Backpack in a rainy city

Hmm i'd first like to point out that i know very little about backpacks in general and about the materials that go into it. Strictly.. looking for the word "rainproof" only leads me to slappa..so i think it's one of those company-buzznames.

Recently it has started to rain very hard in my city (vancouver) and im' also needing a new backpack ( i do not like messenger bags at all)..so it got me thinking....
I mean i can actually wrench out water from the bottom and sides of my backpack when i get on the bus, forming a small puddle.

I'd like to purchase a backpack for a 15'inch notebook, but the thing is that when i'm waiting for the bus to come, there is a high chance i will get drenched. Even with an umbrella mostly protecting my bag and exposing my face..i still get drenched (carrying a large umbrella is bothersome enough). I figure that a 15'4 inch designed backpack would be tight on down on the notebook and a lil loose across..but it should be acceptable.

I've read about a rain cover, but i'd like more opinoins and explanations.
Thanks in advance.

 

I am using the Metro Messenger but the backpack has the same waterproof lining.
http://www.timbuk2.com/tb2/retail/catalog.htm?categoryId=63&skusetId=122

It does well in rain drenched Seattle.

 

It's too bad you don't like messenger bags, because that external flap which covers the zipper is really good for extra protection against the rain. I have a hard time trusting an exposed zipper when my laptop is inside.

 

I mean the problem with messenger bags is that it makes me feel lopsided. But yea i can see that messenger bags have that external flap... heh.

I mean most of the time i would think thicker fabrics would suffice in the rain but then again i dont have the expereince.

 

I was at Staples a week ago and I saw this from Targus (Voyager):

http://www.targus.com/ca/product_details.asp?sku=TSB01101CA

Basically the rain protection is in the form of a large nylon covering that goes over the ENTIRE bag. It seems like a sturdy bag anyhow.

 

Until you find one you like, there is always the cheap "It'll do in a hurry" solution:
Take plastic garbage bags and wrap all your backpacks contents in them and then seal them as best you can inside the backpack. It's worked for me on more than one occasion. Just make sure that you have a decent umbrella with you as well.

 

There is a really good solution to your problem.

Go to a place that sells shoes. They usually carry something call "Sneaks protector: Water and Stain Repellent". Get a bottle of those and spray it on your bag. I think there are specific ones for cloths and other materials. The coating last for 1-2 months depending on the weather.

I keep my bags and shoes nice and clean! Can't afford to get my Juicy Couture bags wet! Hehe


PS. Oh, you can get it at Foot Locker!

 

They're not always called "Sneaks protector: Water and Stain Repellent". When looking for such items just make sure it is a silicon based treatment. Practically all brands are silicon based solutions. Also keep in mind that It only "REPELLS", it doesn't make it water proof. Get caught in a major down pour and you soon realize the the limitations of the spray. Shure it's a good temporary fix for light rain, but take it from someone with years of experience in the field with this stuff, it will help but not fix the waterproof issue.
Actually, trashbags are more water resistant than the spray, but the spray is more convenient.
One more warning, don't overuse/overspray because it could cause the material to crack over time.

 

I would go with the Timbuk2. At $90, not a bad deal for the quality and feature of the bag.
Waterproof inner lining and the zippers have a water resistant cover. Unless you put the bag under a facet, the elements of the PNW will be fine.
They have other styles with a flap cover , but I am not sure they are waterproof.


Visit these guys to see the bag .
Larry's Cycle
535 Lawrence Ave.
Kelowna, BC V1Y 6L8
Canada
250.762.4920

 

www.chromebags.com

These are waterproof as long as you keep them upright or dont dip them past the opening at the top. The inside is a thick pvc liner that is actually completely separate from the exterior of the bag. I have one of their messengers (they have backpacks too) and it has saved my papers EVERYTIME i have been caught in the rain without an umbrella which seems to be everytime it rains... I did a review of my bag, I think there's a link in my sig

 

Leather anyone? Just treat or condition the leather and you are good to go. Right?

 

When carrying my laptop in my backpack when rain could be on the cards i wrap it up in some sort of waterproof plastic, a couple of plastic bags or some flexible plastic sheet if i have it, works great

 

Perhaps this would be useful for those who don't have a waterproof backpack. I haven't purchase one so I cannot say first hand if it works. Hopefully this helps.

http://www.mec.ca/Products/product_detail.jsp?PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=845524441771863&FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=2534374302883030&bmUID=1164938864209

 

but then your papers get wet. the thing about a timbuk2 or chrome bag is that it keeps everything dry all the time, and has a durable interior.

 

Point well taken, and I totally agree. Yes, the notebook is very important, but so is the paper that is worth 50% of your overall mark and due on the day it was raining.