best dry bags for kayaking

17 Best Dry Bags for Kayaking and Paddle Boarding 2023

Looking for the best dry bags for kayaking?

Then this post is for you.

If you are having trouble choosing the perfect dry bag for kayaking, we understand. 

There are a lot of things that you need to consider, so we decided to create this in-depth guide to help you select the best kayaking dry bag

This list of the best dry bags for kayaking and paddleboarding will differentiate the types of dry bags, and give you the crucial information you’ll need before making your purchase.

⭐ Are you in a hurry? This Sea to Summit Big River Dry Bag is the overall best dry bag for kayaking that we recommend, along with hundreds of other avid kayakers we surveyed. ▶️ BUY ON REI NOW

OUR PICK

BEST DRY BAG FOR KAYAKING

SEA-TO-SUMMIT BIG RIVER DRY BAG

Quick Snapshot: Best Waterproof Bags for Kayaking and Paddle Boarding

17 Best Dry Bags for Kayaking & Canoeing in 2023

1. Sea to Summit Big River Dry Bag

Big River Dry Bag

This dry bag is high-quality and affordable for kayaking, paddle boarding, canoeing, and other outdoor activities.

  • Size Range: 3L-65L
  • Closure Type: Roll-top
  • Style: No strap 
  • Material: 420D heavy-duty nylon fabric

Known for manufacturing high-quality and affordable dry bags, Sea to Summit has hit the ball out of the park with the Big River Dry Bag.

We appreciate that the hardware that comes with it is just as well-made as the bag itself. 

The replaceable buckle is reinforced with steel pins, and having 2 D rings make it convenient for attaching a carabiner.

While Sea to Summit has claimed that this roll-top dry bag is only waterproof as long as it’s not submerged, we have found that it is splash and rain-resistant so long as the bag has no holes and is closed properly. 

We also love that it has an oval shape so you get to pack more stuff if needed and it does not roll away. 

Although this dry bag’s pros far outweigh its cons, we would’ve loved it if it had welded seams instead of taped seams, as the former is more durable than the latter. 

But given the price, we really can’t complain much about the quality as it is the best dry bag for kayaking and paddle boarding that you can buy at this price range. ▶️ BUY ON REI NOW

WHAT WE LIKE:WHAT WE DON’T LIKE:
✅ Lightweight, durable, and water-resistant
✅Replaceable buckle reinforced with stainless steel pins
✅Oval base resists rolling
👎Taped seams
👎Not submersible

2. Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag

Waterproof Kayaking Dry Bag

Lightweight, compact, and easy to pack, this waterproof dry bag is a great travel companion for casual kayaking trips.

  • Size Range: 10L-55L
  • Closure Type: Roll-top 
  • Style: Sling bag, backpack 
  • Material: 500D PVC material

This Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag by Earth Pak is made of 500D PVC, which is highly waterproof and abrasion-resistant, so you don’t have to worry about its durability. 

We don’t recommend fully submerging this dry bag in water, but we love that it can float while rolled up with air inside. 

The 30L, 40L, and 55L sizes also come with double shoulder straps and a sternum strap for added stability. 

While this waterproof dry bag is an excellent value for your money, we found a few issues that affect its durability. 

It comes with a waterproof phone case that fits large phones nowadays, though its nylon strap easily snaps. 

If you’re buying this bag, we found that it’s best to replace the phone case strap with a thicker one if you intend to wear it around your neck. 

Overall, this is an excellent product if you’re looking for affordable kayak dry bags that float. ▶️BUY ON AMAZON NOW

WHAT WE LIKE:WHAT WE DON’T LIKE:
✅Very durable material
✅Floats on water
✅Comes with an IPX8 waterproof phone case
✅Optional backpack straps
👎Not great for carrying heavy gear
👎Plastic hardware is not that durable

3. Skog Å Kust DrySåk Waterproof Dry Bag

Budget-Friendly Waterproof Dry Bag

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly and durable waterproof dry bag, check out this one from Skog Å Kust.

  • Size Range: 5L-20L
  • Closure Type: Roll-top
  • Style: Sling bag 
  • Material: 500D waterproof PVC

Made from heavy-duty 500D waterproof PVC material, this Skog Å Kust Waterproof Dry Bag will protect your stuff from getting wet. 

It has a roll-top closure system and an outer slip pocket where you can keep your small essentials at arm’s reach. 

The clips and hardware that come with it are sturdy and durable, too.

The reflective trim around the pocket zipper is quite handy as it helps it be seen in low-light conditions and makes it easier to find if it gets swept away. 

We also love the adjustable shoulder strap that is also removable. 

The DrySåk’s main compartment provides IPX-6 waterproof protection, which makes it splash and rain-resistant

However, just like other roll-top dry bags, we found that the DrySåk is not 100% waterproof and should not be submerged in water. 

Even though the exterior pockets are splash-resistant, we recommend keeping your valuables inside the main compartment as water might seep into the small pockets. 

All in all, the DrySåk is a great dry bag that is well-made and is excellent value for your money. ▶️BUY ON AMAZON NOW

WHAT WE LIKE:WHAT WE DON’T LIKE:
✅Affordable
✅Durable
✅Removable shoulder strap
👎Not submersible
👎Heavy

4. SealLine Discovery View Dry Bag

transparent dry bag

Transparent Kayaking Dry Bag

This SealLine dry bag is made with a transparent PVC-free material that protects your valuables and makes it easier to find the gear you need.

  • Size Range: 10L
  • Closure Type: Roll-top
  • Style: No straps
  • Material: Polyurethane film

It can be frustrating trying to dig for specific items deep inside your dry bags. 

Instead of having to take out all your gear just to find what you’re looking for, this transparent SealLine Discovery View Dry Bag will make the process much easier. 

This dry bag has fully welded seams and a roll-top closure system that ensures no water can seep inside this bag. 

The waterproof PurgeAir valve also works great at compressing your stuff so you save more space.

The buckle on top is durable, so you don’t have to worry about it suddenly breaking off.

The material of this kayak dry bag is not as thick as others on the list, but this allows you to downsize the bag as needed

Although this bag is not 100% waterproof, its durability and water resistance make up for it. 

We highly recommend this for anyone looking for budget-friendly transparent dry bags. ▶️BUY ON REI NOW

WHAT WE LIKE:WHAT WE DON’T LIKE:
✅Easy to find your things 
✅Lightweight and durable
✅Waterproof air valve
👎Can overheat in prolonged sun exposure

5. SealLine Discovery Deck Dry Bag

Waterproof Kayak Dry Bag

This durable and waterproof dry bag is perfect for paddlers to protect their gear, while its adjustable strap makes it easy to carry around.

  • Size Range: 10L-50L
  • Closure Type: Roll-top 
  • Style: Sling bag
  • Material: 300D 18 oz polyurethane-coated polyester

The SealLine Discovery Deck Dry Bag is a versatile waterproof dry bag with fully welded seams and roll-top closure that will protect your belongings from getting wet. 

It also has an adjustable carry strap and multiple lash points, making the bag easy to carry around and attach to your backpack or kayak. 

We love the waterproof valve in this dry bag that purges trapped air and maximizes the space inside, a feature that you don’t see in other dry bags very often. 

The interior of the dry bag is lighter colored, which we highly appreciate as it makes it easy to find what we’re looking for in low-light conditions. 

It also has an oval bottom, ensuring it stays put and doesn’t roll away.

This is one of the best kayak dry bags because it’s durable, waterproof, and versatile.

SealLine also offers a limited lifetime warranty for this dry bag, so it’s worth every penny. ▶️BUY ON AMAZON NOW

WHAT WE LIKE:WHAT WE DON’T LIKE:
✅ Waterproof purge valve
✅ Welded seams
✅ Adjustable strap
👎 Pricey
👎 Not submersible

6. Chaos Ready Waterproof Dry Bag Backpack

Waterproof Backpack for Kayaking

Perfect for kayakers who prefer waterproof backpacks over other types of dry bags. This durable and stylish dry bag has all the functionality of a regular backpack.

  • Size Range: 22L
  • Closure Type: Roll-top
  • Style: Backpack
  • Material: 500D PVC tarpaulin

The Chaos Ready Waterproof Dry Bag Backpack is made from heavy-duty 500D PVC tarpaulin material, which offers protection from splashes, rain, and quick submersion. 

This waterproof backpack for kayaking can also float, but the front pockets are not waterproof so store your valuables inside the main compartment instead. 

We found that the padded backpack straps are comfortable and sturdy enough for a good amount of hiking. 

The bag also has two mesh pockets on the side where you can store your reusable water bottles and other essentials. 

Like most dry bags with roll-top closure systems, this Chaos Ready dry bag’s waterproofness only allows for quick submersions

If you’re planning on using this on your kayak adventures, we recommend that you buy a dry sack to protect your gadgets.

Chaos Ready also offers a lifetime warranty, so you know that you’ll always get your money’s worth. ▶️BUY ON AMAZON NOW

WHAT WE LIKE:WHAT WE DON’T LIKE:
✅ Inexpensive
✅ Durable 
✅ Beautiful design
👎Front pockets are not waterproof

7. Piscifun Dry Bag Backpack

Affordable Dry Backpack

This affordable dry backpack is durable, affordable, and has a unique design that is perfect for any kayaker looking for a budget-friendly option.

  • Size Range: 5L-40L
  • Closure Type: Roll-top 
  • Style: Backpack
  • Material: 500D PVC

Besides the adjustable padded shoulder straps that come with it, this Piscifun Dry Bag can also be carried using a durable top handle or converted into a sling bag, adding to its versatility. 

This waterproof backpack is made of durable 500D PVC with welded seams and comes with an IPX8 waterproof phone case with a touch-friendly design. 

When rolled and buckled, the backpack floats on the water, so you won’t ever have to worry about losing your stuff. 

There’s also a mesh pocket on the exterior where you can store your water bottle, sunscreen, and other essentials.

Do note that if you’re planning on wearing the waterproof phone case on your neck, it’s better to replace it with a thicker and stronger strap. 

The clips on this backpack are not the sturdiest, so we recommend purchasing some durable carabiners and replacing them.  

This dry backpack is one of the best budget dry bags you can buy, and with a few minor improvements to the hardware, this can potentially last for a long time. ▶️BUY ON AMAZON NOW

WHAT WE LIKE:WHAT WE DON’T LIKE:
✅ Good quality at an affordable price
✅ Comes with a waterproof phone case
✅ Floats on water
👎 Plastic clips on the strap break easily
👎 Waterproof phone case is flimsy

8. Marchway Floating Waterproof Dry Bag

Floating Waterproof Dry Bag/Backpack

This dry bag is perfect for budget-conscious kayakers who want the best bang for their buck and still expect high quality.

  • Size Range: 5L-40L
  • Closure Type: Roll-top
  • Style: Sling bag, backpack 
  • Material: Ripstop tarpaulin

The Marchway Floating Waterproof Dry Bag is constructed using ripstop tarpaulin with welded seams, which makes it tear, rip, and puncture-proof. 

This dry bag is perfect for you if you prefer to go on off-grid adventures

It’s also portable and easy to store so you can bring this on your multi-day kayaking trips.

It has a roll-top closure system that provides a secure watertight seal which will keep your gear dry as long as the bag does not get completely submerged in water. 

We like that this is a waterproof bag that floats on water if properly rolled and buckled

The 20L to 40L dry bags come with two additional straps so you can wear them like a backpack. 

The downside is that the straps are not super comfortable, and we found that the plastic hardware is not durable and breaks easily. 

When it comes to buying dry bags, you are getting what you pay for. 

This is one of the more affordable waterproof dry bags, but don’t expect it to be on par with more expensive brands in the market. ▶️BUY ON AMAZON NOW

WHAT WE LIKE:👎WHAT WE DON’T LIKE:
Floats on water
Affordable
Optional backpack straps
Plastic hardware is not that durable
Not 100% waterproof

9. Sea to Summit Lightweight Dry Sack

Lightweight Kayaking Dry Sack

Perfect for backpacking and paddle sports, this dry sack will keep your stuff dry without the extra weight.

  • Size Range: 1L-35L
  • Closure Type: Roll-top
  • Style: No strap 
  • Material: PU-coated 70D nylon

This Sea to Summit Lightweight Dry Sack is affordable, durable, and water-resistant. It’s soft and flexible, making it portable and easy to pack.

This all-purpose dry bag comes in seven sizes and seven colors, which we found handy as the color coordination makes it easy to organize and separate our gear. 

We also love its white interior, which helps improve visibility during low-light situations.

Just like the Sea to Summit Big River Dry Bag, this bag is only waterproof if it’s not submerged in water

However, since it’s made of durable 70D nylon and has a Hypalon roll-top closure system, it can keep your things dry from splashes and rain. 

We recommend adding extra protection to your electronic gadgets when you’re kayaking or paddle boarding by storing them inside dry sacks just in case water seeps inside the bag.

This affordable, lightweight dry sack is a great, budget-friendly option that will last many years. ▶️BUY ON AMAZON NOW

WHAT WE LIKE:👎WHAT WE DON’T LIKE:
✅ Lightweight, durable, and water-resistant
✅ Replaceable buckle reinforced with stainless steel pins
✅ Budget-friendly
✅ Taped seams
✅ Not submersible

10. Osprey UltraLight 12 Dry Sack

Small Dry Sack for Kayaking

This 12L ultralight dry sack is perfect for paddling and keeps your valuables safe and dry while maintaining its portability.

  • Size Range: 12L
  • Closure Type: Roll-top
  • Style: No strap 
  • Material: 40D Nylon Ripstop

Made from durable 40D ripstop nylon with a roll-top closure and waterproof coated fabric, this Osprey UltraLight 12 Dry Sack is great to bring along on your kayaking trips and is perfect for hikes, too.

Our favorite feature of this dry sack is its rectangular shape, making it easier to pack your stuff without leaving small gaps. 

We also love its versatility as it can be used on its own or as a waterproof packing cube due to its ultralight build. 

The downside is that being ultralight means that it’s not abrasion-resistant. 

This floating waterproof bag for kayaking works great for keeping our stuff dry but we found it was relatively easy to poke a hole into this bag, which is disappointing. 

Considering its delicate nature, we recommend not stuffing the bag with too much weight. 

This is a great affordable product if you’re looking for the best dry sack for kayaking. ▶️BUY ON AMAZON NOW

WHAT WE LIKE:WHAT WE DON’T LIKE:
✅ Lightweight and water-resistant
✅ Efficient rectangular shaped bottom
✅ Versatility
👎 Thin, delicate fabric
👎 Not abrasion-resistant
👎 Not waterproof

11.  Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Compression Dry Sack

Compression Dry Sack

This dry sack from Sea to Summit is one of the best compression sacks available on the market and will keep your bags snug while remaining lightweight.

  • Size Range: 3L-20L
  • Closure Type: Roll-top
  • Style: Sling bag
  • Material: Siliconized 30D Cordura nylon

Made from 30D Ultra-Sil Cordura nylon with a 40D nylon air permeable and waterproof base, this Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Compression Dry Sack will compress your clothing and gear while keeping it dry.

Unlike other compression dry bags, the Ultra-Sil is a valve-free dry sack with an air-permeable base made of waterproof fabric

This fabric allows air to escape while preventing water from entering.

The Ultra-Sil has double-stitching, fully taped waterproof seams, a roll-top Hypalon closure, and a lid with three straps. 

However, this bag will not hold up to prolonged submersion, so keep that in mind while going on your kayaking trip. 

Because of its lightweight material, we love that this dry sack also works great for backpacking. ▶️BUY ON REI NOW

WHAT WE LIKE:WHAT WE DON’T LIKE:
✅ Ultra-lightweight
✅ Valve-free compression
👎 Not submersible

12. YETI Panga 50 Dry Duffel

Waterproof Kayak Bag

If you’re looking for a high-quality waterproof bag for kayaking and off-grid adventures, make sure to add this dry duffel to your list.

  • Size Range: 50L
  • Closure Type: Zipper
  • Style: Duffel bag
  • Material: Laminated, high-density nylon shell

If you’re an avid kayaker and currently on the hunt for the best waterproof bag for kayaking, this YETI Panga 50 Dry Duffel tops our list for being extremely durable, submersible, and 100% waterproof.   

We found this duffel bag quite impressive as it can easily withstand heavy storms and rainfalls with YETI’s HydroLok zipper.

Perfect for rough and wet terrain, the Panga 50 also has a waterproof landing pad made of high-density nylon that is scratch and puncture-resistant. 

This duffel bag is perfect for carrying expensive gadgets and camera equipment as its waterproofness is top-notch.  

There are two mesh pockets that are easy to access and extremely handy for keeping our valuables safe. 

This duffel bag also has durable hardware, straps, and lash points that are easy to use, along with removable backpack straps. 

The YETI Panga 50 comes at a steep price, but you’re paying for its fantastic quality. 

If you’re willing to splurge, this duffel bag is a great investment piece to have and is also a great dry bag for boating

WHAT WE LIKE:WHAT WE DON’T LIKE:
✅ 100% waterproof 
✅ Durable
✅ Great quality hardware
✅ Removable backpack straps
👎 Pricey
👎 Not the most comfortable as a backpack

13. Watershed Yukon Dry Duffel Bag

100% Waterproof Kayak Duffel Bag

The Watershed Yukon Dry Duffel might be the best waterproof bag for kayaking as it is perfect for those multi-day kayaking trips.

  • Size Range: 75.5L
  • Closure Type: Ziplock seal
  • Style: Duffel bag
  • Material: Heavy-duty UV-resistant polyurethane-coated nylon

Like the other Watershed dry bags on this list, the Watershed Yukon Dry Duffel Bag has a ziplock seal that makes it 100% waterproof and fully submersible. 

This bag’s construction of heavy-duty nylon coated with polyurethane makes it highly durable and abrasion-resistant. 

When it comes to waterproofness and durability, nothing on our list can beat the Yeti Panga 50,  but the Watershed Yukon comes in a close second. 

All of the seams in the Yukon Duffel are welded and leak-free

We also found that Watershed has made this duffel bag’s opening wider for easy access. 

This extra space makes reaching for our stuff more accessible, and the compression straps allow you to downsize the bag if needed. 

When using this duffel bag, ensure you are correctly sealing the bag as you might damage your essential gadgets.

All in all, this is one of the best waterproof bags for kayaking▶️BUY ON REI NOW

WHAT WE LIKE:WHAT WE DON’T LIKE:
✅ Fully submersible
✅ 100% waterproof
✅ Extremely durable
👎 Expensive
👎 Only comes in a large size

14. NRS High Roll Duffel Dry Bag

Large Dry Bag for Kayaking

If you’re on the hunt for a durable duffel dry bag that will not break the bank, the NRS High Roll is a great option to check out.

  • Size Range: 35L-105L
  • Closure Type: Fold-down
  • Style: Duffel bag
  • Material: PVC and polyester

The NRS High Roll Duffel Dry Bag is constructed using heavy-duty PVC and polyester material to keep it safe from abrasions and punctures. 

Instead of a roll-top closure system, it has a unique fold-down closure system that seals water out of the duffel.

The High Roll has webbing chain attachment points that make it easy to attach other items to the bag. 

They considered durability when they included aluminum fasteners instead of plastic buckles for the straps. 

Because roll-top or fold-down closure systems are not 100% waterproof, this duffel bag is not suited for prolonged submersion.

If you’re looking for a portable dry bag for your short kayaking trips, we don’t recommend this duffel bag as the smallest size it offers is 35L. 

These dry bags are best for long expedition trips when you need to pack more stuff.

Although the High Roll is durable and water-resistant, it is not 100% waterproof, so be careful not to drop this in the water or leave it submerged for too long. 

With that said, the High Roll is still one of the best dry duffel bags available at this price point. ▶️BUY ON REI NOW

WHAT WE LIKE:WHAT WE DON’T LIKE:
✅ Durable and water-resistant
✅ Durable aluminum fasteners
👎 Pricey
👎 Not submersible

15.  Watershed Aleutian Deck Bag

Waterproof Kayak Deck Bag

One of the best waterproof kayak bags on the market, this deck bag is equipped with amazing features, but these extra bells and whistles come at a steeper price.

  • Size Range: 11.5L
  • Closure Type: Ziplock seal
  • Style: Deck bag
  • Material: Heavy-duty UV-resistant polyurethane-coated nylon

The Watershed Aleutian Deck Bag is made of nylon ripstop and has an airtight closure to keep water from seeping into the bag. 

It uses an airtight and watertight zip lock seal closure that can endure up to 300 feet of underwater pressure and makes it 100% leak-proof.

This deck bag is quite pricey because of its high-quality materials that will hold up for years of use. 

Besides its impressive ziplock seal, we also love that it has additional exterior compartments that we can use, including the clear map case and the special pocket for a reusable water bottle.

We also found that the multiple lash points, compression straps, and comfortable straps make it very easy to strap onto our kayaks. 

Another feature we loved is the two buckles where we can securely attach a bilge pump or a spare paddle. 

This deck bag might seem a bit clunky, but all those extra features make up for it. This might be it if you’re looking for the best waterproof kayaking bag. ▶️BUY ON BACKCOUNTRY NOW

WHAT WE LIKE:WHAT WE DON’T LIKE:
✅ Completely waterproof
✅ Airtight and watertight zip lock seal
✅ Packed with useful features
👎 Expensive
👎 A bit clunky

16. Seattle Sports Deluxe Deck Bag

Kayak and Paddle Board Deck bag

This deluxe deck bag comes packed with superior features that make it one of the best deck bags every kayaker should have.

  • Size Range: 15L
  • Closure Type: Zipper
  • Style: Deck bag
  • Material: Vinyl

What sets this Seattle Sports Deluxe Deck Bag apart is that it has a reflective silver vinyl body that provides added visibility, especially in low-light conditions. 

The bag also has welded seams, a zippered opening, and a storm flap that ensures that water will not seep into your deck bag. 

There is also a transparent window to see your stuff without opening the bag.

Another great feature that we love is it provides tons of storage that maximizes several quick-release tie-down points, daisy chain lashing, and bungees for attaching gear. 

We love how this deck bag fits perfectly on top of your kayak without obstructing your view. 

Although this deck bag is durable, ensure it doesn’t get submerged in water as the zippers don’t seem 100% waterproof. 

To be safe, we recommend putting your gadgets inside a dry sack for added protection.

This deck bag is an excellent option as it is a superb value for your money that won’t break the bank. ▶️BUY ON REI NOW

WHAT WE LIKE:WHAT WE DON’T LIKE:
✅ Durable and water-resistant
✅ Reflective silver vinyl body
✅ Welded seams
👎 Zipper closure is not waterproof
👎 Not submersible

17. Watershed Futa Stowfloat 19L Kayak Bag

Tapered Dry Bag for Kayaking

If you’re looking for the best tapered dry bag for kayaking, Watershed Futa Stowfloat offers storage and flotation in one.

  • Size Range: 19L
  • Closure Type: Roll-top
  • Style: Ziplock seal
  • Material: Nylon ripstop, PU coating

The Watershed Futa Stowfloat is a multifunctional tapered dry bag that will keep your gear safe and dry while also serving as a flotation device if ever you encounter an emergency while paddling.

Besides its functionality, we also love the Futa’s versatility as it can fit in a wide variety of boats

One of this bag’s biggest perks is that you can adjust the buoyancy by using the long inflate/deflate tube that comes with this product. 

There’s also a compression strap over the top so you can easily customize its size.

The Futa has a ziplock seal closure system that is watertight and airtight. 

This closure was submerged to 300 feet during testing without leakage, which is quite impressive. 

If you’re on the hunt for a fully submersible waterproof dry bag, this one is an excellent option as it will perfectly fit inside your kayak, giving you more storage for your deck bags. 

This dry bag comes at a steep price, but if you’re looking for the best dry bag for kayaking, this one is a good contender.

WHAT WE LIKE:WHAT WE DON’T LIKE:
✅ Durable
✅ 100% waterproof
✅ Welded seams
✅ Multifunctional
👎 Expensive

Things to Consider when Buying a Dry Bag for Kayaking and Paddle Boarding

kayaking with cooler on a lake

Size 

The size of the dry bag matters just as much as its waterproofness and material. 

If you’re just going on a day trip and you’re not planning on carrying many things, a 5L dry bag is a great size that will fit your phone, wallet, camera, and keys

You might need a 30L or 40L dry bag for longer trips to fit extra clothes and equipment. 

Should you decide to go for the 40L size, consider buying two 20L dry bags instead, as it’ll be easier to fit them inside your kayak, especially if you’ll have other items onboard such as a kayak cooler.

Budget

There are a lot of dry bags available on the market, and the prices can range from $10 up to more than $300. 

While it is true that having a hefty price tag means that the product is higher in quality, you can still find a lot of great and affordable bags around the $20-$40 range that will give you the best value for your money.

If you’re an avid kayaker or canoeist that takes multiple trips often, then it’s worth spending the money on something that will last you for awhile. 

Material

Dry bags come in a large range of materials ranging from rip-stop nylon to transparent PVC. 

All the materials used are highly waterproof and can keep your gear dry, as that is the whole point. 

The materials also vary heavily in their durability. Some thinner materials are excellent because they are lightweight, but they suffer when it comes to abrasion and getting holes. 

There are also super thick materials that will last for years but are cumbersome.

Ultimately, the best material is any variation of laminated, high-density nylon, as it can take a beating and remain waterproof.

Waterproofness

The most important feature of a dry bag is its waterproofness

The material and closure type of the kayaking dry bag you choose affects how waterproof it is.

Dry bags made of thick nylon materials are generally more waterproof than those made with lightweight treated or coated materials. 

Many high-quality lightweight waterproof dry bags available can also be submersible, but if you’re looking for durability and versatility, heavyweight dry bags tend to be more waterproof than lightweight ones.

Closure Type 

The three most common closure types are roll-top, ziplock seal, and zipper, and they all have their advantages and disadvantages.

  • Roll-top

Roll-top closure systems are the most reliable of the three varieties. Just roll the top of the bag down a few times and then buckle it together, and the buckled seal creates a loop that can be used as a handle. This seal is not waterproof but still very effective.

  • Ziplock Seal

Ziplock seals are best for small dry bags. The disadvantage is that the top can easily blow out when overstuffed, and cold weather makes it hard to close. When appropriately sealed, this closure can be completely submerged.

  • Zipper

Zippers can blow out when overstuffed and are hard to use in cold weather. Also, ensure you’re buying actual waterproof zippers, not just water-resistant ones.  

Extra Storage 

Having extra storage like mesh pockets is a great added feature as it makes your essentials easier to access. 

Pockets with waterproof zippers are also handy, and you can put many things like sunscreen, lip balm, keys, and other small essentials inside.   

Transparent Window

Having a transparent window in your dry bag is great because you can easily see where your things are, and you won’t waste time trying to find the stuff you need. 

However, if you’re kayaking in hot and sunny weather, there’s a high chance that your stuff inside will get hot

Keep this in mind, as extreme heat can potentially damage the gadgets you’ve stored inside the dry bag like your phone, camera, and items made of plastic.

D Rings

D Rings are especially handy as you can attach your dry bags to your backpack, boat, kayak, or other surfaces. 

You can also string your dry bags together by using D Rings so it’ll be easier to pull them if an emergency occurs. 

Make sure to choose a dry bag with sturdy D Rings so you won’t lose all of your stuff.

Types of Dry Bags for Kayaking 

kayaking dry bags next to a yellow kayak

Sling-Style Dry Bag 

Sling-style dry bags are one of the most common kayaking dry bags in the market. 

It’s great for casual kayaking day trips or paddle boarding excursions when you’re not carrying a lot of stuff. 

This type of dry bag is usually smaller in size and has a single shoulder strap that can also be detachable. 

This dry bag style is excellent if you don’t want a strap and want to lessen the weight of your dry bag.

Backpack Style 

Backpack-style bags are perfect if you’re going to be walking for long periods or want to do any hiking as part of your kayaking or paddle boarding adventure. 

Having two straps makes it easy to carry your stuff and will distribute the weight of the dry bag evenly on your back.

Make sure to wear proper kayaking shoes, so you don’t hurt your feet when you get out of your kayak for a hike.

Duffel Style 

If you’re going on an extended kayaking trip and you need to bring a lot of things, the duffel-style dry bags are the best ones to use. 

They usually come with waterproof zipper closure, making accessing your stuff easier. 

They can also be quite bulky and might not fit inside your kayak but this style is one of the best dry bags for boating.

Deck Bag 

Deck bags are designed to provide additional storage on the deck of your kayak for easy access to your essentials while you’re out in the water. 

You can store your sunscreen, sunglasses, lip balm, snacks, and first-aid kit so they’ll be within arm’s reach. 

Deck bags usually come with buckles so that you can attach them on top of your kayak.

Tapered Dry Bag 

Tapered dry bags are designed to fit into the bow or stern compartments. 

If you’re planning on going kayaking for long periods, it might be best to go with this type as you won’t need to strap your dry bags on top of the kayak like you would with large duffel dry bags. 

Dry Bags vs Dry Sacks

These two terms might seem quite similar and interchangeable, but they are different from each other. 

Dry bags are waterproof bags that you use to store bigger items to protect them from getting wet. 

On the other hand, dry sacks protect and compartmentalize smaller objects like your gadgets within a dry bag. 

Dry sacks are not meant to be used as bags. They are waterproof pouches that will provide additional protection for your valuables and organize them within your dry bag.   

FAQs

What size dry bag do you need for kayaking?

For short day trips, go for a dry bag with a capacity between 5L to 20L, as it’ll be able to fit your essentials. 

For week-long trips, 30L to 60L capacity will be perfect for you. If you can only choose one size to buy, the best dry bag size to get would be between 18L to 20L capacity.  

What is the difference between a dry bag and a waterproof bag?

Waterproof bags are completely submersible in water without water trickling in. 

While most dry bags are indeed waterproof, not all can be fully submerged in water. Some dry bags are only splashproof, while others are just water-resistant.  

While it is true that dry bags can be waterproof, not all are 100% waterproof.

Wrap-Up: Best Dry Bags for Kayaking and Paddle Boarding

⭐ TOP PICK: BEST DRY BAG FOR KAYAKING

SEA-TO-SUMMIT BIG RIVER DRY BAG

Now that you’ve seen our list of the best dry bags for kayaking and paddle boarding, the only thing left to do is pick one that best suits you.

So, what are you waiting for? Choose among the best dry bags on our list and take a step towards making your dream kayak expedition a reality.

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