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Best Waterproof Bag

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Updated December 15, 2021

After considering a wide number of products, and careful research, we strongly believe that the KastKings Dry Bag is the best waterproof bag you can buy today. Why? It features durable materials, a range of capacities, and a large see-through viewing panel that makes finding quick items mid-trip easy to do. If you like durable items for your hiking and camping needs, then you might also want to check out the best camping gear.

To research the best waterproof bag (also known as a dry bag), we began by comparing waterproof claims. While almost every dry bag on the market will claim to be waterproof, there are varying degrees of efficacy. However, we also considered the following features — materials, durability, size, ease of use, and additional features. We looked for options that had higher durability, especially in cold weather, and also focused on a wider range of capacities to fit a variety of uses. Keep reading to learn more about the rest of our top picks.

Top 7 Best Waterproof Bags

 #1  KastKing Waterproof Dry Bag

Award: TOP PICK

WHY WE LIKE IT: A roll-down dry bag with three capacities from 10 to 30 liters and a large see-through viewing panel, makes this easy to use — especially when you need to get one specific item out of your bag.

Pros
  • Clear see-through viewing panel
  • 10 – 30L capacity
  • Built-in shoulder strap
Cons
  • Not rated for submersion

Dry bags are great for protecting your gear, but if you need to strategically get one item out of the bag, good luck. We’re nominating the KastKing Dry Bag as our Top Pick because it offers a large see-through viewing window. When you can see where all of your gear is located, you no longer need to empty your bag to grab one item. We liked that these water-resistant bags can float, making them a perfect option for water activities. Some of the most important key features of this waterproof backpack are that it has military-grade construction and is therefore waterproof, snowproof, sand proof, and dustproof. Choose from three sizes — 10, 20, and 30 liters. And you’ll like the select models of this waterproof backpack that come with a water-resistant smartphone case.

You’ll like the added water resistance in this roll-top bag from the additional PVC layer at the opening. This dry bag’s exterior is made from 500D PVC material for enhanced resistance to abrasion and rips. All sizes feature a single strap design and reinforced vinyl attachments for a strong product that can stand up to whatever you throw at it. Take it camping, along with the best coolers.

 #2  Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag

Award: HONORABLE MENTION

WHY WE LIKE IT: An impressive range of sizes from 10 to 55 liters and an included IPX8 certified waterproof phone case make this the largest dry bag option in our guide that’s perfect for longer trips.

Pros
  • Best large capacity sizes
  • Backpack straps
  • IPX8-certified waterproof phone case
Cons
  • Designed for light water exposure only

If you’re taking a longer trip, you’ll need to bring more items with you. We’ve added the Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag to our list because it’s the largest dry bag capacity in our guide. We like that you have five capacities from 10, 20, 30, 40, and 55 Liters, eight colors, and the option of either a single strap or a traditional dual-strap backpack style. However, the backpack straps are only for the 30, 40, and 55-liter sizes. The single strap is available on the 10 and 20-liter capacity dry bags. If you prefer for the 55-liter size, it also features a heavy-duty waist belt to provide added stability and reduce fatigue.

The Earth Pak roll dry bag is only meant for light exposure to water. But you’ll like that it comes with an IPX8-certified waterproof smartphone case for phones with screens up to 6.5 inches wide diagonally. This means you can have your phone safely submerged in water while in this case. And as is common, these dry bags are also made from durable 500D PVC material. Make sure to check out another one of the best dry bags on Amazon.com: the Big River Dry Bag that’s made by Sea to Summit, which is great for water sports. The bag features durable abrasion-resistant nylon, including 420 D ripstop nylon, and a waterproof Hypalon roll-top closure to keep your gear safe and dry. Pack everything inside, including the best headlamp.

 #3  MARCHWAY Floating Waterproof Dry Bag

Award: BEST FOR COLD WEATHER

WHY WE LIKE IT: A convertible bag that can switch from crossbody to backpack and is available in five capacities from five to 40 liters makes this the best dry bag for travel.

Pros
  • Excellent option for winter travelers
  • Rated water-resistant
  • 5 capacities from 5 – 40L
Cons
  • Cannot be submerged in water

Many dry bags are notorious for not working as well when the weather turns cold. Specifically, common complaints are that the material becomes stiff or cracks in the cold. The Marchway Floating Waterproof Dry Bag is the best dry bag for travel because it’s specifically designed to maintain its structural integrity in cold weather. While it’s protecting your gear from dirt, mud, and snow, the exterior material won’t crack or go stiff.

We like that this dry bag comes in five capacities — 5, 10, 20, 30, and 40 liters — and that it also features a roll-top closure with sturdy construction that’s rated for water resistance against lightweight water exposure. Whichever size you choose, all of the bags have a sturdy clasp handle that can be attached to a backpack or carrier. The five and 10-liter sizes come with a detachable single-strap that converts this bag into a crossbody pack. The 20 and 30-liter sizes come with detachable backpack straps, and the 40-liter option features permanent backpack straps. Pack your camping gear inside, like the best tactical flashlight.

 #4  Unigear Waterproof Dry Bag

Award: BEST on a BUDGET

WHY WE LIKE IT: The best small capacity bag in our guide that gives you the added option of a petite two-liter dry bag that’s perfect for a day at the pool or even for a trip to the water park.

Pros
  • Made from super resistant 500D PVC
  • Includes water tight smartphone case
  • Portable capacity options (2 – 40L)
Cons
  • Some bags may ship with missing straps

Not everyone needs a large dry bag. And the reality is that for some people, even a five-liter bag might be a little on the big side. The Unigear Waterproof Dry Bag is the perfect solution for the person who wants to protect a few items from the elements, but doesn’t want to lug around a large bag all day. We like that this roll-down dry bag offers the smallest capacity in our guide — two liters. But in total, they have six capacities: two, five, 10, 20, 30, and 40 liters.

As is often common, this dry bag also comes with an included waterproof phone case, and the option to choose from 10 colors so that you can always match your accessories to your personality. Another common feature is the fact that the smaller sizes up to 20 liters only offer a single-strap while the 30 and 40-liter options come with a dual strap backpack design. This is as useful as the best sleeping bags when camping.

 #5  HEETA Waterproof Dry Bag

Award: EASIEST TO USE

WHY WE LIKE IT: A fully see-through exterior, four sizes from 5 to 30 liters, a vacuum seal, and included waterproof smartphone case make this one of the easiest dry bags to use in our guide.

Pros
  • Underwater photography smartphone bag included
  • Portable capacity options (2 – 40L)
  • Includes smartphone case
Cons
  • Not rated for submersion

Again, nothing is more frustrating than trying to dig through an opaque bag when you can’t see where items are within the bag. We think that the Heeta Waterproof Dry Bag is probably one of the most user-friendly options for a dry bag because the entire bay is see-through. But it also comes with a wide range of essential features. The see-through design makes finding essentials a snap since you don’t need to completely unpack your bag.

You’ll like that they offer four capacities — 5, 10, 20, and 30 liters — all of which feature straps and a handle. As is common, the five and 10-liter bags have a single strap and the 20 and 30-liter models have a backpack configuration. There are nine colors for each of the sizes, and as is fairly standard with this product category, this model also comes smartphone case that accommodates phones with screen widths up to seven inches diagonally. Bring this and the best sleeping pad on your next adventure. Another one of the best dry bags is the Adventure Lion Waterproof Dry Bag, and the larger versions include adjustable shoulder straps to transform them into convenient travel gear. The waterproof material and welded seams will give all your supplies and items water protection and keep them safe. And if you want to drink clean water while camping, you can purify water from unlikely sources using the best water purifiers camping.

 #6  Piscifun Waterproof Dry Bag Backpack

Award: BEST QUALITY

WHY WE LIKE IT: The only dry bag in our guide that features an exterior storage option, along with a solid range of capacity choices and an included IPX8-certified waterproof phone case makes this the most versatile storage option in our guide.

Pros
  • A very durable design and built quality
  • Most versatile storage + IPX8 phone Case
  • 5 capacities: 5L – 40L
Cons
  • Not heat resistant

Storage is important when you’re eyeing a dry bag for your outdoor activities. Of course, you want the interior to be roomy, but exterior storage can come in handy when you have those last minute items or even snacks. We selected the Piscifun Waterproof Dry Bag Backpack because it’s the only option in our guide to include an exterior storage component. While all of the other options rely only on their internal storage, this model comes with an outer mesh pocket that includes a criss-cross bungee cord design to help hold items or clip-on additional bags or totes.

Aside from that, you’ll appreciate the five capacities of five, 10, 20, 30, and 40 liters, and that these bags are also made from sturdy and waterproof 500D PVC material. Another common add-on is the IPX8 certified waterproof phone case that supports phones with screen sizes up to 6.5 inches diagonally. And you’ll like that these bags are also safe for use in cold weather and won’t succumb to cracking. Another key item you need for survival in cold weather environments is the best all-weather matches.

 #7  Outdoor Products 3-Pack All Purpose Waterproof Bag

Award: BEST MULTI KIT

WHY WE LIKE IT: A comprehensive three-pack of dry bags ranging from two to eight liters makes this the perfect one-stop solution for first-time users.

Pros
  • Lightweight and varying sizes for different trip lengths
  • 3-pack set
  • 2, 4, & 8 Liters
Cons
  • Not rated for submersion

Maybe you’ve never used a dry bag before and you aren’t sure of which size is going to be best for your needs. In that case, you probably don’t want to go crazy buying one of the more expensive options in our guide. We think this Outdoor Products 3-Pack All Purpose Dry Sack is a great place for beginners to start their dry bag journey.

First, we like that this is a set of dry bags, ranging in two, four, and eight liters. While these bags aren’t made from polyester and lack the accessories seen on all of the other bags in our guide, we think that budget-conscious shoppers will like the value of getting three bags for the price of what one would cost with any of the competitors in our guide.

Note: Other waterproof backpacks worth mentioning here that are not on our list include the Watershed Colorado Duffel Drybag, the Big River Dry Bag by Sea to Summit, as well as the eVent Compression dry sack, and the YETI Panga 75 Dry Duffel.

The Watershed Colorado duffel is ideal for river tripping, with key features being that it is made of polyurethane-coated fabric which has 5 times the abrasion resistance of PVC. This waterproof backpack/duffel bag’s other key features include the Zipdry seal technology that locks shut to form a watertight and airtight seal to keep your gear tight in up to 300ft of underwater pressure. The duffel also works well as a cartop waterproof bag for road trips. t also has compression straps, a large opening, and comfortable straps you can throw over your shoulder.

The Sea to Summit Big River Dry Bag’s key features include a heavy-duty, abrasion-resistant TPU laminated nylon fabric built with a capacity of 13 liters. This Big River dry sack is watertight, with key features such as double-stitched, tape-sealed seams, and Hypalon roll-top closure with a quick-release buckle.

The Panga 75 Duffel bag offers key features such as ultra-durability, fully submersible, and an EVA molded bottom that offers waterproof landing for the Panga. Other key features include of this Panga include high-density laminated nylon, two mesh pockets, and a trademark Hydrolok zipper.

Lastly, the eVent Compression Dry Sack by Sea to Summit has some simple but key features such as a sturdy nylon waterproof fabric design with 4 straps. This compression dry sack is ideal for sleeping bags and other bulky yet compressible items, compressing down to a 1/3rd of the original volume, with a 6-liter capacity and long straps with reinforced stress points to make them strong enough to throw over the shoulder.

How We Decided

Waterproof bags (also known as dry bags) are essential if you’re trying to keep your valuables and gear dry while you’re in or near the water. To create our guide, we considered the following features — waterproof, materials, durability, size, ease of use, and additional features.

Not all dry bags are equally waterproof. As we found in our research, “waterproof” doesn’t mean the same thing for every manufacturer, and it’s the most important factor that you need to consider before purchasing this item. Even though every product we reviewed claims to be waterproof, all the options were only water-resistant instead of being rated as safe against sustained submersion.

Next we looked at the dry bag size options. Most dry bag brands came in a range from four to six sizes. If you’re focused on finding the smallest dry bag possible, we recommend the Best Budget since it’s the only one that offers a two-liter option. In contrast, most other brands start with either a five or 10-liter dry bag. However, if you want a large dry bag, the largest was the 55-liter bag from our #3 pick.

Materials are also critical for selecting a dry bag. Through our research, we noted that the two most common options included a coated nylon or a 500D PVC. PVC is great for resisting rips and tears that would commonly occur if you’re dragging a bag like this over rough terrain. But we also looked at how those materials made a bag easier to use. Specifically, our Honorable Mention and #6 picks excelled in this category. Both of them offer either a see through panel or an entirely see-through design — making the process of quickly grabbing something out of your bag significantly easier.

And in terms of additional accessories, one of the most common options we saw were the waterproof smartphone cases. While you need to confirm that the smartphone case is compatible with the size of your phone, this is a nice value-added feature to look for in a quality dry bag.

Best Waterproof Bag Buyer’s Guide

The Most Important Factors to Consider

  1. Waterproof
    Waterproof bags are also known as dry bags, so don’t be surprised if you see that language when you shop for one. But obviously, the most important feature is water resistance. Dry bags are designed to keep their contents from getting wet. But there’s a range of water resistance so you’ll need to keep this in mind as you look for the right option for your needs. Some waterproof bags can be submerged underwater for long periods, while others can only handle an occasional splash or wave. Always check the waterproof claims to confirm that it’s compatible with your intended activities.
  2. Materials
    A good dry bag will usually be durable, flexible, and lightweight. A durable dry bag can hold up to consistent use even in rough terrain. A lightweight dry bag won’t add to your load — especially if you’re biking or hiking. And flexible dry bags can accommodate unexpected capacities without damaging the exterior. These types of bags are usually made from vinyl, nylon, PVC, and TPU. These materials are the most durable options.
  3. Size
    How large do you want your dry bag to be? This is going to depend on what you plan on packing and how long you plan to use your bag in one trip. An afternoon hike won’t require a large-capacity bag, whereas a multi-day camping adventure would. Also, think about how you’ll be carrying this waterproof bag. If you’re hiking or biking, a lightweight bag is the best bet to minimize the risk of excess weight.
  4. Durability
    Technically durability goes hand in hand with the materials factor. But you’ll want to look at bags that offer double stitching or carrying straps. These features make it easier to secure your bag and to withstand coming into contact with rough surfaces.
  5. Closure Options
    There are two common options for waterproof bags — roll tops and zippers. Depending on your needs, one option might be better than others. However in general, if you’re planning on spending time around the water, experts agree that a roll-top has better water resistance and is more secure than a zipper closure.
  6. Additional Features
    The importance of additional features is going to depend on what’s a priority for you. But we looked at models that offered options such as additional interior pockets or included additional waterproof smartphone cases so that you didn’t need to leave your phone in your waterproof bag to keep it safe. Likewise, an option like a viewing window is nice when you’re trying to take one specific item out of your bag.

Waterproof Bag FAQs

Are dry bags really waterproof?

Yes, but the level of water resistance is going to vary between dry bags. It can range from extended submersion to basic water-resistance from rain or a splash of water. If you’re spending a lot of time in the water (such as rafting), then you’ll want extended submersion.

Can you swim with a dry bag?

If a dry bag is rated as being waterproof against extended submersion, then yes. However, you always need to check the waterproof rating as some are designed only to protect the contents inside the bag from light water exposure.

What is the best dry bag?

The best dry bag is the one that is easiest for you to use, offers the capacity that you need, and is less likely to crack or fall apart in extreme weather. In our guide, we nominated the KastKings Dry Bag as our Top Pick because of the large viewing window that makes it easy to find items when you need them, and the range of capacities from 10 to 30 liters.