It’s that time of the year and you decided a kayaking trip is best for you and your loved ones. You want to test yourself, see what you can physically carry with you. Or, to be a little less serious, go on a trip away from the world by yourself or a community of friends ready to meet nature. One of the most critical kayak items you’ll need to purchase is a dry bag. Getting a decent dry bag is the secret to holding your equipment dry and you don’t want to be the one to end up with a wet phone.
In this guide, we detail the best dry bags for kayaking. Dry bags are versatile and can offer storage space for personal items vulnerable to harm from the weather. They are built as a watertight container for use in water sports like canoeing, kayaking, and a whole host of other activities. They are therefore the best storage for things such as smartphones, as well as extra clothes to turn into during the activity, blankets, and sleeping bags.
In a Hurry? The test winner after 10 hrs of research
Earth Pak -Waterproof Dry Bag – Best Value
Why is it better?
- Never any leaks
- Phenomenal phone bag
- Good capacity (even though compact)
- Material is extremely durable
Best Dry Bags for Kayaking – Overview
If you intend to go kayaking, you have to pack and bring a ton of items including a first aid kit, snacks, tools, clothes, and others. You don’t want them to get wet and you also don’t want to be confused by the number of options between all sorts of dry bags, so we’re right here to solve that problem for you. Here are the 10 best dry bags for kayaking for your next adventure.
Dry Bags for Kayaking Reviews
1. Earth Pak -Waterproof Dry Bag – Best Value
Whether you’re going on a day of kayak trip or planning a week-long camping trip, the Earth Pak -Waterproof Dry Bag is one of the most reliable – and durable – companions to have by your side. By day, have it carry and protect all your gear. By night, use it as a camping pillow so it will never leave your side.
The medium-sized 20L bag is big enough to carry everything you need for a kayak trip – without being bulky, hassle to carry. It fits small and medium-sized items you’d like to protect from the elements: cell phone, camera, clothing, towels, toiletries, and shoes.
Key Features:
- Backpack style shoulder straps
- IPX8 Certified 6.5 Inch waterproof phone case
- 500D PVC material
- Available in several colors
Specifications:
- Brand: Earth Pak
- Capacity: 20L
- Dimensions: 17″ H x 9.5″ W
- Weight: 1.05 lbs
- Never any leaks
- Phenomenal phone bag
- Good capacity (even though compact)
- Material is extremely durable
- The straps are rather small
2. KastKing Dry Bag for Kayaking
KastKing Dry Bag for Kayaking is built for extreme outdoor adventure! Various sizes and colors for all purposes. 100% waterproof heavy gauge non rip 500D PVC material, heavy-duty construction, fusion-welded seams, double overlap roll top, reinforced vinyl at stress points.
Alternative handle & fully adjustable shoulder straps provide a different and easy way of carrying or bringing your stuff. A clear see-through panel allows you to see what’s in your bag without unpacking or easily find what you want. Made by high performance welded seams and trusty double overlap roll top Closure, KastKing Dry Bag is suitable for quick submersion and even floats when dropped in water.
Key Features:
- Tough, durable 100% waterproof 500D PVC material
- Fusion-welded seams
- Removable adjustable shoulder carry strap
- Double overlap roll-top
Specifications:
- Brand: Kastking
- Capacity: 20L
- Dimensions: 25.2″ H x 9.5″ W
- Weight: 1.1 lbs
- You can let as much or as little air is as you want, which is so cool
- The material and sewing is so heavy duty
- The included phone pouch is also a treat
- Ziploc closures so you can be sure no sand or debris will get in
- Can be difficult to get things in and out of the bag
3. Skog Å Kust DrySåk Waterproof Floating Dry Bag
Skog Å Kust DrySåk Waterproof Floating Dry Bag protects your gear from virtually anything Mother Nature can dish out. Plus, it offers features that S.Å.K. pioneered; such as a zippered exterior pocket & reflective trim! This bag is made from heavy-duty 500-D PVC to seal out the elements. The watertight, welded seams, and roll-down top provide IPX-6 protection for your gear in a variety of outdoor sports and activities.
Splash-proof outer zip pocket safely stores small essentials. You’ll easily reach your must-haves without having to rummage through your bag whether you are kayaking, hiking, or relaxing on the beach. Reflective trim around pocket zipper helps ensure you’ll be seen. Sling the strap over your shoulder to easily tote your gear anywhere. Or attach the strap to your boat or kayak to keep your bag conveniently at hand.
Key Features:
- 500-D PVC
- Splash-proof outer zip pocket
- Reflective trim around the pocket
- Removable adjustable shoulder strap
Specifications:
- Brand: Skog Å Kust
- Capacity: 20L
- Dimensions: 16″ H x 10″ W
- Weight: 1.07 lbs
- The bright color comes in handy just in case your bag falls over board
- The straps are long
- Quality construction
- Comfortable to wear as a crossbody bag
- The outside zippered pocket can be a bit larger by about an inch or two
4. Ultra Dry Premium Waterproof Bag for Kayaking
Ultra Dry Premium Waterproof Bag for Kayaking creates a perfect combination of waterproof bags for any adventurer, needn’t worry about your gear, its taken care of. Both are the very highest quality, these are also the perfect size for a day of adventure, able to store all your day’s gear safely & not too heavy to hold you back!
Made from the very highest quality Pure Grade Y7.5mm thick 500D (Denier Density) WATERPROOF Polymer, it’s soft, flexible & strong, even in the harshest of conditions, whether you are in the freezing conditions of Alaska or in a desert keeping the dust-out! Thermo welding technology ensures the strong seams are watertight. Reinforced construction at all stress points, make it even tougher!
Key Features:
- Two detachable straps
- Waterproof bag phone case
- Pure Grade Y7.5mm thick 500D (Denier Density) waterproof Polymer
- Thermo welding technology
Specifications:
- Brand: Ultra Dry
- Capacity: 20L
- Dimensions: 16″ H x 10″ W
- Weight: 1.07 lbs
- Nice handle and straps to carry
- Sturdy and durable design
- Comes with shoulders straps
- Comes with portable phone waterproof case
- Like with any waterproof bags, this bag is not designed to keep items dry when fully submersed underwater
5. Odyssey Waterproof Roll Top Dry Bag
Whether you’re white water rafting the grand canyon, kayaking a serene lake, or going out on a dive trip these bags will protect your goods from water, salt, sun, and sand. The Odyssey Waterproof Roll Top Dry Bag is made of 500D PVC tarpaulin, also known as the toughest waterproof material known to man.
This dry bag is stain resistant, anti-static, UV protected, anti-bacterial, and temperature resistant. Most importantly, the bag has an incredibly high tear strength and it is pliable so you can easily load up and close the bag without the struggle.
Key Features:
- Carry strap
- 500D PVC tarpaulin
- High tear strength
- Stain-resistant
Specifications:
- Brand: Odyssey
- Capacity: 20L
- Weight: 1 lbs
- Nice handle and straps to carry
- Sturdy and durable design
- Sits very comfortably on your back when you need to carry it around
- It can adjust in size depending on how full the bag ends up being
- The bag for the cellphone is a bit flimsy
6. Adventure Lion Premium Waterproof Dry Bags for Kayaking
The Adventure Lion Premium Waterproof Dry Bags for Kayaking is among the toughest on the market. Crafted with a solid roll top closure from the state of the art materials, they stay soft and flexible even in the coldest weather. With years of proven reliability, Adventure Lion Dry Bags offer toughness plus comfort.
This dry bag comes with a removable XL shoulder sling and a reinforced grab handle for easy carry and transport. Carry it on the hiking trail or toss it into your kayak, adventures have never been easier! At 20 Liters, these dry sacks are perfect to keep all your gear safe and dry.
Key Features:
- Solid roll-top closure
- Removable XL shoulder sling
- Reinforced grab handle
- Lifetime warranty
Specifications:
- Brand: Adventure Lion
- Capacity: 20L
- Dimensions: 14″ H x 8″ W
- Weight: 1 lbs
- Nice handle and straps to carry
- Good construction
- Material is thick, rubberized, and appears durable
- The adjustable nylon strap is strong and pretty comfortable
- No zipper or closing mechanism beside folding
7. Forbidden Road Waterproof Dry Bag
The Forbidden Road Waterproof Dry Bag is made of tough, durable 100% waterproof 500D PVC material, fusion-welded seams for a lifetime rugged use, it is waterproof, snow proof, sand proof, dustproof, which allows you to go kayak fishing, canoeing, or be caught in a downpour with confidence.
Always have clean, dry gear at your fingertips with a Forbidden Road Drys Bag / dry sack. Waterproof roll-top closure is also designed in this dry sack for maximum compression. A removable and adjustable shoulder carry strap is designed to make it a great compression dry sack. It also comes with a reinforced grab handle for easy carry and transport.
Key Features:
- 8 colors available
- Roll-top closure
- Adjustable shoulder strap
- 100% waterproof 500D PVC material
Specifications:
- Brand: Forbidden Road
- Capacity: 15L
- Weight: 0.9 lbs
- The quality of the bag is outstanding and the material used for the bag is very durable and strong
- Easy to use and the backpack like straps are a nice touch
- Great for day kayaking
- Floats
- Not submersible
8. Freegrace Waterproof Dry Bags
Say goodbye to the traditional roll-top dry bag which doesn’t have any seal to protect your valuable items dry when it is submerged underwater! Freegrace Waterproof Dry Bags using premium double closure strip seals at the top of the dry bag will prevent the water from coming in. This scuba and kayak waterproof dry bag will keep your things dry even if you submerge it into the water!
Strong Durable Buckle with Two D rings is perfect for you to hang anything you like. It is made of 500D Tarpaulin that makes it extremely sturdy, lightweight, and tear-resistant. And every stress point has been reinforced. Build to last a lifetime. You can sling the strap over your shoulder to easily tote your bag anywhere. Or attach the strap to your boat or kayak to keep your bag conveniently at hand.
Key Features:
- Double closure strip seals
- 500D Tarpaulin
- Removable shoulder strap
- Grab handle
Specifications:
- Brand: Freegrace
- Capacity: 20L
- Dimensions: 24″ H x 9.25″ W
- Weight: 1 lbs
- Large bag is made of nice heavy duty materials, looks very professional
- Double sealed
- Nice adjustable Shoulder strap
- Great set of three waterproof bags
- The packaging isn’t the most impressive, which is only a concern if giving as a gift
9. MARCHWAY Floating Waterproof Dry Bag
The MARCHWAY Floating Waterproof Dry Bag is made from the highest quality thick 500D tarpaulin which is an ultra-tough waterproof fabric, resisting tear, puncture, abrasion, strong enough to use in most harsh condition. A simple roll down top seal system allows for secure airtight protection against water.
Advanced thermo welding craft ensures flawless waterproof construction. With detachable and adjustable shoulder strap for different size people and various carry style. Portable to carry due to its lightweight and easy to roll down for convenient storage. The bag will float on water after the seal is closed so you can track your gears easily.
Key Features:
- Made from ripstop tarpaulin
- Roll-top closure
- Easy to wipe clean
- Aadjustable and removable shoulder strap
Specifications:
- Brand: MARCHWAY
- Capacity: 20L
- Dimensions: 14.6″ H x 9.1″ W
- Weight: 1 lbs
- The bags are simple to use and versatile
- The color options are great, especially if your use for the bag may end up with the bag falling overboard
- The bags will float when sealed properly
- Comfortable to carry
- Folding the bag over eliminates some space, which means you need to plan your space utilization carefully
10. Unigear Dry Bag Waterproof for Kayaking
Whether you’re rafting down the lower Salmon or floating through the Grand Canyon, Unigear dry bag can keep your items or goodies bone-dry and clean. Strong and abrasion-resistant, Unigear Dry Bag Waterproof for Kayaking will be your essential tools on your outdoor activities like boating, camping, kayaking, fishing, swimming, or just going to the beach. It’s durable and fits where traditional bags won’t go.
Adopted the tech of high-frequency welded seams, the bags resulted in a stronger and more durably waterproof construction. Each package includes a waterproof, snow proof, and dustproof Phone Case. Touch-friendly fits smartphones up to 6 inch.
Key Features:
- Made of stiff 500D PVC material
- Fully welded seams
- Extra-long and adjustable straps
- Reinforce the stress point of D-rings
Specifications:
- Brand: Unigear
- Capacity: 20L
- Dimensions: 22.8″ H x 14.2″ W
- Weight: 1 lbs
- The material is thick, sturdy, and wear-resistant
- The waterproof phone iswas a bonus
- The seams were nicely done
- Great color
- The bags are rounded, but slightly narrower
Buying Guide
Size
They can differ greatly in size so that can vary depending on your strength or budget. The best models are typically in capacity anywhere between 20 and 30 liters. This range of sizes is perfect because you may have difficulty putting larger bags safely in your kayak.
Materials
You have essentially an option between nylon and vinyl, plus certain combinations. Vinyl is very strong and powerful and is ideal for heavy gear or metal appliances. You do have waterproof nylon that is not as long-lasting as vinyl but is still not as strong. They are good for soft and lightweight things such as your clothing or some sort of cloth or fiber. The third form is sil-nylon which is incredibly light and versatile. It is, however, the least enduring of all types.
Color
Most dry kayaking bags are sold in pastels and neons. Others may be purchased in more natural colors of brown and black. Investment in a brightly colored dry bag is worthwhile, should you ever lose it on water. Tracking down would be much better than black or brown versions. You should also try to find bags which have reflectors on them, too. It would render them much more conspicuous in low-light situations, thereby allowing other kayakers to see you much more as well.
Type of Straps
The dry bag strap you go for would generally rely on personal preference and comfort. Most bags can have just one strap to carry across your shoulder your back. Others with double shoulder straps may be worn as a backpack. Whether you are walking a long distance on foot or if you have a bigger or heavier pack, this might be preferred.
Waterproof
This ensures that even though your pack winds up in the water, you will be able to hold your valuables and equipment secure and dry. You should note, though, that certain bag manufacturers suggest that the bags should not get submerged for long periods of time. But most are meant to tolerate brief submersion. They shouldn’t be able to allow some water inside as long as the bags are sealed properly. Many may have roll-top closures with buckles to cover the folds, while some will have external seals in lieu of the roll-top closure for added security.
Frequently Ask Questions
Are dry bags really waterproof?
Dry bags are merely water-resistant and are not meant for submersion or designed as the only water-tight protection to protect water-sensitive devices, cameras or other objects.
What fits in a 20l dry bag?
20-liter bags will carry a small sleeping pad, clothing for a few days, or freeze-dried food for a long weekend. This will mostly be more than enough for kayaking trips.
Do dry bags float?
Yes, this is one of the main reasons they are so great for water activities like kayaking.
Conclusion
We hope this guide was helpful for finding the best dry bags for kayaking as well as our guide on features to look for in a dry bag for kayaking. If you have any questions or concerns regarding this guide, feel free to let us know in the comments section.