How to Choose a Savotta Backpack Cover Size for Rain
By Savotta – Load carrying equipment and sustainment systems | Published: 2026-10-14
Category: How-to Guides
Match a rain cover to your pack using volume, shape, and attachment points. Learn how to size a Savotta cover for reliable rain protection without flapping or gaps.
Quick answer
Choose a Savotta backpack cover by matching its stated capacity to your pack's total volume, then verify the cover's shape and attachment points fit your pack's profile. For a medium pack around 40–50 liters, the 50L IRR cover is the intended fit. Always test the cover with your pack fully loaded before relying on it in sustained rain.
Match cover volume to your pack's real loaded size
Cover sizing is based on pack volume, not just the main compartment. A pack like the Kantamus 40L has a main compartment of about 40 liters plus an 8-liter extension, so its effective capacity grows when you use the extension. If you size a cover to the main volume only, the cover may be too tight when the pack is full. Add up the main compartment, any extension, and the volume of items strapped outside if you carry them under the cover. Savotta lists cover capacity in liters; use that number as your starting point, then compare it to your loaded pack.
Check the cover's shape and attachment system against your pack
A cover that is the right volume but the wrong shape will leave gaps or bunch up. The Savotta 50L IRR cover uses a seamless construction with an adjustable elastic retention cord and tie-down toggle loops. Those loops let you secure the cover to your pack so it does not flap in wind or shift when you bend down. Look at your pack's daisy chains, compression straps, or loop points: you need at least one place to anchor the cover's toggle loops. If your pack has a very tall, narrow profile or a wide, flat one, the cover's cut will affect how well it wraps.
Account for IRR and material differences
The 50L IRR cover is made from near-infrared adapted materials, which reduces its signature in night vision or thermal optics. That matters if you use the pack in hunting or field roles where detection is a concern. A standard cover without IRR may be lighter or cheaper, but it will not provide that signature reduction. Decide whether IRR is a requirement for your use; if it is not, a standard cover can work, but you still need the correct size.
Test the fit before you need it
Load your pack as you would for a typical trip, including the items you carry on the outside. Put the cover on and adjust the elastic cord so the cover is snug but not stretched to its limit. Walk around, bend over, and check that the cover stays in place and does not expose the bottom or sides of the pack. If the cover pulls tight across the middle and leaves the top corners bare, it is too small. If it hangs loose and catches wind, it is too large or needs more tension on the cord.
Steps to size and fit a Savotta rain cover
- Measure your pack's loaded volume: Add the main compartment, any extension, and the volume of items you carry outside the pack if they will be under the cover. For example, a Kantamus 40L with its 8-liter extension has a total capacity of about 48 liters when the extension is deployed. Checkpoint: if your total is over 50 liters, the 50L cover may be too tight; consider a larger size or remove external items.
- Compare the cover's stated capacity to your total: Savotta lists cover capacity in liters. Use that number as a guide, but remember that pack shape and how you load it can change the effective fit. A 50L cover is intended for medium packs, so it is a starting point for packs in that range. Common mistake: assuming the cover will fit because your pack is nominally 40L; the extension and external gear can push it beyond that.
- Inspect attachment points on your pack: The 50L IRR cover has tie-down toggle loops and an adjustable elastic retention cord. Find loops, daisy chains, or compression straps on your pack where you can anchor those toggles. Without at least one anchor point, the cover may shift or blow off in strong wind. Checkpoint: if your pack has no suitable attachment points, you may need to add a loop or choose a cover that fits more snugly by elasticity alone.
- Fit the cover with the pack fully loaded: Put the cover on over a fully loaded pack. Adjust the elastic cord so the cover is taut but not overstretched. The cover should cover the top, sides, and as much of the bottom as possible without leaving gaps at the corners. Common mistake: testing with an empty pack. An empty pack is smaller and can make a too-small cover seem to fit.
- Do a movement check: Walk, bend, and simulate taking the pack off and putting it on. The cover should stay in place and not expose the pack's fabric. If it rides up or pulls loose, readjust the cord or reconsider the size. Next step: if the cover passes the movement check, practice putting it on and taking it off so you can do it quickly in rain.
Product facts
- Backpack cover, 50L IRR: Lightweight, waterproof backpack cover for medium size packs. IRR model, made from near-infrared adapted materials. Seamless construction, adjustable elastic retention cord and tie-down toggle loops for securing to your pack. The 50L capacity suits medium packs, and the toggle loops give you a way to anchor the cover so it stays put in wind and rain.
- Kantamus 40L backpack: Main compartment of ca. 40 litres, plus 8 litres of extension. Internal aluminium frame offers rigid support and weight transfer. If you use the extension, your pack's total volume can exceed 40 liters, so a cover sized only to the main compartment may not fit when the pack is fully loaded.
