London’s unpredictable weather makes a waterproof backpack essential for commuters. Whether you’re protecting a laptop, documents, or other valuables, these backpacks ensure your belongings stay dry during sudden downpours. Here’s a quick look at five options, focusing on water resistance, storage, comfort, and price:
- JUNYUAN BAGS Custom Waterproof Backpack: Fully customizable, with sealed seams and ergonomic straps. Price varies based on features.
- Able Carry Daily Backpack (XPAC Version): Durable X-Pac material with excellent water resistance. Sleek design but limited pockets. Priced around $200–$250.
- Backpackbeat 7706: Budget-friendly with advertised waterproofing but lacks detailed performance reviews. Costs $80–$120.
- Alpha One Niner Whitley: Tactical design with great organization but not inherently waterproof. Priced $180–$220.
- Stubble & Co. Commuter: Comfortable with reflective safety features but limited 20L capacity. Currently $156 (discounted from $224).
Quick Comparison
| Backpack | Water Resistance | Storage Capacity | Comfort Features | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| JUNYUAN BAGS Custom | Excellent | Customizable | Adjustable padded straps | Varies |
| Able Carry Daily (XPAC) | Excellent | Moderate | Padded straps | $200–$250 |
| Backpackbeat 7706 | Good | Limited info | Basic padding | $80–$120 |
| Alpha One Niner Whitley | Fair (needs cover) | High | Tactical harness system | $180–$220 |
| Stubble & Co. Commuter | Good | 20L | Reflective, ergonomic | $156 (discounted) |
Choose based on your needs: waterproofing for heavy rain, capacity for daily essentials, or features like reflective safety for cycling. Each option balances protection, comfort, and price differently, so think about what matters most for your commute.
7 Best Waterproof Backpacks (Water Tested & 2 Failed)
1. JUNYUAN BAGS Custom Waterproof Commuter Backpack
JUNYUAN BAGS brings you a custom waterproof backpack designed with London’s urban commuters in mind. It’s built to protect your essentials while you tackle crowded stations and unpredictable rainy weather.
Water Resistance
Crafted with waterproof materials and sealed seams, this backpack is made to keep your belongings dry, even during the heaviest downpours.
Storage Capacity
The thoughtful pocket layout is designed to distribute weight evenly, making it easier to carry everything you need throughout your day.
Ergonomic Features
Comfort is a priority with padded, curved straps that adjust to fit various body shapes. An adjustable and removable sternum strap adds extra support and helps balance the weight. As one satisfied commuter, Ray, shared:
"I am amazed at how comfortable this pack is on my back loaded with my work essentials and bike EDC."
Whether you’re standing on the train, biking to work, or walking through the city, these features ensure a comfortable experience.
Price
JUNYUAN BAGS combines comfort, durability, and customization. Pricing varies based on the features you choose, and they even offer free design services, allowing you to create a backpack that meets your needs and fits your budget.
2. Able Carry Daily Backpack (XPAC Version)
The Able Carry Daily Backpack is designed with an X-Pac exterior, built to handle London’s unpredictable rain. This material offers reliable water resistance, making it a dependable choice for wet weather conditions.
Water Resistance
During testing, even under direct water exposure, a piece of paper placed inside the backpack stayed completely dry. This showcases how effectively the X-Pac material repels water. With a "Great" rating for water repellency and no signs of soaking, this backpack ensures your essentials – like your laptop, documents, and other valuables – stay safe and dry during heavy rain.
Storage Capacity
The backpack includes a dedicated compartment for a 15-inch laptop, though it may be a snug fit for larger devices. It also features multiple hidden exterior pockets, perfect for storing items like an Oyster card, phone, or keys for quick access. While the standard model balances size and functionality well, those needing extra storage might consider the Daily Plus version. The thoughtful organization pairs seamlessly with its clean, minimalist design.
Ergonomic Features
Designed with urban commuters in mind, the backpack combines practicality with a sleek look. The hidden exterior pockets allow for easy access to everyday items while maintaining its professional and streamlined appearance.
Price
One thing to note: the X-Pac material might produce a faint "crunchy" sound during movement.
3. Backpackbeat 7706 Lightweight Stylish Waterproof Backpack
The Backpackbeat 7706 is presented as a lightweight and waterproof choice for urban commuters. However, there’s a noticeable lack of verified information about its real-world performance, making it hard to gauge its suitability for everyday use.
Water Resistance
While the backpack is advertised as waterproof, there’s no independent data to confirm its performance in heavy rain. Without tests to back up claims about its waterproof coating or seam construction, it’s unclear how well it can protect your belongings during a downpour – something crucial for commuters in cities like London.
Storage Capacity
Details about its storage capacity are sparse. Key information, such as the size of the laptop compartment, total volume, and the layout of organizational pockets, hasn’t been disclosed. This makes it difficult to determine if it can handle typical commuter essentials like laptops, documents, or other personal items.
Ergonomic Features
The ergonomic aspects of this backpack are also uncertain. There’s no confirmation about features like padded shoulder straps, back panel design, or how well it distributes weight. Without these details, it’s hard to assess whether it’s comfortable enough for daily use, especially for long commutes.
Price
Pricing information isn’t clearly provided, adding another layer of ambiguity for potential buyers.
With so many unanswered questions, a closer look and more thorough evaluation would be wise before deciding if the Backpackbeat 7706 is the right fit for your daily commute.
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4. Alpha One Niner Whitley
The Alpha One Niner Whitley is a commuter backpack with a tactical twist, earning the title of ‘Best Everyday Bag Champion’. With a 20-liter capacity, it’s designed for daily use but doesn’t include waterproof materials.
Water Resistance
The Whitley is made from standard fabric without waterproof coatings, so it’s not built to handle heavy rain on its own. For those unpredictable London downpours, a separate rain cover is a must. Unlike specialized waterproof backpacks, it lacks sealed seams and water-resistant zippers, leaving your belongings vulnerable without extra protection.
Storage Capacity
Though officially rated at 20 liters, the Whitley feels more like a 22–24 liter bag in practice. Its dimensions – 18.5" x 11" x 6" – provide ample room, enhanced by a thoughtfully designed organizational layout.
The laptop compartment is tailored for a 16-inch MacBook Pro or a 14-inch ThinkPad, featuring a false bottom for added safety. Accessing the laptop sleeve is easy with its dedicated top zipper, although the zipper can occasionally snag on laptop corners.
The main compartment opens in a clamshell style, offering two internal zippered pockets. The front admin section is packed with 12 different pockets for organizing accessories.
"If you carry tech gear to an office or work remotely from coffee shops, airports, and client meetings, this is the backpack that’s going to make you wonder why you ever settled for anything else." – Ben Brooks, The Brooks Review
Ergonomic Features
Comfort and practicality are where the Whitley shines. Its generous padding and supportive harness system make it easy to carry, while the magnetic sternum strap adds a touch of convenience, eliminating the hassle of traditional buckles.
The bag is designed to stand upright, making it more user-friendly. The clamshell opening simplifies packing and unpacking, and the bright orange interior makes it easy to locate items – though the color might feel a bit flashy in more formal settings. One drawback is that the bag can tip forward if the laptop compartment isn’t loaded to balance the admin section.
This mix of tactical styling and ergonomic functionality sets it apart from other backpacks that focus solely on water resistance.
Price
While exact pricing details weren’t provided in the reviews, the Whitley is positioned as a premium tactical bag. Its durable construction and detailed organization system make it a worthy investment for professionals who value functionality and build quality over weatherproofing.
"The Whitley has become that rare piece of gear that doesn’t just meet expectations – it defines them. It’s the kind of backpack that makes other ‘professional’ bags look like they’re trying too hard or not trying hard enough." – Ben Brooks, The Brooks Review
5. Stubble & Co. The Commuter
The Stubble & Co. Commuter Backpack 20L is designed with urban commuters in mind, offering a blend of comfort and enhanced visibility. Its thoughtful design tackles the everyday challenges faced by city riders.
Ergonomic Features
This backpack is built for comfort, featuring a breathable, cushioned back panel and padded ergonomic straps that provide support throughout the day. To improve safety, reflective details are integrated into the base and straps, making it a practical choice for cyclists and pedestrians alike.
Price
Currently, the Commuter Backpack 20L is available for around $156, marked down from its original price of $224.
Pros and Cons
Waterproof backpacks come with a mix of strengths and compromises, depending on your priorities.
The JUNYUAN BAGS Custom Waterproof Commuter Backpack shines for its extensive customization options. You can tweak everything from logo placement to material, making it perfect for professionals seeking a personalized touch or companies equipping their teams. However, keep in mind that custom orders often require longer lead times.
With Able Carry’s Daily Backpack (XPAC Version), you get a minimalist design and durable XPAC material, ideal for those who value a sleek, professional look. That said, its limited pockets might make organization tricky.
The Backpackbeat 7706 is a budget-friendly option with a lightweight, stylish design and reliable waterproofing. On the downside, it has less padding compared to premium models, which could impact comfort during long commutes.
Alpha One Niner’s Whitley offers a military-grade build that excels in durability and weather protection. Its tactical design includes multiple compartments for organization, but the rugged construction adds noticeable weight.
The Stubble & Co. Commuter prioritizes safety with reflective details, making it a great choice for cyclists or early-morning commuters. Its ergonomic design ensures comfort throughout the day, though its 20-liter capacity may feel limiting for those needing to carry larger items.
| Backpack | Water Resistance | Storage Capacity | Ergonomic Features | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| JUNYUAN BAGS Custom | Excellent; customizable waterproof features | Customizable | Custom padding options | Varies by specs |
| Able Carry Daily (XPAC) | Excellent | Moderate | Good padding | $200–$250 |
| Backpackbeat 7706 | Very good | Good | Basic padding | $80–$120 |
| Alpha One Niner Whitley | Excellent | High | Military-grade comfort | $180–$220 |
| Stubble & Co. Commuter | Good | Limited (20L) | Excellent; reflective safety features | $156 |
With prices ranging from $80 to fully customized options, there’s a backpack to suit different budgets and professional needs. This breakdown highlights the trade-offs, helping you find the one that fits your commute best.
Conclusion
Choosing the right waterproof backpack comes down to meeting the specific demands of your commute. With the unpredictable British weather, strong water resistance should be a top priority to safeguard your belongings during sudden downpours.
If personalization is your thing, the JUNYUAN BAGS option offers a way to align your backpack with your corporate or personal style – though this might mean paying a bit more compared to off-the-shelf alternatives.
For those keeping an eye on their wallets, the Backpackbeat 7706 delivers solid functionality at an affordable price. On the other hand, if you’re after premium materials and a minimalist look, investing in a higher-end model can provide better durability and a sleek design. The key is finding something that fits your budget while meeting your expectations.
Think about how much space you’ll need. A 20-liter capacity works for daily essentials, but if you’re carrying more, a larger option like the Alpha One Niner Whitley – with its multiple compartments – might be a better fit for staying organized.
Don’t overlook safety. Reflective features are essential for visibility, especially if you’re cycling or walking in low-light conditions. And, of course, durability matters. Spending a little extra on a well-constructed backpack can save you money in the long run, offering years of reliable use and better protection against the elements.
The perfect backpack strikes a balance between weatherproofing, storage, comfort, and cost. Whether you go for a fully customizable design or a ready-made option, focus on the features that matter most for your daily London commute. With these considerations in mind, you’ll be set to choose a backpack that keeps up with your city life.
FAQs
What should I look for in a waterproof backpack for commuting in London?
When choosing a waterproof backpack for commuting, it’s important to focus on features that match your daily routine and prepare you for unpredictable weather. Water resistance should top your list – look for backpacks made from sturdy waterproof materials and equipped with sealed zippers to keep your belongings dry during sudden downpours.
Equally important is comfort and ergonomics. Long commutes can be tiring, so padded straps and breathable back panels can make a world of difference. Next, think about the size and storage capacity. If you only carry essentials like a laptop and a few documents, a smaller backpack might be enough. But if you’re packing gym clothes or planning for an overnight trip, a larger bag will serve you better.
Another must-have is organization. Backpacks with multiple compartments and pockets make it easy to grab everyday items like your phone, wallet, or travel card without digging around. And, of course, don’t overlook style – choose a design that blends practicality with a look that fits right into city life.
How can I choose the right backpack size for my daily commute?
When picking the right backpack size for your commute, start by considering what you typically carry. If your daily load includes just the basics – like a small laptop, a water bottle, and a notebook – a compact backpack with a capacity of 11 liters should do the job. Need room for larger items, such as a 17-inch laptop or a packed lunch? Opt for something slightly bigger, around 13 liters, ideally with extra compartments to keep things organized.
For those who want a bag that can handle both weekday commutes and weekend trips, a backpack with 22 liters or more offers the flexibility you need. The key is finding a size that balances enough storage space with ease of carrying, keeping your travels smooth and clutter-free.
What features should I look for in a waterproof backpack if I often bike or walk in low-light conditions?
If you often find yourself biking or walking in low-light conditions, a waterproof backpack with reflective details can be a game-changer. These reflective accents make it easier for drivers and fellow commuters to spot you in dim or foggy weather, adding an extra layer of safety.
You might also want to opt for a backpack that includes built-in attachment points for bike lights or LED strips. These features can significantly boost your visibility during nighttime or early morning commutes. Choosing a backpack with these safety elements ensures you stay both dry and noticeable while on the move.
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