Waterproof Backpacks

Waterproof Backpacks

Waterproof Backpacks

Weatherproof bags to protect your clothes and computer in rainy weather or on the water.

The Tortuga backpack is the only travel backpack that I found that was completely waterproof. This is a must travelling through Europe or Asia.

—Yan Verified Buyer
  • Travel Backpack Pro 40L  
    Travel Backpack Pro 40L
    Best Seller
    Travel Backpack Pro 40L
    Max carry-on-size, comfort, and water-resistance for the most demanding travelers
    $350
    $350
    Best Seller
  • Daypack Pro Daypack Pro
    Daypack Pro
    New
    Daypack Pro
    Ultralight (1 lb) laptop bag that packs flat or fits under the seat
    $125
    $125
    New

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FAQs

What's the difference between waterproof and water-resistant travel backpacks?

Waterproof backpacks can be submerged underwater without letting any water in. However, these waterproof bags, or dry bags, use a roll-top closure that makes packing and unpacking difficult. Dry bags are best used for electronics and other valuables when you're on the water. For dealing with rainy weather, a water-resistant backpack provides a better balance of weather-resistance with usability. The front-loading, suitcase-style opening gives you better access and organization while traveling.

Are most travel backpacks actually waterproof?

No, most travel backpacks use durable, water-repellent (DWR) coatings that can repel water but will wear off over time. Tortuga uses waterproof sailcloth and PU-coated zippers so that the weather-resistance is built right in, not added later. These are expensive investments but worthwhile if you're traveling in rainy weather while carrying all your clothes and a computer. Travel + Leisure tested Tortuga through "stormy rain and even dropped it in the mud, and it kept all items protected and dry."

Do you need a waterproof travel backpack?

For travel, extreme water resistance is better than full waterproofing. Truly waterproof dry bags open from the top, like hiking bags, forcing you to pack and unpack everything every time you open your bag. Tortuga's waterproof sailcloth and PU-coated zippers provide superior weather protection while maintaining the front-loading organization that makes travel backpacks better than suitcases or hiking packs.

Are waterproof travel backpacks worth the investment?

High-quality, waterproof materials are worth the investment for frequent travelers who have to deal with every type of weather. Tortuga's waterproof sailcloth and PU-coated zippers cost more than basic DWR coatings but provide reliable protection that doesn't degrade over time, keeping your belongings dry in any weather.

Can you take waterproof travel backpacks on planes?

Yes, waterproof travel backpacks can be taken on planes if they meet carry on size requirements. Tortuga waterproof travel backpacks measure 22 × 14 × 8 inches, fitting within carry on limits while providing superior weather protection with waterproof sailcloth and PU-coated zippers.

If you're traveling somewhere tropical like Southeast Asia or rainy like London, you might be shopping for a waterproof backpack. 

A truly waterproof bag can be submerged underwater without letting in any water. Think of the dry bag you might take on a boat. Those bags are made of a heavy, rubbery material and must be rolled up and clipped closed on the sides.

Dry bags are perfect for keeping your stuff dry when you're on the water. But they're heavy, hard to open, and have zero organization, so they aren't good travel bags.

Instead, you want a water-resistant bag to protect you from the rain that's easy to open and has plenty of organization.

When traveling, weather-proof is more important than waterproof.

The Tortuga Pro collection of backpacks is made of ECOPAK™ EPX200 waterproof sailcloth, originally developed for racing boat sails, with coated, water-resistant YKK zippers. This combination of material and hardware makes for a water-resistant bag that can keep your stuff dry in the rain. Plus, you get the accessibility and organization of a great travel backpack.

Travel + Leisure named Tortuga the Best Waterproof Backpack in their list of most durable backpacks.