Back in 2008 I bought an Overboard waterproof backpack. That thing took a beating for almost 15 years before the straps started giving up. It’s been through months-long trips and Canadian winters and saw near-daily use for the entire time. One thing that I loved is that I could take it on a plane, and it just fit as a carry-on, and it could comfortably squeeze underneath the seats on a plane. At the time, I heartily recommended it to everyone.
Unfortunately after 15 years, the original model was long discontinued, and they didn’t offer repairs, so I decided to buy one of their newer models. The material is thinner and flimsier, and it only took about 6 months before it started cracking where the new design forces it to flex. It’s also limited to either sealing it by clipping it where it rolls up or holding the roll with a weak piece of velcro, whereas my old one had clips at the bottom of the bag which allowed it to seal and pack much better. Anyway, the poor quality of my second purchase means I don’t recommend their stuff anymore.
Anyway, does anyone have any recommendations for a good waterproof backpack? I don’t necessarily need a dry bag as I don’t expect to ever submerge it, but I would like to keep stuff dry under monsoon rains for example. I need something durable and packable, and ideally something carry-on size, about 30L.
I appreciate any help
What many backpackers do for a quasi-BIFL approach is to just buy a non, waterproof bag that’s durable, and use a garbage bag on the inside (typically bags designed for trash compactor or nylofume which are much more durable than normal bags).
The problem is no coatings last forever, so you might as well have your waterproof layer be a replaceable wear item.
If you do want something that doesnt require an extra bag, avoid anything that has a coating on the outside, because that is inherently sensitive to abrasion. This especially includes DWR, which mainly serves to shed water and prevent water from getting into the fibers, not preventing water from getting inside.
Also, avoid gore tex or similar. Those are good for on your body, because you are generating heat (and sweat) so it needs to be breathable, but a bag does not need to be.
I prefer coatings to be on the interior of the fabric for durability. Some people like it on the outside so water gets shed instead of getting the fabric wet (even though whatever is on the inside will be dry). Coatings like polyurethane are actually waterproof, though they will break down over time if they are kept hot and humid, so just make sure you take care of your gear.
Alternatively, a waxed cotton canvas may be the best bet for you since it can be retreated as necessary.
If you don’t mind the tactical look you can’t go wrong with Savotta. It’s a Finnish brand that makes outdoor gear for hikers and the Finnish army. All made in Europe. Check out Jääkäri S or Niukka 20L for example. Guranteed BIFL.
Sold at Varusteleka for example.
Hmm, I don’t know how often I’ll be using a trebuchet, but that does look like it’s built pretty well.
Hmm, I don’t know how often I’ll be using a trebuchet
Ha! Well that is a statement that will age poorly!
There is no such thing as a truly waterproof for life backpack, buuuuuut Osprey is pretty amazing as backpack makers go. Check out their Transporter 30.
Second for osprey. I love mine. Have it for 6 years now, nothing wrong with it.
Yea my gut feeling is that Osprey will do something suitable for the OP. I’ve not tried my Daylite in a monsoon but I suspect it would do alright.
I’d throw a cover on mine, but they’re not the drybag style.
