How To Make A Waterproof Bag

Waterproof backpacks are always an important gear for any outdoor adventure.

Your equipment needs to be kept dry no whether you’re on a top of a mountain, or you are hiking in a rainy day.

Sometimes backpacks don’t have enough water resistance and there is the risk of your gear to get ruined because of the water.

Since being caught in some wet weather is just a matter of time, learning how to waterproof your bag can be something very useful. 

Various Ways To Waterproof A Bag

Learning to waterproof your backpack and other belongings helps in increasing the lifespan of your gear. It is also a matter of maintenance so by waterproofing your gear, you enhance its performance and durability so that your belongings can be always safe from destruction despite any water factors.

You should start thinking about waterproofing your bag from the very moment you plan your travel. Being prepared for the unexpected whether it’s about crossing a river or facing a heavy rain or snow, it’s always a good idea. There are a few ways you can prepare your gear to cope with any of these challenging water circumstances. In this article you will find some useful tips about waterproofing your bag an you will be able to choose what is best for you.

1. Use Rain Cover

Rain covers are made from a waterproof fabric and they are designed to cover your whole bag. It is advisable to be very careful so that the backpack rain cover doesn’t have any gaps in the material, otherwise water will get in and damage your belongings. This is a great and lightweight solution when you go hiking and expect some rain.

But if you go kayaking you should definitely focus on another solution since this one will not cover you for this type of experience.

2. Use Rucksack Liner

Rucksacks liners are basically thick and waterproof plastic bags that you can put inside your backpack and fill them with all your needed items for the trip. It is very wise to always put the liner first in your backpack and then add your belongings. Doing it the other way around could only ruin the waterproof material because you could cause tears on it if you try stuffing it inside when is full of things.

3. Use Ziplock Bags

Dry bags for each item could be a nice solution in protecting your stuff from being damaged by water. Important items like clothes and towels as well as electronics can be put in these waterproof bags ensuring they don’t get ruined by water in case of anything. There are several types of ziplock bags on the market but the safest products are watertight bags with a good sealing mechanism. Check the ziplock bags that have a solid seal and you will keep your phone and other small items safe from any damage. You will be able to even store some food in them!

4. Use Wax or Spray Sealant

This method does not fully waterproof your bag but adds quite a good level of water resistance. It can be a very nice solution as it doesn’t require from you to carry any extra gear and it is very easy to apply it. In case you are using a spray, it is enough to just apply an even coat on your bag while you are at home and to let it dry in open air. Sealing your bag with wax works as a very effective method for adding water-resistance to the material of your bag and in most of the cases is enough rubbing your bag material with a piece of wax.

5. Use Dry Sacks

The dry bag does it all for you. They are entirely watertight and you can just throw your bag in it or use the dry sack alone instead. Dry sacks come along with straps and they are easy to carry. You can explore our section of waterproof bags and choose the dry sack you like. This type of durable pack can work as a nice solution during your travel time and the waterproof material this one is made of serves as a seal in contact with water.

Final Waterproof Bag Thoughts!

By the end of this article, you might have in mind quite a number of reasons why you need a waterproof bag. In the eventuality you think waterproof bags are too expensive for your budget, the tips presented above could be exactly what you need to make sure your gear is dry during unexpected wet conditions. Should you get a waterproof bag or make one yourself? However, whether you choose to go with one method from this article or maybe combine more of them, you should keep in mind that investing in a new good quality waterproof bag might seam the best solution. You should check our business bags for active professionals.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Olivia Poglianich          

Content Strategist

Olivia Poglianich is a nomadic brand strategist and copywriter in the ski and snowboard space who has worked with brands such as Visa, Disney and Grey Goose. Her writing has taken her all over the world, from a Serbian music festival to a Malaysian art and culture event. Olivia is a graduate of Cornell University and is often writing or reading about travel, hospitality, the start-up ecosystem or career coaching. Her latest interests are at the intersection of web3 and communal living, both on and offline.