How To Pack For A Day Trip With A Lightweight Waterproof Backpack

At Red Equipment, we’ve evolved our waterproof backpack range to make getting outdoors and embracing your sense of adventure easier than ever before. While we’re huge lovers of ambitious trips, we also know that you can’t beat getting out for the day and exploring, whether that’s on the water, by the water, or further inland.

Day trips and life’s daily adventures come with their own packing challenges, and when you know you’ll be out for a finite amount of time, there’s no need to get bogged down with bulky kit. However, you’ll still want to be prepared for whatever the environment and elements throw at you, and have enough supplies stowed away to stay comfortable throughout your day trip. This is why we’ve created our lightweight waterproof backpack range, featuring two versatile and comfortable waterproof backpacks designed to keep your daily essentials dry and close to hand, whatever you’ve got planned. 

Here’s how to pack yours for a hassle-free time in the outdoors…

Step 1) Choose Your Size

Before you get stuck into packing your lightweight waterproof backpack for your plans, you’ll naturally need to decide which size is most appropriate. There are two different options available: a 22L and a 35L backpack. While both are built from bulk-free recycled nylon Taslan to stop you getting weighed down and feature a roll top closure for full protection from the elements, the 22L lightweight waterproof backpack is particularly ideal for shorter adventures and solo adventurers. It’s compact and perfect for carrying all of the main essentials like spare layers, snacks, and your valuables.

If you’re heading out for longer, however, or have the rest of the family in tow, the 35L lightweight waterproof backpack is probably your best bet. With that extra capacity, you can carry layers and waterproofs for everybody, or more specialist gear for changing outdoor conditions. 

Step 2) Stash Your Valuables

It’s no coincidence that our lightweight waterproof backpacks come with more than just a main compartment. We understand that there is a wide range of items you’ll need to take on any day trip with you, and that having things like valuables separate, secure, and easily accessible is key. Both the 22L and 35L lightweight backpacks feature a handy external zip pocket with this in mind, which is perfect for stashing valuables such as your phone and keys without them getting bogged down at the bottom of the bag.

Step 3) Utilise Side Pockets For Hydration

As well as the external zip pocket, you’ll also find two stretch side stash pockets on our lightweight waterproof backpacks. Hydration is non-negotiable on any day trip, and these pockets are designed with this in mind as they are perfectly sized to hold a water bottle or flask securely without needing to unroll the main compartment every time you want a drink. 

With hydration sorted on one side, you can even make the most of the other side pocket for something like a map or your suncream so that it’s in easy reach. 

Step 4) Make The Most Of The Main Pouch

The main roll-top compartment is where you’ll be packing most of your day trip essentials. This fuss-free, expansive compartment has space for everything you might need, including spare clothing, food, and a towel. As we’ve touched upon already, the 35L version will have space for added extras too, whether that’s spare footwear or an extra change of clothes for the kids. Plus, the roll-top design adds flexibility as you can adjust volume depending on how much you’re carrying, all in the comfort that your belongings are completely protected from splashes and spills. 

Step 5) Pack For Comfort & Convenience 

How you pack your lightweight waterproof backpack is just as important as what you pack. While our bags are built for comfort with an ergonomic design and comfortable padded shoulder straps, you can ensure that your carrying is as comfy as it should be by balancing the load properly.

Start by placing the heaviest items at the bottom of the main compartment, closest to your back. Softer items like extra layers can then be used as padding to protect fragile gear. Equally, items you’re more likely to reach for throughout the day trip are best packed closer to the top of the main compartment if not in the easy-access pockets, as this saves you from needless rummaging. 

We hope that these tips have helped you make the most of your lightweight waterproof backpack, but don’t hesitate to get in touch with our expert team if you have any questions. You can shop the full range of lightweight waterproof backpacks online at Red Equipment now.