Every time you head out on the water, you'll likely bring plenty of gear on board. Even a day trip or short-term cruise may warrant your phone, wallet, tablet, clothing, food, and other valuables. That's where dry bags come in.
Available in various shapes and sizes, made from waterproof materials such as nylon, vinyl, or PVC, dry bags protect your belongings from water damage, keeping them safe and secure in all weather conditions.
Since there are countless options available and finding the right dry bag can be overwhelming, we've done the heavy lifting for you. Below, you'll find 12 of the top dry bags for boating. Once you select the right dry bag, you'll be ready for your next boating adventure!
What Are the Best Dry Bags for Boating?
1. Skog Å Kust DrySak
Price: $22.95
Made from thick, waterproof PVC, the Skog Å Kust DrySak features high-frequency welded seams and a removable, adjustable shoulder strap, making transportation a breeze. Available in 5, 10, or 20 liters, and featuring more than a dozen bold colors and prints, this option is budget-friendly and perfect for storing small essentials.
2. SEALLINE Discovery™ View Dry Bag
Price: $34.96
The SEALLINE Discovery™ View dry bag is a translucent option that allows you to easily see what's inside your bag without opening it. It comes in 5, 10, 20, and 30 liters and features a color-coded bottom to help you stay organized. The PurgeAir valve vents trapped air, allowing the bag to continue compressing even after it's sealed.
3. YETI Panga Backpack 28
Price: $300
If you don't mind splurging, the YETI Panga Backpack 28 is worth exploring, especially if you spend a lot of time on the water. This 28-liter waterproof dry bag is available in both neutral and bold colors, featuring ergonomic DryHaul shoulder straps for added comfort.
Made from top-quality nylon and thick TPU lamination, it's built to withstand the test of time and endure just about any storm that comes your way.
4. REI Co-op Lightweight Dry Sack
Price: $16.95
For an affordable yet lightweight dry bag, the REI Co-op Lightweight is an ideal choice. Available in 5, 15, and 25 liters, it features a roll-top closure system that compresses your belongings without adding weight.
Made from thin 70D nylon and featuring a waterproof finish, this dry bag is significantly lighter than most alternatives and a popular choice among water sports enthusiasts.
Learn More: Watersport Essentials
5. Kokopelli Delta Deck Dry Bag
Price: $99.95
The Kokopelli Delta Deck dry bag features durable, double-sided nylon material, 100% welded seams, and an airtight, waterproof, and dustproof Tru Zip zipper.
Available in 14 and 19 liters, it also features a daisy chain with a bungee, allowing you to attach extra gear as needed.
6. Ortlieb Dry-Bag
Price: $26
With the Ortlieb Dry-Bag, you'll get a budget-friendly, durable dry bag featuring a roll closure and a single stiffener bar, ensuring complete protection from water and maximizing packing space.
Available in Cranberry or Black as well as 5 liters, 109 liters, and just about every size in between, so you can easily find one that meets your preferences and needs.
7. Earth Pak Original Waterproof Dry Bag
Price: $17.05
The Original Waterproof is Earth Pak's flagship dry bag. Made from thick 500D PVC fabric and available in 5, 10, or 20-liter sizes in a variety of colors, it features an adjustable shoulder strap that extends up to 36 inches. The D-rings make it easy to securely tie the bag to the side of your boat or backpack straps, while the rolltop closure ensures airtight protection.
8. KUIU HD Roll Top Dry Bags
Price: $29
Available in sizes XS to XL in orange or gray, the KUIU HD Roll Top dry bags are waterproof, scent-proof, and fully welded with a rolltop closure.
Made from TPU fabrics and Duraflex buckles, these roll-top bags are designed to last a lifetime. Additionally, they're semi-translucent, allowing you to quickly see what's inside.
9. NRS 65L Bill's Bag Dry Bag
Price: $179.95
While the NRS 65L Bill's Bag dry bag doesn't come cheap, it's made with a heavy-duty TobaTex material and expands to offer more than 3900 cubic inches of storage space.
You can always use its four compression straps to create a smaller bag for a few essentials, such as your phone and wallet. The bag also features a StormStrip closure system and an adjustable, removable harness for optimal comfort and protection.
10. Exped Drybag Versa Bright
Price: $39.95
Available in multiple colors and sizes, ranging from 3 liters to 40 liters, the Exped Drybag Versa Bright features a bottom handle that provides a hassle-free way to remove your items. Additionally, the light-colored coating allows you to see what's inside.
Made from 70D nylon, this dry bag is completely welded at the seams and features a rolltop, buckle closure. If you'd like, you can buy the most popular dry bag sizes together as a set.
11. Gecko Lightweight Compression Dry Bag
Price: $19.99
Available in 8.8 and 4 liters in bright colors, the Gecko Lightweight Compression dry bag three pack was designed for storing small items. Made from 75D polyester, this set can be buckled together and is easily attached to your boat or another bag. It also collapses when empty and comes with a lifetime warranty.
12. Cabela's Boundary Waters Roll‑Top Dry Bag
Price: $24.99 to $64.99
The Cabela's Boundary Waters Roll-Top Dry Bag features a durable 500-denier shell made of 100% waterproof PVC and welded seams for exceptional protection against water. Available in 5, 20, 37, 57, and 128 liters, and priced accordingly, it features a wide opening and folds flat, making travel and storage effortless.
How to Choose the Right Dry Bag
The right dry bag for you depends on several factors, including your budget, intended use, sizing requirements, and personal preferences. With numerous dry bag options available, selecting the right one can be a challenging task.
In the section below, let's take a closer look at each one so you can narrow down your options and pinpoint the perfect waterproof dry bag.
Budget
As you can see, pricing for dry bags varies greatly. You can choose an affordable option in the $20 to $40 range or opt for something more high-end, which will cost you hundreds of dollars. It's up to you to decide how much you want to spend.
If you're an avid boater, it may be worth splurging on a high-quality, durable option. However, if you only boat occasionally and solely need something to protect small essentials, such as your phone and ID, a cheaper option may suffice. It may make sense to start with an economical dry bag and upgrade as your needs and circumstances change.
Intended Use
Think about the type of boating trips you typically pursue. Are you an occasional day cruiser, or do you spend extended trips at sea? Do you enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, or prefer to relax and take in the views?
Your boating habits can help you determine the best waterproof bags for your boating needs. A lightweight option may be more important if you're a kayaker, while a heavier, more durable bag might be a better fit if you have a larger boat, tend to go out in rough conditions, or bring along expensive gear.
Read Next: Kayaks for Beginners
Sizing Requirements
Dry bags, which are measured in liters, are available in many sizes. Small dry bags are a good fit if you'd like to store essentials like your phone, wallet, or a compact first-aid kit. Medium dry bags may be a smarter choice if you often bring clothing, cameras, or other gear for day trips. Large or even extra-large dry bags are likely the best option if you go on multi-day trips or pack bulky items, such as sleeping bags.
Personal Preferences
At the end of the day, the ideal dry bag for you might not make sense for your friend. Your personal preferences, such as your ideal brand, colors, and material, will ultimately dictate the right bag.
If you're unsure of what type of waterproof boat bag you'd like, don't hesitate to read reviews or stop by a brick-and-mortar store to explore the different dry bag options up close and personal.
Protect Your Boating Gear with a Quality Dry Bag
With the right dry bag on board, you can enjoy optimal peace of mind. You'll be able to keep your gear dry without worrying about damage during your boating trips.
Since dry bags are also ideal for other outdoor activities, such as camping and hiking, you may find them useful during various adventures. Best of luck with your search for the perfect waterproof dry bag!
