Any recommendations for a waterproof backpack ?

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Mark

527 posts

Ultimate Geek

Topic # 108309 28-Aug-2012 16:06
Hi there, I've just got a motorbike again (a DR-Z400SM for those interested) and I need to replace my backpack for all my work clobber. I need to carry along : Laptop + charger Tablet Phone Shoes Lunch + the usual bits n bobs floating around in a bag Anyone recommend a brand to look at ? It'll need to be waterproof as well. Thanks! Mark

167 posts

Master Geek

Reply # 678243 28-Aug-2012 16:12
You will not get a truely waterproof backpack. Too many seams, zips plus the hole in the top where everything goes in. What ever you get, you will need to wrap things in plastic bags on rainy days. Go for a Pelican case, or similar, if you really want to protect your gear. Then strap it on the bike like a top box

499 posts

Ultimate Geek

Reply # 678246 28-Aug-2012 16:22
I ride a bike in to work quite often and just use one of those day glow back pack covers that goes over the top. Have ridden in some very heavy showers and inside bag (laptop, tablet, cellphone) has remained perfectly dry. Means you can choose whatever back pack you want as well as it fits over just about anything.

1492 posts

Uber Geek

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Reply # 678261 28-Aug-2012 16:40
There was a targus backpack i seen at the wellington ingram show last week that had a built in rain cover that came out of the bottom of the bag.. It had a laptop compartment and was pretty roomy inside.. worth a look! edit: looking at there range on the targus site, it appears theres more than 1 model with a rain cover

187 posts

Master Geek

Reply # 678283 28-Aug-2012 17:32
You could go for getting a pannier mount created and then a custom tourer style fibreglass pannier which would be large enough to fit your laptop. I don't think you would be able to easily trump that for waterproof.

514 posts

Ultimate Geek

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Reply # 678298 28-Aug-2012 18:09
+1 on the Pelican case or go for one of these from Ortlieb

3812 posts

Uber Geek

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Subscriber

Reply # 678305 28-Aug-2012 18:29
When my oxford bag had its waterproof cover rip due to continued weathering, I replaced it with a pack liner from the mountain safety council. Only $5 and 100% waterproof, a lot better than lightweight rubbish bags that always rip.