Walking on the Wild Side: Waterproof Hiking Backpack

Most hikers do not traverse rivers and do not have a need for a waterproof hiking backpack. Waterproof hiking backpacks cost more than a typical hiking backpack, often more than the best hiking backpacks that can be found at discount outdoor supply stores. There are times that a backpacking trip is extreme enough to warrant a waterproof hiking backpack, of which there are many more types and styles today than there used to be when a waterproof hiking backpack was basically a rubber sack with shoulder straps.

Today, waterproof hiking backpacks come with many of the same features as regular hiking backpacks, such as multiple pockets, straps, shoulder straps, hip belt and chest straps. All of these features make these packs more of a viable option for serious backpackers who want that additional protection. There are also whitewater rafters who often whitewater raft down a river and then hike into the campsite, thus needing a reliable waterproof hiking backpack.

Classifications of Packs

When looking at waterproof hiking backpacks, besides the typical backpack features and fit, a person should also look at the rating of the backpack to see if it matches the type of water resistance or proofing required for the expedition. The lowest level is class one which means the pack is resistant to water, but only to being splashed with water, not full water exposure from a heavy rain or waterfall. Light rain is typically acceptable for class one packs, but anything heavier will not be withstood and the contents will get wet.

Class two waterproof backpacks are the first step into truly waterproof packs, rather than water resistant packs. Class two packs can withstand water that is dumped onto them, such as from a heavy rain or a small waterfall. However, if the water pressure is too harsh then the pack could get wet inside of it, such as through submersion or a heavy waterfall.

Waterproof hiking backpacks that are rated as class three can handle harsh water pressure and can even handle a brief submersion in the water. They are tight enough in the seams that they can also float on top of the water if needed, allowing a hiker to cross rivers where it is easier to cross if the pack is in hand floating rather than being bulkily on the back, increasing the possibility of being pulled over backward in the flow.

Class four and five waterproof hiking backpacks can even handle being submerged to deeper levels of water, class five even being able to go to a depth of one hundred feet, depending on the manufacturer. These packs are great for backpackers who snorkel or scuba dive, as well as for professional use in search and rescue operations.