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A waterproof motorcycle backpack is the difference between arriving at work with dry clothes or spending the day in soggy layers. The real question is how much weatherproofing, capacity, and carrying comfort you need for your daily commute or weekend touring. This guide breaks down the top options so you can match a bag to your ride and your routine.
I’m Mo Maruf — the founder and writer behind GoCarLife. This guide is built by comparing the manufacturers’ published specifications and the patterns across verified customer reviews, so you get each pick’s real strengths and trade-offs instead of marketing spin.
The most reliable way to keep your gear bone-dry on two wheels is choosing a waterproof motorcycle backpack with a roll-top or welded-seam construction that seals out rain, splashes, and even river crossings.
Our Picks at a Glance
How To Choose The Best Waterproof Motorcycle Backpack
Pick your bag by how you ride first, then by how much you carry. A daily commuter with a laptop needs a different bag than a touring rider packing for a week. The three specs that matter most are the waterproofing method, the capacity, and how the bag attaches or carries.
Waterproofing method: roll-top, welded, or rain cover
Roll-top closures work by folding the opening down three or four times and clipping it shut, which keeps water out without a zipper to leak. Welded or high-frequency bonded seams seal the fabric panels together, so rain cannot sneak through the stitching. Some bags add a removable rain cover as a second layer, which is handy but means the bag itself is not fully sealed.
Quick Comparison
| Model | Best For | Capacity | Waterproofing | Weight | Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Odinsberg Ragnarök 15L★ Best Overall | Rugged tail-bag duty | 15 L | IPX6 Welded TPU | 1.22 kg | Amazon |
| STOVER Dry BackpackBest Value | Versatile floatable travel | 25 L | Roll-top + bonded seams | 0.69 kg | Amazon |
| Grapelet Sissy Bar BagBest Capacity | Large tail-bag touring | 35 L | 500D PVC roll-top | — | Amazon |
| OSAH DRYPAK | Heavy-duty adventure use | 25 L | 500D PVC welded roll-top | — | Amazon |
| Haimont Dry Duffel | Maximum-capacity trips | 60 L | IPX7 500D tarpaulin | 2.5 lb | Amazon |
| MIER Dry Duffel | Expandable multi-sport | 80 L | 500D tarpaulin roll-top | 4.3 lb | Amazon |
| OG Original GO 20L | Two-helmet commuting | 20 L | 1680D + rain cover | 979.76 g | Amazon |
| OG Original RoadRunner 20L | Featherweight daily carry | 20 L | 600D + rain cover | 591 g | Amazon |
In-Depth Reviews
1. Odinsberg Ragnarök 15L Waterproof Tail Bag
Our pick — over 4.5★ from 600+ verified ratings; the strongest balance of quality and price.
The tank-like tail bag that shrugs off crashes, thunderstorms, and years of daily abuse
The defining strength here is the IPX6-level welded 15L pouch, built from 840D TPU with a stiffened back plate, so a river crossing or a downpour won’t touch your gear. It rides through thunderstorms and shallow water crossings without issue, as long as it isn’t fully submerged for a long stretch. For a motorcycle trunk you can mount and forget, this is the one riders keep coming back to.
What wins people over is build quality — owners genuinely call it built like a tank. The 4 removable quick-release buckle straps let you mount it horizontally as a seat or pillion bag, or vertically as soft panniers on your bike. Buyers report it “survived 1yr commuting, crash, bike change,” and another crash impact on a V-Strom 800DE left the bag undamaged and dry even when a strap tore, which the two-year factory warranty replaced. The two-year partial crash replacement policy is a serious vote of confidence.
The main caveat is size, not construction: at 15 liters it holds 25 12-oz beer cans, and several riders found it smaller than expected before ordering. One owner who sized up plans to buy the 30L version next. The external pocket’s water-resistant zipper adds quick access, but the roll-top main compartment is where the real protection lives.
Why riders swear by it
- IPX6 welded TPU shrugs off heavy rain
- Stiffened back plate handles rough terrain
- 4 quick-release straps for horizontal or vertical mounting
What to know before buying
- 15L is compact — verify your gear fits first
- Buckle clamping has drawn occasional mixed notes
Grab it if: you want an adventure-proof tail bag that survives real crashes and years of commuting.
Think twice if: you need room for a full-face helmet or a week of gear — the 15L capacity is for essentials.
2. STOVER 25L Waterproof Dry Backpack & Phone Case
The featherweight that floats, seals airtight, and doubles as a crossbody for any adventure
At 0.69 kg this 25L bag is dramatically lighter than the Odinsberg’s 1.22 kg, yet it still delivers 100% waterproof protection through high-frequency seam bonding and a roll-top closure. It even floats if it ends up in the water, making it the pick for riders who also kayak, raft, or ride ferries. The ergonomic padded straps carry like a proper backpack, but you can also sling it crossbody with one strap.
You get a waterproof phone case in the box (rated IP58, meaning it survives dust and deep water), and it works with touchscreens and FaceID, fitting phones up to 6.5in x 3.2in. Owners mention the airtight seal holds with no air escaping when squeezed, and one buyer says the 30L version is “Definitely water tight and the 30l is huge.” A reflective strip on the front wet/dry pocket helps you stay visible to traffic at night.
Because it’s light, the bag is less rigid than a moto-specific tail bag, so it won’t hold its shape as firmly. A wet/dry mesh front pocket with cargo straps lets you grab items quickly, but the roll-top needs three to four folds to seal properly. If you want one bag that moves between motorcycle, kayak, and beach trips without complaint, this versatility is tough to top.
Where it shines
- Floats when dropped in water
- IP58 phone case with FaceID support included
- Ridiculously light at 0.69 kg
Fair warnings
- Soft-sided, so no rigid protection for fragile items
- Straps drew mixed feedback on long hauls
Pick this for: riders who want one do-everything bag for bikes, boats, and travel without the bulk.
Look elsewhere if: you need a structured bag that stands up on its own for daily commutes.
3. Grapelet 35L Sissy Bar Bag & Roll-Top Dry Backpack
A 35L touring hauler that swallows a full-face helmet and straps flat across a rear seat
This bag holds a full-face helmet with room to spare, so you can skip hard panniers and still carry your gear. The 500D PVC smooth material resists corrosion and abrasion, meaning it stands up to harsh outdoor environments without worry.
The roll-top design keeps gear completely dry while the air valve on the right side lets you purge excess air and compress the contents into a more compact bundle. Sponge-filled removable shoulder straps with a chest whistle buckle make it comfortable to carry off the bike, and reflective trim boosts night visibility. Owners note it fits flat on an R1200GS rear seat and works best in a vertical orientation.
The honest catch is strap complexity — some riders found the many straps for securing to the sissy bar a bit much. A mesh pocket on the left side separates hydration or sweaty clothes from the main compartment, and the zipper pocket adds quick access. For touring bikes with a sissy bar, this is a strong, affordable workhorse.
Best for touring: carries a helmet plus days of gear, with an air valve to compress the load. The strap system takes a little setup, but customers note it “worked like a charm” on a cross-country trip.
4. OSAH DRYPAK 25L Heavy-Duty Roll-Top Backpack
A heavy-duty 25L dry pack that stays waterproof through rafting, jet ski trips, and daily delivery work
The build here is built for extreme conditions: 500D PVC with high-frequency welded seams and a roll-top closure keep gear dry in rain, river crossings, or water sports. Ergonomic shoulder straps, breathable back padding, and an adjustable chest belt with a safety whistle make long rides comfortable. A reinforced top handle and D-ring attachment points give you lashing options for the motorcycle.
Owners love the organization — inner zip pockets, side mesh bottle holders, a splash-proof front pocket, and elastic bungee cords keep essentials sorted. One reviewer noted a 25L fits under an airplane seat and theme park lockers, and it held everything dry in heavy rain. Another uses it for daily delivery work and calls the weight distribution balanced and the straps effective at preventing flailing. The zippers actually work, which is a relief on a dry bag.
The real-world limit is that roll-top access means you must unroll and unclip to reach contents, and some found the top doesn’t seal as tightly as hoped. At 25L it’s a mid-size pick, so verify your daily load fits. For riders who want a true waterproof backpack that doubles as adventure gear, this delivers a lot.
Adventure-ready: the 4-pocket layout and reflective strip make it practical for motorcycling, kayaking, and travel. One owner noted the quality rivals a far more expensive premium brand.
5. Haimont IPX7 60L Roll-Top Dry Duffel Backpack
The IPX7-rated 60L hauler that out-carries saddlebags and rack bags combined
This is the maximum-capacity choice for riders who pack for serious trips. With an IPX7 rating and heavy-duty 500D tarpaulin plus high-frequency welded seams, it protects gear from rain, splashes, wet decks, and harsh conditions. At 60L it holds more than most saddlebag and luggage-rack setups combined — one daily motorcycle commuter carries two changes of work clothes, gym clothes, and running shoes in it every day, 32 miles each way.
The roll-top closure seals out water while compression straps stabilize the load, and multiple haul handles plus adjustable backpack straps make it easy to carry. Interior mesh pockets and quick-access front storage keep multi-day trips organized. The bag fits in overhead bins for flights and survived multiple rain storms according to owners, making it a favorite for overnight paddle boarding and canoeing trips too.
A fair warning: the roomy 60L size is big, so it suits touring bikes and luggage racks more than daily commuting. One owner noted the main opening seals via velcro under the roll, which is secure but not a fully watertight zipper. For riders who want one giant waterproof duffel for everything, this is a proven pick.
Maximum protection: the IPX7 rating and 60L capacity make it the top choice for multi-day touring. Reviewers point out it fits overhead bins and survived heavy rain storms without a leak.
6. MIER 80L Waterproof Duffel Backpack
A massive 80L expandable dry duffel that compresses down and adapts to any carrying style
The standout feature here is the dynamic height design — 24.5″L x 15″W x 15″-22.75″H — that expands or compresses to match your load. At 80L capacity and just 4.3 lbs, it packs a ton of gear without weighing you down. The 500D tarpaulin material with high-frequency welded seams keeps contents dry, and the hook-and-loop-secured roll-top seals with three or four folds plus side clips.
Owners are impressed by the durability and waterproofing. One offshore worker calls it extremely waterproof when sealed tight, and another reports the bags still look brand new after 3 years of roof-rack road trips and camping. The quick-release backpack straps with an adjustable sternum strap add load stability, plus there are multiple lash points to secure it to a motorcycle, kayak, or roof rack. It also includes an adjustable shoulder strap and 4 soft side haul handles.
The honest limit is that this is not a submersible bag — the manufacturer notes not to submerge it in water. Some found the new-style snap buckles on the top straps less intuitive than traditional slide-lock buckles. For riders who want one giant, expandable dry bag for motorcycle touring plus every water sport, this is a strong value.
Reach for it when: you need a huge, compressible dry duffel for touring, camping, or kayaking that straps anywhere.
Pass it by if: you need a true submersible bag or ride with a small rear rack — 80L is a lot of bag.
7. OG Original GO 20L Waterproof Motorcycle Backpack
The commuting backpack built to carry two helmets and a 15-inch laptop at the same time
The defining feature is the DHT System, which lets you carry up to two helmets simultaneously via an adjustable elastic helmet holder and a side helmet strap. That is a massive convenience for riders who commute with a passenger or want to secure a spare lid. The 1680D Polyester construction is water and wear-resistant, and a removable waterproof rain cover adds a second protection layer in heavy rain.
Comfort is well-handled with breathable, padded straps and back, plus adjustable chest and waist straps for ergonomic support. There’s an interior padded compartment for a laptop or tablet up to 15 inches, and the bag includes an antitheft pocket and reflective strips for safer night riding. A hydration pack opening (pack not included) makes it work for cycling too. One owner says it carries two helmets with ease along with a laptop, and the elastic straps stop gear from flying around.
Build quality gets mostly strong feedback, though at least one owner experienced frayed stitching after months of daily use. At 20L it’s a compact daily carry, not a touring hauler. For riders who want a proper backpack rather than a tail bag, with helmet-carrying practicality, this is the one.
Commuter king: the DHT two-helmet system and 15-inch laptop sleeve make it unbeatable for daily rides. A removable rain cover handles downpours.
8. OG Original RoadRunner 20L Waterproof Motorcycle Backpack
The barely-there 591g pack that carries what you need without weighing you down
At just 591 g, this is the lightest way to carry gear on a motorcycle, and it still fits a padded 13-inch laptop compartment. The 600D Polyester is water and wear-resistant with waterproof zippers, plus a removable rain cover as a second layer. Double reflective strips improve visibility for night riding. For riders who hate the weight of a backpack, this nearly disappears on your shoulders.
Owners frequently praise how roomy it feels for its compact size. One rider wears it comfortably even on 95-degree days and recommends it for anyone who doesn’t need an overpriced brand name. It works for school, day rides, and daily use, with several compartments to organize a phone, work accessories, and gym clothes. The adjustable chest and waist straps provide ergonomic support and firm fastening.
The honest limit is size: at 20L, a motorcycle helmet won’t fit inside, so you’ll use the included helmet strap or carry it separately. One owner’s husband found his helmet didn’t fit and used it mainly for a few bottles of water. For riders who want a lightweight, comfortable daily pack and don’t need to stash a helmet, this is a clean choice.
Featherweight comfort: the 591g build and breathable straps make hot-weather rides far more pleasant. The rain cover ensures your laptop stays dry.
Understanding the Specs
IPX Ratings and Welded Seams
IPX6 means the bag handles powerful water jets, while IPX7 means it can survive brief submersion. Both are stronger than a standard water-resistant zipper. Welded or high-frequency bonded seams fuse fabric panels together so rain can’t sneak through stitching holes. Roll-top closures add another seal by folding the opening down several times.
Materials That Matter
TPU, PVC, and tarpaulin are the heavy-duty fabrics used for waterproof motorcycle bags. Heavier fabrics like 840D TPU resist abrasion better on rough terrain, while lighter 500D options balance durability and weight. The trade-off is rigidity: heavier materials hold their shape, while lighter ones compress down for easier storage.
FAQ
Will a roll-top dry bag keep my laptop dry in heavy rain?
How many liters do I need for a full-face motorcycle helmet?
Can I strap a waterproof dry bag to my sissy bar or luggage rack?
Is IPX7 better than IPX6 for motorcycle use?
How do I carry two helmets with a motorcycle backpack?
Are waterproof motorcycle backpacks heavier than regular ones?
Can a waterproof dry bag be fully submerged in water?
What is the difference between a waterproof backpack and a dry bag backpack?
Final Thoughts: The Verdict
For most riders, the waterproof motorcycle backpack winner is the Odinsberg Ragnarök 15L because it combines IPX6 welded TPU protection with crash-proven durability and flexible mounting. If you want maximum capacity and a helmet-friendly design, grab the Grapelet 35L. And for a lightweight daily commuter that carries two helmets, the OG Original GO 20L is the one to reach for.
How We Picked
We do not accept paid placement. Every pick is matched to a real buyer and a real use-case; we do not hands-on test units.
Sources & Methodology
Specifications: manufacturer listings and product documentation. Review insights: verified customer reviews, as of August 2026. Pricing: not shown on this page (it changes often); check the current price via the retailer link.
As an Amazon Associate, GoCarLife earns from qualifying purchases. This does not affect which products we feature.