A backpack rain cover is one of the best pieces of hiking gear you can buy. It protects not only your pack but any gear stored inside it such as tents, sleeping bags, stoves and food. Some packs come with a built in pack cover and others have to be purchased separately.
The most important thing is that the rain cover is waterproof. The material needs to be either polyester or a sil/ripstop nylon with a tight weave that stops practically all water from getting into your backpack. It is also helpful if the material is coated with a polyurethane.
It is also a good idea to get a backpack rain cover that is lightweight and can be stowed in a small package when not in use. Since it will be stowed in your backpack anyway you don’t want to carry extra weight around if you don’t need to.
You should be able to get a quality backpack rain cover for about $20 to $25. The price is a bit higher for the more durable and longer lasting models.
The most common way to attach a rain cover is to have it attached to the top of the pack with straps that wrap around the top. There are also models that have an elasticated or drawstring border that you can fasten around the edge of your backpack. These are the most versatile but also add a little more fabric to the overall weight of your backpack.
Rockland Double Handle Rolling Backpack, Black, 17-Inch
$31.00 (as of March 6, 2025 09:36 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Zelvot Running Vest for Women Men, USA Original Patent, Adjustable Chest Straps Running Hydration Vest with 500ml Soft Flask, Breathable Reflective Running Vest for Trail Running Hiking
$37.99 (as of March 6, 2025 09:36 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
MATEIN Carry on Backpack, Extra Large Travel Backpack Expandable Airplane Approved Weekender Bag for Men and Women, Water Resistant Lightweight Daypack for Flight 40L, Black
$29.99 (as of March 6, 2025 09:36 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Vorspack Clear Backpack Heavy Duty PVC Transparent Backpack with Reinforced Strap Stitches & Large Capacity for College Workplace Security - Black
$24.99 (as of March 6, 2025 09:36 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Lightweight Hydration Backpack, Running Backpack with 2L Water Bladder, Hydro Water Daypack for Cycling Hiking Rave for Men Women
$23.98 (as of March 6, 2025 09:36 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Eberlestock Bando Bag - Tactical Men's Fanny Pack w/Adjustable Waist Belt, Zippered Pockets, Compact Lightweight Belt Bag
$59.00 (as of March 6, 2025 09:36 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Small Crossbody Sling Bag Sling Backpack, Chest Bag Daypack Backpack Cross Body Bag for Travel Outdoors Hiking
$8.72 (as of March 6, 2025 09:36 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Maelstrom Hiking Backpack,Camping Backpack,40L Waterproof Hiking Daypack with Rain Cover,Lightweight Travel Backpack,Blue
$39.99 (as of March 6, 2025 09:36 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Unigear Hydration Pack Backpack with 70 oz 2L Water Bladder for Running, Hiking, Cycling, Climbing, Camping, Biking
$21.99 (as of March 6, 2025 09:36 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)