Good quality water-resistant or waterproof trekking bags are a must when venturing out on an adventure to the Himalayas. There are important factors to consider when buying to ensure the water resistance of your waterproof trekking backpack. Firstly, consider a water-resistant material to keep your belongings dry when exposed to wet weather. In addition, a good trekking bag must provide the utmost comfort to your shoulders, and back as you will be walking long distances with a considerable weight on your back and shoulders. So, to help you choose the best waterproof trekking bags, here is a comprehensive guide to key features of a quality waterproof trekking bag.
Key features to consider when buying a waterproof trekking bag
Water Resistant Material
Look for a trekking backpack made using high-quality water-resistant materials like coated nylon. Water-resistant material keeps your gear dry when exposed to wet conditions. While many trekking backpacks are water resistant, they are not completely waterproof. Therefore, consider a backpack that comes with a waterproof rain cover.
Durability
Your waterproof trekking backpack should be made from robust materials The bag should be made from robust materials like Polyamide, Nylon etc. Your trekking bag should withstand rugged terrain, and harsh and unpredictable weather conditions like rain, snow and strong wind.
Sealed Zippers and Seam
When buying a trekking bag, look for bags with seams and water-resistant zippers to prevent water from seeping through the loose stitching or zippers. Check the seam has no loose ends.
Ventilation
A well-ventilated back panel will ensure to keep sweat at bay. Look for a mesh-covered back that will help in moisture-wicking and your backpack remains dry.
Factors to consider while purchasing trekking bags
Duration of the trek
The duration of your trek directly impacts the choice of your trekking bag. Whether you are going for a short hike over the weekend or a multiple-day hike, your backpack plays an important role in deciding your comfort on the trek. For long-duration and multiple-day treks, it’s crucial to choose a backpack that is comfortable on your shoulders and provides strong back support. Additionally, the size of the trekking bag depends on the duration of your trek.
Size of the backpack
| Size of the Backpack | Budget to Consider | Suitable for |
| 25 to 30 ltrs | Rs 500 to Rs 1000 | Suitable for a day hike |
| 30 to 45 ltrs | Rs 700 to Rs 1500 | For weekend hikes |
| 45 to 60 ltrs | Rs 2500 to Rs 5500 | Designed for 7 to 10 days |
| 70 to 90 ltrs | Rs 4000 and above | Long Expeditions |
The capacity of a trekking backpack is measured in litres and is directly related to the duration of your trek. Ask yourself, “How many days will I be living off my backpack in the wilderness of the mountains?” The longer the trek, the larger the volume of your backpack should be. For a short day hike, a 25 to 35-litre backpack is suitable for carrying essentials like a lunch box, a jacket, and a water bottle. A 30 to 45-litre backpack is sufficient for weekend treks, such as Deoban in Uttarakhand, allowing you to pack all the required equipment and essentials. For Himalayan treks like Gaumukh Tapovan and the Kashmir Great Lakes trek, a backpack with a capacity of 50 to 70 litres is recommended. A backpack larger than 70 litres would be sufficient for treks lasting more than eight days,
Here is a list of the best waterproof (water-resistant) trekking bags
Price – Rs 3,349
Material – Nylon
This is a 60 ltrs backpack and suitable for a weeklong hike. The bag claims to be water-resistant and is made using nylon. The bag has a 4.4-star rating on Amazon but offers no warranty. Go for this bag if you are looking for a budget buy.
Price – Rs 6,499
Material – Polyester
Forcalz 70 ltrs backpack is suitable for 8 to 10 days trek and comes with a waterproof rain cover. The bag is made using polyester and withstands water for a brief period, but the bag is not waterproof. The bag works well in rugged conditions and is comfortable to carry for long-duration hikes.
- Osprey Atmos AG 65
Price
Material – Nylon
The bag comes with a waterproof rain cover. Osprey bags are high-quality products but are priced at a higher range. The bag is made using-tenacity nylon material. Go for this trekking backpack by Osprey if you are a regular trekker and in need of high-quality products. The product is suitable for multiday hikes and heavy loads.
Gregory is a high-end brand offering trekking backpacks suitable for multiday hikes and are designed with high-quality materials. Gregory Baltoro is designed using 210D Nylon, and 420D HD nylon and comes with a waterproof rain cover. The bag provides maximum comfort and the waterproof cover withstands unpredictable weather conditions. Invest in Gregory Baltoro backpack if you frequent the mountains on many adventures.
Price – 23,999
Deuter is known for high-end and high-quality trekking backpacks. The backpacks are suitable for long hikes and provide comfort to your shoulders and back while accommodating your loads for multiple-day hikes. Deuter backpack comes with a rain cover and works as a perfect waterproof trekking backpack for all your hiking needs.
Choosing the best waterproof trekking bag involves considering various factors such as material, capacity, comfort, and additional features. Investing in a high-quality bag tailored to your specific needs will ensure your gear stays dry, organized, and easily accessible, enhancing your overall trekking experience. Whether planning a day hike or a multi-day expedition, the right waterproof trekking bag can make all the difference in keeping you comfortable and prepared on the trail.
