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Waterproof bags
If you're a keen hiker who has to contend with a wide range of weather conditions, or who has to cross wetlands, a waterproof bag is an essential piece of equipment. This type of bag protects your electronics, spare clothing and survival gear from water, dust and sand. This guide will provide you with the essential criteria to consider when choosing the best waterproof bag for your hiking needs. See our best waterproof bags and other hiking equipment.
1. Type of waterproof bag
Waterproof backpacks: Designed for long hikes, these bags offer both the waterproofing and comfort of a traditional backpack. They are generally equipped with padded shoulder straps, a lumbar belt and sometimes a frame for better weight distribution.
Watertight compression bags: Ideal for minimizing the space occupied by clothing or sleeping bags, these bags expel air to reduce their volume while remaining watertight.
Waterproof pouches: Perfect for smaller or sensitive items such as smartphones, cameras and documents. They are often worn around the neck or attached to a larger bag.
2. Materials and construction
The quality of the material is crucial to the bag's performance and durability. Waterproof bags are mainly made of PVC or nylon coated with TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane):
- PVC: Highly resistant and ideal for extreme activities, PVC is often used for bags designed for water sports or very wet environments.
- TPU-coated nylon: Lightweight and flexible, this material is commonly used for waterproof backpacks for hiking. It offers good resistance to abrasion while remaining waterproof.
3. Closing the waterproof bag
The closing method is crucial to the watertightness of the bag. The two most common types are :
- Roll-up closure: The most common, this involves folding the top of the bag several times before securing it with a buckle or strap. This system is highly reliable for keeping contents dry.
- Zippered closure: Some bags use watertight zippers, which are easier to use but can be less reliable in the event of complete immersion.
4. Waterproof bag size and capacity
The capacity should correspond to your specific use when hiking:
- Small bags (10-20 liters):Perfect for short outings or as a complement to a larger bag.
- Medium (30-40 liters):Ideal for day hikes or a variety of water sports.
- Large bags (50 liters+): Ideal for longer expeditions requiring more equipment.
Diversify your choices among our leading brands such as Sea to Summit, Frendo, Ortlieb. Choosing the right model can transform your outdoor experience!
Don't forget that every detail counts: opt, for example, for a few key tips such as quick access via external pockets without opening the main compartment; sophisticated portable systems similar to those used in trekking; practical external attachment points allowing additional equipment to be fastened on the outside.
So that you can make the most of your outdoor adventures, choose wisely according to the environment in which you will be evolving and the duration of your planned outings! Explore also our adjacent categories such as Hiking Bag, Hiking Backpack, Baby Carrier Bag.
