When Should I Use a Waterproof Backpack?

Preparation for your next outdoor adventure requires you to consider all of the possible scenarios you will put yourself in. For example, if you plan to go camping, you need to not only consider what you pack for the campsite, but also what fun activities you will do during your stay. You might go kayaking, canoeing, climbing, hiking, or just decide to relax by the campfire.

On top of all of that, you need to determine and prepare for the weather and terrain. As a result, the question “should I use a waterproof backpack” may be one of the most important questions to answer.

The short answer - it is never a bad thing to pack with a waterproof backpack.

The long answer - there are definitely activities that require a waterproof dry bag or day pack, so what might those be? Below is a list of activities that we recommend using a waterproof backpack to protect your gear:

• White-water rafting
• Kayaking
• Canoeing
• Swimming
• Boating
• Surfing
• Paddle Boarding
• Snow Shoeing

Now the list above may be the obvious, but what about the “not so sure” times that you run into when preparing for your journey?

The best way to answer this question is to consider other questions that if you find the answers to, your decision to use waterproof packs may become a lot easier.

• Is the weather constantly calling for moisture or a chance of snow/rain?
• What is the terrain/land like? Is there standing water, or small streams or rivers that you will need to cross?
• How long will your stay be?

Either way, using a waterproof backpack is the surest way to keep your gear safe from water. However, there are alternatives to waterproof backpacks, such as Kiva Outdoor’s Heavy Duty Dry Bags.

If you do not want the shape or style of a backpack, and are looking for a dry bag that is durable, lightweight and waterproof, then this is the route you should go. With features like a removable, adjustable single shoulder strap and doubles as a tie or clip to keep your bag from leaving your raft, board, or body as you wade through the water – this is a great alternative.

Finally, the cheapest, though least effective approach, would be to line your non-waterproof pack with a liner or backpack cover. Though it makes your daypack water resistant, it does not proof it. Therefore, when in doubt, get the bags that are designed specifically to withstand water and other elements, such as the Bomber Mini Pro V2 series.

Waterproof backpacks are the way to go when navigating through cold or wet conditions. Look for bags with thick material such as reinforced vinyl, taped seams, lined with material that keeps water out and keeps your gear safe and dry.

If you would like to shop for waterproof backpacks and dry bags from Kiva Outdoors, just click this link!