7 Best Surf Backpacks of 2024

Being a surfer means having your gear ready to go at the last minute when the swell picks up. Using the best surf backpack available will make your surfing experience go from good to great. We considered different elements such as a bag that supports travel, hiking out to secret spots, and something that keeps your gear protected from start to finish. There are many contenders out there, so in this review, we’ve rounded up the 7 best surf packs of 2024. Let’s unpack this thing.

Surf Packs Reviewed

• Dakine - Mission Surf Backpack 30L - $95.00
• Dakine - Cyclone Wet/Dry Roll Top Surf Pack Backpack 34L - $175.00
• Rip Curl - F-Light Surf Pack Backpack 40L - $159.95
• Channel Islands- Essential Surf Backpack 40L - $180.00
• Rip Curl - Fusion Bucket Bag 50L - $39.95
• Vissla- Seven Seas Dry Pack Bag 20L - $44.95
• Patagonia - Disperser Roll Top Surf Backpack 40L - $219.00

Dakine Mission Surf Backpack 30L - $95.00

“Nothing left behind”

This pack is for the committed surfer and the weekend warrior. The 30 liters will get your gear to the break with everything you need and nothing you don't. Designed with a seam-sealed rolltop dry/wet pocket, the Mission bag is large enough to fit a full 5/4mm wetsuit, boots, and gloves. With the Mission, you won’t have to worry about a clunky walk back to the parking area.

When reviewing the Mission, durability also comes to mind. This pack can withstand rugged coastal terrain by using heavy-duty YKK zippers and an ultradurable reinforced bottom that can resist boulders, reefs, and tree stumps. Not only can this pack fit your significant pieces of equipment in the wet/dry pocket, but there are additional pockets to safely store glasses, wax, and fins and keep a water bottle or two.

If you’re looking for a bag with similar characteristics but in a 40L version, check out the Dakine- Mission Surf DLX. Not only does this bag have an extra 10L of space, but it also includes a specific pocket for a laptop and electronics. Having this option is a big deal for surfers planning to travel. Check out the Mission Surf DLX 40L model here.

This pack has multiple color options, so choose your favorite and get out there!

Highlights and Features

• 30L
• Roll-top
• Accessories pocket
• Wet/Dry compartment

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Dakine Cyclone Wet/Dry Roll Top Surf Pack Surf Backpack 34L - $175.00

“A Classic”

The Cyclone pack is another excellent choice with a straightforward 34-liter design. It keeps it practical by using high-end materials like the strong, fully welded construction and a blend of recycled nylon and polyester materials. This pack has exterior welded webbing and lash points for easy attachment of that extra gear along with a stretch water bottle pocket.pockets. The hefty rolltop closure allows for a customized fit for all of your neoprene. 

Keeping with the minimalistic yet practical theme, the ergonomic shoulder straps and vented back panel make for a more comfortable fit, especially when loaded down with wet gear. The materials on this pack don’t absorb water, so it stays light and dry after use. The Cyclone has you covered if you need a surf pack for quick hikes or short trips. If you’re looking for a smaller pack specific to day trips, check out the 30L version.

Highlights and Features

• 34L
• Wet/Dry Compartment
• Roll-Top
• Ergonomic straps and vented back panel
• Multiple exterior attachment points

Rip Curl F-Light Surf Pack Backpack 40L - $159.95

“Meant for it all”

The F-Light by Rip Curl allows you to be as prepared as a Boy Scout for any session. A large roll & clip insulated wet/dry compartment can comfortably fit a 3/2mm full suit and other larger surf accessories. The bag's front pocket includes a laptop sleeve, fleece-lined sunglass/tech pocket, and a dedicated fin organizer. With a large 1-liter insulated water bottle holder on one side and a wax pocket on the other, this bag has a ton of nooks and crannies to store almost anything you could think to pack.

The dry pockets are also reinforced on the outside with a thicker plastic material to ensure your phone and other valuables stay safe in the bag. The best part is that all of this storage and pockets don’t come at an additional weight. By using super-light materials, the F-Light weighs in at only 3 lbs. This would be an ideal bag to travel with, and it’s also nice for those who like to have an extra leash, fins, and gear on them.

Highlights and Features

• 40L
• Roll-top with buckle closure
• Dry/Wet compartment
• Laptop sleeve & protective tech pocket
• Insulated Water Bottle Sleeve
• Reinforced protective shell

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Channel Islands Essential Surf Backpack 40L - $180.00

“Pockets for Everything”

The Channel Islands Essential has everything you need to be prepared for your longest day trips.

The pack has a specific compartment for wet gear and a roll-top closure. While using my Essential pack, I could fit my wetsuit, boots, and my girlfriend's wetsuit and boots in the wet compartment. The backpack was full, but there was still plenty of space for my fins, towels, and necessities. Along with the space, the only component I could see that would improve this bag would be a hip strap. I personally do a lot of backpacking and hip straps are a plus when you’re carrying a lot of equipment. One of my favorite things about this pack is the internal zip pockets for accessories. Each pocket is zip-closed and helps you organize with ease.

We have had a lot of good feedback from customers about this backpack. Check out the product reviews on our website for any clarification. Look no further if you need a pack with all the room you need and more.

Highlights and Features

• 42L
• Wet/Dry Compartment
• Roll-Top
• Fleece-lined sunglass pocket
• 2X water bottle pockets

Rip Curl Fusion Bucket Bag 50L - $39.95

“Simplicity at its finest”

The Rip Curl Fusion bucket bag is a great option for someone needing to get in and out of their wetsuit as simply and efficiently as possible. Take off your wetsuit while standing in the bag, throw the bag in your car, and then you’re good to go. This bag will protect your wetsuit, your car from needing a deep clean, and your bank with an affordable price tag.

At 50 liters, this bucket bag includes outstanding features such as a fully welded construction, a collapsable option, and heavy-duty materials for long-lasting use. It’s also big enough to hold your partner's wetsuit, boots, and gloves. Why is this better than a plastic bucket from the grocery store? Because it takes up minimal space, it can be carried easily and collapse whenever you want. 

Highlights and Features

• 50L
• Heavy duty material 
• Welded seams

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Vissla Seven Seas 20L - $44.95

“Roll Top Companion”

The Vissla Seven Seas 20-liter nylon drybag pack is the perfect way to transport your gear from the parking lot to the swell. With the roll-top cover, the bag is completely waterproof. At 20 liters, there is plenty of space to carry your surfing necessities and a few additional items. I wouldn’t say this bag is meant for long trips; however, it can easily be used for those quick sessions. If you want to keep your phone, keys, and wallet dry from the elements while you’re in the water, the Vissla Seven Seas has you covered.

Who says this bag has to be used for surfing? With a lightweight, minimal design, the Vissla Seven Seas 20-liter could easily fit in your backpacking backpack. While backing, I like to do side quests, and this bag could be handy for small adventures around your destination.

Highlights and Features

• 20L
• Roll-top Waterproofing
• Adjustable Strap
• Durable Welded Seams

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 Patagonia Disperser Roll Top 40L - $219.00

“Extreme Resistance”

Patagonia stays true to its values by creating a pack that honors a surfer's needs without a high environmental impact. The Disperser is an excellent pack for any adventurer heading to rain-saturated territories. This 40L bag comprises one wet/dry compartment complete with a secure roll-top and dual buckle closure. You’ll easily be able to fit all of your cold or warm water gear into this pack for your expedition. With extreme water resistance, there is no need to worry about pricy items like a camera or phone getting wet. The fabric of this pack is made of 100% recycled nylon and polyester. This pack is unique because it is also compatible with Patagonia’s Convertible Vest and Wader workstation, adding more room for the extra small stuff.

Keep your wallet or phone in the front pocket with a water bottle on the side, and you are good to go. The Dispenser “to the point” bag will protect your gear while trekking through forests or cliffsides to reach that dream surf spot.

Highlights and Features

• 40L
• Roll-top bag
• Fair Trade Certified
• Non-absorbent straps
• Internal Organizer

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Final Thoughts

To sum it up, there are plenty of surf packs on the market to choose from. Whether you need something to get your gear from A to B, or you’re looking for a pack suitable for more adventurous trips, there is something that suits your needs. Style and features differ significantly, but each bag has its own unique traits that make it stand amongst the crowd of competitors. Surf missions can be tricky at times, but with the right bag, you can easily handle the bumps and bruises of each memorable swell.

Now the question remains: What surf pack will help make your next surf trip stress-free? Get ready to hit the waves and find your go-to bag so you can make the most of your journey! Well, that's a wrap for the best surf backpacks of 2024, I hope this review was useful for you and your next surf session is all time!

If you have any questions about the suits we’ve reviewed, you can always call us at 1-888-546-6176, drop a comment below, or send an email to support@cleanlinesurf.com

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