Waterproof (or close to) backpack

if you are going to go that route, check out the TACTICAL dry bags from drybags.com
12000SEALCONFIG.jpg

12401ZDPATROLPACK.jpg
 
Seal Line have the best waterproof bags and packs IMO. Check out their Boundary Pack.
Totally waterproof, but not the most comfortable things to carry for long hikes. I have used them when canoe camping where dumping your gear in the water was a real possibility and they are great for that purpose, but they are bad enough on a long portage, they would not be my first choice for actual hiking.

Most packs have some sort of waterproofing applied to them, but I never trust it. Most packs have too many seams, zipers and other openings to remain dry in heavy rain even if the fabric is waterproof. I usually just line my pack with a heavy duty garbage bag, and then pack my gear in heavy duty ziploc bags inside of that. This is good for anything short of prolonged submersion. :p
 
I use Sea to Summit Dry Bags inside my pack. They come in different colors and sizes, so it is easy to keep gear organized and dry.
 
Totally waterproof, but not the most comfortable things to carry for long hikes. I have used them when canoe camping where dumping your gear in the water was a real possibility and they are great for that purpose, but they are bad enough on a long portage, they would not be my first choice for actual hiking.

Oh I hate them. But he asked about waterproof packs. And these are quite reasonably priced too. I always go with multiple drybags myself – Seal Line again for those. Another downside in using a waterproof pack is that one puncture and all your stuff is wet. Not so if it's in individual bags.
 
Ortlieb and VauDe make waterproof packs (welded seams, waterproof zippers/rolltop).
I have an Ortlieb one that has a frame and is verycomfortable.
ilten
 
I was going to say Arc'teryx make the best that I know of...their stuff is not cheap, but it's among the best in the world.

Personally I use dry bags inside my expedition pack, or my MEC Gladerunner if I need a smaller pack. It's pretty waterproof, although it might eventually soak through, I have never tried immersion testing it.
 
REI had the Naos as part of their last super clearance. It was something like $180 after the discount. I didn't manage to snag any of them. :(
 
shut up shut up shut up

I hate hearing about Arcteryx deals after it's too late!

A friend of mine worked on contract with them setting up some pack option for a DEVGRU project...they were initially paying him in cash but he ended up taking it all in gear! You would not believe the cool packs and clothing he has.
 
I've used coated nylon pack liners, pack covers and double lined garbage bags. For extended periods at times. I've always found the garbage bags to be lighter, more waterproof and if you get the white ones, easier to find stuff. Throw an extra couple in, as they are light, just in case you need them. Add a pack cover and or a poncho for extra protection. Smaller gallon size freezer zip lock bags for the pockets work great, or stuff your cloths in the freezer bags, squeeze the air out and close, you'd be surprised how small you can get stuff, and how much you can stuff in a pack. Probably more than you want to carry. Also the individual sacks allow you to keep dirty and or wet stuff away from dry. Sorry to be so long winded but I've been using this system for years during field training and hiking in the pacific NW and Germany. Both very wet places, and it's never failed. Even in packs that didn't claim to be even close to waterproof. Alice packs. Anyway have fun.
 
LLBean has a waterproof hunting day pack that I may be ordering soon. It is quiet and waterproof that also has a pack cover. I have no experience with it yet, but for $79 looks like a good deal.


Key Features

* Stow all the gear you need for a day in the field
* Waterproof brushed polyester is quiet and rugged
* Handy removable kit carries treestand essentials

http://www.llbean.com/webapp/wcs/st...1&catalogId=1&langId=-1&feat=57266-ppxs&dds=y
 
Back
Top