Best Waterproof Dry Bag For Kayaking, Camping, Paddling 2024

The Many Uses Of Dry Bags

I always bring my dry bag with me when I go paddle boarding. It not only keeps my things dry but it keeps everything in the same place.

By clipping it to my paddle board, I make sure that even if I flipped over, the bag would stay on there. I can’t imagine heading out on the water without one.

I have even brought it on hikes when the forecast has called for rain.

Something I realized pretty early on is it’s great to have a dry bag not just to keep water out of my things, but also dust and dirt.

The bag closes up so well that I could walk through a sandstorm and everything in the bag would be free from sand.

See Also: Best Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Boards ISUP For Fishing

I didn’t get my dry bag for the beach or hiking, but I love when I buy something that I end up using more than I expected for other activities as well.

In this review, we’ll be taking a look at the best dry bags.

What activity you use it for is up to you. Bring it kayaking, boating, paddle boarding, hiking, fishing, surfing, swimming, camping, or why not rafting?

A good dry bag can be used for all kinds of activities.

Preview
MARCHWAY Floating Waterproof Dry Bag 5L/10L/20L/30L, Roll Top Sack Keeps Gear Dry for Kayaking, Rafting, Boating, Swimming, Camping, Hiking, Beach, Fishing (Light Blue, 5L)
Unigear Dry Bag Waterproof, Floating and Lightweight Bags for Kayaking, Boating, Fishing, Swimming and Camping with Waterproof Phone Case
See-through window
Freegrace Waterproof Dry Bags Set of 3 Dry Bag with 2 Zip Lock Seals & Detachable Shoulder Strap, Waist Pouch & Phone Case - Can Be Submerged Into Water - for Swimming (Orange(Window), 5L)
Lifetime guarantee
Sea to Summit Lightweight Dry Sack, All-Purpose Dry Bag, 4 Liter, Yellow
HEETA 2 Pack Waterproof Pouch, Screen Touch Sensitive Waterproof Dry Bag with Adjustable Waist Strap | Keep Your Phone and Valuables Dry | for Swimming Kayaking Boating Fishing Beach Diving Surfing
My Choice
Piscifun Dry Bag, Waterproof Floating Backpack with Waterproof Phone Case for Kayking, Boating, Kayaking, Surfing, Rafting and Fishing, Army Green 10L
Sizes (Liters)
5, 10, 20, 30, 40
2, 5, 10, 20, 30, 40
5, 10, 20, 35
1, 2, 4, 8, 13, 20, 35
N/A
10, 20, 30, 40
Material
Tarpaulin
PVC
Tarpaulin
Nylon
PVC
PVC
Floats
Shoulder Strap
Extras
None
Waterproof phone bag
Waterproof phone bag and waist pouch
None
2 pack
Waterproof phone bag

Preview
MARCHWAY Floating Waterproof Dry Bag 5L/10L/20L/30L, Roll Top Sack Keeps Gear Dry for Kayaking, Rafting, Boating, Swimming, Camping, Hiking, Beach, Fishing (Light Blue, 5L)
Sizes (Liters)
5, 10, 20, 30, 40
Material
Tarpaulin
Floats
Shoulder Strap
Extras
None
Preview
Unigear Dry Bag Waterproof, Floating and Lightweight Bags for Kayaking, Boating, Fishing, Swimming and Camping with Waterproof Phone Case
Sizes (Liters)
2, 5, 10, 20, 30, 40
Material
PVC
Floats
Shoulder Strap
Extras
Waterproof phone bag

See-through window

Preview
Freegrace Waterproof Dry Bags Set of 3 Dry Bag with 2 Zip Lock Seals & Detachable Shoulder Strap, Waist Pouch & Phone Case - Can Be Submerged Into Water - for Swimming (Orange(Window), 5L)
Sizes (Liters)
5, 10, 20, 35
Material
Tarpaulin
Floats
Shoulder Strap
Extras
Waterproof phone bag and waist pouch

Lifetime guarantee

Preview
Sea to Summit Lightweight Dry Sack, All-Purpose Dry Bag, 4 Liter, Yellow
Sizes (Liters)
1, 2, 4, 8, 13, 20, 35
Material
Nylon
Floats
Shoulder Strap
Extras
None
Preview
HEETA 2 Pack Waterproof Pouch, Screen Touch Sensitive Waterproof Dry Bag with Adjustable Waist Strap | Keep Your Phone and Valuables Dry | for Swimming Kayaking Boating Fishing Beach Diving Surfing
Sizes (Liters)
N/A
Material
PVC
Floats
Shoulder Strap
Extras
2 pack

My Choice

Preview
Piscifun Dry Bag, Waterproof Floating Backpack with Waterproof Phone Case for Kayking, Boating, Kayaking, Surfing, Rafting and Fishing, Army Green 10L
Sizes (Liters)
10, 20, 30, 40
Material
PVC
Floats
Shoulder Strap
Extras
Waterproof phone bag

Note: Scroll left/right on tablets and phones

Best Dry Bags Reviews & Info


1. MARCHWAY Floating Waterproof Dry Bag

MARCHWAY Floating Waterproof Dry Bag 5L/10L/20L/30L, Roll Top Sack Keeps Gear Dry for Kayaking, Rafting, Boating, Swimming, Camping, Hiking, Beach, Fishing (Light Blue, 5L)

Check Price at Amazon

The first dry bag we will take a look at is from a company called Marchway.

This very simple-looking bag comes in several sizes and colors. Simple doesn’t mean it’s low quality though.

It’s made of 500D tarpaulin and has a sturdy welded seam to make sure it will last more than just a summer or two.

Put your gear in the bag, roll down the top seal, buckle up, and you’re ready to head out on the water.

You don’t have to worry about dropping the bag in the water, as it’s waterproof and floats when it’s filled with some air.

See Also: Best Hand Pump for Inflatables (Boat, Kayak, and ISUP)

A strap is included so you can tie it down to your board, or put it on your back.

Note that the bigger sizes have more straps, and the 40L has double non-detachable dry bag backpack straps.

The 30L and 40L also have a nice handle on top, making it easy to carry without holding it by the buckle.

Not all colors are available in each size, but in total there are 12 colors to choose from. Here are the sizes available with measurements and weight.

  • 5L – 6.9 x 15 inches, 0.53 pound, 1 strap
  • 10L – 7.8 x 19 inches, 0.66 pound, 1 strap
  • 20L – 9.2 x 22 inches, 0.9 pound, 2 straps
  • 30L – 9.7 x 25.8 inches, 1.48 pounds, 2 straps, handle
  • 40L – 11.9 x 26 inches, 1.63 pounds, 2 backpack straps, handle

The MARCHWAY Floating Waterproof Dry Bag is a great choice if you want a dry bag that is easy to use and with a strap included so you can tie it down or put it on your back.

With lots of colors and sizes to choose from, there is a model for everyone.

PROS

  • Lots of sizes and colors to choose from
  • Strap included
  • Floats

2. Unigear Floating Waterproof Dry Bag 600D

Unigear Dry Bag Waterproof, Floating and Lightweight Bags for Kayaking, Boating, Fishing, Swimming and Camping with Waterproof Phone Case

Check Price at Amazon

Next up, Unigear 600D. A floating dry bag that also comes with a waterproof bag for your phone.

The bag is a durable one made out of PVC. It still folds easily by folding the seal and clicking in the buckle.

As an added bonus the bag comes with an additional waterproof phone bag.

So do you need a specific bag for your phone? Aren’t most new phones waterproof nowadays anyway? Well, having a bag to put your phone in that you can tie down will make sure you won’t lose it.

Have you ever seen those videos of divers going through lakes and rivers, finding all kinds of electronics, especially phones?

It’s because people hold their phones in their hands and drop them on accident.

By using a phone bag and tying it around something you can still use your phone, but with a smaller chance of losing it.

See Also: Best Slim Inflatable Life Jackets (PFD)

Even though newer phones on the market today are waterproof, there’s a lot of dirt and rocks in the water that you should try to keep out of your electronics.

The dry bag will protect it from smaller scratches and be an extra protective layer on top of your waterproof phone.

The Unigear Floating Waterproof Dry Bag 600D comes with a big adjustable strap for easy transport and a way to tie down the bag to secure it.

Depending on what size you buy, you’ll get one or two straps. 30L and 40L are dry bag backpacks and come with two straps.

The 40L has backpack-style straps and a big handle that makes it easy to carry.

Here are the sizes available, and their measurements.

  • 2L – 11 x 7.4 inches, 1 strap
  • 5L – 11.4 x 14.9 inches, 1 strap
  • 10L – 12.2 x 19.2 inches, 1 strap
  • 20L – 14.1 x 22.8 inches, 1 strap
  • 30L – 14.9 x 25.5 inches, 2 straps
  • 40L – 18.5 x 27.5 inches, 2 straps

There are ten colors to choose from, although not every size is available in every color.

I like Unigear 600D for several reasons. A phone bag is included, the buckle is very robust, the strap is massive for this size of a bag, and it comes in several sizes and colors.

And the strong PVC material will make sure it lasts for years.

PROS

  • Lots of sizes and colors to choose from
  • Strap included
  • Floats
  • Phone bag included
  • Robust buckle

3. Freegrace Waterproof Dry Bags Set of 3

Freegrace Waterproof Dry Bags Set of 3 Dry Bag with 2 Zip Lock Seals & Detachable Shoulder Strap, Waist Pouch & Phone Case - Can Be Submerged Into Water - for Swimming (Orange(Window), 5L)

Check Price at Amazon

Freegrace has created a set of three dry bags for all your activities on the water.

The set includes a dry bag with a window, a phone bag, and a waist pouch.

Each bag has an adjustable strap, even the phone bag that has a longer little rope so you can hang it around your neck and secure it, or strap it down to something.

The main dry bag comes in four different sizes, 5, 10, 20 and 35 liters.

You can choose to get a bag with a window on the front so you can see what’s inside. Why?

Well, I guess it makes it easier to see what you’re grabbing out of the bag without looking into it, or you can check the time on your phone without opening the bag.

To close the dry bag, you fold the seal a couple of times and buckle it.

See Also: Best Waterproof Bluetooth Speakers For Boats, Kayaking

The 20L size has one strap, but a big robust handle for carrying.

The 35L is a dry bag backpack, but for some reason, it doesn’t have the same rugged handle found on the 20L but a thinner one.

Here are the available sizes and measurements.

  • 5L – 7 x 13.8 inches, one strap
  • 10L – 8 x 18.5 inches, one strap
  • 20L – 9.3 x 24 inches, one strap, handle
  • 35L – 11.4 x 27 inches, two backpack-style straps, handle

A waterproof waist pouch is nice to have on hikes, especially the kind of hike that ends with some swimming.

I recommend putting your phone in the phone bag first and then in the waist pouch, to decrease the chance of sand and rocks leaving micro-scratches on your phone.

Freegrace has made the dry bag out of 500D tarpaulin which is very lightweight and tear-resistant, in other words, perfect for a dry bag.

Each stress point on the bag has been reinforced. Stress points on bags are usually where the strap is attached.

I like what Freegrace has done with this set, including three items makes it very versatile. A dry bag, a phone bag, and a waist bag will be more than enough for most people, and the features each of them has to offer makes them worthy of being in the set.

Is the Freegrace Waterproof Dry Bags Set of 3 the best dry bag for you?

If you see yourself using all three items, then yes it very well could be.

PROS

  • Set of three
  • Lots of sizes and colors to choose from
  • Strap included
  • Floats
  • Phone bag, waist pouch included
  • Robust buckle

4. Sea to Summit Lightweight Dry Sack

Sea to Summit Lightweight Dry Sack, All-Purpose Dry Bag, 4 Liter, Yellow

Check Price at Amazon

Sea to Summit is an Australian company that makes outdoor gear, so the fact that they make a dry bag isn’t a surprise.

They’re known for their high-quality accessories and gear, and it’s a brand that knows what they’re doing.

The fact that they offer a lifetime guarantee should tell you something.

The Sea to Summit dry bag is a straightforward but functional and lightweight option.

It doesn’t have any frills but the basic functionality of a dry bag made out of high-quality material.

See Also: Best Life Jackets (PFD) For Dogs

No handles or straps can be found on the Sea to Summit dry bag, but a D loop on top will let you tie it down with your own rope.

I have this kind of dry bag and what I do is buckle it to the bungee tie-down on the front of my board. This way it won’t fall off if the paddle board flips, and it’s easily accessible.

Sea to Summit don’t recommend submerging the bag fully in water, and to double bag non-waterproof electronics.

The dry bag comes in several sizes, 7 to be exact. Here are their measurements.

  • 1L – 4.3 x 9.4 inches
  • 2L – 5.1 x 11.4 inches
  • 4L – 5.9 x 13 inches
  • 8L – 6.7 x 18 inches
  • 13L – 8.6 x 21 inches
  • 20L – 10 x 24 inches
  • 35L – 12 x 27 inches

There are six different colors to choose from: black, blue, apple green, pacific blue, red and yellow.

I recommend the Sea to Summit Lightweight Dry Sack if you want a high-quality waterproof bag that you don’t necessarily have to put on your backpack but maybe keep in another bag to keep certain things dry and safe from dirt and dust.

It can easily be tied down to anything you would like with the D loop on top. It’s the only bag in today’s comparison that you can get in 1L capacity so if you don’t need a bigger one than that, go for it.

PROS

  • Lots of sizes and colors to choose from
  • Floats
  • D Loop on top

5. HEETA Waterproof Pouch with Waist Strap

HEETA 2 Pack Waterproof Pouch, Screen Touch Sensitive Waterproof Dry Bag with Adjustable Waist Strap | Keep Your Phone and Valuables Dry | for Swimming Kayaking Boating Fishing Beach Diving Surfing

Check Price at Amazon

We earlier saw a waist pouch in the set by Freegrace, but if a waist pouch is all you think you would need, this is the one for you.

HEETA has made this two-pack of waterproof waist pouches with straps.

It adjusts and buckles around your hip or wherever you choose.

Are they waterproof though? Yes, to 100%.

You can put your electronics inside the pouch and fully submerge them in water without damaging your devices, and HEETA has received IPX8 certification for this product to prove that to you.

The IPX8 certification means that it can go down to at least 32 feet (10 meters) without risking any water damage. It also floats, so it won’t disappear if you drop it in the water.

There are no different sizes or colors to choose from, and each pouch is 6 x 8.66 inches. The strap adjusts from 33.5 inches to 47 inches.

See Also: Best Coil Leash For Stand Up Paddle Boards (SUP)

The waist pouches are an excellent choice for hikers or travelers as well. They’re known to be more secure ways of storing valuables than pockets, purses, and backpacks.

You can close it up all the way with your phone, wallet, and keys, and you would notice if somebody were trying to get into it.

Whether the HEETA Waterproof Pouch with Waist Strap is perfect for hikers or not depends on the person. My wife likes wearing waist pouches on hikes, but I am not a huge fan of them for that purpose.

Since you get two in this pack, both you and your friend or significant other can have your own, always something to take into consideration.

PROS

  • 2 Pack
  • Floats
  • IPX8 Certified
  • Large at 6.7 x 9 inches

6. Piscifun Waterproof Dry Bag Backpack

Piscifun Dry Bag, Waterproof Floating Backpack with Waterproof Phone Case for Kayking, Boating, Kayaking, Surfing, Rafting and Fishing, Army Green 10L

Check Price at Amazon

Last but not least is the Piscifun dry bag. It’s a very robust looking dry bag that is ready for all kinds of activities.

When you have rolled down the seal and buckled up, it will keep your gear dry and away from dust and dirt.

The bottom is reinforced with vinyl to protect it from rough grounds.

The Piscifun bag is made out of very durable 500D PVC to be able to take a beating, both on the water and out of it.

It comes in four different sizes, 10L, 20L, 30L, and 40L. Each of them comes with two backpack-style straps that are adjustable and removable.

A big handle on top makes it easy to carry it in your hand if you don’t want it on your back.

In addition to the dry bag, Piscifun includes a waterproof phone bag that is IPX8 rated.

Submerging it in water won’t cause any damage as long as it’s in the closed up bag.

See Also: Best Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Boards (SUP) for Lakes

It’s the first dry bag we’ve seen today that has an elastic rope on the front, where you could hang a solar panel, a small chair, or why not the included phone bag?

Piscifun gives you several colors to choose from. Note that some colors and sizes include a waterproof waist pouch as well. The kit makes a great gift.

The sizes and measurements are as follows.

  • 10L – 7.8 x 15 inches
  • 20L – 9.5 x 17.5 inches
  • 30L – 9.8 x 17.7 inches
  • 40L – 11 x 17.7 inches

The reason that the Piscifun Waterproof Dry Bag Backpack is my top pick in today’s review is simple, it’s the best most versatile option.

You get several colors and sizes to choose from, a big handle, adjustable and removable straps, elastic rope, waterproof phone bag, in a very well-made package.

PROS

  • Floats
  • IPX8 Certified Phone bag included
  • Elastic Rope on front
  • Adjustable and removable backpack straps
  • Reinforced vinyl bottom
  • Handle

Conclusion & My Recommendation For Best Dry Bag

What dry bag is the best for you depends on how much you plan on packing and where.

If you only bring your phone and a hoodie with you when you’re kayaking, you won’t need a 10L dry bag, and a 1 to 5 liter would probably be enough.

If you want a dry bag that you can take both on the water and go hiking with, make sure you get one with straps that let you carry the bag as a backpack.

Here is my recommendation when it comes to the best dry bag.

Piscifun Dry Bag, Waterproof Floating Backpack with Waterproof Phone Case for Kayking, Boating, Kayaking, Surfing, Rafting and Fishing, Army Green 10L

Best Overall – Piscifun Waterproof Dry Bag Backpack

The Piscifun has so many features and small details that make it my favorite.

A big handle, adjustable and removable straps, a bungee style rope system on the front to hang whatever you would like, a reinforced vinyl bottom, lots of colors to choose from, and four different sizes.

It’s the versatility that makes it a winner in my book, and I would feel confident going paddle boarding with my gear in this bag.


Person using a dry bag backpack on a kayak
Dry bags can be used for more than just paddle boarding.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dry Bags

What is a dry bag?

A dry bag is a bag usually made of waterproof PVC that can be used to keep anything that will fit in it dry.

They use openings with flat straps that are pressed together then folded 3-4 times to create a seal.

The folded ends are then clamped together to hold the folded seal. You can buy all kinds of sizes and styles including dry bag backpacks.

How to use and close a dry bag.

You can use a dry bag in a variety of ways. Their purpose is to be a tightly sealed bag that keeps water out.

They also are very good for keeping dirt out and can be used as hiking backpacks as well.

To use a dry bag simply press the flat ends that also make the opening together.

The fold the flat ends 3-4 times. Once it’s folded use the buckle on each end of the folded part to clip the opening together and hold the folded seal.

What size dry bag for kayaking?

It’s ultimately up to you and what size of kayak you have.

If you are going on a camping trip you are going to need a larger dry bag than if you were just going out for the day and needed something to keep some snacks and your phone dry.

What size dry bag do I use for a sleeping bag?

It depends on how big your sleeping bag is but anything around 30L should be big enough.

You don’t want to stuff a dry bag too much because it needs to be able to fold a few times to create a good seal and keep water out.

Can I store a towel in a dry bag?

Absolutely, a good dry bag will hold your towel and keep it dry.

Just make sure the bag you get is big enough for your towel, remember that beach towels are bigger than your standard bath towel.

Can I trust that the bag is waterproof?

Even if a company advertises a dry bag as 100% waterproof and all the reviews on the product say that it is fully waterproof, it’s smart to test it yourself by closing the bag without anything in it and put it in water.

Mistakes happen during manufacturing, so you want to be 100% sure the dry bag in your hands is fully waterproof before you head out on the water with your gear in it.

Close it up and put it in the bathtub or sink and make sure that no water is going inside.

How do dry bags work?

They’re made with water-resistant or waterproof fabric to stop water from getting in.

The way you close them is that you fold the bag from the opening at least three times to create an airtight seal.

Note that you want to fold it, not roll it. Rolling would let water find its way in easier.

Have any more questions about dry bags? Leave a comment below.

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