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Best Waterproof Backpack in 2023: Breakwater Supply Fogland Backpack

You want a backpack with complete protection for your laptop, camera equipment, smartphone, as well as items for school, travel, and work. And you want to be able to use it for just about everything, including weekends of adventure: kayaking, fishing, hiking, surfing, boating.

As for your non-weekend adventures, are you a commuter who rides a bike to work or school? Do you spend time dashing back and forth to the gym no matter the weather?

And on to the bigger (pun intended) question: what size backpack is comfortable for your everyday use?

In this guide, we’re going to look at options that are fully IP68 waterproof, which means they’ll not only protect against splashes and rain, but they’re also completely submersible. Keep in mind that unless you look for a submersible backpack, anything that advertises itself to be “waterproof” is generally only water-resistant. But a submersible backpack is truly 100% waterproof, and can be put underwater for an extended period of time without letting any moisture inside.

Zippers are Crucial to True Waterproof Protection

Almost all backpacks that feature a roll-top design are not 100% waterproof, even though they may be advertised as such. Roll-top backpacks will protect against splashes, but will not prevent leaks when exposed to heavy rain or submerged in water.

Airtight zippers are what you really want. They’ll protect against complete submersion and intense weather. They’re also much easier to use and less cumbersome versus roll-top backpacks. The drawback to airtight zippers is often their price, because incorporating an airtight zipper means you’re adding a very expensive component to the backpack. However, airtight zippers are worth the added expense for the peace of mind they offer while providing completely waterproof protection.

Materials and Seams

In addition to zippers, the material has to be fully waterproof, and the seams where the panels meet have to be sonically welded to avoid the pinholes that form when stitching.

As far as materials, TPU-coated fabric is what you want: it’s non-toxic, doesn’t break down, and is extremely durable. However, TPU is just the coating. The actual fabric that’s being coated can range from extremely thin to very thick, and this is usually reflected in the price. Thicker TPU-coated fabric will hold its shape and is effectively molded-in-place, leading to a very unique product.

Top Options

Take a look at the comparison table below:

Material (Higher = Thicker)420D TPU~1200D TPU840D TPU900D TPU~210T TPU~210T TPU
Size25L28L28L28L20L25L
Weight2.0 lbs3.9 lbs3 lbs3.1 lbs1.7 lbs2.3 lbs
Airtight ZippersDrysuit-Grade (Large-Tooth)Drysuit-Grade (Large-Tooth)Drysuit-Grade (Large-Tooth)TRU-ZipSmall-Tooth (with Zipper Grease)Small-Tooth (with Zipper Grease)
Number of Airtight Pockets2 (Main and Front)1 (Main Compartment Only)1 (Main Compartment Only)1 (Main Compartment Only)1 (Main Compartment Only)1 (Main Compartment Only)
PaddingFast-Drying, Non-Abrasive Neoprene and EVAFast-Drying, Non-Abrasive Neoprene and EVAFast-Drying, Non-Abrasive FoamFast-Drying, Non-Abrasive Neoprene and EVAAbrasive, Slow-Drying Open MeshAbrasive, Slow-Drying Open Mesh
Inflation ValveYesYes
Waist PocketsYesYes
Side Pockets2 (Mesh)2 (Mesh and Zip)1 (Mesh)2 (Both Mesh)
Comparison Table of Waterproof Backpacks. Note: “~” refers to an estimated fabric weight, since the exact weight is unpublished.

Weight and Round-Up

As far as weight, Yeti’s Panga comes in at 3.9 lbs, Filson’s Dry Backpack weighs 3 lbs, and Fishpond’s Thunderhead is 3.1 lbs. The Breakwater Supply Fogland Submersible Backpack weighs 2.0 lbs.

All told, the Breakwater Supply Fogland Backpack is an extremely lightweight, versatile bag that protects all your gear and electronics with fast-drying, non-abrasive padding, an extra smaller front pocket, and a buckle strap for bulky items. It’s got reflective features for safety and uses premium airtight zippers as well. Price-wise, the Fogland Backpack is almost 50% less than the Yeti Panga ($300) and Filson Dry Backpack ($365).

Given all of these factors, it’s why the Breakwater Supply Fogland Backpack is the best waterproof backpack out there, and offers an amazing value at its price.

You can find the Fogland Backpack on our website or click here to purchase from Amazon.

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Stay Ready: 5 Things to do in the Off-Season to Get Ready for Spring

Breakwater Supply Fogland Backpack on Ice
If getting outside in the winter isn’t for you, you still need to stay ready for what “post-winter” brings.

Here in the Northern Hemisphere, and particularly the northeastern US, we’re getting a heavy dose of winter right now. Unless you’re active and moving around, it’s generally uncomfortable, with colder temperatures, snow and ice, and winter winds that howl for days.

Safe to say, winter’s not the best season to work on your tan. But that’s not to say there’s not fun to be had. Ask the skiers, snowboarders, snowmobilers, snowshoers, ice-fishers, and ice climbers that love this time of year. Not only is it visually stunning, but it challenges us to adapt and approach the outdoors from a different angle.

But if getting outside in the winter isn’t for you, you still need to stay ready for what “post-winter” brings. Below, we go over 5 things you shouldn’t overlook as you prepare for your best year yet.

  • Stay in shape. Like other animals, humans slow down in the winter. And there’s some peer-pressure to lean towards packing on the pounds. Make sure you keep in shape throughout the winter, even if it means dragging yourself to the gym. Sure, you can scale back, but make sure to pay attention to your fitness, because if you put the task of “getting in shape” on your spring To-Do List, you might be asking too much. In the unfortunate event you get injured or just don’t have the time once spring comes along, it will be that much harder to claw back your fitness.
  • Plan and research. The reason we added “research” to this is simple: the world is increasingly complex. You can have the best plans in the world, but did you know the Park is closed the second week in May because it’s mud season? Or that you need a permit to drive on the sand to launch your kayak? These are just examples, but make sure to do the research. Mapping out your route and booking your stays is a start, but understand the nuances of your adventure before you get out the door. Winter is a great time to do this.
  • Be prepared for emergencies. Always have a comprehensive first aid kit. Whether it’s back at the truck, in your backpack, or hooked up to your kayak/boat, make sure your first aid kit is versatile enough so that you can buy yourself time in case of emergency. The Breakwater Supply Survival First Aid Kit is an advanced, comprehensive first aid kit (AFAK) and comes pre-packed with everything you’d need in emergency situations, including an emergency blanket, compressive and absorbent bandages, a multi-tool, survival splint, survival bracelet, and more. It’s also packed in a waterproof dry bag with a heavy-duty carabiner to keep it where it needs to be. Below: Breakwater Supply Survival Waterproof First Aid Kit
Breakwater Supply Survival Waterproof First Aid Kit
  • Sharpen your skills. Similar to staying in shape, but you can mark these down as New Year’s Resolutions. If this is the year you land the big one, you might need to add a few more knots to your arsenal (we’re partial to the Palomar knot). Or if you’re a photographer, you can use the winter months to study techniques you can use out in the field. Don’t slow down – stay sharp. This applies to us all.
  • Get your gear right. The off-season is a time to purge old gear that might not be working for you, and bring in something new. Whether it’s more versatile, weighs less, or it can more efficiently handle your lifestyle, have your gear closet ready so when the good weather gets here, you can get out there with gear you’re excited to use. One uniquely innovative product to be excited about is the Breakwater Supply Fogland Backpack – it’s completely waterproof and fully submersible, making it a top pick for kayaking, jet-skiing, boating, hiking, and surfing. And it’s a great choice in the winter too. Below: Breakwater Supply Fogland Waterproof Backpack in 25L and 15L sizes.

Though the points above require some effort, keep them in mind as winter goes on. Having these things to focus on will keep you prepared and help you maximize your time once the good weather comes along. And before you know it, another epic year will be yours in the making.

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The Secret to Outdoor Gifting? One word: waterproof.

Best Waterproof Backpack Breakwater Supply Fogland Backpack

In all our time spent outdoors, we’ve found nothing is more valuable than waterproof gear. Why? Because the outdoors are unpredictable. They’re where you battle the elements. And that’s what makes them fun.

So this Holiday 2022 Season, we’ve got a pair of incredible deals on our waterproof products for those Outdoor Adventurers on your gift list!

Waterproof Marine First Aid Kit: $39.95!

The Ultimate Stocking Stuffer. This Advanced First Aid Kit (AFAK) is loaded with comprehensive First Aid and Survival Gear to make it a must-have around the water. Pick one up at the recently marked-down price of $39.95! Click here to view.

Waterproof Stealth Bundle: 15% Off!

For tactical utility, our Waterproof Stealth Bundle packages our best-selling Waterproof Survival First Aid Kit with our newly launched IP68 submersible Fogland Waterproof Backpack. Both are featured in a sleek, Stealth Black design with gray reflective elements for safety. Click here to view.

With Expedited Shipping Options!

2-Day Rush Delivery Available (US)
5-7 Day Express Delivery Available (International)

View our Holiday Picks by clicking here!

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Holiday Gear Guide: Best Outdoor Gifts for 2022

Before the Holiday music starts playing in every store you visit, we rounded up 3 of our picks for the best stocking stuffers and outdoor gifts of the 2022 Holiday Season.

1. Stocking Stuffer Must-Have: Breakwater Supply Waterproof Survival First Aid Kit

Our Waterproof Survival First Aid Kit is exceptional: it’s top-rated on Amazon, and at its price it’s simply the best first aid survival kit you’ll find. It has a small size (fits in a stocking) and features items you won’t find in other kits, among them being a 12-inch foam/aluminum survival splint, which is crucial for supporting potential fractures or sprains. It also features an emergency blanket, poncho, multiple compressive and absorbent gauze pads and wraps, and even a paracord bracelet and multitool.

Not to mention the entire kit is lightweight (1.4 lbs) and 100% waterproof. It clips onto backpacks, boats, and other gear with a non-corrosive locking carabiner. Comes in Classic Red, as well as Stealth Black. Find it on our website or at Amazon.

Best Survival First Aid Kit

Tip: you might be asking if we’re running any Holiday Sales.
Click here to check WeThrift to see what offers we’re currently running!

2. For Travelers and Adventurers: Breakwater Supply Fogland Waterproof Backpack

Our latest technical bag, the Fogland Waterproof Backpack meets IP67 standards for complete waterproof protection. It’s the top waterproof backpack available for the outdoors, travel, and commuting. Using our popular Explorer Waterproof Backpack as the basis for the Fogland, we tweaked the design by putting snagless water bottle pockets on each side, plus we added lash tabs and smaller pull loops on each side of the airtight front pocket.

Best Waterproof Camera Backpack Breakwater Supply Fogland Backpack
Fogland 25L Waterproof Backpack in Stealth Black

Since we received many requests to create a small waterproof backpack, we also created the Fogland Lite 15L. The material we use for our Fogland Backpack is amazing: it’s double-side-coated 420D Hydrowall TPU on our Stealth Black and Fog White colorways, and we also offer a limited-edition Safari Tan CORDURA Ripstop version. (Note: our CORDURA Ripstop is currently sold out, with new stock arriving later in the year.)

Best Waterproof Backpack Breakwater Supply Fogland Backpack
Fogland Lite 15L Waterproof Backpack in Fog White

The Breakwater Supply Fogland Backpack features a standard-sized laptop sleeve, is fully submersible, and offers more functionality than any other waterproof backpack on the market. When compared to the YETI Panga 28, the Filson Backpack Dry Bag, the Patagonia Guidewater, and the Fishpond Thunderhead, the Breakwater Supply Fogland Backpack costs 50% less, is lighter (2.1 lbs compared to almost 4 lbs for the YETI and Filson), and features a smaller front submersible pocket for your phone. None of the other backpacks mentioned offer a second submersible pocket.

The Fogland Backpack is made of the same durable TPU-coated material as the backpacks mentioned, and has fast-drying ergonomic straps and a molded EVA back panel. We paid special attention to making the Fogland Backpack comfortable enough for all-day activity, even when paddling and backpacking.

The Fogland Backpack is ideal for travel, hiking, water sports (such as jet-skiing, scuba diving, kayaking, fishing, and paddleboarding), and because it’s completely stormproof, it’s the best wet-weather backpack for hurricanes and flood-prone environments. It’s also the best backpack for wild swimming – the Fogland 25L will float when filled with up to 50 lbs of contents.

Breakwater Supply Fogland Backpack Collection
Fogland 25L and Fogland Lite 15L

For a truly submersible waterproof backpack that will be the best outdoor gift for that special someone, click here to order the Breakwater Supply Fogland Waterproof Backpack on our website.

3. For the Kayaker or Paddleboarder: Breakwater Supply Meanhigh Dry Bag Waterproof Backpack

Redesigned for 2023, the Breakwater Supply Meanhigh Dry Bag Waterproof Backpack is our sleek, super-comfortable dry bag backpack that offers complete waterproof protection (up to IPX6). Though not designed for extended submersion, it floats on the surface so it’s a great choice for water sports like kayaking, paddleboarding, and boating. At 25L, it’s spacious enough to fit up to 5 beach towels, plus extra gear. Sleek, snagless water bottle pockets on each side are new for 2023, as is the lash tab on the front.

Order on our website, or click here to order on Amazon.

breakwater supply meanhigh dry back rolltop waterproof backpack
Meanhigh Dry Bag Backpack in Cormorant Black
Our advice: knock out your holiday shopping early, and take some extra time to enjoy the outdoors.

For questions, reach out to us on Instagram (@breakwatersupply), Facebook, or via email at contact@breakwatersupply.com.

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The Fogland Waterproof (and Submersible) Backpack is here for 2022!

You put your life in your backpack, figuratively – so when you close that zipper, feel completely confident your gear is safe, dry, and protected.

If you’ve been following us on social media (@breakwatersupply on Instagram and facebook.com/breakwatersupply), you may have seen us announce the limited release of the Fogland Backpack. This represents our second collection of fully waterproof, submersible backpacks that offer uncompromising protection for your gear.

Though many companies out there advertise their bags/backpacks being waterproof, the truth is, there are only a handful that provide the same level of protection as the Fogland Backpack. But before we proceed, we want to cover one thing: no roll-top backpack provides the same level of protection as our zippered backpacks do. The roll-top does not create a lasting airtight seal, as air will eventually leak through the rolled area. But our zippers create a permanent airtight seal for long-lasting waterproof protection.

With that being said, the reason there are very few products out there like this is because it’s very expensive to manufacturer them. But creating these high-quality products is what drives us, and we’re proud of the R&D that goes into them. So let’s get into the details.

Here’s how the Fogland Backpack was developed to meet IP67 standards and is 100% waterproof, airtight, and fully submersible:

1. Fully Waterproof Material: our fully-waterproof, super-strong Hydrowall 420D Nylon TPU is everything an outdoor textile should be: lightweight, 100% waterproof, wipes clean, and it’s virtually indestructible – it’s completely tear-proof and resists abrasions and stains.

2. Welded Seams: the Fogland Backpack exclusively uses welded seams, with zero stitching – instead, the edges of each panel are fused together using an advanced construction process called radio-frequency welding. These seams are permanent, with zero gaps, to ensure water, snow, sand, and dirt stay out.

3. Drysuit-Grade Airtight Zippers: both the main compartment and smaller front pocket feature large-tooth, non-corrosive airtight zippers – the same used on diving drysuits.

Breakwater Supply Drysuit-Grade Airtight Zippers

The Fogland Backpack’s been rigorously tested to be fully submersible and completely waterproof, meeting IP67 waterproof standards. Seen below, we loaded it up with a laptop, smartphone, towel, and 40 lbs (18kg) of weights. With all of the weight, it still floats, and most importantly, everything is completely dry.

This guaranteed waterproof protection gives you the freedom to explore further, stay outside longer, and finally stop worrying about your gear!

The Fogland Backpack comes in two sizes (15L & 25L) and two colors (Stealth Black and Fog White) and it’s perfect for adventure, travel, and your day-to-day.

To get the Fogland Backpack before it hits retail (and at a discount!), preorder directly on our website at https://breakwatersupply.com/product/breakwater-supply-fogland-submersible-waterproof-backpack/. They’re coming in October 2022, and you’ll be emailed with tracking as soon as they ship. We truly can’t wait to get these into your hands we’re as excited to ship them out as you are to get them!

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Alvean Azurin’s Review of the Best Waterproof Backpack of 2022

If you’re in the PWC (Personal Water Craft) community, you know Alvean Azurin. And if you don’t, you should. She documents her adventures on her YouTube channel and they’re absolutely incredible. She recently published an in-depth review of the Breakwater Supply Explorer Backpack, so take a look down below, and when you’re done, make sure to subscribe to her channel to see more.

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Boat Safety Kit Requirements and Must-Haves

“The safety of the shore.”

That phrase has been spoken and written countless times! As much as you love the water, our bodies aren’t made for it, unless you happen to be part mermaid or merman.

We’re designed for land, so when we leave the safety of that last bit of land before the wet stuff, it’s especially important to have the essentials we need when we’re away from shore.

To stay safe on the water, make sure to carry the basics inside of a fully waterproof storage container. Now, how basic is “basic”? Here’s a quick list:

  • Bandages and wrap (gauze or elastic)
  • Sting relief pads
  • Utility tape (duct tape, or waterproof pvc/electrical tape)
  • Rope (at least 10′)
  • Whistle (absolutely essential!)
  • Compass
  • Emergency Blanket
  • Light

These essentials should cover basic emergencies, however keep in mind that the size of your watercraft and the waters you navigate may lead to your requirements being more official. For example, you may need life jackets, fire extinguishers, and visible and audible distress signals. Having USCG (United States Coast Guard) approved equipment in these situations is vital. Visit https://uscgboating.org for more details.

The perfect lightweight boating companion!

Waterproof First Aid Kit for Kayaking, Boating, and the Beach

If you’re looking for a fully waterproof first aid kit for boating or “lake/beach-life,” look no further – our waterproof Marine First Aid Kit comes preloaded with all of the items listed above for basic emergencies. It weighs only 1.3 lbs and includes a heavy-duty locking carabiner to make it easy to clip to a dry bag, kayak, jet-ski, or boat.

It comes in the same type of waterproof dry bag that our Survival First Aid Kit has, while the Marine First Aid Kit is tailored specifically to water emergencies.

Click here to purchase the Breakwater Supply Waterproof Marine First Aid Kit.

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Determining the Best Waterproof Backpack, in Detail

When you’re hauling your gear with you, especially outside, there’s one major factor that determines how exactly you’re going to bring everything along: “What’s the weather?”

Most gear-hauling bags, slings, backpacks, luggage, and carry-cases can deal with 60 seconds of drizzle, but when that rain beats down for 5, 10, 30 minutes, all of your stuff ends up getting soaked.

In addition to weather, activity plays a big role in your bag of choice, too. Shuttling between airports? Need something secure and easy-access. Hiking? Lightweight, comfortable, and holds up to weather. Spending a weekend with friends? Roomy and store your electronics. Kayaking? Make sure it keeps that water out in case it falls in.

With these factors coming in to play, creating a waterproof backpack with the versatility to handle work, play, and travel takes some thought, but we see it as a worthwhile endeavor. We’re committed to creating highly-capable, adventure-ready gear that’s waterproof wherever possible.

We’ll Take Zippers Anyday

One of the biggest reasons we wanted to create a fully waterproof backpack is we see so many roll-top backpacks on the market. Maybe it’s a euro thing, but to us, a backpack needs to have a zipper. The roll-top design is great as a dry bag for water activity, but as everyday backpacks, they’re cumbersome for basic maneuvers like taking a laptop in/out, and they require setting them down completely to open, close, and buckle shut.

Well, there’s one major reason for all of the roll-top bags out there: price. Waterproof zippers are extremely expensive, and roll-top bags avoid this expense.

And when we say “waterproof zipper,” we’re really talking airtight zipper. Cheaper zippers that claim to be waterproof have a small overlap of welded material to keep out a few raindrops. It’s useless if it were to be subjected to a substantial stream of water, or dropped in a lake. But airtight zippers create such a tight seal that the bag will hold air inside it.

And if air can’t flow in and out, you can bet water can’t either.

In addition, there are different levels of airtight zipper. Some airtight zippers require “zipper grease,” and some don’t. The ones that include zipper grease have smaller teeth and extra friction, making them difficult to use. The ones that don’t have larger teeth, are very expensive, operate much smoother, and they’re the type of zipper found on fully waterproof drysuits.

Materials and Seams

In addition to zippers, the material has to be fully waterproof, and the seams where the panels meet have to be sonically welded to avoid the pinholes that form when stitching.

Combining all three of these requirements, creating a fully waterproof zippered backpack is an advanced process, and it generally leads to a very expensive product. There are only about a half-dozen fully waterproof zippered packs on the market, and most are in the $300+ range from big brands. There are also some less expensive ones using inexpensive materials and smaller-teeth zippers that require applying zipper grease, which can permanently stain the fabric of the bag.

As far as materials, TPU-coated fabric is what you want: it’s non-toxic, doesn’t break down, and is extremely durable. However, TPU is just the coating. The actual fabric that’s being coated can range from extremely thin to very thick, and this is usually reflected in the price. Thicker TPU-coated fabric will hold its shape and is effectively molded-in-place, leading to a very unique product.

Breakwater Supply Explorer Backpack Construction

That said, we created the Explorer Backpack using 600D Polyester that’s TPU-coated on both sides. The end result is a medium-weight fabric that keeps shape and is virtually indestructible. It’s difficult to rip, tear, and puncture.

We used a larger-tooth drysuit-grade airtight zipper as the main compartment zipper, and also a similar airtight zipper for the fully waterproof front pocket. This is a big deal because many waterproof backpacks, even those from Filson and Patagonia, do not feature fully waterproof front pockets. They use less-expensive “splash-proof” zippers for their smaller pockets, so if your bag were to fall overboard, anything in the small pocket would get soaked. Also of note, Yeti’s Panga doesn’t feature any additional exterior pockets, not even mesh ones for a water bottle.

We used neoprene padding for the shoulder straps, and molded EVA padding for the back panel. Both of these are fast-drying, non-abrasive, premium materials. Other bags often use abrasive open mesh that soaks up water and takes a long time to dry.

We added reflective features on the front and back, and multiple handles to grab the bag from different storage areas, or from, say, the back seats of your car. The size (20″ x 13″ x 7″) is ideal as a personal item on airplanes, with 25L of capacity, which is enough for a weekend trip.

Protection for Your Electronics

As far as your electronics, it fits a 16″ laptop, plus has a puncture-proof clear pocket on the side for storing a smartphone. What’s cool about the smartphone pocket is you can use this bag on the water and even interact with your phone’s touchscreen through the clear window.

Take a look at the comparison table below:

Material (Higher = Thicker)600D TPU~1200D TPU840D TPU900D TPU~210T TPU~210T TPU
Size25L28L28L28L20L25L
Weight1.9 lbs3.9 lbs3 lbs3.1 lbs1.7 lbs2.3 lbs
Airtight ZippersDrysuit-Grade (Large-Tooth)Drysuit-Grade (Large-Tooth)Drysuit-Grade (Large-Tooth)TRU-Zip Small-ToothSmall-Tooth (with Zipper Grease)Small-Tooth (with Zipper Grease)
Number of Waterproof Pockets2 (Main and Front)1 (Main Compartment Only)1 (Main Compartment Only)1 (Main Compartment Only)1 (Main Compartment Only)1 (Main Compartment Only)
PaddingFast-Drying, Non-Abrasive Neoprene and EVAFast-Drying, Non-Abrasive Neoprene and EVAFast-Drying, Non-Abrasive FoamFast-Drying, Non-Abrasive Neoprene and EVAAbrasive, Slow-Drying Open MeshAbrasive, Slow-Drying Open Mesh
Inflation ValveYesYes
Waist PocketsYesYes
Side Pockets2 (Mesh and Phone Pocket)2 (Mesh and Zip)1 (Mesh)2 (Both Mesh)
Comparison Table of Waterproof Backpacks. Note: “~” refers to an estimated fabric weight, since the exact weight is unpublished.

Weight and Round-Up

As far as weight, Yeti’s Panga comes in at 3.9 lbs, Filson’s Dry Backpack weighs 3 lbs, and Fishpond’s Thunderhead is 3.1 lbs. The Breakwater Supply Explorer Backpack weighs 1.9 lbs.

All told, we created an extremely lightweight, versatile bag that protects all your gear and electronics with fast-drying, non-abrasive padding, an extra smaller front pocket, and a buckle strap for bulky items. It’s got reflective features for safety and uses premium airtight zippers as well. Price-wise, the Explorer Backpack is almost 50% less than the Yeti Panga ($300) and Filson Dry Backpack ($325).

Given all of these factors, it’s why the Breakwater Supply Explorer Backpack is the best waterproof backpack out there, and offers an amazing value at its price.

You can find the Explorer Backpack on our website or click here to purchase from Amazon.

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Best Survival Kit for 2022

survival first aid kit waterproof

First, Some Backstory

During the holidays a few years back, a close friend of ours wanted to put together the perfect gift for a bunch of extended friends and family. The easy part is that she didn’t have to Google things like “best holiday gift”, “best outdoors gift”, or “best gifts for men/women” because her extended circle all shared an indescribable passion for one thing: sailing.

So this immediately allowed her to fast-forward to a great idea: a waterproof emergency first aid kit for boating, sailing, and kayaking. Without the wherewithal to create an entirely customized product from scratch, she visited Amazon, purchased 30 red dry bags, and also purchased the necessary medical supplies herself to put into the bags. She packaged them all up and gave them away. What a true gifting pro.

This immediately led us on our own search: why isn’t there something out there like this? Well, there’s a few similar products. But the quality of what’s out there is…suspect. So we did what the others didn’t, and expanded on Mary’s idea to create the Best First Aid Survival Kit of 2022.

Why the Breakwater Supply Survival First Aid Kit is the Best Waterproof First Aid Kit

For starters, we designed our Survival First Aid Kit to be a combo kit, including both First Aid and Survival supplies. Why choose between injury treatment and survival gear, especially when you’re out there in the middle of wherever?

Take this example: portaging your kayak leaves you with a nasty sprain or even a fracture, so you need to splint yourself up, while the daylight creeps away and rain sets in.

The first thought: ok, we’re kayaking, and also, rain’s coming, so right away, this is why having a waterproof kit is important.

Then you figure you may as well open the emergency blanket, tie or tape up the poncho to keep the rain out, and hunker down until other kayakers hit the river again in the morning, and that way maybe someone can retrieve your car and you can get home without risking further injury. There are a million scenarios that are offshoots of this one. And this is why our kit is an adventure must-have.

Another reason we make the best waterproof survival kit for the outdoors is we’ve eliminated repetitive supplies. We know how important it is to save space and pack light. Other kits out there will try to convince you that you need multiple survival gadgets and gizmos that all do the same thing.

We’ve equipped you with emergency essentials should you need to spend 24-48+ hours off-grid, like the example above. A multitool with an LED light, wire saw, emergency blanket, poncho, duct tape, and paracord bracelet with fire starter is enough to erect emergency shelter, gather firewood, stay dry in the rain, and preserve body heat.

And those are just the survival essentials. For the first aid supplies, you’re supplied with 30 adhesive bandages, compressive and absorbent gauze, first aid tape, and a large triangular bandage for serious wounds (such as headwounds or for a sling). There’s also an elastic tourniquet, ointments, and an 18″ foam/aluminum survival splint, which really is the difference between other dry bag first aid kits and ours.

These are true trauma supplies that would come with a military-issued IFAK (individual first aid kit). Sure, you’ll find these supplies in a comprehensive outdoor first aid kit, but will you find one in a smaller waterproof first aid kit that also includes survival gear?

The combination of high-quality survival and first aid supplies are what makes this kit military-grade and tactical as well. As one of our recent reviews said, “After years in the military, the content reminds me of the things we had in our ‘combat life saver’ bags.”

The Waterproof Dry Bag

We put a lot of thought into the waterproof dry bag that the Survival First Aid Kit comes in. This 2 liter dry bag is made of welded PVC tarpaulin for true waterproof protection. The first aid symbol on the front is 3M reflective for extra visibility, which is especially critical on the water in low light, or hiking. And we didn’t just equip it with any carabiner – we used a heavy-duty locking carabiner made of zinc alloy for corrosion resistance.

It’s very important to be able to keep your survival kit close without having to tuck it into your backpack, where it may take up valuable space. Not only will this bag keep everything dry and protected, but it’s lightweight and flexible, so this kit can fit places that hard plastic or heavy zippered kits can’t.

Other Options

We’re not going to claim we’re the best without recognizing the other options out there. But we’ll also go point-by-point and break down how we’re better. All of the kits below are outdoor survival kits at similar price points.

Breakwater Supply First Aid Survival KitSurviveware Waterproof Small First Aid KitAdventure Medical Kits Ultralight Watertight Medical KitWell-Strong Survival First Aid KitHomestockPlus Survival First Aid KitHomestockPlus Trauma First Aid Kit
WaterproofYesYesYesYes
Survival GearYesYesYesYes
Trauma KitYesYesYesYes
ReflectiveYesYes
Carabiner or BuckleYesYesYesYes
Survival SplintYesYes
Ice PackYes
Weight1.5 lbs1.25 lbs.37 lbs1.2 lbs2.9 lbs2.2 lbs
Comparison Table of First Aid Survival Kits

The Verdict?

You can see the prices in the small Amazon tiles, and as mentioned above we’ve compared kits that are in the same price range. The weights really do span from ultralight (.37 lbs) to fairly heavy (2.9 lbs). When it comes to contents themselves, the bag with the most similar capabilities to the Breakwater Supply Survival First Aid Kit is the HomestockPlus Survival First Aid Kit, however it’s not waterproof, weighs twice as much, and costs 15% more.

We’ve put a lot of thought and development into making our Survival First Aid Kit the most cost-effective, trail-ready, and space-saving kit you can buy. No other kit features the combination of survival and trauma supplies, with a locking carabiner, survival splint, and completely waterproof, reflective bag.

We actually oversupply you with equipment in this kit, and specifically include in the hang-tag that you should customize the kit to your specifications.

If you’re around or on the water, your kit needs to be waterproof. Boaters, kayakers, surfers, and paddleboarders, this goes for you!
A reflective first aid symbol on the front adds safety and could help make you seen in an emergency situation.
The heavy-duty carabiner on our Survival First Aid Kit allows you to clip it to your pack, on your kayak/boat/paddleboard, or in your vehicle.

We put together this article as a comparison of why we make a special product. We know what it takes to make a versatile emergency survival kit so we’re qualified to evaluate different options. Other survival kits from MyMedic and Uncharted Supply Co aren’t on this list because they cost several hundred dollars. We’re about doing things in a more streamlined way, which allows us to make high-quality, yet affordable products.

The winner? It’s you, because at the price of our kit, you get to save space, weight, money, and potentially yourself. Of course, be prepared anytime you venture off the beaten path, and everyone’s situation is different, so if there’s something we left out or there’s something in a different kit that’s necessary for you, we get it – though you can always customize our kit on your own. We’re not offering medical advice, but we are encouraging you to get out there and explore safely.

You can buy our Survival First Aid Kit on our website or buy the Breakwater Supply Survival First Aid Kit from Amazon here.