the market for luxury, Tumi has you squared away. This lightweight pack has everything you need, and a little more. The well placed pockets make it easy to use, and and included rain cover can easily slip over the pack when needed. On top of that, Tumi's bags all come with an I.D. etched on a metal plate inside the bag that is registered to you, so in the event that you lose your luggage you can easily be reunited with your belongings. The perfect backpack for a frequent flier.
20. Veilance Nomin Backpack
Image credit: Arc'teryx
Best Commuter Backpack
Pros: High fashion, great design, lightweight
Cons: Only one size
Veilance is Arc'teryx's luxury division focused on form as well as function. Aesthetics reign supreme, though, with the subtle darts and seam lines adding visual interest points to the otherwise simple form. The ultra-clean pill shaped backpack is made from 100% waterproof nylon with taped seams, and holds a surprising amount of gear. The minimal straps may seem like cause for discomfort in the future, but based on reviews you can rest assured that you'll be fine.
21. Eddie Bauer Stowaway Packable 20L
Image credit: Eddie Bauer
Most Affordable Waterproof Backpack
Pros: Good quality, affordable, nice design, versatile
Cons: Runs small compared to other backpacks
Eddie Bauer's Stowaway Packable Backpack is a good bag that will get you from point A to point B. While it doesn't have a lot of storage space compared to the other we've listed, it is lightweight, has more than one pocket, and has padded mesh panel to provide comfort to your back while carrying. For just $20, this is definitely a great buy.
22. SIMMS Dry Creek Z Backpack
Image credit: SIMMS
Best Hiking Waterproof Backpack
Pros: Comfortable straps, durable, has interior pockets and a removable waist belt
Cons: On the expensive side
There's really no going wrong with the SIMMS Dry Creek Z Backpack—especially if you're reason for searching for a waterproof backpack is because you plan on going on an outdoors trip. The bag is built for the long haul as it has a compression molded hydraphobic back panel, breathable shoulder straps, a removable waist belt, and more.
23. The North Face Borealis Backpack
Image credit: The North Face
Also Great
Pros: Lots of pockets and storage room, easy to carry, affordable, more than one color
Cons: Shoulder straps are a bit too loose according to some user reviews
Just throwing in another option from The North Face which has been a top seller of theirs. The Borealis Backpack comes equipped with a bungee cord system and large interior compartment to keep your items secure, along with a removable waistbelt and a laptop compartment in case that's needed as well. With university season starting back up soon, this is the perfect pick up.
RELATED: The 31 Best Hats for Men: Caps, Beanies, Buckets, and More