- Best laptop backpack for tech organization: Timbuk2 Authority Laptop Backpack Deluxe. …
- Best retro-inspired commuter laptop backpack: Topo Rover Pack. …
- Best laptop backpack for travel: Fjällräven Räven 28 Backpack. …
- Best small, stylish laptop backpack: Rains Backpack Mini. …
- Best gym laptop backpack: Lo & Sons The Hakuba.
Reviews
Backpacks with Hidden Pockets
Everyday Carry Backpacks
Eco-friendly backpacks
Nordace Siena similar backpacks
Backpacks with lots of pockets
Waterproof backpacks
Laptop backpacks
North Face Borealis vs Jester
Hardside Luggage
Carry-On Luggage
Luggage for Int’l Travel
Wireless Headphones
Wireless Earbuds
Mosquito Repellents
Sleeping Bags
Power banks
There are lots of waterproof laptop backpacks out there.
But very few exactly hit that sweet spot of a bag that’s functional, stylish and actually waterproof.
This is because most waterproof laptop backpacks are made for special sports and activities like surfing, hiking and fishing. And so, have a reputation of being, well, sporty (and not necessarily attractive).
But I’ve got you.
After thorough research, I have decided to put out a guide on the best waterproof laptop backpacks to suit a variety of users.
Rest assured, these bags look great, are well designed and are guaranteed to protect your gear from the elements.
And as usual, I have included a buying guide as well as FAQs to help you make the right decision.
So, without sacrificing style for functionality, here are the 10 best waterproof laptop backpacks you can depend on to protect your valuables.
Let’s go.
10 Best Waterproof Laptop Backpacks
Check out this quick list of the best waterproof laptop backpacks if you’re in a hurry, or continue scrolling to see my full list with in-depth reviews.
- Best overall: Black Ember Citadel backpack
- Best compact: The Friendly Swede Waterproof Dry Bag
- Best EDC: A-LAB Model D Backpack
- For Him: Chrome Barrage Cargo backpack
- For Her: The Gion Backpack
- Best premium: Troubadour Apex Backpack
- Best minimalist: Johnny Urban Alec Waterproof laptop backpack
- Best for riding: Nelson Rigg Hurricane backpack
- Best 17″ Laptop backpack: Lenovo Legion Armored backpack
- Best water resistant: Lo & Sons Hakuba backpack
Best overall: Black Ember Citadel R2
Check Deal on Black Ember
Summary: The Citadel R2 is a super waterproof backpack designed to haul and protect your laptop and other gear.
The Citadel R2 tops the list of the best waterproof laptop backpacks because it is so versatile and waterproof.
This bag simply does it all.
You can proudly carry it as a carryon on work trips, keep your day-to-day gear or roam the outdoor with this bag in tow.
The best part?
You can be sure that wherever your adventure, your gear will stay dry courtesy of its bonded seam construction, super tough materials and YKK Aquaguard zippers.
What’s more?
This 25L bag boasts of ample amounts of storage.
As one of the best waterproof laptop backpacks, the R2 has a suspended 15” laptop sleeve that is fully padded and lined with a soft fleece material.
There are also protected pockets for your other tech like your tablet, phone, etc. as well as some modular attachments points so you can add extra accessories.
In addition, it has a clamshell main compartment so you can lay out your gear and organize to your heart’s content.
Even better, you’ll be able to carry your gear without any aches or pains.
The shoulder straps are adjustable, contoured and padded with air mesh for ventilation. Equally well designed is the well-padded and ventilated back panel.
What we also love
Thanks to its modular design theme, you have the option of removing the handles to either the side or top of the bag.
Also, the shoulder straps are completely removable should you want to carry it briefcase mode, so is the compression divider if you prefer a more open layout.
I like also that the Citadel R2 maintains its shape even when empty.
What’s not great
This is a big backpack that may feel too large for those on the shorter side.
Best compact: The Friendly Swede Waterproof Dry Bag
Summary: Compact, affordable and super waterproof, the Friendly Swede bag makes a safe carry for your laptop and other sensitive gear.
The Friendly Swede offers heavy-duty construction and complete protection from any activity that involves water, whether you’re walking around campus, commuting across town, or heading up a daring trail.
The bag’s durable PVC Tarp body with its welded seam, roll-top closure and water-resistant zippers will keep both your bag and its contents safe.
Also, it has a decent organization.
It has a laptop pocket that fits a device up to 13inch as well as internal and external pockets for small items like your phone or cash.
This 15-liter bag also offers extra room when the top is rolled.
Coupled with the fact that it boasts of a modern, minimalist design and is available in a variety of stylish colors.
What we also love
You might expect this to be quite highly priced, but it isn’t.
While the Swede backpack is by no means the most budget friendly on the market, it price tag does reflects the quality perfectly.
What’s not great
Thing is, the Swede bag is not the most comfortable.
The straps are kind of flimsy and has no sternum nor waist straps to help with weight distribution.
Also, the outer pockets are too tight to suit a water bottle, wallet and phone.
Best EDC: A-LAB Model D Backpack
Check Deal on A-lab-unit.com
Summary: The A-Lab Model D bag won’t only protect your tech from the elements, but also from drops and impacts.
If you’re looking for the best waterproof laptop backpacks that can withstand water and rigorous day-to-day use, consider picking up the A-LAB Model D backpack.
It is made from a tough waterproof 500D tarpaulin material and has a high frequency welded seam. Along with a roll top closure design and a water repellent zipper, this bag is sure to keep all your gear safe and dry.
It’ll also protect your tech against drop and impacts.
Inside the bag is a padded neoprene sleeve attached with Velcro that accommodates up to a 15.4” laptop.
The best part?
The laptop sleeve is removable and is suspended above the bottom of the bag so it does not hit the ground when setting it down.
You can also manage to tuck your iPad, note pads and other accessories inside the sleeve.
Additionally, this 26L bag comes with two sturdy rings to attach your carabiners and a smaller front pocket for smaller items.
This backpack is comfortable to wear thanks to padded, breathable shoulder straps and an elastic chest strap you can adjust to your desired fit.
What we also love
All in all, this is one hell of a stylish and sturdy bag that you can take everywhere with you on day adventures, whether that’s running errands, hiking or meeting some friends at the park.
What’s not great
It could use more organizational pockets, especially inside the bag.
For Him: Barrage Cargo Backpack
Check Deal on Chromeindustries.com
Summary: The Barrage Cargo is waterproof, comfortable an rugged enough for the urban man.
The Barrage Cargo pack is a great option for men who want the best waterproof laptop backpacks specially designed for the city.
It’s even prepared to keep your belongings dry in damp weather conditions, thanks to its 100% welded waterproof liner, water-resistant rolltop closure, and nylon shell.
And it’s loaded when it comes to storage and organization.
There’s’ a sleeve that can fit up to 15” laptops, a water bottle pockets, and an adjustable cargo net on the exterior where you can strap in bulky gear like a helmet, yoga mat, etc.
And if that’s still not enough storage, you can unroll the top to go from 18 liter to 22-liter internal capacity.
This allows you to fit in more items when you need the space and decrease the bag’s footprint on light carry days.
The Cargo pack also shines for its ergonomic design.
The comfy shoulder straps with molded back panel and the addition of a sternum strap help sweeten the deal.
What we also love
The opening of this waterproof laptop backpack can be rolled and secured with a lock, keeping it well protected.
What’s not great
The Barrage Cargo backpack is quite expensive.
Also, I wouldn’t recommend for long distance adventures trips as some users have stated that it is quite heavy, and has no hydration port or bladder sleeve to store water.
For Her: The Gion Backpack
Check Deal on Horizn Studios
Summary: The Gion backpack provides both style and utility with a clean-cut exterior and protective compartment for your devices.
The Gion backpack impresses with its stylish minimalist aesthetics and durable vegan construction built to last.
For waterproof protection, the bag is made from a tough tarpaulin materials and water-resistant zippers.
At 18-liters, it is great for women who are serious about waterproof laptop backpacks without the weight and bulk.
Designed for a seamless transition from work to exploring the world with friends, it spots a protective 13-inch laptop sleeve, a hidden back pocket, a luggage sleeve and two spacious compartments for your all and items.
Also, it comes with breathable padding on the back and shoulder straps, so you can move around more comfortably.
What we also love
The Gion backpack is super chic, durable, and sophisticated, which adds to its allure as one of the best waterproof laptop backpacks for women.
Plus, there’s a bigger version at 23 liters, if you want more space.
What’s not great
A downside is that this bag gets scratched easily.
Best premium: Troubadour Apex Backpack
Check Deal on Troubadourgood.com
Summary: A sophisticated and functional waterproof laptop backpack.
It’s sleek; it’s stylish; it’s functional: this is an absolutely gorgeous piece of carry with quality construction.
It qualifies as one of the best waterproof laptop backpacks thanks to its durable and waterproof fabric, lining and zippers, which ensures that your items will always stay dry.
Even with its stylish minimalist aesthetics, this bag boasts of a decent amount of internal storage — including a padded 16-inch laptop sleeve.
In detail, it spots a 25L compartment with two retractable bottle holders, and many internal pockets for easy organization of your items.
Plus, a trolley sleeve allows you to slide this bag over a suitcase handle.
In addition, it comes with breathable padding on the back and shoulder straps, so you can move around more comfortably.
What we also love
You can take it to the office (looks very professional), the gym and even a day trip!
Also, the Apex backpack comes in two other flavors- a leather version and a compact version.
What’s not great
It would have been better if the bag had a dedicated laptop compartment at the back to avoid any case of scratches.
But it still looks sweet, so, what’s not to love?
Best minimalist: Johnny Urban Alec Waterproof laptop backpack
Summary: A beautiful and functional carry with a minimalist style.
The Alec backpack has a stylish minimalist aesthetics and simple organization that fits seamlessly into all environments which is why it made it onto my best waterproof laptop backpacks list.
It’s made of durable and lightweight 500D tarpaulin fabric combined with phthalate-free PVC coating, which just means your stuff will stay dry in a shower.
Located in the main compartment is a removable laptop sleeve that fit a 15.6” devices as well as an extra pocket to hold items like documents, wallet, etc.
As a nice touch, the sleeve is padded on all sides to your device cushioned and prevent damage.
And if you need more space, you can just unroll the top and expand it from 18 liters to 20.5 liters.
What we also love
You can wear this bag for hours without any discomfort since the shoulder straps and back panel are reasonably padded for easy carry.
And the bag comes in three beautiful color options to choose from.
What’s not great
The Alex backpack doesn’t have enough pockets for better organization.
Best for riding: Nelson Rigg Hurricane backpack
Summary: Ride through all elements and carry your gear in comfort with the Nelson Rigg Hurricane backpack.
If you’re after a backpack that will prevent your belongings from getting soaked by the rain, then look no further than the Nelson Rigg Hurricane backpack.
The bag is made from durable UV coated Tarpaulin PVC, with electronically heat welded seams.
It’s extremely sturdy, waterproof, and can transport all your tech essentials in safety – nice and dry.
At 40L, the Hurricane has all of the room for the busiest of lifestyles!
Storage capacity can swallow a full-face helmet, a 15” laptop, folders, books, tablets, clothes, sleeping bag and any other item you need on your ride.
It also has two mesh pockets that are large enough to hold water bottles.
The bag also comes with a removable molle panel that doubles as a waterproof document or map pocket and places to stash or attach stuff.
Plus, it is hydration compatible.
The Hurricane is super comfortable for any trails.
This is due to its large, padded, adjustable straps, adjustable chest and waist straps, along with a padded air mesh back panel.
What we also love
The Hurricane can do almost anything- an everyday backpack, a tail bag on a multi-day tour and even as a dry bag on a kayaking trip.
It is no wonder it’s one of the best waterproof laptop backpacks out there.
What’s not great
The 40L Hurricane bag can get heavy, bulky and rigid, but then you can just go for its smaller 20L version.
Best 17” laptop backpack: Lenovo Legion Armored backpack
Summary: A shockproof laptop backpack for those who needs storage for gaming equipment and accessories
The Lenovo Legion pack is actually designed for gamers, so you know it offers the best protection and storage for a variety of your tech.
This bad boy is a beast.
Def one of the best waterproof laptop backpacks, the Legion pack is made of a tough EVA front shield lined with waterproof PU fabric. With such layers, even pouring rain can’t penetrate to spoil your valuables inside.
There’s a of course a well-padded 17.3” laptop sleeve that’s suspended to prevent your device from hitting the ground when you set the bag down.
In addition to that, you get special compartments for your gaming mouse, keyboard, camera, head phone, cables, portable hard drive, iPad, and other accessories.
Still, there’s more.
It also has pockets for organization and easy access to small items like such as glass, headphone, phone, wallet, etc.
Best of all, the design is such that it gives you quick access to your tools.
What we also love
Designed for comfort, there are breathable and padded straps, and back panel which allow air to flow so you don’t get too sweaty.
Plus, the chest strap helps distributes the weight of your gaming devices, so you are not weighed down.
What’s not great
There are complaints about bad zippers.
Best water resistant: Lo & Sons Hakuba backpack
Check Deal on Loandsons.com
Summary: A very practical and tech-friendly backpack you can take pretty much anywhere.
The Hakuba backpack is unrivalled when it comes to functionality.
While it is not 100% waterproof, the Hakuba is made from durable and water-resistant recycled polyester. What this mean is that, it will keep out a light rain, but likely won’t survive a torrent.
Still, it makes my list of the best waterproof laptop backpacks, because it can fill any role that involves transporting your tech about safely, be it as a daypack, a gym pack or a reliable travel companion.
Now, let’s check out its impressive storage.
The Habuka features a huge interior compartment with a removable organizing insert that has lots of sleeves and slip pockets to keep your gear organized.
There’s also a front pocket, two adjustable side pockets for water bottles or umbrella as well as a padded 15” laptop compartment.
My favorite inclusion is a separate shoe pouch at the bottom where you can keep your gym shoes and laundry from your other gear.
All these in a sleek and beautiful pack!
What we also love
Its other handy features include adjustable shoulder straps with memory foam and a luggage trolley strap for convenient airport movement.
What’s not great
There are not many color options.
Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the best waterproof laptop backpacks
Purchasing the right waterproof laptop backpacks is, quite frankly, not a right-from-the-bat decision you should make.
Not if you want a well-designed waterproof backpack that’ll comfortably hold and transport your laptop and other essentials safe and dry.
When looking for the best waterproof laptop backpacks, here are features to look out for before making your final decision.
Waterproof vs water resistant backpacks
We’ll kick it off with this crucial point: waterproof backpacks are different from water resistant backpacks!
Water resistant backpacks can hold up well in a light rain, or water accidents. However, when exposed for too long, water would eventually seep into the bag either through the fabrics, zippers or seams.
With waterproof laptop backpacks, you can expose them to a sustained torrential rainfall, yet the inside of the bag would stay completely dry!
These kinds of bags usually come with waterproof fabrics, zippers, roll tops and sealed seams and thus are great for water-based activities in the event your bag takes the plunge.
It allows you carry your sensitive stuff and technology without any worry.
If you want the best waterproof laptop backpacks, then it should be a backpack you can trust to keep your devices and other gear safe and dry.
Construction
The materials from which the bag is made have to be fully waterproof so that no water seeps through when the backpack gets in contact with water.
Beyond making a laptop backpack from 100% waterproof materials like tarpaulin, PVC, TPU…, waterproof features like zippers, roll down closures and seams need to be water protected also.
Anything besides these options and the backpack you are looking at is not really waterproof.
Durability
The best waterproof laptop backpacks box should be able to protect your expensive devices and withstand the demands of constant use.
Besides, heavy-duty waterproof laptop backpacks have welded seams, waterproof zippers, tough fabrics, easy-to-clean liners and reinforcements, especially in high-stress areas so as not to let you down when you need it the most.
All in all, the best waterproof laptop backpacks are durable, comfortable, and with protection from the weather.
The size of your laptop
Determining the size of your laptop in relation to the laptop sleeve/compartment is also a crucial matter you need to keep an eye on.
Also note that if you have an old laptop, it might be bigger and bulkier than a modern ultra-thin one with almost no bezel.
And if what you have is a 17-inch laptop, backpacks specifically sized for bigger laptops like the Lenovo Legion armored 17” inch backpack may be your best bet.
That being said, the best waterproof laptop backpacks usually indicate the laptop size that fits into it, so you won’t have to force a bigger or smaller sized laptop into a space not meant for it.
Comfort
Comfort is key, especially for a bag that you’ll wear on your back every day.
To avoid discomfort especially when worn for a long period of time, the best waterproof laptop backpacks should have padded shoulder straps with breathable back panel and even a belt strap.
Look for features like padded, adjustable straps, padded back panel, and mesh material with chest and sternum straps.
Waterproof laptop backpacks with these features are much more comfortable to log about with.
Convenient features
These days, there are handy features that have been incorporated into the designs of a backpack.
They could be e a designated laptop sleeve, a water bottle holder, a key fob, a secret hidden compartment, a tech pocket, or weather-proof fabric for stormy weather.
The best waterproof laptop backpacks should give easy access to your devices or other items you know you’ll be needing at a moment’s notice.
There should also be handy pockets inside and outside the backpack for carrying important items like credit cards and cash.
Go for one with features that best suits your needs.
Price
Would you rather have a waterproof laptop backpack that’s worth your money or one that’ll break down after less than two months?
The best waterproof laptop backpacks are more expensive than a regular one. This is because the process involved in the manufacturing of a 100% waterproof backpack is much intricate.
While a bag’s price tag doesn’t translate to quality, an investment in a well-made bag usually pays off.
FAQs
Do waterproof backpacks exist?
With the cases of the so-called waterproof laptop backpacks that turn out to be water resistant, one may wonder, are waterproof backpacks really waterproof?
Turns out that 100% waterproof backpacks do exist, so much so that a few can be fully submerge underwater.
They are made from waterproof materials- think IPX8 rating, TPU laminates (or similar materials) in the exterior construction, welded or taped seams, waterproof zippers and roll-top closures to create a waterproof seal.
Most often than not, backpacks with the following features are waterproof.
How can I keep my laptop safe in the rain?
There are a number of ways you can protect your laptop from getting damaged as a result of being caught in the rain.
The most obvious way to keep your laptop safe in the rain is to use a waterproof laptop backpack and zip/cover it up properly. In the absence of that, you can invest in a water-resistant backpack and augment that with a rain cover.
Also, it is advisable you turn your device off especially when you’re out during the rainy season.
Which backpack is best for laptop?
There are a number of factors to consider when determining the best waterpoof laptop backpack. And since the notion of “best” is quite subjective; it really depends on what you’re looking for in laptop backpacks.
But I think the following factors are pertinent when it comes to choosing the best of the bunch. The top factors I look out for include:
- designated laptop compartment (you want to shield your laptop from abrasions, and accidental drops);
- durability (you want a backpack made with material that you can trust to survive whatever is thrown at it);
- whether it is waterproof or at least, water-resistant (for protection from water in instances when you are caught in the rain); and
- comfort (especially if you’ll be hauling your gear around for long periods)!
In this review of the best waterproof laptop backpack, I have included a number of great laptop backpack recommendations.
Which backpack is waterproof?
All the bags in my review of the best waterproof laptop backpacks are waterproof.
However, if I was hard-pressed to choose the best waterproof bag for your laptop, it would bethe Friendly Swede Waterproof Dry Bag.
This is because it offers heavy-duty construction and complete protection from any activity that involves water, whether you’re walking around campus, commuting across town, or heading up a daring trail.
Reference
Waterproof Backpacks vs Water resistant Backpacks by Tortugabackpacks.com
What’s The Difference: Waterproof vs. Water-resistance by Hiconsumption.com
Waterproof Laptop Backpack Buying Guide Or How To Never Again Worry About Rain by Drytidegear.com
Bottom Line
This wraps up my review of best waterproof laptop backpacks.
The packs on this list are functional as they practical with smart features to protect your tech and make your life easier. Some if not all of them come with features like padded laptop sleeves, organizational pockets, trolley sleeves, or expansion capabilities.
Keep in mind that the best waterproof laptop backpacks will keep your contents organized, secure and — most importantly — dry.
However, this list is by no mean conclusive, so I’m open to hearing your recommendations, questions or experiences with any of these bags or others of your own.
So, over to you.
Take the lead in the comment sections!
If you’re interested in backpacks with great protection for your laptop, be sure to check out my guide to thebest laptop backpacks.
This article is not sponsored in any way by any company. These backpacks have been independently selected by myself and my team. And the only thing I receive is a small commission from our affiliate program if you buy any of them through the links and buttons on this page. It doesn’t cost you a penny. But it really helps me out as this money goes to paying for maintaining the website, editing software, my time, team and everything else that goes into preparing this post.
Wole Femi Asaolu
Hey I’m Femi, the founder of Travelccessories. If I’m not busy with my data/number crunching full-time job, or spending time with my family or playing chess, you’d find me researching travel accessories.
5 thoughts on “10 Best Waterproof Laptop Backpacks to Help Keep Your Device Dry, Safe and Organized”
Andrew November 13, 2021 at 10:34 am It’s frustrating how many times I’ve been caught by unexpected rain and my clothes and electronics have got wet as a result. However, gone are the days of having to put everything in separate plastic bags to keep them dry within a backpack when purchasing a new waterproof backpack. Thanks once again for a great selection of good-looking and functional bags. I like the idea of having a removable inner sleeve for more versatility because it’s not every day I wish to be taking my laptop with me. However, I do like the clean lines of the Johnny Urban Alec Waterproof laptop backpack ? Reply
I hate when that happens to me. Here, in the Netherlands it happens a lot. I like the first one on your list. The black amber citadel. It is quite pricey, but you got what you pay for I guess. I will be thinking about that as a Christmas present. Do you have any idea if there would be Black Friday action from that provider? Reply
Femi Reply
My favorites are the The Friendly Swede and the Gion Backpack. The only downside is, as you mentioned, that the Gion backpack gets easily scratched, and it might get accidentally scratched at home (I have dogs and a cat). I love the design, though, it’s very elegant. I could perhaps store it in a place where the dogs and cat can’t reach it ?
You always find these amazing backpacks! Reply
Leave a Comment Cancel reply
Comment
NameEmailWebsite
Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.
Ten articles before and after
12 Best Convertible Backpacks for Work, Play and Travel in 2021 | Junyuan Bags
15 Most Stylish and Functional Laptop Backpacks for Women | Junyuan Bags
12 Highly Rated Sling Bags for Men in 2021 (Buying Guide) | Junyuan Bags
18 Bestselling Aesthetic Backpacks You’ll Want to Wear Everywhere | Junyuan Bags
The 10 Best Tumi Backpacks That Are Worth Splurging On | Junyuan Bags
9 Best Smell Proof Backpacks (Bags) To Help You Carry Your Smelly Things Discreetly | Junyuan Bags
12 Best Motorcycle Backpacks with Enhanced Fit & Functionality for Spirited Riders | Junyuan Bags
10 Best Camera Sling Bags for Photographers on the Go | Junyuan Bags
12 Best Small backpacks for Men That Fit Every Lifestyle | Junyuan Bags
Mobile/What's App/Wechat
E-Mail
ADD
