Backpack rain cover

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Backpack rain cover

Postby backpackpack » Tue Oct 15, 2013 4:09 pm

Hello again. I have a question about backpack rain covers. They look like a giant shower cap kind of but they offer no protection for the side that goes against the back. How does that keep it dry? Won't water run down the back of my raincoat and soak the backpack in a real downpour? I just don't see how that could keep it totally dry.

Thanks for your answers!
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Postby KathyW » Tue Oct 15, 2013 4:52 pm

Lining your backpack with a garbage bag works better than using a backpack rain cover. All your stuff will stay nice and dry in the garbage bag inside the pack. The garbage bag liner works great in snow too because then you can flop your pack on the ground and sit on it - both the stuff in your pack and your butt will stay dry.
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Re: Backpack rain cover

Postby Hikin_Jim » Tue Oct 15, 2013 7:35 pm

backpackpack wrote:they offer no protection for the side that goes against the back. How does that keep it dry? Won't water run down the back of my raincoat and soak the backpack in a real downpour?
That's exactly what will happen. You've got two choices: A poncho or as Kathy suggests a liner of some type. A poncho can be worn over both person and backpack. A liner is generally better protection, but I don't like messing with liners, so I don't use them unless I expect rain.

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Backpacking stove reviews and information:  Adventures In Stoving
Personal hiking blog: Hikin' Jim's Blog
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Postby Jeff66 » Tue Oct 15, 2013 7:37 pm

I've found trash compactor bags work best.
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Postby backpackpack » Tue Oct 15, 2013 11:03 pm

Hmm... it seems like a liner could rip while I am cramming tons of stuff into my pack. I guess I will just try a few things out. A big poncho seems like it would work well. I guess I will experiment. Thanks everyone!
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Postby Screerider » Wed Oct 16, 2013 6:01 am

http://www.sixmoondesigns.com/tarps/GatewoodCape.html

http://www.hyperlitemountaingear.com/sacks.html

http://www.ula-equipment.com/product_p/epic.htm

Turkey oven bags.

...or carry two 10 cent trash bags in case one rips and leave your collection of sharp objects at home.

There are few things in my pack that will rip a trash bag. Take a little care.
Unless the DEA is coming in with choppers, I rarely pack in a hurry.
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"tons of stuff"

Postby Screerider » Wed Oct 16, 2013 6:05 am

Lighten up and enjoy the trip.
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Postby Hikin_Jim » Wed Oct 23, 2013 11:09 am

Trash compactor bags have a good reputation as being strong enough for use as a pack liner.

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Backpacking stove reviews and information:  Adventures In Stoving
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zip locks and camp dry

Postby Jill G » Wed Oct 23, 2013 11:25 am

I put everything inside in zip lock bags (whatever brand you choose) and spray the outside of my pack with Kiwi Camp Dry fabric protector for a water repellent layer.
If there is a good chance of heavy rain also carry a WP OutdoorProducts brand pack cover from Wally World (Walmart) $5, fits just about every pack and has cinch cords to tighten it around the sides and top.
And I'm one who LOATHES a wet pack.
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