10 Best Dry Bags For Canoeing, Kayaking, and Backpacking

Not long ago, my idea of a “dry bag” was a plastic trash bag with a drawstring. Each time we’d load our canoe for a river camping trip, everything went into trash bags. (Fortunately, this crude attempt at waterproofing our gear never had to be put to the test.)

Since those first river trips, I’ve learned a lot, but the most important lesson has been the beauty of a dry bag. Now, instead of wrapping our duffels and bins in flimsy trash bags, everything goes directly into its own waterproof sack: clothing, food, toiletries. It can rain. It can splash. And I don’t spend any time worrying about a soggy sleeping bag or ruined meals.

What exactly is a dry bag? It’s a flexible, durable bag made from a waterproof material such as plastic or plastic-coated fabric. A dry bag also has a unique closure that creates a watertight seal. In most cases, you simply press the bag closed, tightly roll down the fabric, and clip the fastener. The design of the closure also allows you to clip the bag to the inside of your canoe or boat and doubles as a carrying handle.

best dry bags - dry bags leaning on a camping kayak

Best Dry Bags By Size

Dry bags come in a variety of sizes and there’s a growing list of extra features available such as zippered pockets, shoulder straps, and transparent panels. Ready to make your own transition from trash bags to dry bags? Here are the 10 best dry bags to take on your next paddle or day on the lake.

Sea to Summit Lightweight Dry Sack

Sea to Summit Lightweight Dry Sack, All-Purpose Dry Bag, 1 Liter, Pacific Blue
  • Lightweight 1-liter roll-top dry sack is a do-it-all dry storage and organizing option for backpacking, hiking, camping, sea kayaking, ski touring, cycling and travel
  • Manufactured from lightweight PU-coated 70D nylon; 10,000mm waterhead (the higher the waterhead rating, the more waterproof the fabric)
  • Waterproof seams are tape sealed; secure hypalon roll-top closure with D-ring for easy attachment
  • Cylindrical base has ideal height-to-width ratio for easy packing ; patent-pending field repair buckle can be replaced in seconds
  • 1-liter dry bag is ideal for carrying snacks, trip essentials, wallet, and keys; open dimensions: 4.3 x 9.4 inches, weight: 1.3 ounces, volume: 1 liter (with closure rolled three times)

Unigear Floating Waterproof Dry Bag

Unigear Dry Bag Waterproof, Floating and Lightweight Bags for Kayaking, Boating, Fishing, Swimming and Camping with Waterproof Phone Case (Green, 10L)
  • 100% WATERPROOF: Made of stiff 500D PVC material and designed with roll-top closure, Unigear waterproof bag protects your phones, camera, clothes, documents and snacks from Water, Sand, Dust and Dirt
  • ANTI LEAK AND ANTI TEAR: Features fully welded seams by high-frequency tech, our dry sack provides a stronger and more durably waterproof construction. Abrasion resistant for long lasting, perfect for boating, fishing, paddling, swimming and hiking
  • EASY AND COMFORTABLE TO CARRY: Comes with a single strap for 2L/5L/10L/20L dry bags, two straps for 30L and 40L waterproof backpack.Extra-long and adjustable for convenient carry & comfort. Multi styles to carry for better looking. Reinforce the stress point of D-rings with double sewing, no ripping again even for heavy load
  • VERSATILE AND DURABLE: You can leave the dry bag float on the water during river trip or other water sporting, no more worry about your items getting wet. The buckle and D-rings are upgraded with POM material, stronger than other traditional buckle. It will not break for frequent use
  • AFTER-SALES SERVICE: If you meet any quality problems of our dry bags, please simply e-mail us the problem at any time, and we will offer you a solution as soon as possible.

Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag

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Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag - Roll Top Waterproof Backpack Sack Keeps Gear Dry for Kayaking, Beach, Rafting, Boating, Hiking, Camping and Fishing with Waterproof Phone Case
  • RELIABLE PROTECTION: We believe our earth pak dry bags are the best out there--bar none. These dry bags are meant to last for years and provide waterproof protection for even the most rugged users.
  • SHOULDER STRAP: 10L & 20L dry bags come with a 24-42 Inch single shoulder strap. 30L, 40L, and 55L waterproof backpacks are equipped with backpack style shoulder straps that also come with a sternum strap for added stability. Our new 55L also comes equipped with a heavy duty waist-belt, which relieves added pressure and helps support your load.
  • IPX8 CERTIFIED WATERPROOF PHONE CASE: We have included our IPX8 Certified 6.5 Inch waterproof phone case that will fit even the largest of phones. This case features a very simple snap and lock access that has dual-sided clear windows that allow to take pictures while still inside the case. Suitable for phones up to 6.5 Inches of diagonal screen size.
  • IDEAL FOR TRAVEL: Our water bag is very lightweight and compact making it an essential dry bag for all your travel plans. Easy to fold and pack tight in any sized luggage!
  • KEEP YOUR ITEMS DRY AND PROTECTED: Protect Your Valuables with our 5L, 10L, 20L, 30L, 40L, or 55L Dry Bags! Just toss your gear inside your water bag, roll it down, and you’re good to go on your next adventure.

Freegrace Waterproof Dry Bag

Freegrace Waterproof Dry Bag - Lightweight Dry Sack with Seals and Waterproof Case -Float on Water -Keeps Gear Dry for Kayaking, Beach, Rafting, Boating, Hiking, Camping and Fishing (10L, Orange)
  • ✔ 2L size: 4.73 x 11.81 inch(0.18 Pounds/80g); 5L size: 7.1 x 14.6 inch(0.33 Pounds/150g); 10L size: 8.1 x 19.3 inch(0.44 Pounds/200g); 35-50L size: 13 x 27.2 inch(0.567 Pounds/259g) and Phone Case: 6.7'' x 3.9'' (3.2 Oz/ 90g).
  • ✔ SUPER-VALUE SET of 2 -This top notch waterproof bags set is the perfect combination of premium quality, extreme durability, maximum protection and low cost! Make it yours and enjoy boating, rafting and kayaking to the fullest!
  • ✔ WATERPROOF DRY BAG with Double Zip Lock Seals(Patent Pending)! -Say goodbye to traditional roll-top dry bag which doesn’t have any seal to protect your valuable items dry when it is submerged underwater! Freegrace Dry Bag using Premium Double Closure Strip Seals which is TWICE safer than any roll top dry bag available on market. Anything you put inside will STAY DRY even from Water Submersion!
  • ✔ PROTECT YOUR CELL PHONE AND MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR WATER SPORT ACTIVITIES: This set also includes a must have IPX8 Certified Waterproof Phone Case (3.9" x 6.7"). This amazing dry cell phone case features a very simple snap and lock access that has dual-sided clear windows that allow you to text, talk on the phone, take pictures and video while still inside the case. Suitable for phones up to 6.5 Inches of diagonal screen size.
  • ✔ LIGHTWEIGHT DRY BAG! -Never deal with heavy or stiff dry bags again! Our dry bag made of premium lightweight material is your answer (30% Lighter Than Any Dry Bags on the Markets). Travel lightweight without burden. Say goodbye to exhaustion at the end of the long journey!

KastKing Floating Waterproof Dry Bag

KastKing Dry Bags(with phone case),100% Waterproof Storage Bags,Military Grade Construction for Swimming,Kayaking,Boating,Hiking,Camping,Fishing, Biking,Skiing,Yellow,10L
  • Innovative Transparent Window Design: You will love the clear see-through window panel that allows you to see what gear is inside your dry bag without unpacking.
  • Double Layer Gives Extra Security: Tough, durable 100% waterproof 500D PVC material, fusion welded seams, removable adjustable shoulder carry strap make it a great compression dry sack. Unique water-tight DOUBLE overlap roll top provides the best-in-class waterproof performance. Use a versatile KastKing Dry Bag for Kayaking, Beach, Rafting, Boating, Hiking, Camping and Fishing.
  • Never worry about dropping it in water or water getting in. Unique water-tight DOUBLE overlap roll top provides the best-in-class waterproof performance. Use a versatile KastKing Dry Bag for camera, or can double as a fishing tackle bag or travel bag.
  • KastKing Dry Bag - waterproof, snow proof, sand proof, dustproof. Forge rivers, go kayak fishing, canoeing, or be caught in a heavy rain with confidence.
  • Versatility: KastKing Dry Bags will not replace a PFD but can be used as a supplemental emergency flotation device.Use as a kayak bag, boat bag, dry hiking bag, or swim bag.

Marchway Floating Waterproof Dry Bag

MARCHWAY Floating Waterproof Dry Bag Backpack 5L/10L/20L/30L/40L, Roll Top Sack Keeps Gear Dry for Kayaking, Rafting, Boating, Swimming, Camping, Hiking, Beach, Fishing (Dark Blue, 5L)
  • Durable and Compact: Made from ripstop tarpaulin with sturdy welded seam which is designed for years usage, tear, rip and puncture proof. Perfect for almost any extreme adventure you can imagine.
  • Waterproof Guarantee: Solid roll-top closure system provides secure watertight seal. Keeps your gear dry in any wet situation where the bag is not fully submerged. Protects your valuables from water, snow, mud and sand.
  • Easy Operation and Cleaning: Just put your gear in bag, grab top woven tape and roll down tightly 3 to 5 times and then plug buckle to complete seal, whole process is very quick. Dry sack is easy to wipe clean due to its smooth surface.
  • Multiple Sizes: 5 Liter to 40 Liter to meet your demands on different occasions. 5L, 10L include one adjustable and removable shoulder strap for cross-body, 20L, 30L, 40L include two straps for backpack style carrying.
  • Versatility: The dry sack can float on water after being rolled and buckled, so you can track your gear easily. Perfect for paddling, sailing, canoeing, surfing, snowboarding, climbing, hunting or having fun on the beach. A nice holiday gift for family and friends.

Ultra Dry Premium Waterproof Dry Bag

WildPaces Dry Bags (Set of 3)

WildPaces Premium Waterproof Dry Bag for Outdoor Adventures - Keep Your Gear Safe and Dry in Any Weather
  • Ultimate Protection: Safeguard your essentials from water, dirt, and sand during outdoor activities like boating, hiking, and camping.
  • Superior Quality: Constructed with durable, waterproof material for long-lasting use and peace of mind in any environment.
  • Versatile Usage: Perfect for stowing your valuables, clothing, electronics, and snacks, ensuring they stay dry and secure.
  • Easy to Carry: Features a comfortable and adjustable shoulder strap for hassle-free transportation during all your adventures.
  • High Visibility: The bright color and reflective strip enhance visibility, providing an extra layer of safety in low-light conditions.

Osprey Ultralight Dry Sack

Osprey Discontinued Unknown unisex adult Travel Backpacks Ultralight DrySack 3 Poppy Orange, Poppy Orange
  • Roll top closure is waterproof and helps compress items within the dry sack
  • Rectangular shape assists with efficient packing
  • Made from durable 40D Rip stop Nylon

Acrodo Transparent and Waterproof Dry Bag

Acrodo 10L backpack - Waterproof Dry Bag, beach bags, clear backpack, kayak accessories, boat accessories, hiking backpack and more
  • DRY BAGS WATERPROOF – don’t let water ruin your fun! Keep your fishing gear from getting wet
  • FLOATS – Leave a small amount of extra room for air in your dry bags, they will stay above water
  • SMALL SHOULDER BAG – foldable backpack for travel, lightweight backpack for hiking accessories
  • TOUGH MATERIAL RESISTS WEAR & TEAR – perfect camping gear, waterproof beach bag or travel bag
  • FIND YOUR ITEMS – with our transparent bag you’ll always know where your beach accessories are