IP Ratings for Backpacks: How to Choose the Right Level of Water Protection
When choosing a bag for your adventures, understanding IP ratings is key. They tell you how protected your gear is against dust and water so you know what it can handle, whether it’s a rainy commute, beach day, or open-water adventure.
What is IP ratings?
IP (Ingress Protection) ratings were created by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) to show how well products resist dust and water. Originally for electronics, the system is now used for backpacks, gear, and outdoor equipment, helping you know which items can handle rain, splashes, or even brief submersion.
The rating is usually written as IP followed by two digits, for example, IP67 or IP65.
The Two Digits Explained:
First Digit – Dust Protection (0–6):
This number shows how well the item is protected against solid particles like dust, sand, or dirt.
0: No protection
6: Completely dust-tight
Second Digit – Water Protection (0–9):
This number shows how well the item is protected against water.
0: No protection
3: Splash-proof (light rain, splashes)
5–6: Strong water jets or heavy rain
7–8: Can survive full submersion for a time
Before diving which IP ratings to choose, it’s helpful to understand the difference between:
Water-Resistant and Waterproof backpacks
A water-resistant backpack can handle splashes, rain, and accidental spills, keeping your belongings safe from water.
On the other hand, a waterproof backpack can survive full submersion for a period of time, protecting your items even if they’re dropped in water or mud.
Which IP Rating is right for your activity?
| IP Rating |
What it means |
Water protection |
Best for |
| IP63 |
Protected from dust and splashes |
Handles rain, splashes, and sea spray from any direction (not submersible) |
Beach days, light kayaking, paddleboarding, hiking, cycling, rainy commutes |
| IP65 |
Fully sealed from dust, tougher against water |
Withstands heavy rain and strong water splashes |
Kayaking, boating, fishing, hiking in heavy rain, wet travel |
| IP66 |
Built for harsh conditions |
Handles powerful water jets and constant spray |
Sailing, open-water boating, water sports, coastal adventures, storms |
| IP67 |
Ready for short submersion |
Can be submerged up to 1 metre for a limited time |
Accidental drops, river crossings, wet expeditions |
| IP68 |
Maximum protection |
Designed for continuous submersion beyond 1 metre |
Diving, serious water exposure, extreme wet environments |
In summary,
- Water around you → IP63–IP66 → splash-proof & rain-ready
- Water under you → IP67–IP68 → submersion-proof & adventure-ready
Knowing your IP rating helps you pick the right bag for your adventure. Whether it’s splash-proof for beach and rain or submersion-ready for rivers and diving, there’s a bag that’s built for your lifestyle.
Find the Perfect Bag for Your Adventure
Explore our full range of Zulupack bags, designed with different levels of water protection measured by IP ratings from splash-resistant to fully waterproof. Choose the right one for your adventure today.
