Comparison of the top 5 materials for waterproof bags

You can find waterproof bags made from five main types of waterproof bag material. These are PVC, TPU, nylon, polyester, and PU-coated nylon. Each waterproof bag material has its own special qualities. PVC is tough and keeps out water, making it a popular choice for outdoor use. TPU is bendy and light, often found in gear designed for professionals. Nylon is strong yet lightweight, making it ideal for travel and hiking. Polyester is affordable and durable, suitable for everyday bags. PU-coated nylon offers excellent water resistance and flexibility. When comparing these waterproof bag materials, consider their waterproof capabilities, strength, weight, and flexibility. Additionally, check the price and whether the waterproof bag material meets your specific needs.

Here is a quick look at their characteristics and common uses:

Key Takeaways

• Pick the best material for what you need. PVC is strong and works well outside. TPU is light and good for the environment.
• Look at waterproof ratings before you buy. Higher ratings give more protection from water and dust.
• Find bags with strong parts like welded seams. Roll-top closures help keep your things dry.
• Think about how heavy and bendy the bag is. Ripstop nylon is light and great for trips. PVC is heavier and good for tough use.
• Think about how much money you want to spend. Polyester is a good choice for daily use. PU-coated nylon costs more but keeps water out very well.

What Makes a Waterproof Bag Material

Key Properties

When you shop for waterproof bags, you want to know what makes a material keep water out. There are some important things to look for.

• Waterproof Ratings: These ratings show how well a bag blocks water and dust. You might see numbers like IPX6 or IPX7. Bigger numbers mean the bag protects better.
• Material and Coating Types: Materials like nylon, PVC, and TPU have special coatings. These coatings help stop water and make the bag stronger.
• Construction Methods: Welded seams, roll-top closures, and waterproof zippers keep water from getting inside. Good construction helps a lot.
• Abrasion Resistance: Tough materials last longer and protect your bag from scratches.
• Longevity: Strong materials help your bag last for years, even if you use it a lot.

Tip: Not every bag can be put underwater. Some bags only keep out water for a short time or in light rain.

Measuring Waterproofness

You can test how waterproof a bag is by using science tests. These tests show how much water a material can handle before it leaks.

You can also look for millimeter ratings. These ratings tell you how much water pressure a fabric can take. If you want to use your bag in heavy rain or water sports, check these numbers before you buy.

Overview of Best Waterproof Fabrics

Top 5 Waterproof Bag Materials

When you want a waterproof bag, you have many choices. Each material has its own good points. Here are the top five materials you should know:

These materials are used in lots of waterproof bags. Each one helps keep your things dry and safe.

Why These Materials

You want these fabrics because they keep your stuff dry. Cordura fabric is very strong and does not get damaged easily. Oxford cloth is soft and cheap, so it is good for daily bags. Nylon is light and strong, so it works well for hiking or travel. PVC is tough and protects against water, sun, and chemicals. TPU is bendy and strong, and it is better for the earth because you can recycle it.

Bag makers choose these materials because they block water and last a long time. For example, 420D Spectron and X-Pac RX30 are great for heavy rain. Ballistic nylon is good for steady rain and daily use. Lighter fabrics like Halcyon and Cerylon are best for sunny days with little rain.

Tip: If you need a bag for bad weather, pick a material that is very waterproof and strong.

You can pick the right material for your needs. If you play sports, travel, or use your bag every day, check what each fabric does best.

PVC Waterproof Bags

Waterproof Performance

You want your waterproof bags to keep your gear dry in any weather. PVC stands out for its waterproof performance. The hydrostatic head rating tells you how much water pressure the material can handle before it leaks. PVC waterproof bag materials often reach ratings above 5,000 mm. This means you can trust them in heavy rain or even when splashed by waves. Lower ratings like 1,000 mm or 2,000 mm work for light showers, but most PVC bags offer much better protection. You can count on PVC for top waterproof performance when you need it most.

Tip: Always check the hydrostatic head rating if you plan to use your bag in wet conditions.

Durability

PVC gives you strong durability. The material resists scratches and can handle rough use. PVC tarpaulins match high-grade vinyl tarps in abrasion resistance, surviving thousands of cycles in tests. Reinforced PVC, which uses polyester weaves, offers even better puncture resistance. Tear strengths range from 150 to 400 Newtons, so your bag can take a beating without falling apart. If you need a bag for outdoor adventures, PVC will last longer than many other materials.

Weight & Flexibility

You may notice that PVC waterproof bags feel heavier than nylon or polyester bags. The weight of PVC fabric is measured in grams per square meter (GSM). Most waterproof bags use PVC fabric between 450 and 750 GSM. Heavier PVC means thicker and tougher material, but it also adds weight. Lighter PVC bags use 450 GSM, while heavy-duty bags use 700 GSM or more. PVC is not as flexible as TPU, but it still bends enough for most uses.

Cost

You will find that PVC waterproof bags cost less than bags made from TPU or high-end nylon. PVC is easy to produce, so manufacturers can offer lower prices. If you want strong waterproof performance without spending a lot, PVC is a smart choice. You get good value for your money, especially for outdoor or sports bags.

Use Cases

PVC waterproof bags work best for outdoor activities. You can use them for kayaking, boating, camping, or fishing. Many people choose PVC bags for water sports because of their waterproof performance and durability. You might also see PVC bags used for work gear, emergency kits, or travel in wet climates. If you need a bag that keeps water out and stands up to tough use, PVC is a reliable option.

TPU Waterproof Bag Material

Waterproof Rating

When you look for waterproof bags, you want to know how well the material keeps water out. TPU, or thermoplastic polyurethane, stands out with a waterproof rating of IPX8. This means you can trust TPU to protect your gear even in extreme wet conditions. You can use TPU bags for activities like kayaking or hiking in heavy rain. The waterproof rating shows that TPU keeps your belongings dry, even if you drop your bag in water.

Tip: Always check the waterproof rating before you buy a bag for outdoor adventures.

Strength & Sustainability

You may wonder how strong and eco-friendly TPU is compared to other materials. TPU offers high strength and resists scratches. It also supports sustainability because you can recycle up to 95% of TPU. The material breaks down in 3–5 years, while PVC takes over 500 years. TPU also has a smaller carbon footprint and does not release harmful toxins when burned.

• TPU is more eco-friendly than PVC.
• TPU produces fewer emissions during manufacturing.
• TPU does not contain chlorine, reducing harmful toxins.

Weight & Flexibility

You want a bag that feels light and bends easily. TPU gives you excellent flexibility, making it easy to pack and carry. The weight of a 20L TPU bag is usually 200–250 grams, lighter than PVC but heavier than nylon. You can see how TPU compares to other materials:

Cost

You may notice that TPU waterproof bags cost more than PVC or nylon bags. The price depends on the size and brand. Here is a quick look at the price range for TPU bags:

• Trudave Waterproof Backpack, Floating TPU Coated Dry Bag: $89.99 USD (originally $99.99 USD)
• 0.2mm transparent TPU fabric, Raincoat Waterproof Bag PVC Fabric: SGD 3.83+ (original price SGD 4.03+)

Use Cases

You can use TPU waterproof bags for many activities. These bags work well for water sports, hiking, camping, and travel. You may choose TPU if you want a bag that is light, flexible, and eco-friendly. TPU bags also suit professionals who need reliable waterproof protection in tough environments.

Ripstop Nylon Waterproof Bags

Water Resistance

You want your bag to keep things dry. Ripstop nylon helps because it has a tight weave. This weave blocks water, but it does not make the bag fully waterproof. You need a special coating like PU or TPU for that. If the denier rating is higher, the fabric blocks more water. A strong coating helps even more. The Hydrostatic Head rating shows how much water the fabric can take before it leaks. Check this rating if you want to use your bag in heavy rain.

• Ripstop nylon blocks water with its tight weave.
• PU or TPU coatings make it more waterproof.
• Higher denier means better water resistance.
• Hydrostatic Head rating shows how much water it can handle.

Tip: Make sure your ripstop nylon bag has a waterproof coating for extra safety.

Durability

Ripstop nylon is known for being tough. It has a grid pattern that stops small tears from getting bigger. This makes your bag last longer, even if you use it a lot. Ripstop nylon is stronger than polyester and PVC. It has better tearing strength and resists scratches well. The table below compares ripstop nylon to other materials:

Weight & Flexibility

You want a bag that is light and easy to carry. Ripstop nylon is a good choice for this. A 70D ripstop nylon fabric weighs about 1.89 ounces per square yard. That is about 64.1 grams per square meter. This low weight makes it great for hiking and travel. Ripstop nylon is also flexible. You can fold or pack your bag without any trouble.

Cost

Ripstop nylon costs more than polyester. Nylon uses pricier materials and is harder to make. Polyester backpacks are usually 10%–20% cheaper than nylon ones. Bulk PET resin costs about $1.00–$1.20 per kg. Nylon 6,6 resin costs $1.20–$1.50 per kg. For fabric, 600D polyester is $2.50–$3.50 per yard. 600D nylon is $3.00–$4.50 per yard. Nylon lasts longer, but you pay more for it.

• Polyester is cheaper than nylon.
• Nylon costs $2.00 to $6.00 per yard.
• Polyester costs $1.00 to $3.00 per yard.

Use Cases

Ripstop nylon waterproof bags are good for many things. You can use them for hiking, camping, or travel. These bags are light, resist tears, and last a long time. Many people pick ripstop nylon for outdoor trips. It gives a good mix of light weight, strength, and water resistance. If you need a bag for daily use or sports, ripstop nylon works well and lasts.

Polyester Waterproof Bag Materials

Waterproof Level

You want a bag that keeps your things dry. Polyester stands out as a durable and affordable choice for waterproof bags. This material blocks water well, especially when coated with PVC or TPU. You can trust polyester to resist rain and splashes. Many brands use polyester tarpaulin for extra protection. Polyester also handles regular use without losing its waterproof qualities.

• Polyester is durable and affordable.
• It is lightweight, flexible, and easy to clean.
• The material resists abrasion and UV rays.
• PVC- or TPU-coated polyester is called tarpaulin.

Note: Polyester works best when you need a bag for everyday use or light outdoor activities.

Durability

Polyester gives you strong durability. You can use your bag every day, and it will still look good. The fabric resists scratches and does not fade quickly in sunlight. Polyester stands up to rough handling and keeps its shape. You do not have to worry about your bag tearing easily. Many people choose polyester for school, work, or travel because it lasts a long time.

Weight & Flexibility

You want a bag that feels light and easy to carry. Polyester is a popular choice because it is lightweight. You can pack your bag without feeling weighed down. The fabric bends easily, so you can fold or roll your bag when you need to store it. Polyester is hydrophobic, which means it repels water and dries fast. This helps keep your gear dry and makes cleaning simple.

• Polyester is lightweight, perfect for luggage.
• The fabric is flexible and comfortable to use.
• It repels water and dries quickly.

Cost

You do not have to spend much to get a polyester bag. The average cost per meter of polyester material for waterproof bags ranges from $1.50 to $2.50. This makes polyester a budget-friendly option. Nylon costs more, usually between $2.00 and $3.50 per meter. Cotton canvas is even pricier. If you want a strong bag without spending a lot, polyester is a smart pick.

Use Cases

You can use polyester waterproof bags for many activities. These bags work well for school, work, travel, and sports. You might choose polyester for gym bags, backpacks, or tote bags. The material suits everyday use and light outdoor adventures. Polyester bags are easy to clean and last a long time. You get good value and reliable protection for your belongings.

PU-Coated Nylon Waterproof

Waterproof Ability

You want a bag that keeps your gear dry. PU-coated nylon gives you strong waterproof ability. The polyurethane (PU) coating forms a barrier that blocks water from soaking through the fabric. You can trust this material in the rain because it has high hydrostatic head (HH) ratings. Most PU coatings range from 1,500mm to over 10,000mm. Fabrics with ratings above 1,500mm HH stop rain from getting inside. Uncoated nylon does not offer this level of protection. It can absorb water and even grow mold. PU-coated nylon stands out for its excellent waterproofness.

• PU coatings achieve good to excellent waterproofness.
• Hydrostatic Head ratings for PU coatings range from 1,500mm to over 10,000mm.
• PU-coated nylon offers much better waterproofing than uncoated nylon.

Note: Always check the HH rating if you plan to use your bag in heavy rain.

Durability

You need a bag that lasts. PU-coated nylon boosts abrasion resistance and elasticity, making your bag tough. The coating helps the fabric resist scratches and wear. However, PU coatings can absorb water over time. This can cause the fabric to sag and take longer to dry. If the bag stays wet, mold and mildew may grow. PU coatings may also lower the tear strength compared to silicone coatings. You get good durability, but you should dry your bag after use to keep it in top shape.

• PU coatings increase abrasion resistance and elasticity.
• The fabric may sag and dry slowly if it absorbs water.
• Mold and mildew can develop if the bag stays wet.
• Tear strength may be lower than with silicone coatings.

Weight & Flexibility

You want a bag that feels light and bends easily. PU-coated nylon comes in different weights and strengths. You can see the options in the table below:

You can pick the right weight for your needs. Lighter fabrics work well for travel, while heavier ones suit outdoor adventures.

Cost

You want value for your money. PU-coated nylon comes in different price bands based on the fabric’s denier. Here is a quick guide:

You can find affordable options for daily use or invest in premium fabrics for extra strength.

Use Cases

You can use PU-coated nylon waterproof bags for many activities. These bags work well for hiking, camping, and travel. You might choose them for school or work because they are light and flexible. Heavy-duty PU-coated nylon bags suit outdoor sports and rough conditions. If you want a bag that balances waterproof ability, durability, and cost, PU-coated nylon is a smart choice.

Comparison Table

If you want a waterproof bag, you should compare materials. Each material works differently. The table below shows how they do with water, strength, weight, bending, price, and best uses.

TPU and PU-coated nylon keep water out the best. PVC is very tough but feels heavy. Ripstop nylon is strong and light, so it is good for hiking. Polyester costs the least and is great for everyday bags.

How the seams are made is important too. Makers use fold-over seams and double stitching. They add urethane coatings by hand. These seams stay strong and bend easily. Your bag will not crack or peel, even if you use it a lot. This helps stop leaks.

• PVC: Blocks water well, tough, bends, costs a medium amount.
• TPU: Lighter, better for the earth, does not crack, costs a medium amount.
• Ripstop Nylon: Strong, light, bends, costs more.
• Polyester: Lasts long, light, bends, costs less.
• PU-coated Nylon: Blocks water very well, tough, bends, costs more.

Use this table to help you choose the right bag. For water sports, pick PVC or TPU. For hiking or travel, ripstop nylon or PU-coated nylon is best. If you want a cheap bag for daily use, choose polyester.

Choosing Waterproof Bag Materials

Outdoor & Adventure

You need a bag that can handle rough trips outside. The right waterproof material keeps your things safe and dry. For outdoor fun, pick bags with roll-top closures. This type of closure seals tight and keeps water out. It works well for water sports like kayaking or rafting. Welded seams help stop leaks, so your bag stays dry even in heavy rain.

Here are the main things to look for:

1. Waterproof fabric like PVC-coated nylon or TPU keeps water out.
2. Welded seams stop leaks and make the bag stronger.
3. Roll-top closure helps keep your gear dry when it is wet outside.

You want your bag to last a long time. Pick strong materials and tough stitching for hard use. Gear loops and daisy chains let you carry more stuff. Reflective parts help people see you when it is dark.

Tip: If you want a bag for hiking, camping, or water sports, check for these features before you buy.

Travel & Commuting

When you travel or go to work, you need a waterproof bag that is easy to carry and keeps your things dry. Light waterproof materials like ripstop nylon or polyester are good for this. Ripstop nylon is light and strong. Polyester does not fade in the sun as fast.

Look for dry bags with waterproof zippers. These bags let you get your things fast and keep water out. If you want a stronger bag, pick a thicker dry bag made from PVC tarpaulin, but it will be heavier.

Note: Pick a bag that fits how you travel. If you walk or bike, choose a lighter bag. If you need more protection, pick a thicker waterproof material.

Everyday Use

You need a bag that works for your daily life. For everyday use, light dry bags made of nylon are a good pick. Nylon bends easily and does not weigh much, but it may not last as long as thick bags. Ripstop nylon is tougher and still light. If you need a bag for school, work, or the gym, polyester is a smart choice. It costs less and does not fade in the sun.

Ultralight dry bags use special waterproof material and usually cost more. Thicker PVC tarpaulin bags are cheaper and stronger. Bilaminate bags have a waterproof polyurethane layer and a nylon outside. They are tough and do not cost much. But sharp things inside the bag can wear out the material over time.

Tip: Pick a bag that is light, bends easily, and does not cost too much for your daily needs.

Budget & Sustainability

You might want a bag that is cheap or better for the earth. Saving money and helping the planet are important when picking waterproof bag materials. Eco-friendly choices, like bio-based and recycled materials, are getting more common. Bio-based materials like cornstarch and sugarcane break down on their own. Recycled nylon and polyester, made from plastic bottles, are better for the planet.

If you want to spend less, bilaminate bags are a simple and cheap choice. They use waterproof material to keep your things dry and cost less to make. But these bags may not last as long if you use them in tough places.

Note: When you shop for waterproof bags, think about your budget and the earth. Many brands now have green options that save money and help the planet.

You can pick from lots of waterproof bag materials. PVC is good for rough outdoor trips. TPU bends easily and is better for the planet. Ripstop nylon is strong and light, great for hiking. Polyester is best for everyday use and costs less. PU-coated nylon keeps water out and lasts a long time.

Before you buy, think about what you do and how much you want to spend. The right material will keep your things dry and last longer.

FAQ

What is the difference between waterproof and water-resistant bags?

Waterproof bags stop all water from getting in. Water-resistant bags only slow water down. Waterproof bags give full protection, even in heavy rain. Water-resistant bags might let water in if it rains a lot.

How do coatings and membranes improve waterproof performance?

Coatings and membranes add extra layers to the fabric. These layers help block water better. Laminated membranes and coatings cover the outside of the bag. Sealed seams also help keep water out. These features make bags last longer and stay dry.

Are eco-friendly waterproof options available for bags?

Many bags now have eco-friendly waterproof choices. Some bags use recycled fabrics to help the earth. Others use special membranes with two or three layers. These choices protect your things and help reduce waste.

What is the benefit of trilaminate vs. bilaminate in waterproof bags?

Trilaminate bags have three layers, while bilaminate bags have two. Trilaminate material gives better water protection. It is light and strong, so your bag lasts longer. Trilaminate bags are more durable than bilaminate bags.

Which fabrics are best for water-resistant bags used outdoors?

For outdoor bags, you want coated nylon, polyester, or trilaminate fabrics. These fabrics have special coatings and extra layers. They give strong water protection. Outdoor bags need tough fabrics for rain and rough use.

See also

Camping Waterproof Bag Storage Tips Every Camper Should Know

What Most People Get Wrong About Waterproof Bags

Certifications to Look for When Choosing a Waterproof Bag Manufacturer

How to Choose The Appropriate Hunting Bag Size