Bote Highwater Hitchhiker Review: A Versatile Waterproof Action Bag

The Bote Highwater Hitchhiker is a new product in the brand’s line of waterproof bags and packs. Measuring 7″ wide by 4″ high and 2.2″ deep, it is the smallest bag in their line-up; it is perfect for carrying most phones and can easily also accommodate your wallet, glasses, keys, and whatever else is in your pockets that you wish to keep dry while enjoying your favorite watersport.

The Bote Highwater Hitchhiker is available in five colors and patterns; Black, Seafoam, Native Spectrum, Bug Slinger Bonefish, and Verge Camo (as reviewed). It has an inside pocket that can separate items such as your phone from your keys or glasses.

The bag is made from a durable TPU-coated waterproof fabric with an upscale feel. The TRU-Zip zipper is a standout feature and is fully waterproof, dustproof, airtight, and submersible. The bag also has an IP67 rating, meaning it is truly waterproof.

If you are unfamiliar with IP ratings, as I was, they were developed to avoid the sometimes unspecific definitions of waterproof and water-resistant. A rating of 67 is truly waterproof and nearly the highest rating available. Specifically, it means the following:

Ingress Protection 67
6) Protection against contact with objects greater than 1mm in diameter, such as a wire or small tool.
7) Protected against short segments of immersion in water while under pressure. Between 15cm and 1m.

The bag attaches to the available Bite Travelink Sling (sold separately) or just about anything else with two Velcro attachment straps. The bag is also MAGNEPOD compatible, allowing you to secure it to BOTE products with MAGNEPOD attachment points with the included removable magnet.

The Bote Highwater Hitchhiker also includes a carry strap facilitating multi-wear, hands-free carrying. The finish on the hardware and the quality of the materials and construction make this bag look and feel high-end, which at $70, seems appropriate.

If you need to keep your smartphone, wallet, keys, or other small items dry, safe, and with you, the Bote Highwater Hitchhiker is an excellent and stylish option.

The Bote Highwater Hitchhiker sells for $70 directly from the manufacturer.

Source: Manufacturer supplied review sample

What I like: Attractive design; Constructed well with quality materials; Truly waterproof; A versatile bag that can be used at the beach and pool

What Needs Improvement: While truly waterproof containers range in size and quality, this is still priced at the high end