Yes, it’s summer but the weather says otherwise, so if you need a new rucksack that’s practical for your commute, weekend adventures or festival season then waterproof is another element you’ll want to add to the checklist.
Whether you like a classic backpack style, or a practical roll-top design, there are plenty of mid-sized styles which can hold plenty of your gear and keep it dry when the heavens open. Look for one that can hold between 15 to 20L for everyday use and that can fit a laptop.
So what should you look for in a waterproof rucksack?
- The fabric: On top of being made from a waterproof fabric like ripstop, PU or Gore-Tex, or with a water-repellent coating on a fabric such as nylon, you’ll want to check whether your bag has waterproof zips and seams to keep out downpours.
- The fastenings: The back of your bag should be shielded from the rain, so you want a cushioned, fabric finish to stay comfortable, with good airflow to keep you cool. A chest strap will add extra support if your bag can carry a large number of litres of stuff and help to keep it secure if you’re wearing your rucksack to cycle or on a long walk. A rolltop bag is ideal for keeping out the water out, just check it has a tight scroll that can be securely fastened.
- For cycling: If your rucksack is for a commute on two wheels, look for styles that have a zip on the back with clips that can be attached to your bike wheel. A style with a D-ring at the front is handy for putting your lock on, while a reflective stripe is going to be super useful in the dark.
Shop the best waterproof rucksack below
Rains Rolltop Rucksack
Rains’ sleek and most waterproof rucksack is the coolest commuter option out there. It features a rolltop design to keep your belongings as dry as possible and has a handy side zip the full length of the bag so you can grab your laptop without unwrapping the fastening.
Buy now £105.00, Rains
The North Face Base Camp Waterproof Tote Backpack
This sleek waterproof rucksack from The North Face with a statement logo can be worn in multiple ways, thanks to the two different length top handles. There are also plenty of internal pockets to stash your stuff.
Buy now £70.00, ASOS
Eastpak Maclo Bike Bag
For cyclists, Eastpak’s Maclo bag is the perfect waterproof rucksack. It can be attached directly to your bike, and has compression tabs to keep it compact. There’s also a reflective stripe in case you’re commuting late and a laptop slip in the back of the bag to keep your precious device snug and safe.
Buy now £70.00, Eastpak
FP Movement x GOT Rollup Bag
A collab between sustainable brand GOT and Free People’s cool girl fitness range FP Movement, this water-resistant rucksack is a stylish addition to your commute or adventure outfits. Internal and external zip pockets give you lots of places to stash your belongings, and it has breathable mesh padded back support so it’ll go the distance without causing any discomfort.
Buy now £140.00, Free People
Patagonia Guidewater Backpack
If minimalism is your style, this Patagonia waterproof hiking bag will be your go-to. It can be fully submerged in water, so if you’re expecting to face serious downpours, it can stand up to them. The inner organiser can also be attached to the front of the bag to give you easy access to your essentials — or removed if you need to keep your bag free from anything that might snag or catch on your walk.
Buy now £251.96, Alpine Trek
66North Backpack
This waterproof rucksack from Icelandic outdoor brand 66 North is a great option for anyone on the go, with a reinforced base to make it more durable. It’s also quilt-lined to protect any tech you might carry around with you. Plus it’s made with recycled offcuts from other products, so it’s a more sustainable choice.
Buy now £110.00, 66North
The North Face Borealis Classic Waterproof Backpack
A great size for stashing all of your essentials and with plenty of handy inner pockets and straps, this The North Face waterproof bag is perfect for adventurers. The cushioned straps and chest buckle mean it’s comfy to wear on your bike or for outdoor activities.
Buy now £117.00, Farfetch
Tretorn Lya Rolltop
The beauty of this super hardy waterproof rucksack is that it can shrink and grow to fit your belongings. Roll it down to make it more compact and use the side buckles to fasten it should you want to use the full size.
Buy now £90.00, Tretorn
Stubble & Co The Rolltop 20L
Stubble & Co’s waterproof rucksacks have a reputation for being super durable. They come in plenty of fun colours with organisers in the interior and an external pocket for your water bottle. They feature a cushioned, air-flow back panel for comfort and now also come with a travel sleeve which can be slipped over wheelie suitcases. In short: you can take this bag everywhere.
Buy now £120.00, Stubble & Co
Stutterheim Utility Day 9L Backpack
This military-inspired rucksack by Scandi-cool brand Stutterheim is made from water-repellent nylon, so is suitable for less heavy rainfall. The two outer pockets can fit essentials like your water bottle or raincoat.
Buy now £68.00, Stutterheim
Marks & Spencer Recycled Polyester Pro-Tect Backpack
This affordable rolltop rucksack from M&S is scuff-resistent with a patented storm-proof finish. It’s also got plenty of inner organisation and space for your laptop, so it’s an ideal work bag.
Buy now £45.00, Marks & Spencer
