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Waterproof Laptop Backpacks

The ideal laptop backpack provides protection not only against drops and impacts but also water and the elements. There is not an abundance of waterproof backpacks made for laptops on the market, but there are some solid options to consider…

XRAY Expandable Roll Top Backpack

Affordable Waterproof Backpack with Laptop Pocket

XRAY Expandable Roll Top Waterproof Backpack

The XRAY Expandable Roll Top Backpack is one of the most affordable of the rolltop type of waterproof backpacks. A rolltop provides better water resistance for the main compartment, as there are no exposed zippers. This bag is made of polyurethane and has a padded pocket that can fit up to a 15.6-inch laptop. Padded shoulder straps provide extra comfort and a zippered front pocket holds accessories. The bag has a total capacity of 22.2 liters.

Pros: Very affordable, secure rolltop design
Cons: Not designed for submersion

A-LAB Model D Backpack

Waterproof Laptop Backpack with Roll-down Top

A-LAB Model D Waterproof Backpack

The A-LAB Model D backpack is a German product that offers superior waterproofing as it is constructed with high-frequency welding versus sewn or glued products. The bag is made of durable 500D tarpaulin material with a phthalate-free PVC coating. Along with the padded shoulder straps, the bag has a side handle, a water-resistant exterior compartment for fast access, and an adjustable chest strap. The included, removable neoprene sleeve holds up to a 15.4″ laptop. The Model D has a minimalist style that serves it well as a commuter or messenger bag.

Pros: Affordable price, excellent water protection, superior construction, minimalist design
Cons: Top-loading design hinders quick access, a heavier laptop sleeve may be desired

Also Consider: The A-LAB Model A backpack is similar to the Model D but has a Velcro closure instead of a metal hook, a vertical exterior pocket, and no side handle.

The Friendly Swede Graneberg with 13″ Laptop Pocket

A Waterproof Backpack for Ultrabooks and Tablets

The Friendly Swede Waterproof Backpack for Ultrabooks and Tablets

Unlike most of the fully waterproof, roll-down top backpacks on Amazon, The Friendly Swede Graneberg Backpack is a smaller (15L) bag that is designed for urban use. The bag has a stylish white exterior, a built-in pocket for 13″ laptops, and three splash-resistant outer pockets. It is available in black or white and includes a 3-year manufacturer’s warranty.

Pros: Lightweight (1.5 pounds), excellent water protection
Cons: Smaller size for lighter commutes

thefriendlyswede.com

Thule Pack’n Pedal Commuter Backpack

Laptop Backpack with Waterproof Main Compartment

Thule Pack'n Pedal Commuter Waterproof Laptop Backpack

The Thule Pack’n Pedal Commuter Backpack houses a removable 15″ laptop and tablet sleeve in a waterproof roll-top main compartment. The sleeve sits on the top of the bag rather than against the back for better comfort. A crush-proof side compartment protects sunglasses, phones, and other fragile items. The 24-liter bag also includes a hideaway reflective rain cover for extra protection. This backpack is designed for biking and has a hideaway helmet attachment, U-lock stash pocket, and blinky light attachment points on the back panel and rain cover.

Pros: Waterproof roll-down top, streamlined design
Cons: Space may be limited for some uses

thule.com

Showers Pass Transit Waterproof Backpack

Large Heavy-Duty Waterproof Laptop Backpack

Showers Pass Transit Waterproof Laptop Backpack

The Transit Waterproof Backpack by Oregon-based Showers Pass is designed for bicyclists but will likely appeal to anyone looking for a large heavy-duty laptop backpack. The Transit is billed as 100% waterproof. It is made of 840-denier nylon, a TPU coating, welded seams, and waterproof zippers. It’s uncertain if this backpack which is intended for commuting would withstand underwater submersion, but it should hold up in a downpour or snowstorm. The bag has a fleeced lined compartment for up to a 17″ laptop and also a tablet compartment. The sleeve keeps the laptop off the bottom of the bag for extra protection against drops. The backpack is self-supporting and will sit upright when loading and unloading. The bag’s roomy 42-liter capacity and many pockets make it a versatile option for many uses. Other features useful to bikers include a removable waist strap that converts to a hip pack, 3M reflective trim, 4 removable LED lights, dual U-lock holder side straps, and an expandable front pocket that can hold a helmet.

Pros: Good for all weather conditions
Cons: Pricey, not all features may be needed for non-bikers

showerspass.com

Showers Pass Utility Waterproof Backpack

Heavy-Duty Waterproof Backpack for 15″ Laptops

Showers Pass Utility Waterproof Backpack for 15" Laptops

The Showers Pass Utility Waterproof Backpack has the same build quality and level of water protection as the Transit as well as most of the same major features like the suspended laptop sleeve, removable waist strap, and LED lights. Other features unique to the Utility include the exterior nylon webbing for attachments and a separate hydration bladder pocket. Smaller than the Transit, it has a 26.8 liter capacity and will carry up to a 15″ laptop. The Utility may be the best all-around choice for those who don’t need a very large backpack.

Pros: Excellent water protection
Cons: Not for laptops larger than 15″

showerspass.com

Pelican U100 Urban Backpack

Waterproof Crushproof Dustproof Laptop Backpack

Pelican U100 Urban Backpack Waterproof and Crushproof Laptop Backpack

Pelican is well known for its waterproof equipment cases and is now offering rugged backpacks and bags. The Pelican U100 Urban Backpack features a watertight, dustproof, and crushproof ABS laptop case built into the backpack that fits 15″ laptops and 17″ Apple laptops. It also has an impact-protect front compartment for iPads and tablets. The main compartment holds 16 liters. The U100 is IP67 Tested and can be submersed in up to 3 feet of water for 30 minutes. This rugged backpack is the preferred option for professional use if you need the most protection possible, but it comes with the cost of being rather heavy.

Pros: Extremely durable, impact-resistant and watertight
Cons: Heavy (8.05 pounds)

pelican.com

Pelican S100 Sport Backpack

Rugged Waterproof Laptop Backpack

Pelican S100 Sport Backpack Waterproof Dustproof Crushproof Laptop Backpack

The Pelican S100 is similar to the U100 with a built-in rugged laptop case and front tablet compartment. The main compartment holds more (25 liters) and the bag is slightly lighter (7.14 pounds) than the U100. The styling is also more outdoor-oriented with a top-loading design and floating shoulder straps with lumbar support.

Pros: Very rugged, good capacity
Cons: Heavy (7.14 pounds)

pelican.com

Pelican also offers the Mobile Protect Backpack in three sizes. These water-resistant laptops have water-resistant zippers and are more suitable for mainstream use where extreme protection is not required.

Timbuk2 Rogue

Stylish Water-Resistant Laptop Backpack

Timbuk2 Rogue Water-Resistant Laptop Backpack

The Rogue by San Francisco-based Timbuk2 is a good choice for urban commuters who might encounter some rain once in a while. Featuring a stylish military-inspired look, the top-loading Rogue has a water-resistant tarpaulin exterior and a capacity of 27 liters. The Rogue has a very functional design with a padded pocket for up to 15″ laptops, an outer zip pocket, dual side pockets, and exterior daisy chain webbing for attachments. The folding-top closure eliminates the risk of rain getting through zippers, though it should be noted that the main compartment has no zipper and may be exposed to the elements if the bag is not upright.

Pros: Attractive styling, useful design, convenient size
Cons: Not for extreme conditions

timbuk2.com

Timbuk2 Spire

Large Water-Resistant Laptop Backpack

Timbuk2 Spire Water-Resistant Laptop Backpack

The Timbuk2 Spire is like the Rogue’s big brother with a similar tactical styling and a 32-liter capacity. It only holds up to a 15″ laptop as well, but it remains carry-on size and has a unique advantage to the Rogue. The Spire has a roll-top design that provides a better closure than the Rogue and offers better water-resistance. That doesn’t make it completely waterproof, but it would be a better choice than the Rogue in heavy rainstorms or snow. The Spire is recommended for those living in rainy environments and for lightweight travel.

Pros: Good water-resistance against rain with rolled top
Cons: Not fully waterproof

timbuk2.com

Waterproof Laptop Backpack Alternative #1:

SakGear BriefSak

SakGear BriefSak Waterproof Laptop Briefcase Messenger Bag

It’s not a backpack, but the BriefSak has a shoulder strap and provides superior protection against water. Though it looks like a normal messenger bag, the BriefSak’s main compartment functions as a fully waterproof roll-down dry bag made out of 500-denier PVC and contains a removable padded laptop sleeve. It also has three water-resistant outer pockets. If water protection is your main concern or you are looking for a smaller laptop bag, the BriefSak deserves consideration. The BriefSak is available in regular (fits laptops up to 15″) and extra-large (17″) sizes, and comes in black, gray, or blue.

Pros: Sealed main compartment, waterproof
Cons: Not a backpack

sakgear.com

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