[Women's Edition] 5 Waterproof Bags and Backpacks for Rainy Season Commuting | Stylish & Rain-Ready
I have always felt that when the rainy season arrives, I can no longer use my favorite bags.
I used to think that rain-resistant bags and stylish bags were two different things. Waterproof bags often feel a bit outdoorsy or prioritize function over design. That's why there were times during the rainy season when I would just put up with using vinyl bags or sturdy totes.
But now, I realize I didn't have to give up so much. There are bags that perfectly balance waterproof/water-repellent performance with style.
In this article, I will introduce 5 waterproof bags that allow you to "stay stylish" even during your rainy season commute.
The difference between water-repellent and waterproof: what you need to know
People who have had the experience of "buying a waterproof bag but still getting wet" usually bought a water-repellent bag.
Water-repellenttreatment is applied to the surface of the fabric to repel water, so in light rain, the water beads up and rolls off. However, there is a limit if you walk in heavy rain for a long time or if water enters through the zippers. Also, note that the effect can diminish with washing.
Waterproofmeans the zippers are water-resistant, the seams are sealed, or the material itself is impermeable to water. A truly waterproof bag will keep its contents dry even if you submerge the bag in water.
Which one you need for your rainy season commute depends on your commuting environment. If you are just "walking quickly under the eaves," water-repellent is sufficient. If you "sometimes walk in torrential rain" or "carry a laptop or precision equipment inside," you should choose a model that leans toward waterproof.
Features of bags you should not choose for the rainy season
Fabric bags without waterproof or water-repellent labeling
Canvas, cotton, and fabric totes are stylish, but they are not suitable for rainy season commuting. They absorb water easily, take a long time to dry, and carry the risk of color fading or losing their shape. It is best to put them away until the rainy season is over.
Models where zippers lack covers or waterproof treatment
No matter how water-repellent the main material is, the zippers will be the weak point. When walking with an umbrella in heavy rain, rain can enter through zippers on the front or top of the bag. Check the product page to see if it mentions "water-resistant zippers."
Models with heavy materials
Commuting in the rainy season while carrying rain gear already increases your load. If the bag itself is heavy, the cumulative strain on your shoulders by the end of the day will be significant. The rainy season is the time when you really want to check the weight specifications.
How to choose a rainy season commuter bag: 3 points
1. Check for water-resistant zippers
This is the first point to look at when choosing a waterproof bag. If it mentions "water-resistant zipper," "waterproof zipper," or "AquaGuard," the risk of water leaking through the zipper area is almost eliminated.
2. Choose between water-repellent or waterproof based on your commuting style
If you are in an environment where an umbrella is generally enough, water-repellent is sufficient. If you often walk for long periods in the rain or carry a PC or important documents every day, it is safer to choose something more waterproof. Try to make your decision while keeping your commute route in mind.
3. Aim for a weight of 1kg or less
When you look for waterproof specs in a commuter bag, the material tends to be heavy. Especially during the rainy season, when you have to carry extra items like eco-bags, folding umbrellas, and rain gear, you should choose a bag that is as light as possible.
5 Recommended Waterproof Bags for Rainy Commutes
1. Hedgren VOGUE Backpack
Originating from Belgium, Hedgren is a brand that has been making commuter bags for women for over 30 years. With a proven track record of being supported by commuting women in Europe for a long time, it offers a great balance between design and practicality.
It features a water-repellent nylon material and a smart trapezoidal silhouette. Its high versatility, suitable for both commuting and travel, is why it is so well-regarded, and you can choose it with confidence as a commuter bag for the rainy season. Even if you don't know the name, as you use it, you will feel that this brand was the right choice.
2. anello Water-Repellent Backpack
If you are choosing based on functionality for the price and a wide variety of colors, I think anello's water-repellent model offers the best value for money.
Water-repellent polyester, square shape, A4 compatible. It has the basic specs needed for the rainy season and a square silhouette that is easy to match with suits and office casual wear. I rarely hear of anyone failing after choosing this as an entry-level bag for those who just want something to get through this year's rainy season.
3. ace.GENE SLIFEM Backpack
With a weight of 750g, 15-inch PC compatibility, water-repellent processing, and a square silhouette, this model satisfies both 'rainy season protection' and 'everyday ease of use' at the same time.
The straps are slim and designed not to ruin the lines of a suit jacket. Since it is a bag that can be used all year round, not just during the rainy season, it is also nice that it doesn't feel like you are 'buying it just for rainy season protection.' This is a bag I can recommend without hesitation when prioritizing practicality.
4. Mandarina Duck MD20 Backpack
Originating from Italy, Mandarina Duck has a surprising brand name combination of 'Mandarin (orange) x Duck,' and as the name suggests, it has a reputation for water resistance like a duck.
The MD20 series uses highly waterproof nylon, so your belongings will be protected even during rainy commutes. The color lineup, which includes 'adult accent colors' like Bordeaux and dusty blue, helps lift your mood during the rainy season. It is a brand that creates the ideal rainy season state of 'looking stylish even while carrying a waterproof bag.'
5. [Unique Choice] Knomo Beauchamp Backpack
Originating from London, Knomo is a brand that continues to make bags for female business professionals with a focus on 'looking stylish while being functional.' It has gained support from commuting women in the UK and is gradually gaining recognition in Japan as well.
The Beauchamp backpack is a slightly unusual combination of a sophisticated leather-like texture with a waterproof finish. It comes with an inner pocket for an iPad, making it practical for commuting. It looks so much like a regular business bag that no one will even notice you are carrying a 'waterproof bag.' This is a suggestion for those who want to choose a bag they don't have to give up on just because it's the rainy season.
Things to do besides the bag
Applying a waterproof spray before the rainy season begins will help the water-repellent effect last longer. Even for bags that already have a water-repellent finish, using a spray provides an extra level of peace of mind. It is ideal to reapply it about once a month during the season.
Making it a habit to keep one small folding umbrella permanently in your bag will significantly reduce commuting stress during the rainy season. On days when the weather forecast is wrong, for sudden outings, or unexpected rain on the way home, simply eliminating the state of "not having an umbrella" makes a huge difference in your peace of mind.
Using inner bags or pouches to protect your belongings is also an effective strategy. Even if you have a waterproof bag, if you cannot be completely certain, putting your PC, wallet, notebook, etc., into a Ziploc bag or a waterproof pouch serves as a final line of defense.
Summary
You can balance the rainy season with style. I realized this during the first rainy season I used a Mandarina Duck bag. Even in the rain, I felt, "I really like today's bag." That feeling is actually quite important.
You should choose between water-repellent or waterproof based on your own commuting style. What matters is the presence of water-resistant zippers and the weight. If you just keep these two points in mind, your options for the rainy season will expand significantly.
This rainy season, don't give up—commute with a bag you love.