This article describes the backpacking poncho used in outdoor camping or hiking, when to use it? How to pick the right backpacking poncho? What advantages does it have over a rain jacket? We are a rainwear manufacturer in China with more than 10 years experience, we believe we will give you some reference suggestions.
What is a Backpacking Poncho?
Literally, a backpacking poncho is a kind of rain gear specially designed for backpackers. It is essentially an extended rain poncho, but with a special design point: the back part will be widened and enlarged, or it will come with a separate expansion space, which can cover the whole backpack, and the extended part can also cover the legs well.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Backpack Rain Poncho
Imagine, if the ordinary raincoat is worn on the body, the back position will be topped up by the hiking bag, travel bag, the rain will flow down the bag to your back, or directly directly down the poncho wet pants.
The backpacking poncho solves this problem, which is its unique advantage:
Extra Large Coverage: The back part is made wide and long, like a big cape, which can easily cover the big backpack on your back (tips: choose the right length and size).
Separate Backpack Compartment: Many styles have an opening at the top of the back with a drawstring or Velcro closure. Before you put on the poncho, you can put the backpack through this opening and put it on your back, then tighten the opening so that the backpack is tightly wrapped inside the poncho. There are also cases where the entire back is covered along with the backpack.
Full Body Protection: A poncho with a hood, adjustable collar, adjustable cuffs, and a length that generally reaches to the knees or below, which protects the body and legs from getting wet.
Convenient to store, usually can be folded in the storage bag, when the weather improves can be directly into the backpack.
Disadvantages
In the woods or on a windy day, the wide hemline tends to get hung up or blown up by branches.
Slightly more difficult to put on and take off than a regular rain jacket, especially one with a separate backpack compartment.
If the backpack is particularly huge, it may not cover completely.
Applications
hiking mountaineering: This is the most common use, to protect the sleeping bag, clothing, food, etc. in the pack from getting wet, and also to protect the hiker.
Riding (bicycle/electric bike): To cover the backpack or pannier behind the rider.
outdoor working: People who need to carry a kit to work in the rain.
Backpacking Ponchos vs Raincoats
| Parameters | Backpacking Poncho | Raincoat |
|---|---|---|
| WEIGHT & PACKABILITY | ||
| Weight Typically 150-300g (5.3-10.6 oz) | ✅ Ultra-light | ⚠️ Heavier (300-600g) due to zippers/layers |
| Packed Size Space efficiency when stored | ✅ Folds to softball/fist-sized | ⚠️ Bulkier (requires more pack space) |
| WEATHER PROTECTION | ||
| Waterproofing Resistance to water ingress | ⚠️ Limited (legs exposed, sides open to wind-driven rain) | ✅ Full coverage (20,000mm+ rated) |
| Wind Resistance Protection against wind chill | ⚠️ Poor (billows in wind) | ✅ Excellent (sealed seams, snug fit) |
| Ventilation Moisture/sweat management | ✅ Superior airflow (open sides prevent condensation) | ⚠️ Limited (requires pit zips for airflow) |
| FUNCTIONALITY | ||
| Backpack Coverage Protection for gear | ✅ Covers pack + body (no extra rain cover needed) | ⚠️ Requires separate pack cover |
| Mobility Freedom of movement | ⚠️ Restrictive (snags on branches, limits arm motion) | ✅ Optimized for hiking/climbing (articulated sleeves) |
| Multi-Use Flexibility Non-rain applications | ✅ Doubles as shelter/tarp/ground cloth | ⚠️ Single-use (rain/wind protection only) |
| DURABILITY & COST | ||
| Material Strength Abrasion/tear resistance | ⚠️ Moderate (thin fabrics prone to tearing) | ✅ High (uses reinforced fabrics like Robic® REGEN) |
| Price Range Typical market cost | ✅ $20-$50 (budget-friendly) | ⚠️ $100-$300 (premium eco-fabrics add cost) |
Buying Considerations
We researched the high sales volume of backpacking ponchos on the market, and the knot designer’s experience, summed up a few purchasing suggestions:
1. Lightweight: in other similar conditions, the weight of the poncho is an important test to minimize the hiking load.
2. waterproof, breathable: give priority to waterproof, breathable rain poncho, in a long time under the movement, the need for good breathability will be out of water.
3. Size: the length can reach below the knee, can be better wrapped around the backpack (such as 80L backpack or larger)
4. Accessories: waterproof storage bag, can be folded into the backpack when not in use.
5. after-sales: usually with 1-3 years warranty, try to choose the store with better after-sales service.
Summary
For hiking enthusiasts, a backpacking poncho is a must-have outdoor item, and we hope this blog will take you through what a backpacking poncho is and how to pick one.
We are a backpacking poncho manufacturer in China, if you are an outdoor enthusiast or are buying a poncho for your trip, maybe we can give some advice, welcome to inquire.
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