Even though the backpacks are made with water-resistant fabrics, they are not really waterproof. So, whether you are planning for a one day hike or just backpacking for a long trip, getting a backpack rain cover will help to keep your gear dry and safe even in the worst climatic conditions.
These handy rain covers are light in weight, fold small and waterproof as well. They won’t take much space when not in use.
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Quick Comparison: Top Backpack Rain covers
| # | Preview | Product | Rating | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
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Osprey Hi-Visibility Raincover, Electric Lime, X-Small | 1,273 Reviews considered | CLICK FOR PRICE |
| 2 |
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PAMASE Waterproof Backpack Pack Rain Cover 30-70L with Adjustable Buckle Strap... | 21 Reviews considered | CLICK FOR PRICE |
| 3 |
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Camelbak Rain Cover, Small/Medium | 160 Reviews considered | CLICK FOR PRICE |
| 4 |
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Gregory Mountain Products Pro Raincover, Web Grey, 65L-75L | 77 Reviews considered | CLICK FOR PRICE |
| 5 |
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MECOC Ultralight Backpack Rain Cover 3 Color Available Cordless Pressure Washer,... | 39 Reviews considered | CLICK FOR PRICE |
**Below, you'll find our expert's reviews, but you can also click the links above to see current prices or read customer reviews on Amazon.
Things to Consider When Choosing a Backpack Rain Cover!!!
Did you ever think on how to maintain your gear dry and safe while hiking?
One of the best and simple solutions is to buy a hiking rain cover for your backpack. This is the most important item which should be included in your item list while planning to hit the trails during wet weather.
Well, in this article, we will walk you through the major considerations while buying a rain cover for your backpack and help you choose the best one available in the market.
Waterproof versus Water Repellent
When we say that a material is waterproof, this states that the water will glide over the outer area but won’t soak the fabric. Water repellent throws same properties in light rain, but won’t survive the heavy downpour.
It is important to think about the season in which you are planning to hike and also the activities you are planning to use it for prior to buying a hiking rain cover.
Extra Gadgets
The backpack rain covers varies in its functionality and features. While some aims in protecting your backpack from the pouring rain, some others are having additional pockets on them.
This in turn will help to quickly grab something while you hike instead of taking a pause and take off the cover and then open up the backpack.
Size
Buying one which is slightly bigger in size is always the best choice. In this way, you can attach something to the extra pockets in the rain cover. If you are on a hike for longer days and you have a bigger sleeping bag or a camping mat, they can also be into account.
Type of The Material
The rain covers varies in its type of material and hence choose according to your hiking requirements. The nylon rain covers will help to resist better against the wear and tears, which is good for long trips, those backpacks which are marked as seamless will make it even harder for the water content or the dirt to get inside. Apart from this, it even protects against the rain.
Durability
Choose the one which is light in weight since the best hiking rain covers will be so. They will be wear-resistant and hence can be used repeatedly in the rugged wilderness while maintaining your gear exposed.
In addition to this, check whether it is scratch-resistant or not since it should not end up in a large tear even if you unknowingly brush it against the rocks or a branch.
Color
There are a few people who won’t put on much thought on the color of the rain covers. Yes, the color matters a lot. Majority of the backpack rain covers are having reflective graphics on their back side. This is not just meant for style.
They will help people around you to spot your location as the reflective material will help to pick up the light of a flashlight and also the moonlight overhead.
Price
The price tag usually depends on the material which you are choosing and also the size of the cover. Since polyester as well as nylon is more durable materials, they cost a bit higher than that of the other fabrics.
However, they are really worth since they are versatile and offer more strength. Consider your needs and then pick the one which suits you well in terms of budget.
How to Care Your Hiking Rain Cover?
Like any other piece of your outdoor gear, rain covers need good care for retaining its properties. You can wash it well and provide the right treatment for long lasting. While washing, keep in mind not to use any kind of fabric softeners since they may damage the materials used in the making of that product.
The first and foremost thing to keep in mind is to protect the covers against the dirt. Even if you are not that much worried about the heavy rains, there are high chances that the rain covers will get dirty in one way or the other.
Walking through the dusty pathway or putting down the backpack while you rest will collect mud to it. Choosing the best backpack rain cover will protect from getting dirty and in this way you can very well wash it later.
There are certain covers which are marked as dustproof and hence they will repel the dust and the dirt. Thus, you don’t need to wash your cover after each hiking. All you need is to wipe the dust away with a small cloth.
However, if there is a need to wash hiking rain covers, make sure that you wash it after going through the manufacturer’s instruction carefully.
Review of some of the Best Backpack Rain Covers
Our #1 Rated
Our #1 Rated
Rated 4.8 out of 5
Features
- Comes in its own compatible pouch
- Drawcord closure is present and comes with a snap attachment
- The rain cover has taped seams
- Available in bright yellow color
- Reflective graphics are another added highlight
- It has got blinker light patch
Pros
- Light in weight
- It is highly secure on the pack
- The cover is weatherproof
- It is incredibly compact when the bag is stuffed
Cons
- Size is comparatively smaller
Our #2 Rated
Our #2 Rated
Rated 3.6 out of 5
Features
- The reflective design structure helps boots visibility
- The elastic seam opening of the backpack helps custom fit
- Strengthened seams improve durability
- Available in three different size choices
- Aids in quick dry and can be stored in the bag very easily
Pros
- Improved visibility
- It is weatherproof
- Comes with different reflective characters
- Various size options are available
- Rates are comparatively cheaper
- Strengthened elastic edges
- Buckle strap is present
- Highly durable
Cons
- It is tight fit
- The buckles are weak
Our #3 Rated
Our #3 Rated
Rated 4.4 out of 5
Features
- It has a drawstring closure
- Comes with a reflective feature for moderate and low light conditions
- The attachment points are easy to use
Pros
- The attachments are highly secure
- Reflective in nature
- Comes in different size options
- Affordable
Cons
- It is not suited for large backpacks
- The sizing is confusing
- It is water resistant. However it is waterproof
Our #4 Rated
Our #4 Rated
Rated 4.5 out of 5
Features
- It is light in weight and has got double stitched, seam-sealed structure
- Highly durable
- 40D polyester fabric is used for the making and is silicon coated
- Extra wind and rain protection are provided with dual point attachment system
Pros
- It is waterproof and windproof
- The dual point attachment system is present
- Light in weight and is compactible
- Durability is higher
- Drainage point is present
Cons
- Not that secure
- Not suited for all backpacks
Our #5 Rated
Our #5 Rated
Rated 4.0 out of 5
Features
- Weather tight protection is provided with the help of seamless construction
- Comes with a cellphone dry bag
- Portable and is compactible
- It has got an extra elastic design
Pros
- It comes in a wide range of backpack sizes
- It has got a waterproof smart cellphone case
- Comes in three different colors
- The right fit is offered with the help of elastic design
- Really affordable
Cons
- Has got a tendency to slip the bag off
Our #6 Rated
Our #6 Rated
Rated 4.5 out of 5
Features
- Comes with additional waterproof protection
- Visibility features are incorporated
- Constructed out of rip-resistant polyester oxford fabric
- Compactible structure
Pros
- The reflective strip is present for getting extra visibility during night hours and in the darkness
- Highly adjustable
- Compactible
- The cover is highly durable
- It is waterproof
Cons
- It is a bit heavier
- Won’t fit over certain
Our #7 Rated
Our #7 Rated
Rated 4.6 out of 5
Features
- Constructed with three different kinds of fabrics and hence highly durable
- Has got an upgraded buckle strap
- The quality of the product is affordable
- Comes in wide ranges of capacities
Pros
- It is waterproof
- Comes with a velvet carry pouch
- The cover is a double construction model
- It is rip-resistant
- Has got strong buckle strap
- Affordable
Cons
- It has got a slipping tendency
- Won’t fit firmly with certain shoulder straps
- The pouch can be lost since it is not attached to the rain cover
Our #8 Rated
Our #8 Rated
Rated 4.6 out of 5
Features
- It is stowable and is light in weight
- Waterproof as well as durable construction
- The large size can fit packs which are bigger than 3000 cubic inches
- The medium size rain cover fits packs which are up to 49 liters
Pros
- Light in weight and is compact
- Extremely durable
- Cult classic brand with top quality
- The perfect fit is offered by the adjustable pull cord
- Available in two different sizes
- Comes with an inner slip pocket
- It is tear-proof
Cons
- The shape of the cover can’t wrap the pack well
- The clasps are too weak
Our #9 Rated
Our #9 Rated
Rated 3.5 out of 5
Features
- Available with the perfect fitting system
- Provides great coverage
- Comes with four different sizes
- Most versatile and resistant waterproof backpack cover
- The best seller brand with top quality
Pros
- It is water-resistant
- Provides right coverage
- Good quality materials are used for the making
- Better closures
- It has an integrated stuff sack
Cons
- It is more prone to tears
- Can slip easily
Our #10 Rated
No products found.
Foot Note!!!
Getting soaked up in the heavy or light rain will ruin your hiking gear and also your day. Choosing the best backpack rain covers as an essential part of your items will help to strap up the things to your back dry and safe until you reach indoors.
With a wide range of varieties to choose from, it will be really hard for you to choose a particular model.
First try to fix the location and the seasons and then opt for the covers. In this way you can narrow down your selection and pick the right one for your needs.