Keeping dry in the unpredictable wilderness is a perpetual challenge for backpackers. From sudden rain showers and tent condensation to stream crossings and the blend of humidity and sweat, moisture can seep in from all angles. To safeguard your essential gear, such as sleeping bags, camp clothes, and electronics, backpackers often turn to pack liners and pack covers. But the question remains: do you need both, or should you choose one over the other?

In this article, we’ll provide a comprehensive overview of pack liners and pack covers, addressing how to use them, their pros and cons, and help you make an informed decision for your backpacking adventures.

How to Use Pack Liners and Pack Covers

Pack Liners: Typically made of plastic, pack liners are large bags designed to fit the main compartment of your backpack. These can be simple trash bags or specialized liners like Gossamer Gear’s clear waterproof pack liners. Before packing your gear, insert the liner into the main compartment, essentially creating a waterproof barrier between your belongings and the outside of the backpack.

Pack Covers: These can be standard plastic bags or crafted from materials like nylon or polyester, similar to your backpack. Equipped with elastic or cinching devices, pack covers fit over the entire back of your pack. Stored in an outer pocket when not in use, they are deployed during rain to create a waterproof shell for your pack.

Pros and Cons of Using a Pack Cover

Pros:

  1. Simple to put on.
  2. Protects both the gear inside and the exterior of the pack.
  3. No need to remember to put it in first when packing.

Cons:

  1. Dripping water onto the user.
  2. Hindrance to accessing side pockets.
  3. Prone to snagging on branches.
  4. Potential for leaks if not fitted securely.
  5. Extra weight and water absorption.
  6. Does not keep hip belt pockets dry.
  7. Requires stopping to put it on.

Pros and Cons of Using a Pack Liner

Pros:

  1. Lightweight and affordable.
  2. Protects the bottom of the bag in all weather conditions.
  3. Creates a useful divider inside the pack.

Cons:

  1. Need to remember to put it in first when packing.
  2. Might take some getting used to.
  3. May not fit well with certain pack designs.
  4. Does not keep the exterior of the pack dry.

The Verdict: Should You Use a Pack Liner or Pack Cover for Backpacking?

The choice ultimately rests on personal preference, but our recommendation leans toward the pack liner. Its lightweight, cost-effective nature, combined with practical advantages, makes it a versatile choice. Additionally, most drawbacks associated with pack liners have easy workarounds.

Pro Tips for Enhancing Your Pack Liner Experience:

  1. Secure Placement: Stand your pack upright and insert the liner, rolling it down with the top of your bag. This ensures a secure fit and a wide opening for loading gear.
  2. Exterior Pocket Protection: Use a hiking umbrella or poncho to cover the outside of your pack, safeguarding gear in exterior and hip belt pockets.

For more backpacking insights, explore other articles on the Light Feet blog, covering topics such as alleviating tent condensation, gear care post-hike, solo hiking tips, and hydration guidance. If you’re in need of a reliable, lightweight pack liner, consider Gossamer Gear’s Clear Waterproof Pack Liners, available online in two-packs, fitting most backpacks within the Gossamer Gear line. Weighing just 1.2 ounces, these liners are crafted from durable 2 mil clear virgin polyethylene film.