One of the primary differences making a tactical backpack more valuable than an ordinary backpack is the overall build quality. If you’re planning adventures in rigorous conditions such as hiking, camping, traveling, fishing, hunting, or kayaking; You’re much better off with a tactical backpack.
Although it’s crucial you get a tactical backpack for the enhanced durability, getting one with water-resistance or waterproof capabilities certainly comes in handy, as well.
For whichever reason you require a water-repelling backpack pack, you’ve come to the right place. We formulated a list of the 11 best choices on the market. Regardless of your budget, size preference, style, amount of required compartment, or additional sacks you need; you’ll certainly find what you’re looking for below!
The Difference Between Water-Resistant & Waterproof Backpacks?
- Water-Resistant: Able to resist water to an extent. Depending on the backpack and how deeply submerged into the water, eventually, water is able to penetrate it after a period of time.
- Waterproof: These backpacks, in general, can fully repel water.
In Short, Here Are The Best Waterproof or Water-Resistant Tactical Backpacks
- Drakon
- Seibertron Falcon
- PANS
- Mil-Tec
- 5.11 Tactical RUSH72
- DEPARTED
- First Tactical Specialist
- 5.11 Tactical RUSH12
- MT Adventure
- ArcEnCiel 25L
- BRU
1. Drakon (Waterproof)
First up, the Drakon impressively repels water with ease as you won’t find a leak anywhere. Along with its waterproof capabilities, you’ll love its tough 500D PVC, molle system, and a sizable 40-liter capacity. Another positive characteristic is the adjustable but also durable staps.
Tech Specs & Details
- Padded Adjustable Straps
- Construction: 500D PVC
- MOLLE System
- Waterproof
- Capacity: 40L
2. Seibertron Falcon (Waterproof)
This inexpensive tactical backpack is a remarkable choice for hiking. The Seibertron Falcon provides a large amount of storage space in comparison to its meager price.
On top of that, it’s made of tough 900D fabric that is able to withstand harsh climate and waterproof With the purchase, you have the option to buy a separate compatible 2L water bladder. You get a discount if you purchase them together.
Tech Specs & Details
- Made in China
- Dimensions: 19H x 11W x 11
- Hydration compatible
- Zipper closure (Not waterproof)
- 900D waterproof fabric
3. PANS (Water-Resistant)
Tech Specs & Details
- Removable Belt
- Construction: Polyester
- Capacity: 64 Liters
- Water-Resistant
- MOLLE system
4. Mil-Tec (Water Resistant)
If you’re looking for the most affordable but dependable tactical backpack on the market, the Mil-Tec is an outstanding choice. Made of 100% 600 D polyester with a PVC coating, its overall build quality dramatically outperforms its price range.
You’ll also appreciate its spacious 20L capacity. However, you can get it in other sizes and colors, as well. For hydro pack, it offers a built-in Velcro pocket. Overall, it an incredible tactical backpack for the price. We highly recommend it!
Tech Specs & Details
- Dimensions: 16.5″x8.0″x9.8
- Built-in Velcro pocket
- Construction: 600D polyester with PVC coating
5. 5.11 Tactical RUSH72 (Water-Resistant)
The 5.11 Tactical RUSH72 is a remarkable tactical backpack that’s water-resistant. It’s incredibly large delivering 55 liters and made with outstanding 1000D nylon. Especially if you’re a hiker, camper, or hunter; Then you’ve probably heard of 5.11 backpacks due to their robust longevity and trustworthiness.
Not only do we believe it’s one of the better options on the market, but it’s also near-perfectly rated amongst customers. You can get it in either black, tan, grey, or camouflage. We emphatically endorse it!
Tech Specs & Details
- Size: 23 H x 13.5 L x 8.5
- Construction: 1000D Nylon
- Capacity: 55 Liter
- Water-Resistant
6. DEPARTED (Waterproof)
Next up, the DEPARTED military tactical backpack is a great option, as well. You can get it in 2 different colors; Tan or black.
It’s made of tough 600D Nylon, provides molle webbing, compatible with a 2.5-liter hydration bladder, double-stitched, and overall well designed. Be sure to check out the reviews below!
Tech Specs & Details
- Waterproof
- Compatible with 2.5L hydration bladder
- Material 600D Nylon
- Zipper closure
- Color options: Black or Tan
7. First Tactical Specialist (Water Resistant)
Coming in either black, OD green, or coyote, the First Tactical Specialist is a top-of-the-line tactical backpack. In addition to its water-resistant capabilities, one of its most prized qualities is its robust 1000D water-resistant nylon material and longevity.
It’s able to withstand vigorous conditions. Throughout the backpack, you’ll find a total of 10 pockets making organization a bit easier. To top it off, it’s very large with a 56-liter capacity.
Tech Specs & Details
- Construction: 1000D Water-Resistant Nylon
- Water-Resistant
- Capacity: 56 Liters
- 10 Total Pockets
8. 5.11 Tactical RUSH12 (Water Resistant)
You’ll also live its robust build quality. Made of 1050D nylon, it’s able to withstand rigorous conditions and’s resistant to water. For just about any high-performance application, it’s able to reliably get the job done. Overall, we highly recommend it, and be sure to check out the reviews below!
Tech Specs & Details
- 24 Liter
- 1050D nylon
- Water-resistant
- 16 compartments
- Dimensions: 18×11 inches
- YKK Zippers
9. MT Adventure (Waterproof)
Although it’s not yet as famous as it deserves, the MT Adventure is a high-grade option. This tactical backpack is entirely waterproof made with 1000D oxford.
A very beneficial attribute that might interest you is its double-layered fabric laser cutting molle hang system. Along with that, it provides a three-liter hydration bladder, as well.
Tech Specs & Details
- Capacity: 55 Liters
- 3 Litter Hydration Bladder
- Construction: Waterproof 1000D Oxford
- Waterproof
- 2 Layers Fabric Laser Cutting Molle Hang System
10. ArcEnCiel 25L (Water-Resistant)
Here is yet another highly rated and customer-reviewed tactical backpack. Coming with a helmet holder for motorcyclists or bicyclists, the ArcEnCiel 25L is an exceptional choice. It’s made of breathable water-resistant nylon fabric.
In addition to its strong material build, you’ll enjoy its comfort, as well. The padded back and front buckles provide a comfy but secure fit. Lastly, you might also appreciate the compact fit!
Tech Specs & Details
- 25L
- Waterproof coating
- Zipper closure
- Dimensions: 12.5W x 17.5H x 6.6D
- Compatible with 2.5L hydration bladder
11. BRU (Waterproof)
Last but not least, the BRU is a dependable waterproof backpack. Out of every backpack in this price range, it has the very best resistance against water.
You’ll also enjoy the large 40-liter capacity qualifying it as an effective bug-out bag. If you want the most waterproof tactical backpack for a budget of around $110, this is your best bet!
Tech Specs & Details
- Adjustable Straps
- 100% Waterproof
- Capacity: 40 Litter
Our Winner
Keep in mind that our opinion is not the end all be all. Like mentioned earlier, everyone has different needs, requirements, and budgets for their waterproof or water-resistant tactical backpack. However, our winner for the best water-resistant backpack is the 5.11 Tactical RUSH12 due to its reliable quality of construction, straightforward design, and various compartments. Our favorite waterproof backpack, however, is the MT Adventure. Either one you decide to go with, they’re both phenomenal options!
A Few Things To Keep In Mind Purchasing A Tactical Backpack
What’s a MOLLE System: Tactical Backpacks
Molle stands for modular lightweight load-carrying equipment. The MOLLE system is basically the webbing you see on the exterior of the backpack. It’s used to hold accessories and move them around with ease.
How Are Tactical Backpack Measured In Size?
Backpacks, in general, are measured in liters. Verifying the amount of compartment each one has is another essential factor.
How Much Money Are Tactical Waterproof/Water-Resistant Backpacks?
Most Waterproof or water-resistant backpacks range anywhere between $37 to $220. The rough average is about $100.
Quick Recap
Here Are The Best Water-Repellent or Water-Resistant Bug Out Backpacks
- Drakon
- Seibertron Falcon
- PANS
- Mil-Tec
- 5.11 Tactical RUSH72
- DEPARTED
- First Tactical Specialist
- 5.11 Tactical RUSH12
- MT Adventure
- ArcEnCiel 25L
- BRU
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