Choosing the right backpack for your adventures isn’t always easy (we get lots of questions about which pack is the best fit), especially when comparing our 18L, 28L, and 30L waterproof backpacks. While the 18L and 30L share a similar streamlined design, the 28L has a noticeably different shape, layout, and closure system, making each pack suited to different types of trips and everyday use.
To help you find the right fit, we’ve put together a side-by-side comparison covering size, capacity, design, closure, and typical use cases, along with a few practical tips and insights to make choosing your next DryTide pack a little easier.
| 28L Point Nemo | 30L Waterproof Backpack | 18L Waterproof Backpack | 50L Waterproof Travel Backpack | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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| Capacity | 28 L | 30 L | 18 L | 50 L |
| Closure | Airtight waterproof zipper | Roll top | Roll top | Roll top |
| Water Protection | Maximum | Very high | Very high | Very high |
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Dimensions (L × W × H) |
30 × 20 × 48 cm 11.8 × 7.9 × 18.9 in |
32 × 17 × 55 cm 12.6 × 6.7 × 21.7 in |
29 × 14 × 49 cm 11.4 × 5.5 × 19.3 in |
33 × 25 × 66 cm 13 × 10 × 23.6 in |
| Carry On | Yes* | Yes* | Yes* | No |
| Weight | 1.1 kg / 2.4 lbs | 1.3 kg / 2.9 lbs | 1.2 kg / 2.6 lbs | 1.8 kg / 4.0 lbs |
| Height When Extended | Fixed height | 68 cm / 26.8 in | 63 cm / 24.8 in | 77 cm / 30.3 in |
| Best For | Kayaking, SUP, boating, sailing, fishing, photography, drones, marine work, field work and other wet environments. | Travel, hiking, camping, kayaking, SUP, cycling, motorcycle travel, beach days and general outdoor adventures. | Everyday rain, commuting, cycling, city trips, beach days, short trips and lighter outdoor activities. | Longer travel, camping, hiking, road trips, van life, motorcycle travel, fishing, professional field work and multi-day loads. |
| Choose If | You want maximum waterproof protection and fast access with an airtight zipper | You want a versatile all-around backpack with flexible roll-top capacity | You want a compact, lightweight backpack for everyday use and shorter trips | You need extra capacity for larger loads and longer trips |
| Shop | View Point Nemo | View 30L | View 18L | View 50L |
*Carry-on size limits vary between airlines, and the actual size of a roll-top backpack also depends on how fully it is packed. Always check your airline’s current baggage dimensions and weight limits before travelling.
**All measurements were taken with the backpacks lying flat on a level surface.
The right waterproof bag depends on three things: how much you carry, whether you carry it on your back or mainly transport it, and how much water exposure you expect.
Choose a size that fits what you normally carry. Generally, choose 18L for everyday essentials, commuting and smaller loads. Choose 30L for a versatile all-round backpack that works for travel, outdoor activities and day trips. Choose 50L when you carry more clothing, camping gear or equipment for longer trips.
Waterproof backpacks allow you to walk, hike, cycle and travel while keeping your hands free. All DryTide backpacks come with padded shoulder straps, a padded back, a padded hip belt and a sternum strap, allowing you to adjust the fit and carry the backpack comfortably and securely. If carrying your gear on your back is not a priority, a waterproof duffel or a regular dry bag may be a better option.
All DryTide bags and backpacks feature waterproof fabric, HF-welded seams and a waterproof closure. This provides reliable protection from rain, splashes and wet conditions. When properly closed, all DryTide backpacks can also float on the water for extended periods while keeping your gear dry. For most people, this covers virtually all of the wet conditions they are likely to encounter.
The differences between different waterproof bags and backpacks become more relevant in extreme conditions, particularly prolonged submersion. All DryTide roll-top backpacks can also withstand accidental submersion when properly closed and have been extensively tested in real-world conditions. Point Nemo takes water protection a step further with its airtight zipper closure, making it the most water-focused backpack in the DryTide range and the better choice when you want maximum protection. However, we don’t recommend intentionally pushing any backpack underwater.
And finally, looks matter too. Choose the design you like, you’ll be carrying it.
Travel can mean moving between rain, boats, beaches, airports, cities and outdoor activities. A waterproof backpack helps protect passports, cameras, chargers, toiletries and a dry change of clothes as you move between destinations.
Rain, wet trails, waterfalls and changing weather are part of many hiking and camping trips. A waterproof backpack helps keep food, sleeping gear, maps, first-aid supplies and spare layers dry on the trail. It can also provide a secure place for gear when setting up camp in damp conditions.
Water is part of the activity, so your gear may be exposed to spray, splashes, waves and wet decks. A waterproof backpack keeps dry clothes, snacks, towels, cameras and safety equipment protected while you are on the water. Afterwards, it can also be used to carry wet gear without soaking everything else.
On boats, gear can be exposed to spray, rain and wet surfaces throughout the day. Waterproof storage helps protect phones, navigation devices, documents, food and personal belongings, while larger bags can carry jackets, towels or spare equipment for longer trips.
Fishing often means spending hours around water, with wet surfaces, spray and changing weather. A waterproof backpack helps keep tackle, bait, lunch, spare layers and personal items organized and protected. It is also useful for storing valuables when moving between the shore, boat and fishing spot.
If you cycle or walk to work in changing weather, the goal is simple: arrive with your laptop, documents and daily essentials dry. A waterproof backpack can also carry a packed lunch, gym clothes, shoes and small work accessories without needing an additional rain cover.
Motorcycle riders can be exposed to rain and road spray with little warning. Waterproof storage helps protect spare layers, gloves, tools, documents and personal belongings during the ride. It also makes it easier to keep wet riding gear separate from everything else when you arrive.
Road trips and van life combine travel, camping and outdoor activities. A waterproof backpack can carry cooking supplies, towels, camera gear, groceries or beach equipment as you move between the vehicle, campsite and water. It is especially useful when wet gear needs to be transported without making the rest of the van damp.
Cameras, lenses, drones and other equipment can be particularly vulnerable to rain and wet environments. Waterproof storage adds protection when you hike to a shooting location, work near the coast or operate from a boat. It can hold camera bodies, lenses, batteries, memory cards and a drone while keeping them together and easier to transport.
Lifeguards, marine workers, guides, researchers and other professionals may spend long periods outdoors in wet environments. Waterproof storage helps protect radios, notebooks, measuring equipment, first-aid supplies and personal gear while working in challenging conditions.
Beach and lake days often involve a mix of dry belongings, wet equipment, sand and splashes. A waterproof backpack can carry towels, sunscreen, books, snacks and valuables while helping keep sand and grit from getting into the rest of your gear. It also provides a practical place for wet swimsuits, sandals and other beach equipment afterwards.
You do not need to be an outdoor enthusiast to benefit from waterproof gear. A rainy walk across town, a wet commute or an unexpected downpour can put work documents, groceries, headphones and everyday belongings at risk. Waterproof storage offers simple protection without needing to stop and cover your bag.
Choose a backpack when you expect to walk, hike, cycle or carry your gear over longer distances. It keeps your hands free while distributing the load comfortably across your back. A duffel is a better choice when you mainly transport gear by car, boat or motorcycle, or move it between locations. Its wide opening makes it easy to pack, unpack and access wet gear, clothing and bulkier equipment.
We calculated the volume of each backpack based on its dimensions. This method proved quite accurate for the more box-shaped 18L and 30L backpacks. For Point Nemo, because of its rounded shape, calculating volume from external dimensions slightly overestimates the usable capacity. To get a more realistic measurement, we also tested the true carrying capacity of each backpack by filling them with water.
Here are the results:
The measured volume of the 18L backpack is approximately
20–22L
depending on how tightly you roll down the top closure. Rolling the closure less tightly can provide around 2L of additional space while keeping the backpack closed. If you leave the top completely open, the total capacity increases by approximately 4L compared with the most tightly rolled configuration. However, the backpack is no longer fully closed or waterproof in this position.
The measured volume of the 28L Point Nemo backpack is approximately
24L
Unlike our roll-top backpacks, the Point Nemo features a fixed-shape design, so its capacity cannot be expanded or adjusted. Its more rounded profile also means the real-world measured volume comes out slightly lower than the calculated volume based on dimensions alone.
The measured volume of the 30L daypack is approximately
29–31L
depending on how tightly you roll down the top closure. Rolling the closure less tightly can provide around 2L of additional space while keeping the backpack closed. If you leave the top completely open, the total capacity increases by approximately 4L compared with the most tightly rolled configuration. However, the backpack is no longer fully closed or waterproof in this position.
We didn’t test the 50L Waterproof Travel Backpack because it is significantly larger than the other three, making a direct size comparison less meaningful. With 50L of capacity, its use case is also much more clearly defined when you need to carry a larger load for multi-day trips or extended adventures.
Here you can see all three backpacks photographed side by side. The difference in external size is surprisingly small, especially between the 18L and 30L backpacks, which share the same roll-top design. The real difference becomes noticeable once you start packing. The 30L comfortably carries bulkier gear, such as an extra sweater, towel or additional layers, making it a better choice for longer day trips and travel.
For everyday use or users with a smaller frame, the 18L Waterproof Backpack or the Point Nemo Airtight Backpack are often the more natural fit. Although Point Nemo has a nominal capacity of 28 litres, its rounded shape and airtight zipper result in a usable packing space that feels closer to the 18L (but still bigger). In return, you get faster access to your gear, the highest level of waterproof protection in the DryTide range, and a more rounded silhouette that resembles a traditional backpack rather than a typical roll-top waterproof backpack.
Here are examples of people wearing backpacks for real life backpack size comparison. The male model is 182 cm tall (6 ft), and the female model is 174 cm tall (5ft 9″).
Is 18L enough for everyday use?
Yes. The 18L Waterproof Backpack is designed specifically for everyday carry. It easily fits daily essentials like a laptop, charger, water bottle, lunch, an extra layer and other personal items. If you mainly use your backpack for commuting, work, school or short outdoor trips, 18 litres is enough for most people while keeping the backpack compact and lightweight.
Is 30L too big for everyday use?
Not at all. While the 30L Waterproof Backpack offers noticeably more space than the 18L, its slim design makes it comfortable for everyday use. Many customers choose it because the extra capacity is useful for the gym, groceries, travel or carrying additional clothing, without feeling oversized during daily commutes.
Why does Point Nemo hold less than 28 litres?
Point Nemo’s airtight waterproof zipper and rounded construction create a different internal shape than a traditional roll-top backpack. While its nominal capacity is 28 litres, the usable packing space is closer to 24 litres. This is because the airtight zipper and rounded design prioritise maximum waterproof protection over expandable storage. In return, you get superior waterproof protection, faster access to your gear than with a roll-top closure, and a rounded silhouette that looks and feels more like a traditional backpack than a typical waterproof roll-top backpack.
While Point Nemo is officially rated at 28 litres, its practical packing capacity is closer to 24 litres due to its airtight zipper and rounded construction. Future production batches will reflect this measured capacity more accurately.
Which backpack fits a 16-inch laptop?
All three backpacks can fit most 16-inch laptops. For the best protection, we recommend using the optional DryTide Laptop Sleeve (either padded or waterproof version), which attaches securely inside the backpack using the integrated Velcro mounting system. This keeps your laptop protected while preventing it from moving around inside the main compartment.
Which backpack is best for airline carry-on?
The 18L Waterproof Backpack, 30L Waterproof Backpack and 28L Point Nemo Airtight Backpack are all suitable for carry-on travel with most airlines. Because they have a flexible construction without a rigid frame, their overall size also depends on how fully they are packed. Unlike a hard-shell suitcase, they can compress slightly when not filled to capacity. If you frequently travel by air, the 30L is the most versatile choice, although when packed completely full it may exceed the carry-on size limits of some airlines. The 18L is the safest option if you prefer travelling light or regularly fly with stricter baggage allowances.
Which backpack is best for hiking?
It depends on the type of hiking you do. The 30L Waterproof Backpack is the best all-round choice for most hikes thanks to its versatile capacity and roll-top design. If your adventures regularly involve river crossings, waterfalls, heavy rain or wet conditions, the 28L Point Nemo Airtight Backpack offers the highest level of waterproof protection. For shorter day hikes and everyday outdoor use, the 18L Waterproof Backpack is a lightweight and compact option.
Does the 30L Backpack Look Much Bigger Than Point Nemo?
Not really. Although the 30L Waterproof Backpack offers noticeably more usable storage space, the overall external dimensions of the two backpacks are surprisingly similar. The main difference comes from their design. The 30L uses a roll-top closure that provides more flexible packing capacity, while Point Nemo uses an airtight waterproof zipper and a rounded shape that gives it a more traditional backpack appearance. If you need more packing space for clothing or bulkier gear, the 30L is the better choice. If maximum waterproof protection is your priority, Point Nemo is the better option.
Does the 30L Backpack Hold Much More Than Point Nemo?
Yes. Although the two backpacks have similar external dimensions, the 30L offers noticeably more usable packing space. Its roll-top closure allows the main compartment to expand, while Point Nemo’s airtight zipper and rounded construction prioritise waterproof performance and quick access over maximum storage volume.
Is the 50L Waterproof Travel Backpack Suitable for Carry-On?
The 50L Waterproof Travel Backpack is larger than standard carry-on luggage, so it is generally too big for carry-on when fully packed. However, because it has no rigid parts, it can be compressed considerably. If you pack it lightly and do not fill it to its full capacity, you may be able to fit it within carry-on size limits.
For regular air travel, the 18L, 28L Point Nemo, and 30L backpacks are better suited to carry-on use. Always check your airline’s current size and weight limits before travelling.
For a compact everyday pack, choose 18L. For the most versatile all-round waterproof backpack, choose 30L. For long trips and larger carried loads, choose 50L. For frequent water exposure, choose Point Nemo. For large or wet gear that is mainly transported, choose the 50L Waterproof Duffel Bag.
You can also contact us with your questions.
