Are you going on an adventure that may or may not involve getting your stuff wet? You need the best waterproof dry bag and this article is here to help you find it!
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In the parts that follow, I listed down my top 8 favorite dry bags along with some of their remarkable features. To make your quest much easier, you can also enjoy a comprehensive buying guide! So, scroll down and let’s get started!
Top Waterproof Dry Bags
Below are some of the waterproof dry bags that you should consider:
SealLine Boundary Pack
The SealLine Boundary pack comes from a line of amazing and reliable dry bags. It is made with a PVC-free polyurethane-coated polyester material that is both durable and eco-friendly. It even features an improved suspension system.
The Scrim-reinforced urethane and continuous double sealing strips add an extra layer of protection for your valuables and accessories. For a dry seal closure, it has a roll-top that you can secure with a tough hard plastic buckle.
It also has two straps so you can conveniently wear it as a backpack for a hands-free and convenient carrying. It also comes with an adjustable chest buckle and waist buckle for a nice, secure fit and added support for the back.
This bag is available in three sizes namely 35L, 70L, and 115L. You can also get it in black, blue, green, or yellow.
Aqua Quest Mariner Backpack
Next, we have the Aqua Quest Mariner Backpack, dry bag that not only protects your belongings from water damage but also shields against sand, dust, dirt, and snow.
This bag is 100% waterproof and is said to manage a quick sudden submersion. The material used is a non-toxic PVC fabric that is abrasion and puncture-resistant so you know that it is built to last.
The welded seams and double bar tacked stress points provide reinforced strength and toughness to the bag as well.
You can carry it using a side handle or two shoulder straps. The straps are padded for your comfort. Two adjustable belt buckles at the top and bottom of each strap allow you to get a proper fit while wearing the bag.
Reflective strips and a reflective logo also offer safety by being visible in low light conditions. This bag can also be used as a floatation device.
However, it only comes in three small to medium sizes: 10L, 20L, and 30L. You can get it in black, green, yellow, or blue.
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
The Earth Pak Waterproof dry bag is one of the best and most reliable waterproof bags out there. It comes in 10L, 20L, 30L, 40L, and 55L sizes for all your travel and adventure needs.
Made with a 500D PVC Material and a roll-top closure, it guarantees reliable waterproof protection and durability. It even comes with a free IPX8 certified waterproof case for your phone.
The 10L and 20L sizes come with an adjustable single shoulder strap while the larger sizes are equipped with backpack-style shoulder straps for easy carrying. The backpack straps also have an adjustable sternum strap for added stability as you walk, climb, or row.
This item comes in white, black, yellow, red, blue, orange, or forest green. It was even recognized and featured by Tim Ferris, a New York Times Bestselling author in his blog.
Unigear Waterproof Dry Bag
If you are looking for a durable and lightweight bag, the Unigear Waterproof Dry Bag may be the best one for you. It protects your belongings from rain and even quick submersions as well as sand, dust, and dirt.
An adjustable roll-top closure provides even better protection and watertight seal. It comes with an adjustable, removable, and extra long shoulder strap so you can wear it as a sling bag for easy handling and transport.
No matter how long you are traveling or how much you are bringing with you, you are likely to find a Unigear Dry Bag that suits your needs. It comes in 2L, 5L, 10L, 20L, 30L, and 40L sizes.
This dirtproof, snowproof, and waterproof bag also comes with a universal size waterproof phone pouch that fits all smartphones measuring up to 6 inches diagonally. You can also keep your passport, wallet, keys, and cards here.
The bag comes in eight different colors namely army green, black, blue, orange, red, sky blue, white, and yellow.
Leader Accessories Waterproof Dry Bag
Made with a heavy duty vinyl material with a polyester trilaminate construction, the Leader Accessories Waterproof dry bag is another durable and reliable choice. It also has high frequency welded seams for a reinforced watertight seal.
These characteristics make this bag suitable for quick submersions. Since it can be inflated and tightly sealed, it can also be used as a floatation device in case of an emergency.
This bag is also easy to clean and store away. It protects your belongings not just from water but also from dirt, sand, and dust.
It comes with an adjustable shoulder strap for stability and comfort while carrying. You can get it in seven different colors like black, white, red, green, orange, blue, and yellow as well as seven sizes: 5L, 10L, 15L, 20L, 30L, 40L, and 55L.
This product is backed with a 30-day return and 100% money back guarantee.
ZBRO Waterproof Dry Bag
Available in 30L, 40L, and 50L sizes, the ZBRO Waterproof Dry Bag leans on the larger spectrum. This 100% water-resistant sack keeps your necessities clean and safe from water damage.
The ZBRO waterproof bag also has a strategically located reflective stripe for improved visibility and safety in dark conditions even when seen from afar.
Stay neat and organized with the help of the outer mesh pocket and removable inner pocket.
This bag also comes with padded shoulder straps for comfortable and easy carrying. You can also adjust the length of the straps.
You can even choose among six amazing colors namely matte black, white, bright yellow, camo gray, deep blue, and stone gray.
Adventure Lion Premium Waterproof Dry Bags
The Adventure Lion Premium Waterproof Dry Bag is among the toughest bags out in the market today. Constructed with state-of-the-art materials, this bag is lightweight, soft, and flexible even in near-freezing weather.
The solid roll-top closure makes for a secure, watertight seal and also allows the bag to float in water.
This bag comes in four convenient sizes – 5L, 10L, 20L, and 40L. The 5L and 10L sizes feature extra large adjustable single straps. The 20L size has a handle while the 40L bags have two backpack-style straps.
You can get this bag in black, blue, green, orange, pink, or yellow. It is also backed by a lifetime warranty so you can rest assured that it will hold up well even under tough conditions and the worst weather.
MARCHWAY Floating Waterproof Dry Bag
Last but not the least, the Marchway Floating Waterproof Dry Bag is a durable, compact, and lightweight option. It is made from ripstop tarpaulin, this bag is puncture, rip, and tear-proof. Sturdy welded seams offer reinforced protection.
Enjoy a reliable watertight seal thanks to the tough roll-top closure. This bag can keep your gear and accessories dry in any wet condition as long as it is not fully submerged. It protects its contents not just from water damage but also from sand, mud, and snow.
The smooth surface makes this bag super easy to clean, just wipe it down and you’re ready to go! This bag comes in 10L and 20L sizes, each of which comes with a removable and adjustable shoulder strap.
You can choose among 12 different bright colors including pink, orange, yellow, green, red, and blue.
What is a Dry Bag?
Basically, a dry bag is a waterproof and watertight bag meant to keep items protected even if the bag comes in constant contact or becomes submerged in water. Dry bags are usually sealed by rolling the top several times, pushing out excess air, and clipping them tight.
This type of bag is ideal for keeping valuables and other things dry during travels and activities such as fishing, kayaking, or boating. Some daypacks are recommended for people who spend a lot of time outdoors like campers, hikers, and motorcycle riders.
Dry bags come in many shapes, sizes, and colors. Some can also be used as floatation devices in case of emergencies.
The best dry bag will have two straps for wearing on your back but some may have only one strap to sling across your shoulder while others may have no straps at all.
Important Considerations When Choosing a Dry Bag
There are several considerations to make when choosing the right dry bag. Here are some of the most important:
Purpose and Activity
The first thing that you should think about is what purpose your dry bag will serve or for what activity you will be using it for. This is because not all dry bags are suited for all activities.
What are the chances of your bag getting wet or being submerged? Canoeing or kayaking will more likely have your bag soaked than for example, sitting next to it by the beach. By the way, most dry bags are sand-proof as well!
Who will be using the pack? If it is for kids, you will need small packs that need not to be as high quality. Otherwise, choose a larger heavy duty bag for adults who will engage in intense activities.
Size
Again, dry bags come in a wide range of sizes which can make choosing one all the more difficult. Most brands produce bags ranging from 5L to 40L but the standard size is about 20L. Depending on the intended purpose, you can go for a smaller or larger bag. Here is a quick guide:
- Small dry bags 1L to 10L in size can be used to hold electronics and other smaller items that can get lost in a larger bag. A dry pouch is ideal for your phone, wallet, cards, or passport. A 5L bag can hold clothes or toiletries. A 10L bag is sufficient for a weekend trip for holding snacks and a few gears as well.
- Medium dry bags can range from 10L to 20L in size. These are used for larger electronics like your camera, tablet, iPad, or small laptop. A 20L bag can hold larger things like more clothes and a sleeping bag.
- Large dry bags have a 30L to 40L volume. These include the best dry bags for motorcycle riders and offer a great storage space for week-long solo trips.
- Extra large dry bags have more than 40L of storage space which offers more than enough space for longer trips or for storing valuables when you are going with a group or your family.
Materials
The next thing you should consider is the type and quality of materials used for the bag’s construction. This will determine whether or not the bag will be lightweight and durable.
Common dry bag materials include nylon and vinyl. While vinyl is known to be more durable and waterproof, it can be heavy and stiff. A vinyl dry bag is ideal for keeping stuff that needs to be absolutely protected like cameras, electronics, and other heavy equipment.
Nylon bags, on the other hand, are flexible and lightweight but are not as durable. These are recommended for people who like to pack light since these are also handy, compact, and foldable.
Level of Water Resistance
Most dry bags are only for resisting water during rainy days or quick accidental submersions. There are also dry bags that are secure enough that you can take them with you while scuba diving.
Other bags are also sealed at the top and are tightly sealed which allows them to float on water. If you are not sure whether or not a bag will hold well underwater, make sure to read the manufacturer instructions and warning first.
Type of Closure
Even though all dry bags have taped seams and waterproof reinforcements, they come with two types of closure: the zipper seal and roll-top. Each type has a different mechanism and level of water protection.
The roll-top closure is the most common since it can provide a better, more reliable seal. However, some bags have been known to leak if you don’t roll far enough or tight enough. To use a roll-top closure, you simply have to roll the bag’s top three to five times and then secure it with a buckle for an airtight seal.
The closure also sometimes creates the bag’s handle. You can also use this to link or clip together multiple bags so all your belongings stay organized in one place.
A zipper sealed dry bag simply has reinforced zippers for closure. This is similar to a freezer bag with a press and seal type of closure. These are less waterproof and more prone to water seepage but are less expensive. The zippers also need proper lubrication to work properly and so are not as sturdy and reliable as the roll-top.
Visibility
Some activities will have you using your dry bag in low light conditions or at night. Black bags can easily get misplaced or lost in the darkness.
The best waterproof dry bags have reflective, neon-colored surfaces or reflector strips. This way, you can locate them quickly and you will stay visible to other people when you carry them in the dark.
Must-Have Dry Bag Features
The best dry bag should also come equipped with different bonus features to make your life more convenient and to make the most value for your money. These are:
Straps
Some dry bags have two straps so you can wear them on your bag as a backpack. Some have only one side strap for carrying on the shoulder while others have no straps at all. Other bags also have removable or detachable straps or ones that can be converted do you can wear them on your shoulder or as a backpack.
Of course, straps are ideal especially for day trips when you have to carry multiple bags. If you prefer hauling large and heavy dry bags like luggage, you might want those that have heavy-duty handles instead.
Make sure to check for straps since this will help in transporting and carrying more items from one place to another.
Attachment rings
Aside from straps, a good dry bag should also have some way for you to attach it to your canoe, boat, or kayak or to your other bags.
Dry bags usually have D-rings, or thick rings shaped like the letter D which serve as mounting mechanisms to attach your bag. This allows you to quickly pull multiple bags at once and secure your things on the boat in case the water turbulence causes things to get tossed.
Storage compartments
I generally prefer dry bags with compartments and organizers rather than having just a huge open sack where stuff can get mixed, uncapped, or even misplaced. The latter makes it so hard to locate small items when you need them.
So, to save you from rummaging your bag and risking getting something wet, look for a bag with zippered pockets or divisions. This will help you stay organized and keep your things easily accessible.
Some dry bags also come with smaller complementary dry bags for free where you can keep your accessories and small gadgets.
In Summary
The best waterproof dry bag should be made with high-quality materials, have a secure closure and attachment mechanisms, properly sized for the purpose, and does not break the bank. If you refer to this guide, you have better chances of landing your next travel and adventure companion!
Did you like this article? If so, you might also want to check out this article about the best waterproof duffel bags of 2020!