waterproof backpack?

[Maxlee]

DD is starting kindergarten and teacher is asking for waterproof backpack? Have you seen any for kids anywhere? Thanks!

[infomama]

Waterproof? That's an unusual demand.
I would go with a JanSport pack (http://www.zappos.com/jansport-women-backpacks/EJDXAVIC-gfAAQHiAgMYCgI.zso#!/jansport-women-backpacks/COjWARCQ1wE6Ao4TUgL6B2oBBMABAeICBhgKAgEHDQ.zso).

This is from the JanSport site in the FAQ:
Are JanSport packs waterproof?

I have good news, and bad news! All of the fabric JanSport uses are coated with about an ounce and a quarter of polyurethane, which produces a minimum waterproof rating of 40 mulleins. (The U.S. Army considers 25 mulleins waterproof!) Now for the bad news. Even though the fabrics are perfectly waterproof, sewn pack products never are! Wherever there are zippers or stitching, water finds a way through. The only true waterproof packs are made of vinyl and have sonically welded seams, like a dry bag for kayaking. Most serious backpackers recognize this limitation of sewn packs and carry a rain cover made of lightweight nylon that can be seam-sealed easily. Some of the people I respect most simply carry a large plastic garbage bag, slit up the back, and some duct tape. Using waterproof stuff sacks to organize your load is another solution.

[bubbaray]

I would just buy whatever good quality backpack your child likes and call it a day. I live in Vancouver BC (ie., Raincouver) and my girls have used LE and LLB backpacks -- with no problems with water leakage.

[katydid1971]

FWIW last year DS put a plant he was growing at school into his backpack and it tipped over spilling very wet dirt all over. I there was no sign of the wetness on the outside of the bag. It was a cheapo Target "Toy Story" backpack. I think almost any backpack would be waterproof enough for Kindergarten. That is a really strange request BTW.