Morgan Scott January 23, 2020 School

11 Best Waterproof Backpacks for College and Beyond

Morgan Scott January 23, 2020 School

Black Ember Citadel R2

Buy on Black Ember

Chrome Urban Ex Rolltop

Buy on Chrome

A-Lab Model D Backpack

Buy on Amazon

If you are on the hunt for the best waterproof backpack for college then it’s a give in that certain carry features are important to you – large compartment for books, padded laptop sleeve, plenty of pockets for school and personal items. But in the world of fully waterproof backpacks these features aren’t as common as you might like to think. This is due in part that most waterproof backpacks are made for special sports and activities like surfing and fishing.

Luckily we did some serious digging and found a few waterproof backpacks that would actually work for students. But before we get to our top picks let’s set some things straight. There is a difference between a waterproof backpack and a water resistant backpack.

Fully Waterproof – Coated exterior fabric, welded seams, waterproof zippers or rolltops. No water is going to get in no matter how hard it rains. 100% waterproof.

Water Resistant – Coated exterior fabric with regular zippers and seams. Since the seams and zippers aren’t waterproof they may cause water to soak through if you are unlucky enough to be stuck outside during a heavy downpour. But the coated fabric allows the water to roll off the exterior so your stuff stays dry in a light rain or snow.

We rate the level of protection on a sliding scale with all backpacks falling under the minimum water resistant backpack rating. Our ratings are based on hands-on testing and overall backpack construction and specs.

Now let’s move on to the backpacks.

Tested! Video Review

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Best Waterproof Backpacks for College

Black Ember Citadel R2

Black Ember

The Black Ember Citadel R2 is made of propriety waterproof textiles, YKK Aquaguard zippers and bonded seams for a truly watertight construction that can weather any storm. As a waterproof college backpack, 25 liters means the Citadel R2 is large enough for books, binders and a 15” laptop while still keeping a sleek profile.

Unlike many other fully waterproof backpacks, the Citadel R2 was designed from the ground up for urban carry and includes all of the features we have come expect from a modern tech bag. Pockets and organizers line the inside for easy access to things like a laptop, tablet, keys and wallet. And the Citadel R2 doesn’t stop there – Black Ember has designed this backpack to be modular so you can add extra pockets and carry features as needed.

For an in-depth look at the details plus a waterproof test make sure to check out our full Black Ember Citadel R2 review.

Features at a glance:

• Protection level: Fully Waterproof

• Clamshell zipper design allows full access to pockets and compartments inside

• Modular system allows for extra storage

• 15” padded laptop sleeve and padded tablet sleeve

Chrome Urban EX Rolltop Backpack

Chrome Industries

The Chrome Urban EX takes the superior protection of a drybag and transforms it to a jack of all trades for everyday carry. If you are on the hunt for the best waterproof backpack for college and beyond then you’ll love the Rogue’s welded waterproof seams, waterproof zippers and a classic rolltop design that ensures that your stuff stays dry no matter how bad the weather gets.

The Chrome Urban EX offers a roomy main compartment for college textbooks, binders and more thanks to its large 30 liter capacity. For storage of smaller items the backpack includes a small waterproof pocket on the top for small items like a wallet or phone. Inside you’ll also find 15-inch laptop sleeve and a dedicated tablet sleeve with additional pockets for organizing small items. 

Features at a glance:

• Protection level: Fully Waterproof

• 100% waterproof rolltop design with welded seams

• Capacity: 30 liters

• 15” laptop sleeve with separate tablet pocket

A-Lab Model D Waterproof Backpack

Buy on Amazon

The A-Lab Model D is the best waterproof backpack for college students who refuse to compromise style for functionality. The backpack itself was built from the ground up as a waterproof tank  – rolltop design, tarpaulin construction with welded seams and a front facing water repellent zipper. All of these waterproof features are wrapped in a stylish and minimalist backpack that doesn’t have all those busy loops and tactical webbing of other backpacks in this class.

As a backpack for college or daily use, the A-Lab Model A has some useful features for everyday carry. It features a front pocket for easy access to small items, a removable padded laptop sleeve and a spacious 26-liter capacity that allows the Model D to double as a weekend or outdoor backpack when needed. The best part? The A-Lab Model D can usually be found for under $100.

Features at a glance:

• Protection level: Fully Waterproof

• Made 500D tarpaulin material with a waterproof PVC coating

• 25 liter capacity

• Removable padded 13” laptop sleeve

Ortlieb Commuter Daypack City

Buy on Ortlieb

The Ortlieb Commuter Daypack City is a great option for anyone looking for a good waterproof backpack for college, weekends or city commutes. This backpack is 100% waterproof thanks to it’s PU-laminated nylon material and rolltop design that prevent water from leaking into the main compartment. Ortlieb also did a great job at designing a back panel and shoulder straps that stay dry while still being comfortable to wear. The back panel is made out of quick-drying foam panel strips and the shoulder straps don’t have additional padding that turns into sponges after a rainfall.

What makes this waterproof backpack stand out from other dry bags is the removable notebook sleeve and organizer panel that allows you to quickly grab you laptop and smaller items when on the move. The only con we could find is that the backpack features a front stash zipper pocket that unfortunately isn’t waterproof – but the pocket is still a welcomed feature on dry days where you need quick access to small items.

Features at a glance:

• Protection level: Fully Waterproof

• Made of PU laminated nylon

• Volume: 21 liters

• Removable organizer with padded sleeve for laptop and other tech

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The Ridge Commuter Weatherproof Backpack

The Ridge

The Ridge offer a highly water resistant backpack for college, daily carry and work with the Commuter Backpack. This backpack is packed with incredible daily carry features such as an integrated USB phone charging port, amazing internal organization and a shock-resistant laptop compartment. The 15-liter main compartment is perfect for tech-focused students who just need to carry a few books and binders and need organization for their laptop, chargers and tech accessories.

If you are looking for a fully waterproof backpack for college, then you may want to look at some of our other options but for most people the highly water resistant Commuter Backpack will have as much waterproofing as they need.

The backpack itself is made with a waterproof 600D nylon shell and YKK Aquaguard zippers that prevents moisture from reaching the inside. Additionally, The Ridge includes rain guards over the front stash pockets and side pocket for additional protection of vulnerable items like phones, wallets or glasses.

Features at a glance:

• Protection level: Water Resistant

• Made 600D waterproof nylon with YKK Aquaguard zippers

• Integrated external USB charging port with special internal power bank pocket

• 15” shock-resistant laptop compartment

Mission Workshop The Rhake

Mission Workshop

The Rhake by Mission Workshop is a weatherproof laptop backpack that uses top notch materials and a smart design to protect the contents inside from rain, snow and moisture.  At 22 liters the Rhake is the Goldilocks of daily carry. Not too big and bulky – not too small – but just right for anyone looking for a highly water resistant backpack for college.

The Rhake is made out of HT500 – Mission Workshop’s exclusive material. This fabric is incredibly durable and water resistant for uncompromised protection. The inside of the backpack is also lined with waterproof material to prevent moisture penetration from reaching your valuable gear. Other waterproofing features include water resistant zippers and a rolltop design that doesn’t allow moisture to sneak into the main compartment. 

What we love most about Mission Workshop backpacks is the brand truly stands by their products. Each Mission Workshop backpack is “Guaranteed Forever” and the brand will repair or replace any defects free of charge for the life of the bag. 

Features at a glance:

• Protection level: Water Resistant

• Capacity: 22L

• Zip laptop compartment fits 15” and most 17” laptops

• Two-layer weatherproof construction keeps moisture out

• Made in USA

Patagonia Black Hole Backpack

Buy on Patagonia

A popular backpack amongst college students, daily commuters and outdoor enthusiasts alike, the Patagonia Black Hole is a workhorse of a backpack that offers some great organization for everyday items plus high quality materials tough enough to take a daily beating. The Black Hole is water resistant, not fully waterproof, but it includes some great design features that sets it apart from other backpacks in its class.

The zippers to the main compartment and top pocket are angled so that water doesn’t fall directly on top of the zippers when caught in the rain. And the bag itself is made out of recycled polyester with a polyurethane coating and a water repellent finish – this is what gives the fabric it’s shiny appearance and it’s also what gives the Black Hole its excellent water resistance.

The Patagonia Black Hole backpack comes in two sizes: the 32L version featured here and the more compact 25L Black Hole so you are sure to find a version that fits just right.

Features at a glance:

• Protection level: Water Resistant

• Made of polyurethane coated nylon a water repellent DWR finish

• Capacity: 32L

• 15” TSA-approved laptop compartment

Stubble & Co The Roll Top

Stubble & Co

The Roll Top by Stubble & Co offers great waterproof protection in a sleek design thanks to its roll-top construction, sealed seams and YKK Aquaguard zippers. As a backpack for college, you’ll be pleased to find a side-access padded laptop compartment, a roomy 20 liter main compartment and plenty of quick-access pockets on the outside for daily essentials.

One of our favorite features of the Roll Top backpack is its focus on comfort. Each backpack is equipped with a cushy 3D mesh back panel, adjustable chest strap and ergonomic shoulder straps. What you get is a highly water resistant backpack that is versatile enough for daily commutes to campus and weekend adventures alike.

Features at a glance:

• Protection level: Water Resistant

• Waterproof rolltop design with sealed seams and YKK Aquaguard zippers

• Capacity: 20L

• Direct access padded 16” laptop compartment

Osprey Transport Zip Top Backpack

Shop on Osprey

One look at the Osprey Transport Zip Top and you’ll notice that it doesn’t offer much as far as external pockets. This is because Osprey opted for a clever waterproofing design that keeps all of the organizers and compartments tucked away under a nylon fabric that is double coated with TPU for amazing water repellency. Although not 100% waterproof this design minimizes any water from ruining your stuff during a downpour. 

College students will love the large 30 liter main compartment that is more than enough for a full day of books and a change of clothes. The inside also features plenty of clever pockets for organization such as internal water bottle pockets, padded laptop sleeve and mesh pouches for small items like pens, keys or a phone.

Features at a glance:

• Protection level: Water Resistant

• Made of water resistant TPU double coated nylon

• Capacity: 30 liters

• Tons of clever internal pockets and organizers

The Ridge Classic Weatherproof Backpack

The Ridge

When it comes to waterproof and water resistant backpacks for college, few are as straight forward as The Ridge Classic Backpack. This backpack is made to withstand rain showers like a champ thanks to a waterproof outer nylon shell and YKK Aqua Guard zippers for true peace of mind when the rain starts. 

Although highly water resistant, the Ridge Classic Backpack isn’t fully waterproof. But for most people who are worried about being caught out in the rain, the Ridge Classic Backpack is more than capable of keeping your important stuff dry. For college and everyday carry we love the padded laptop sleeve, integrated USB phone charging port and sensible 22 liter carrying capacity that prevents the bulkiness you normally find in this style of backpack.

Features at a glance:

• Protection level: Water Resistant

• Made 600D waterproof nylon with YKK Aquaguard zippers

• 22 liter capacity

• Padded sleeve can hold up to 14” laptop

Topo Designs Rover Pack

Topo Designs

The Topo Designs Rover Pack Tech is ideal for college students looking for a rugged medium size backpack that will stand the rigor of daily use. The main compartment on the Rover Pack is large enough for books and notebooks while the outside zippered pockets makes stashing smaller items a breeze. The backpack also has an external padded laptop compartment for easy access to your tech.

One glance at the Topo Designs Rover Tech Pack and you can see that it was designed to keep your important items dry. The bag itself is made out of a tough water resistant 1000D recycled nylon with coated YKK zippers for extra protection against moisture. The Rover Pack Tech also features a lid and cinch-top closure design to ensure that the main compartment is safe from rain or snow.  If you are looking for the best water resistant college backpack that is versatile enough to carry on weekend adventures then the Rover Pack is for you. 

Features at a glance:

• Protection level: Water Resistant

• Made of 1000D nylon with coated heavy duty YKK zippers

• Internal and external 15” laptop sleeves

• Capacity: 24.3 liters

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How to choose a waterproof college backpack

When deciding on a waterproof college backpack a good place to start is with the type of access you’ll have to the main compartment. The majority of your important items will be stored in the main compartment and often times things like text books, class notes and laptops can’t afford to get wet. 

When it comes to waterproof backpacks there are three main types of main compartment entries you’ll encounter:

Zipper access

The majority of school backpacks use a single zipper to access the main compartment. For a waterproof or water resistant college backpack you are going to want to pay attention to the type of zipper the bag uses. Most zippers are not waterproof and offer little protection in the event of a sudden downpour. If you prefer a backpack with zipper access then you should stick with a backpack that offers waterproof zippers.

Waterproof zippers are usually coated with polyurethane to keep water and moisture from entering the backpack. Common waterproof backpack zippers include YKK AquaGuard and Aquaseal zippers.

Lid Access

Backpack lids are flaps that fold over the main compartment entry to provide extra protection from the elements. This allows for a barrier between the top of the backpack where rain and snow is most likely to land and the entry to the main compartment. A backpack with a lid will often times have either a zipper or drawstring underneath to close and secure the main compartment completely.

Lids are most common in outdoor and technical backpacks where waterproofing is important but you’ll often see them added to school and everyday backpacks as well. 

Rolltop Access

Rolltop backpacks have extra fabric on the top of the bag that you “roll” down to close the main compartment. This type of access is the most popular with waterproof backpacks because of its reputation for water resistance. When a rolltop is compressed it creates a seal and reduces water entry.

Rolltop backpacks are popular with outdoor speciality backpacks where water protection is important. They are very common with bicycle commuting, hiking, surfing and snow backpacks. When choosing a rolltop backpack it’s important that the backpack itself is made out of either waterproof or water resistant material to avoid water penetration when wet.

Waterproof Materials

The next point to consider when choosing a waterproof backpack for college is the type of material the backpack is made of. Materials should be either water resistant or coated to be waterproof.

Water resistant fabrics are tightly woven to prevent water absorption. Some examples of water resistant fabrics are high denier nylon, polyester and canvas. Types of nylon such as Cordura and Ballistic nylon are naturally water resistant and are usually a good starting point when shopping for a water resistant backpack for college. Other fabrics such as X-Pac and sailcloth are also naturally water resistant.

But when it comes to waterproofing a backpack you’ll often need more help than just the fabric alone. This is why most waterproof backpacks are coated to prevent water from seeping into the fabric. Below are three types of common backpack coatings.

TPU Coating – TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane plastic) is a fabric coating that provides great abrasion resistance making it a popular choice with backpack manufacturers. What’s great about TPU is that it is less prone to cracking than other coating types while still remaining flexible. 

DWR Coating – DWR (durable water resistant) is a very popular coating with rain jackets and other outdoor clothing. Its breathability and strength has made it a popular coating with waterproofing backpacks and bags. DWR maintains it’s breathability because it coats individual fibers instead of laying on top of the textile. This application allows water to roll off of the fabric before it can penetrate.

PU Coating – PU (polyurethane) by itself is often used as imitation leather in bags and small goods. In fabrics PU provides a durable and abrasion-resistant coat with great waterproofing properties while still maintaining breathability and light weight. Many backpack manufacturers prefer PU coating for its relative low cost when compared to TPU and other waterproofing methods. 

Other features to look for

What size backpack do you need?

The first thing you should decide when looking for a backpack for college is its size. Larger backpacks (23L+) usually have roomier main compartments and extra pockets for smaller items. If you plan on carrying lots of text books, binders and notebooks around campus then a larger backpack may be the correct choice.

But not everyone need a huge main compartment for school. College students who use their laptops for note-taking may do well with a smaller and lighter backpack with a secure laptop compartment. 

Consider Organization

When shopping for a waterproof backpack for college don’t skimp on organization. Most waterproof backpacks are made for special activities such as biking, surfing and fishing and because of this they won’t have all of the pockets and organization feature you may need for school. 

Avoid bucket style dry bags and instead choose a backpack with more pockets for everyday items like pens, a cell phone and a laptop. Waterproof dry bags are great for a beach day but they will lack the necessary features for a busy day on campus.

Waterproof or Water Resistant?

The last point worth noting is that you’ll have many more backpack options if you go with a water resistant backpack than a fully waterproof backpack. Water resistant backpacks are good enough for most college students who need protection from sudden showers and short rainy day commutes. Unless you plan on studying in a climate that is incredibly rainy or snowy chances are you’ll be fine with just a water resistant backpack for college. 

Waterproof backpacks for college aren’t impossible to find but there are less options overall and are generally more expensive than their water resistant counterparts. So decide on how much protection you really need before making the plunge (pun absolutely intended.)

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