You can’t expect to have a pleasant kayaking experience without a dry bag because a dry bag allows you to carry all your gear and protect them from the water. There are two things that you should focus on mainly when buying a dry bag: material and closure. A waterproof dry bag with a roll-top or buckle system closure is the best option for kayaking.
Over the years, I have tasted more than hundreds of dry bags and picked 10 of the best dry bags that are currently available in the market for kayaking. Scroll down and let’s get started!
- Editor’s Choice: KastKing Floating Waterproof Dry Bag
- Best Overall: Ultra Dry Premium Waterproof Bag
- Best Value: Piscifun Waterproof Dry Bag Backpack
- Cheapest Option: MARCHWAY Floating Waterproof Dry Bag
- Best Heavy Duty: Sea to Summit Lightweight Dry Sack
- Best Design: Freegrace Waterproof Dry Bags Set of 3
- Best For Professionals: Earth Pak -Waterproof Dry Bag
- Best Versatility: Leader Accessories Heavy Duty Vinyl Waterproof Dry Bag
- Best Alternative 1: IDRYBAG Waterproof Dry Bag Dry Sack
- Best Alternative 2: HEETA Waterproof Dry Bag
10 Best Dry Bags For Kayaking
1. Earth Pak -Waterproof Dry Bag
2. KastKing Floating Waterproof Dry Bag
3. Sea to Summit Lightweight Dry Sack
4. Ultra Dry Premium Waterproof Bag
5. Leader Accessories Heavy Duty Vinyl Waterproof Dry Bag
6. HEETA Waterproof Dry Bag
7. IDRYBAG Waterproof Dry Bag Dry Sack
8. Freegrace Waterproof Dry Bags Set of 3
9. MARCHWAY Floating Waterproof Dry Bag
10. Piscifun Waterproof Dry Bag Backpack
My Top Picks Of The Best Dry Bags For Kayaking Of 2023
We have analyzed the specs, pros, and cons of 30 Dry bags from Aliexpress, Amazon, eBay, and Target – and found the following 10 are way ahead in terms of positive feedbacks and features. Let’s dive into the details –
1. Earth Pak -Waterproof Dry Bag
| Brand | Earth Pak |
| Color | Orange |
| Closure Type | Buckle |
| Capacity | 10 Liters |
If you are looking for a reliable waterproof dry bag that will provide heavy-duty performance and it will last for years then the Earth Pak -Waterproof Dry Bag is the best option for you. This dry bag has received national recognition after it was mentioned by acclaimed entrepreneur and New York Times Bestselling author Tim Ferris in his blog. This bag is available in 5 sizes with capacities ranging from 10 to 55 liters. So whether you are a light packer or a heavy packer you will find your desired size. The 10L & 20L dry bags come with a 24-42 Inch single shoulder strap and the 30L, 40L, and 55L waterproof dry bags have backpack-style shoulder straps.
This dry bag is made from 500D PVC fabric material and there is a roll-top closure to keep your gear safe and protected. The big size dry bags have sternum straps for added security and stability. The 55-liter bag has an extra heavy-duty waist belt, which relieves added pressure and helps support the load. The best part of this dry bag is; it includes an IPX8 Certified 6.5 Inch waterproof phone case and it can fit all types of phones. This phone case can hold phones up to 6.5 Inches of diagonal screen size.
Main Features
1. Five sizes: 10 liters, 20 liters, 30 liters, 40 liters, 55 liters
2. Backpack style shoulder straps for large size bags
3. IPX8 Certified 6.5 Inch waterproof phone case
4. 500D PVC high-quality and heavy-duty fabric material
2. KastKing Floating Waterproof Dry Bag
| Brand | KastKing |
| Color | Yellow |
| Closure Type | Buckle |
| Capacity | 10 liters, 20 liters, 30 liters |
KastKing is a very popular and leading manufacturer of fishing gear and they are renowned for manufacturing the best dry bags on the market. This waterproof floating dry bag from KastKing is made from double-layer 500D PVC materials so it offers twice the security and protection compared to other dry bags available in the market. It comes with an innovative transparent window design so you can easily locate the gear that you were looking for in the bag. Some other key features of this bag are fusion welded seams, a removable adjustable shoulder carry strap; a water-tight DOUBLE overlap roll top, and many more. All these features ensure best-in-class waterproof performance while out in the water.
This dry bag is available in three sizes: 10 liters, 20 liters, and 30 liters. The 10-liter bag is a compact choice for keeping valuables and small items for short trips. The 20-liter bag is perfect for a day trip where you can carry things like a change of clothes, towels, tools, a notebook, food containers, and many more. If you are planning for a trip that will last more than one day then you should pick the 30-liter bag so that you can bring extra stuff with you. It is a floating bag so you can use it as a floating device in case of an emergency.
Main Features
1. Double layer 500D PVC high quality and heavy-duty fabric material
2. Three sizes: 10 liters, 20 liters, 30 liters
3. Clear see-through window panel
4. Tough, durable 100% waterproof dry bag
5. Water-tight double overlap roll-top
3. Sea to Summit Lightweight Dry Sack
| Brand | Sea to Summit |
| Color | Pacific Blue |
| Closure Type | Hypalon durable roll-top closure |
| Capacity | 4 Liters |
If you are looking for a lightweight dry bag then you can consider the Sea to Summit Lightweight Dry Sack. This is a very lightweight dry bag compared to most other dry bags available in the market. This bag is made of dense, tough, and highly pliable 70 Denier waterproof fabrics with Polyurethane waterproof coating so you don’t have to worry about any leakage. The build material of this bag features a high thread count as well as puncture and abrasion resistance. It comes with a 10,000mm hydrostatic head that ensures waterproofing when you are kayaking and in rainy weather.
This bag is available in seven sizes: 1 liter, 2 liters, 4 liters, 8 liters, 13 liters, 20 liters, 35 liters. So if you are looking for the smallest size dry bag then you can find your desired size here. The small-size bags are perfect for packing your essentials and other smaller items. This bag features a non-wicking Hypalon roll-top closure, a D-ring attachment point, and the patent-pending Field Repair Buckle with stainless steel pins. This bag is available in various colors that include black, blue, pacific blue, red, green, and yellow.
Main Features
1. 70D Nylon with Polyurethane waterproof coating
2. Waterproof Hypalon roll-top closure
3. 5/8″ side squeeze buckle closure
4. Oval-shaped non-rolling bottom
4. Ultra Dry Premium Waterproof Bag
| Brand | Ultra Dry |
| Color | Blue |
| Closure Type | Roll-top closure |
| Capacity | 10, 20 Liters |
This bag is very popular among experienced kayakers because of its high-quality build material. This bag is made from pure grade 500D waterproof polymer fabric and it is Y7.5mm thick. So you can expect this dry bag to last for years. It is a 100% waterproof dry bag and it guarantees to keep all your gear protected no matter what the condition is. This bag will be your perfect match for an extreme kayaking run, hiking in torrential rain or at the beach, and other rough situations. This bag is very comfortable to carry and it is torn, rip, and puncture-proof!
This bag comes with a waterproof phone bag case and it works superbly with all large and small size phones. So you don’t have to worry about your phones and other gadgets. The size of this bag is 36 cm by 70cm so it can hold almost the right amount of stuff so it won’t hold you back on your adventures. It has a removal shoulder strap and you can adjust it up to 48 inches or 122 cm long. So you can carry the bag comfortably and don’t have to worry about the bag fitting on your body type and height.
Main Features
1. Light, tough, very strong dry bag
2. 500D waterproof polymer fabric
3. 100% waterproof dry bag
4. Includes waterproof phone bag case
5. Leader Accessories Heavy Duty Vinyl Waterproof Dry Bag
| Brand | Leader Accessories |
| Color | Z-Blue w/ window |
| Closure Type | Snap |
| Capacity | 30 Liters |
If you are looking for a durable dry bag for kayaking at an affordable price then the Leader Accessories Heavy Duty Vinyl Waterproof Dry Bag is the best option for you. This is a 100% waterproof dry bag made from high-quality heavy-duty vinyl polyester. Moreover, this bag has a trilaminate construction and high-frequency welded seams for better protection. You can use this bag while kayaking, traveling, boating, water rafting, camping, hiking, hunting; skiing, snowboarding, and this bag will protect your valuables from dirt, dust, sand, and water. This bag is available in seven sizes: 5 liters, 10 liters, 15 liters, 20 liters, 30 liters, 40 liters, 55 liters.
The 5L, 10L, 15L, & 20L dry bags come with an adjustable single shoulder strap. The 30L dry bags have two adjustable straps so you can use them as a backpack or a single shoulder bag. 40-liter and 50-liter bags come with backpack-style shoulder straps for extra comfort. There is also a sternum strap included with the 40 liters and 50-liter bag for added stability. This bag is available in various colors that including Black, Green, Blue, Orange, and Yellow. There is an IPX8 certified waterproof phone case included with this dry bag. So you don’t have to worry about your smartphone and other gadgets.
Main Features
1. Backpack style shoulder straps for large size bags
2. IPX8 Certified waterproof phone case
3. Available in seven sizes: 5 liters, 10 liters, 15 liters, 20 liters, 30 liters, 40 liters, 55 liters
4. Trilaminated construction and high-frequency welded seams
6. HEETA Waterproof Dry Bag
| Brand | HEETA |
| Color | Blue |
| Closure Type | Buckle |
| Capacity | 5, 10, 20 Liters |
This is a professional seamless design dry bag that ensures overall waterproof so that you can keep your items and valuables dry when you do some water sports like boating and kayaking etc. This bag is available in nine colors so you can pick your favorite color. It is available in four sizes: 5 liters, 10 liters, 20 liters, and 30 liters. So you can easily pick your desired size. This bag is made from 0.6 mm thick wear-resistant PVC material so it nearly adapts to all kinds of weather and environment.
It’s a multifunction bag and you can use it as a shoulder bag or a backpack thanks to the adjustable shoulder straps & handle. So this dry bag is very convenient for different types of occasions like boating, rafting, kayaking, swimming, mountaineering, etc. It’s a transparent dry bag so you can easily find your items without trouble. The best part of this dry bag is; it comes with a free waterproof cell phone case and it ensures comprehensive waterproof protection for your smartphone.
Main Features
1. Made from thick wear-resistant PVC material
2. Includes a free waterproof cell phone case
3. Adjustable shoulder straps & handle
4. 4 sizes and 9 colors are available
7. IDRYBAG Waterproof Dry Bag Dry Sack
| Brand | IDRYBAG |
| Color | Yellow |
| Closure Type | Buckle |
| Capacity | 20 Liters |
This is high quality and stylish dry bag for kayaking and it is very popular among experienced kayakers because of its waterproof and scratchproof features. This bag is made from durable and high-quality material therefore it is very easy to use as well as very convenient to store and organize. The manufacturer uses the 500D scratchproof material so you don’t have to worry about its performance in rough situations. There is an outer pocket available in this bag that provides multiuse functionality for the user.
The best part of this bag is; it has multiple compartments. So you can store all your stuff in an organized way and can easily find them in emergency situations. There is also a small pocket available inside this dry bag where you can store various items like the cellphone, ID, wallet, money, and keys, etc. This bag is available in three sizes: 20 liters, 30 liters, 40 liters. So you can pick a size according to your requirement. This bag has some unique and humanized designs to improve the user experience like the reflective trim that ensures added safety to your dry bag.
Main Features
1. 500D outdoor waterproof fabric
2. Reflective trim for added security
3. Multiple pockets to carry extra stuff
4. waterproof, scratchproof, and durable dry bag
8. Freegrace Waterproof Dry Bags Set of 3
| Brand | Freegrace |
| Color | Orange |
| Closure Type | Buckle |
| Capacity | 20 Liters |
Freegrace Waterproof Dry Bags come with three sets of bags and they are specially designed to work with the kayaking activities. This is a high-quality dry bag set with a perfect combination of premium quality, extreme durability, maximum protection, and low cost! You can use this bag on boating, rafting, and kayaking without worrying about your stuff’s safety. This bag is made from 500D Tarpaulin and there are double zip lock seals available that provide extra security for your bag compared to other dry bags available in the market.
This bag is available in 4 sizes: 5 liters, 10 liters, 20 liters, 35 liters. So you can peck a size according to your needs for easy transport thanks to its ergonomic features. It comes with a 27.6″-49.6″ adjustable and removable shoulder strap so you can carry the bag comfortably and don’t have to worry about the bag fitting on your body type and height. The 20-liter bag comes with a build-in grab handle and a 35-liter bag includes backpack-style shoulder straps for convenient carry. Like other 35 liter bags on our list, this bag also comes with a sternum strap for added stability.
Main Features
1. Excellent build quality, best for extreme sports
2. Comes with three sets of waterproof dry bag
3. Adjustable shoulder straps & handle
4. IPX8 certified waterproof phone case included
9. MARCHWAY Floating Waterproof Dry Bag
| Brand | MARCHWAY |
| Color | Blue |
| Closure Type | Buckle |
| Capacity | 10 Liters |
Not finding a high-quality dry bag of your favorite color? Don’t worry; The MARCHWAY Floating Waterproof Dry Bag is available in 16 colors so you will find your favorite color from these colors. This is a lightweight yet very durable dry bag with strong welded seams, which makes it an excellent companion in extreme fun activities. This bag is made from ripstop tarpaulin which makes this bag tear, rip, and puncture-proof. It has a solid roll-top closure system that provides a secure watertight seal and 100% waterproof safety for your stuff.
This dry bag is very easy to use as well as easy to wipe clean due to its smooth surface. Put your stuff in the bag and then grab the top woven tape and roll down tightly 3 to 5 times and then plug buckle to complete seal the bag; it’s that simple! This bag is available in 5 sizes: 5 liters, 10 liters, 20 liters, 30 liters, 40 liters. Each bag includes an adjustable and removable shoulder strap so you can carry the bag cross-body or shoulder carry. This is a floating bag so you can use it as a floating device in case of emergency.
Main Features
1. Solid roll-top closure
2. Adjustable and removable shoulder strap
3. Available in 5 sizes and 16 colors
4. 100% waterproof dry bag
10. Piscifun Waterproof Dry Bag Backpack
| Brand | Piscifun |
| Color | Army Green |
| Closure Type | Buckle |
| Capacity | 10 Liters |
If you are looking for a durable and waterproof dry bag then you can consider buying the Piscifun Waterproof Dry Bag Backpack. This is an excellent dry bag for kayaking that is made from rugged, flexible, and fully waterproof 500D PVC material that will withstand abuse from the wilderness. This bag is available in nine colors and four sizes: 10 liters, 20 liters, 30 liters, 40 liters. This bag is very popular among outdoor enthusiasts because of its unique innovative design. It has an adjustable shoulder strap and an outer mesh pocket that makes this bag one step ahead of the traditional dry bag.
This bag comes with full welded seams which makes it very strong, more durable and waterproof construction as opposed to traditional sewn-and-taped seams. This bag has a solid roll-top closure and provides an optimal watertight seal in extreme conditions. This is a versatile dry bag and you can use it for kayaking, fishing, surfing, boating, camping, rafting, hiking, canoe trips, etc. This dry bag comes with an IPX8 certified 6.6-inch waterproof phone case so you don’t have to worry about the safety of your smartphone while out kayaking in the water.
Main Features
1. Strong fully-welded seams
2. 100% waterproof dry bag
3. Available in four sizes and nine colors
4. IPX8 certified waterproof phone case included
How To Choose The Best Dry Bag For Kayaking
To have a safe and amazing kayaking experience, the first thing you need is a good, durable, and 100% waterproof dry bag. You can easily buy a dry bag, but if you want to have a progressive kayaking experience, then you have to pick a dry bag that suits your body size and can hold all your required stuff for kayaking.
Dry bags have different designs and features. Therefore, you need to consider a few things before making the final decision. This guide will help you choose the best dry bag.
Material
Most of the dry bags are made from nylon, vinyl, PVC, or Polyester. You have to choose the build material of a dry bag based on durability, flexibility, and weight factors. Dry bags made from vinyl are very durable but they will bit heavier compared to Nylon bags. If you are planning on carrying heavy or abrasive items and want a bag that stands up well, then a vinyl bag is the best option for you. Nylon bags are lightweight and more flexible but not as durable as a Vinyl bag. PVC dry bags are the strongest but weigh heavier than nylon ones.
Size
Dry bags for kayaking are available in various sizes. You have to pick the size according to your requirements. You can find dry bags small enough to put your cellphone, ID, and money, or big enough to have sleeping mats and bags. Depending on your activities you have to buy a dry bag. Generally, the ideal size for a dry bag is considered somewhere between 8 to 20 liters. You can find bigger bags but many experienced outdoor enthusiastic recommended having multiple bags of average size to make it easier to organize your stuff and carry them around.
Closure
Most of the dry bags have roll-top closure and it’s common in these types of bags. This type of bag comes with a buckle to secure and lock the bag even more, which you can also use as a handle. You can find dry bags with zipper tops, but the roll tops are considered as more airtight. You should also check for the taped seams to keep water from seeping in because it ensures full waterproofing of the dry bag.
Straps And Handles
Straps and handles are very important for dry bags because kayaking is an action-filled activity so you have to make sure things are secure and easy to carry with you. You can choose dry bags with side straps or duel straps for convenient carry. Also make sure that the shoulder straps are adjustable padded, and breathable for better comfort.
Final Thoughts
That’s it! Those are the best dry bags that you can buy for kayaking and other outdoor activities. I hope this article has helped you find a suitable and durable dry bag for your preferences and needs. If there is anything you want to know then leave your question in the comment section. Our experts will get to you!
Dry bags are waterproof bags that prevent moisture from getting into your luggage or kayaking gear. They are often used for short trips, such as a weekend. They can also be used for longer, multi-day trips in the summertime or during cold seasons.
FAQ
What Size Dry Bag Do I Need For Kayaking
For kayaking, you need a dry bag that is small enough to fit into a backpack. This can be a 20L dry bag for day trips or a 40L dry bag for multi-day trips.
A 20L dry bag is the best option for day trip use because it allows you to carry all your equipment and food in addition to your clothes and personal items. A 40L dry bag on the other hand is good for multi-day trips because it can carry more supplies.
Who Makes The Best Dry Bags
Some of the most popular manufacturers are SealLine, Sea to Summit, SealSkinz, and OtterBox.
What Is A Dry Bag Kayaking
A dry bag is a self-contained waterproof pack that protects the user’s necessary items while they’re out on the water. It has a drawstring closure that opens wide for easy access to gear, and it features a hood that allows for protection from the weather or spray when they’re exploring new places. These bags are usually made of heavy-duty nylon, which makes them able to resist punctures and can last for many uses.
There are two styles: small packs, which are suited for short trips, and large ones that can be used as a backpack.
How To Carry Dry Bags While Kayaking
Some kayakers choose to use a dry bag as a primary item of gear, but it is not uncommon for an experienced paddler to carry their dry bag in the boat’s hull or harness. Some people also keep their dry bag on the shore or in a nearby car while they take their boat out on the water and inflate it once they reach their destination.
A dry bag is not designed for sitting in the bottom of your boat but you can have it attached to your boats’ hull by using bungees or straps that make it more secure.
Will A Dry Bag Float
Many people are not aware that dry bags do not float.
A dry bag will sink when filled with water, even if it is a bag meant for water-resistant items. In order to avoid sinking, pack your clothes in plastic bags and then put them in the dry bag. The plastic bags will trap air and keep your clothes from sinking into the bottom of the dirty water.
What Fits In A 20l Dry Bag
20 liters is the optimum volume for a dry bag. The size is determined by your travel plans. For longer journeys, you can carry around 30 liters. It is also important to keep the things together so that it doesn’t get lost or wet.
What Is The Difference Between A Dry Bag And A Dry Sack
A dry bag is used to keep stuff dry. It usually has a waterproof exterior and usually has a drawstring. A dry sack is usually the same size as a water bottle and can be used for many things including storing gear, food, or clothes.
What Are The Best Submersible Dry Bag?
The best submersible dry bags are those with great features such as waterproof material, air release valve, and easy recovery. The quality of the bag also matters.
A good dry bag should be made from a durable waterproof material like polyurethane and PVC that can keep your items from water damage. Another important feature is an air release valve that allows water to escape when you dive into the bag. The valve should also be easy to open and close when you need it.
In addition, a good dry bag should have a comfortable handle that won’t slip out of your hands when wet, strong straps for carrying around, a collapsible design for packing space-saving storage, and a zipper closure for quick access while diving or swimming in the water.
There are many brands that offer good-quality dry bags that won’t break your budget. You can also find the one that will best suit your needs and activity using this list of popular dry bag brands.
This list of popular submersible dry bag brands includes: Outwell, CamelBak, Dakine and SealLine.
Are Dry Bags Really Waterproof?
If you are wondering if dry bags are waterproof, the answer is yes. If you are wondering if dry bags are waterproof for long-term storage of expensive items, there really isn’t a clear answer.
Some people have the misconception that because they can’t see water inside of a dry bag when they open it up, that it’s not waterproof. This is actually false in most cases as water will condense on the outside of the bag and will be absorbed into it.
The two main problems with drybags are that they provide limited protection from punctures and they can easily absorb moisture from your hands due to their breathable material (think of how your shirt feels after you’ve been holding an icepack against your arm for five minutes).
Rockey is a kayaking enthusiast who has been kayaking with a local group for the last five years. He loves using kayaks while out on outings on the water or camping when the friends want to have a BBQ party somewhere on the bank of a local lake. More About James R Rockey at About Page Here: Authors
Based on his experiences with the different types of kayaks, he is sharing his opinion about kayaking tricks and required gears so that a beginner can get started right away.
Find his team on Twitter here. Happy reading!
Last update on 2023-03-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
