As you embark on your aquatic journey, slicing through the crisp, azure waters in your kayak, your gear is as vital as your vessel. Among the myriad of equipment, the waterproof backpack is a sine qua non, safeguarding your essentials from the unforgiving onslaught of water. The process of selecting the perfect waterproof backpack for kayaking can feel like navigating uncharted waters. Fear not, for we’ve charted a course to help you uncover the treasure that is the flawless waterproof backpack for your kayaking escapades.
Best 6 Waterproof Backpacks for Kayaking
01. Skog Å Kust BackSåk Pro Waterproof Floating Backpack
The Skog Å Kust Waterproof Floating Backpack, affectionately known as BackSak, serves as a reliable companion for various outdoor and water activities. From kayaking and rafting to hiking and camping, this backpack’s buoyant design proves to be advantageous. However, its style and functionality make it a suitable choice for everyday use as well.
Weighing in at a mere 2.3 pounds, the BackSak is crafted from durable 500-denier PVC fabric, ensuring a waterproof seal. The design includes a roll-down top for easy loading and unloading, a padded back for comfort, and side D-rings for carrying additional items like water bottles, keys, and flashlights. The main inner pocket is spacious, and the backpack is available in both 25L and 35L sizes. It also features a splash-proof outer pocket for items like your wallet, phone, and keys, offering ample space for all your essentials.
In terms of waterproof testing, the BackSak passed the mist and rain tests without any issues, keeping its contents dry. However, in a dunk test where the bag was completely submerged, parts of the exterior pocket showed some dampness. This is not a significant issue, as the pocket is marketed as splash-proof, not dunk-proof. Just keep in mind that the backpack might not keep all your belongings dry if you find yourself in extended periods of rain or if the bag is submerged.
One admirable aspect of the BackSak is its availability in two sizes, providing consumers the flexibility to choose according to their needs. The 35L Pro option features a waterproof TPU-coated rip-stop nylon material, which is thicker and more durable than waterproof PVC, a laptop sleeve, exterior mesh pockets, and a removable waist strap, making it an ideal choice for professionals. Moreover, the company offers a 100% money-back guarantee, demonstrating their confidence in the product and commitment to customer satisfaction.
02. IDRYBAG Waterproof Backpack
| Pros | Cons |
| Constructed from 500D PVC heavy-duty waterproof material | Buckle closure might be less convenient for quick access |
| Double reinforced at major pressure points for durability | Bag must be properly sealed to ensure water resistance |
| Honeycomb design carrying system for comfort | Outer pocket is only splash-proof, not fully waterproof |
| External splash-proof pocket and internal zipper pocket for organization | |
| Suitable for a wide range of outdoor activities | |
| D-clip on shoulder straps for attaching extra gear | |
| Reflective strip for visibility at night |
The IDRYBAG Waterproof Backpack offers an impressive array of features designed to keep your gear dry in any outdoor adventure. The 20L backpack is crafted from 500D PVC, a heavy-duty material that is not only waterproof but also scratch-proof. Double reinforced at all pressure points, the bag is durable, wear-resistant, and well-equipped to handle tough environments.
Securing your items is straightforward: align and roll the top straps three to five times, then connect each side buckle to create a seal. For added protection, stretch the side straps, connect the top buckle, and stretch the strap to avoid water penetration. For convenience, the backpack provides a wide, firm hand-hold and features a customizable, ergonomic honeycomb design carrying system that supports the back for a more comfortable user experience.
What sets the IDRYBAG Waterproof Backpack apart is its thoughtful design. It includes a D-clip on each shoulder strap for attaching items like water bottles, and a reflective strip for increased visibility at night. There’s also an external splash-proof pocket for quick-access items and an internal zipper pocket for securing valuable items like phones and wallets.
This versatile backpack is suitable for a wide range of activities, from hiking and camping to various water sports. Whether you’re into floating, kayaking, swimming, rafting, boating, or canoeing, this bag is a reliable companion for any outdoor enthusiast. The IDRYBAG Waterproof Backpack ensures that no matter where your adventure leads you, your gear will stay dry and secure.
03. Haimont Waterproof Backpack
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 100% waterproof, durable tarpaulin material | Water will get in if fully submerged |
| Large 25L storage with multiple compartments | Might heat up contents if left under the sun |
| Breathable material in shoulder straps and back panel | |
| Multiple tie-down points and adjustable straps | |
| Competitive pricing |
The Haimont Waterproof Backpack stands out as an essential companion for those seeking to keep their belongings dry, especially during water sports or unpredictable weather. Constructed from 100% waterproof and durable tarpaulin, this backpack promises exceptional protection against water. Its welded and heat-taped seams provide an additional layer of security, ensuring your valuables remain unscathed.
One of the defining features of this backpack is its ample storage space. The 25L roll-top backpack provides a large main compartment with an interior padded layer, making it perfect for safely carrying electronics. It also boasts an additional front zip pocket and two side pockets, adding to its overall utility and convenience.
Designed for comfort, this backpack features airflow material in the shoulder straps and back panel, which adds a degree of breathability during extended periods of wear. Multiple tie-down points offer functionality for attaching additional items, and the adjustable straps ensure a comfortable fit for most individuals.
However, while the Haimont Waterproof Backpack offers impressive waterproof capabilities, it’s important to note that if fully submerged, water may eventually seep in. Therefore, this backpack is best used for activities involving rain or occasional splashes rather than extensive submersion.
04. Breakwater Supply™ 100% Waterproof Backpack
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 100% waterproof and submersible (IP68 rating) | Smaller size (15L) may limit storage capacity |
| Floats on water, making it easy to retrieve | |
| Lightweight and suitable for various activities | |
| Multiple compartments for organization, including a laptop sleeve | |
| Durable and rugged for outdoor adventures | |
| High-quality components and construction |
Embarking on outdoor adventures demands reliable equipment, and the Breakwater Supply™ Fogland Lite Waterproof Backpack proves to be a strong contender in this arena. This backpack is designed with advanced, innovative features that effortlessly blend function and comfort, making it a must-have adventure companion.
Perhaps the most standout feature of this backpack is its waterproof prowess. It boasts an IP68 rating, implying it can withstand complete submersion, a feature not common in many backpacks. This remarkable waterproof protection means you can confidently take on various water-related activities, secure in the knowledge that your valuables remain safe and dry. And yes, it floats too! An accidental drop into the water doesn’t spell disaster; instead, you can easily retrieve your belongings.
Despite its compact size – a downsized version of the Fogland 25L – this 15L backpack doesn’t skimp on storage space. It features a low-profile laptop sleeve, two elastic mesh pockets, and a large interior zippered pocket, offering plenty of room to organize your essentials. Moreover, it’s lightweight and comfortable for all-day wear, thanks to the ergonomic shoulder straps, molded EVA back panel, and lightweight neoprene shoulder padding.
While the smaller capacity might limit the amount of gear you can carry, the backpack’s overall functionality and exceptional waterproof capabilities more than make up for it. Built from non-corrosive components and Hydrowall TPU material, it demonstrates robustness and durability, ready to withstand the elements.
05. MIER Waterproof Backpack
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Excellent waterproof capability with soft TPU and welded, heat-taped seams | The roll top closure might be slightly less convenient compared to other types of closures |
| Expansive internal storage with handy pockets | Might require regular cleaning due to the material used |
| Comfortable design with ergonomic padded back panel and contoured shoulder straps | |
| Multi-purpose use for a variety of outdoor activities |
The MIER Waterproof Backpack is a reliable companion for all your outdoor adventures. With a solid construction featuring waterproof soft TPU, welded and heat-taped seams, this backpack delivers top-tier waterproofing. Be it water, rain, snow, or even dust, nothing gets past the protective exterior of this bag. Your gear, including electronics, cameras, and clothing, remain dry and secure, making this bag a worthy investment for any outdoor enthusiast.
One of the bag’s unique attributes is its roll-top closure, contributing to its waterproof capability. While this might take a little getting used to, especially if you’re more familiar with zippered or buckled closures, it ultimately offers an efficient way to tightly secure your belongings and adjust the bag’s size based on your packing needs.
The MIER Waterproof Backpack shines in the area of storage as well, boasting a range of handy pockets. An external water-resistant pocket and an internal pocket help keep your frequent-use items within easy reach. Additionally, the two foldable side pockets, which can zip up to maintain a sleek profile, offer an edge over other similar products.
Comfort isn’t compromised either, thanks to the ergonomic padded back panel, reinforced contoured shoulder straps, and a low-profile sternum strap. These features ensure that the weight of the backpack is well-distributed, reducing strain on your back during prolonged use.
This backpack’s versatility is another plus, with its design suitable for a wide range of outdoor activities, including kayaking, hiking, camping, and more. The sleek modern look and availability in different colors make it an appealing choice for daily commuting as well.
06. Marine Dry Sack Waterproof Backpack
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Made of high-density 210T encrypted nylon, ensuring durability | The comfort level might vary depending on individual preferences and the load carried |
| Versatile use for a range of water-related activities | The exterior pocket is splash-proof, not entirely waterproof |
| Comes with an additional wet and dry separation bag | Might require some effort to ensure the top is rolled up correctly for a watertight seal |
| Compact storage with a foldable design |
As a seasoned kayaker, I understand the need for quality equipment that can withstand the rigors of outdoor activities. The Marine Dry Sack Waterproof Backpack is one such gear that has proven to be a valuable addition to my collection. With its high-density 210T encrypted nylon construction, it offers superior durability, designed to endure the toughest environments. It’s waterproof capabilities are top-notch, thanks to the IPX-6 waterproof main compartment.
The versatility of this backpack is a significant benefit. Whether you’re kayaking, swimming, boating, or camping, it serves as an excellent storage solution. Its adjustability makes it suitable for a variety of outdoor water activities. As a 20L marine dry bag backpack, it offers ample storage without being cumbersome.
One feature that stands out is the additional wet and dry separation bag. It provides the same excellent waterproof performance, ensuring that your wet and dry items are appropriately segregated. However, it’s important to note that while the main compartment is entirely waterproof, the external pocket is splash-proof, which could limit its utility in some scenarios.
The comfort offered by the nylon shoulder straps is commendable, and the reflective trim on the zipper provides an added layer of safety, especially during nighttime. Rolling up the top to secure a waterproof seal might require some practice, but once you get the hang of it, it’s a quick and straightforward process.
Perhaps one of the most endearing qualities of the Marine Dry Sack Waterproof Backpack is its compact storage ability. The entire dry bag can be packed down to the size of a folding umbrella, saving substantial luggage space during travels.
How to Select the Best Waterproof Backpacks for Kayaking
Before diving into the sea of choices, it’s crucial to grasp the paramount importance of waterproof backpacks. They serve as the sentinels of your belongings, protecting them from the capricious nature of water. Whether you’re braving white water rapids or enjoying a serene paddle across a tranquil lake, these loyal custodians shield your gear from moisture, ensuring they emerge unscathed from your waterborne adventures.
01. Waterproofing
Not all waterproof backpacks are created equal. Some merely repel splashes, while others can withstand being submerged in the aquatic abyss. When choosing, consider the IPX rating, a standard that quantifies a bag’s resistance to water. For kayaking, aim for a minimum of IPX6, which equates to powerful water jet resistance.
02. Capacity: The Voyage of Volume
Your backpack’s capacity should be commensurate with your needs. Are you planning a multi-day expedition requiring food, camping gear, and clothing? Opt for a larger volume. Conversely, for short jaunts, a compact model suffices. Remember, striking a balance between capacity and compactness is key.
03. Fabric and Durability
The fabric of your backpack should be sturdy enough to withstand the rigors of kayaking. Materials such as PVC and TPU are resilient, offering superior waterproofing and durability. Check for reinforced stitching and sealed seams, ensuring a watertight fortress for your belongings.
04. Comfort
As you battle the waves or drift with the current, comfort is paramount. Look for backpacks with padded straps and lumbar support. An adjustable harness can customize the fit, reducing strain on your shoulders and back during extended outings.
05. Accessibility
Opt for backpacks with easy-to-access pockets and compartments. This helps to organize your gear, ensuring that necessities like your water bottle, map, or compass are within easy reach during your voyage.
Conclusion
Once you have a shortlist of potential waterproof backpacks, read reviews and ratings from fellow kayakers. Their first-hand experiences can provide invaluable insights, helping you avoid potential pitfalls and select a backpack worthy of your aquatic odyssey.
