When you’re miles from the trailhead and the skies open up, a reliable backpack rain cover transforms from a piece of gear into a necessity. It’s your first line of defense, keeping your sleeping bag, extra layers, and electronics safe and dry from a sudden downpour or persistent drizzle. Not all rain covers are created equal, however, and the right choice depends on your pack size, the conditions you face, and your personal priorities like visibility or packability.
Our 2025 testing put a wide range of covers through their paces in real-world conditions. From ultralight models for the gram-counters to high-visibility options for safety-conscious commuters, we’ve identified the top performers to ensure your gear stays protected. This roundup details the key features and benefits of the nine best backpack rain covers available, helping you make an informed decision for your next adventure.
The Best Backpack Rain Covers for 2025
- Kelty Backpack Rain Cover, Water Proof Cover for Hiking
- Osprey Ultralight Raincover for Backpack, Shadow Grey
- Sea to Summit Ultra-SIL Lightweight Waterproof Backpack Cover
- Osprey Hi-Visibility Raincover, Electric Lime, Small
- MOPHOEXII 2 Pack Waterproof Backpack Rain Cover
- Joy Walker Backpack Rain Cover Waterproof Breathable
- Joy Walker Backpack Rain Cover for 50-70L Backpack
- Outad Waterproof Rain Cover for Backpack
- Earth Pak Waterproof Backpack Rain Cover
Kelty Backpack Rain Cover
The Kelty Backpack Rain Cover offers a robust and secure fit for hikers and backpackers who need dependable protection. Its fully waterproof fabric with a C0 DWR finish effectively sheds water, while the lightweight and durable construction ensures it will hold up over many miles. The 2024 update brings thoughtful improvements that users will appreciate.
A key feature is the fully wrapped elastic cinch cord, which is designed to stay securely in place even in windy conditions. The addition of hip belt attachment loops provides an extra point of security, preventing the cover from riding up or shifting on your pack. An integrated stuff pocket makes packing the cover away quick and simple when the weather clears.
Osprey Ultralight Raincover
Osprey’s Ultralight Raincover embodies the brand’s commitment to premium efficiency and intelligent design. This cover is purpose-built to help you make the most of your explorations, regardless of the season. It provides reliable waterproof protection without adding significant weight or bulk to your load.
The design is tuned for easy deployment and a snug fit on compatible packs. While minimalist, it doesn’t sacrifice the durability expected from the Osprey name. It’s an excellent choice for those who value a streamlined, no-fuss solution from a trusted manufacturer in the backpacking world.
Sea to Summit Ultra-SIL Lightweight Backpack Cover
The Sea to Summit Ultra-SIL is a top contender for ultralight backpackers and travelers who count every ounce. Made from waterproof 30D Ultra-Sil Cordura, this cover offers impressive protection for its minimal weight. The seamless construction is a critical feature, as it eliminates potential points of failure and ensures the cover is completely waterproof.
Beyond its featherweight build, it includes practical elements like keeper straps that pull the cover tight across the pack harness. This prevents the material from billowing like a sail in the wind. It packs down incredibly small, making it easy to always have on hand for unexpected weather changes.
Osprey Hi-Visibility Raincover
Safety is the defining feature of the Osprey Hi-Visibility Raincover. Its Electric Lime color and reflective graphics are designed for your protection during low-light conditions or adverse weather, making it an ideal choice for road cycling, commuting, or hiking near traffic.
The cover includes a unique blinker light attachment point, allowing you to quickly add a cycling light for even greater visibility in the dark. A cinch attachment helps secure the raincover firmly to your pack, ensuring it stays in place. This model proves that staying dry and staying safe can go hand in hand.
MOPHOEXII 2 Pack Waterproof Backpack Rain Cover
The MOPHOEXII 2-Pack offers exceptional value, providing two high-quality covers for the price often charged for one. This makes it a perfect solution for households with multiple pack users or for someone who wants a spare. The covers feature a multi-layer waterproof construction with a tear-resistant nylon exterior and a PU-coated inner layer, offering reliable protection.
Visibility is also a strong point, with a super-bright reflective strap that provides a 50% brighter reflection and 30% more reflective area than many standard options. When not in use, these covers fold down into a very compact size, allowing for easy storage in a backpack’s side pocket without taking up valuable space.
Joy Walker Backpack Rain Cover (Small)
Designed for smaller daypacks ranging from 15 to 25 liters, the Joy Walker Rain Cover uses a sophisticated 4-layer construction for maximum durability and waterproofing. The external fabric is rip-resistant, protecting your backpack from scratches, dirt, and sand, while the internal double-coated layers effectively block water, rain, fog, and snow.
It boasts a high 12000 mm water pressure rating, meaning it can handle heavy, prolonged rainfall. A key upgrade is the buckle strap system, which actively works to keep the rain cover in position and prevents it from sliding off your pack, a common frustration with lesser-quality covers.
Joy Walker Backpack Rain Cover (XL)
This XL version of the Joy Walker Rain Cover is built to accommodate larger expedition packs from 50 to 70 liters. It shares the same high-performance features as its smaller counterpart, including the robust 4-layer construction and the impressive 12000 mm waterproof rating, ensuring your gear stays dry on multi-day trips.
The upgraded buckle strap is especially valuable on a larger cover, as bigger packs present more surface area for the wind to catch. This strap secures the cover firmly, giving you peace of mind in stormy conditions. Its dimensions are carefully sized to fully protect a loaded backpacking pack without being overly cumbersome.
Outad Waterproof Rain Cover for Backpack
The Outad Waterproof Rain Cover is a reliable and affordable option for everyday use and light outdoor activities. It is constructed to handle rain and moisture, keeping the contents of your backpack dry during a commute, walk across campus, or a day hike.
This cover is designed for easy use, typically featuring an elastic hem for a secure fit and a compact stuff sack for storage. It represents a solid, no-nonsense choice for those who need basic, effective rain protection without a premium price tag.
Earth Pak Waterproof Backpack Rain Cover
Earth Pak is known for producing durable, water-resistant gear, and their backpack rain cover follows this tradition. It is engineered to offer solid protection from the elements, making it a good fit for general outdoor use, fishing, and boating activities where water exposure is likely.
The cover likely includes features like a reinforced construction and a simple, effective attachment system. For users who trust the Earth Pak brand for other dry bags and waterproof cases, this rain cover serves as a compatible accessory to complete a weather-proof gear system.
How to Choose the Best Backpack Rain Cover
I’ve tested a lot of gear in the rain, and a good backpack rain cover is one of those simple pieces that can make or break a trip. Getting caught in a downpour without one is a surefire way to end up with a soggy sandwich, a drenched sleeping bag, and a miserable time. But not all covers are created equal. After my latest round of testing for the 9 Best Backpack Rain Covers [2025 Tested], I’ve nailed down exactly what you should be looking for.
First, and this is the big one, you need the right size. A cover that’s too small won’t fully protect your pack, and one that’s too large will be flappy and inefficient. Check your backpack’s volume in liters (it’s usually on a tag or the manufacturer’s website) and match it to the cover’s recommended size range. I always suggest erring slightly on the larger side if you’re between sizes, as it’s better to have a little extra coverage, especially if your pack is fully stuffed.
Next, consider the material. This is all about waterproofness and durability. You’ll see terms like “PU-coated” or “TPU laminate.” For most users, a PU-coated polyester is perfectly adequate and affordable. If you’re a serious backpacker who faces relentless rain, look for a higher hydrostatic head rating (like 3000mm or more) or seam-sealed models. These are built to handle heavier precipitation. The thickness, measured in denier (D), matters too. A 70D fabric offers a good balance of lightweight protection and durability, while 150D+ is better for rough, abrasive environments.
Don’t overlook the fit and features. A simple elastic hem is standard, but a silicone or rubberized cord sealed within the hem provides a much tighter, more secure fit that’s harder for wind to whip off. Look for a cover that packs down into its own little stuff sack—this makes it easy to store and access quickly. Reflective logos or strips are a fantastic safety bonus for anyone walking or cycling near roads in low light. Finally, some covers come with a small grommet for drainage, which is a clever touch if you’re in a real deluge.
My final piece of advice is to think about your specific activity. A cyclist might prioritize a super-streamlined, reflective cover, while a thru-hiker will want the lightest possible option. By focusing on size, material, and smart features, you can find a cover that will keep your gear dry for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are backpack rain covers actually waterproof?
Most are highly water-resistant, but true “waterproof” can be a tricky term. A quality cover made with a PU coating and sealed seams will keep out rain, sleet, and snow for hours. However, if you fully submerge your pack in a river, water will likely find a way in. The materials are designed to shed water from precipitation, not withstand immersion. For the vast majority of rainy-day scenarios, a well-chosen cover from our list of the 9 Best Backpack Rain Covers [2025 Tested] will provide more than enough protection.
Can I use a rain cover on a hiking backpack with external attachments?
Yes, absolutely. This is a common situation. When you have trekking poles, an ice axe, or a sleeping pad strapped to the outside, you just need to size up your rain cover. I recommend going one size larger than your pack’s liter capacity would normally suggest. This gives you the extra fabric needed to stretch over the bulky external gear. The elastic hem should still hold it snugly in place, though it might be a bit tighter to get on.
How do I stop my rain cover from blowing away in the wind?
A flapping, ill-fitting cover is a real nuisance. The best defense is a cover with a reinforced, rubberized elastic hem that creates a very strong grip on your pack. Some models also include a small strap that clips around one of your backpack’s straps for an added layer of security. If you’re in seriously windy conditions, you can also use a piece of shock cord to lash the cover more firmly to your pack’s frame or loops.
What’s the difference between a cheap and an expensive rain cover?
The main differences come down to material quality, construction, and features. A budget cover might use a thinner polyester with a basic coating that can wear out or become sticky over time. A more expensive cover will often use a tougher, higher-denier fabric, have fully taped or welded seams to prevent leaks, and include thoughtful additions like a more durable stuff sack, reflective details, or a better closure system. You’re paying for longevity and reliability in harsh conditions.
Do I still need to use a pack liner if I have a rain cover?
I always do, and I strongly recommend it. A rain cover is your first line of defense, but it’s not infallible. Water can sneak in through the back panel where the pack rests against your body, or get in through the straps. For your absolute must-stay-dry items like your sleeping bag, a change of clothes, and electronics, a simple trash compactor bag or a dedicated nylon pack liner inside your backpack is the ultimate insurance policy. It’s a lightweight, redundant system that guarantees dry gear.
How should I clean and store my backpack rain cover?
It’s simple. To clean, just use lukewarm water and a soft cloth. Avoid harsh detergents or scrubbing brushes, as they can degrade the waterproof coating. Let it air dry completely before you store it. This is crucial—never pack it away damp, as that can lead to mold and a damaged coating. Store it loosely in a cool, dry place, not crammed into its stuff sack for long periods, to help preserve the elasticity of the hem and the integrity of the fabric.