Best Dry Bags to Keep Your Gear Dry on the Water (2026)
Four dry bags from lightweight sacks to heavy-duty roll-tops, plus how to pick the right size, material and closure.
Why You Need a Dry Bag
Water finds its way into everything on a kayak, paddle board or boat. A dry bag, usually a roll-top sack made from waterproof fabric, keeps clothes, phones, food and camping gear dry from splashes, rain and capsizes. They come in lightweight versions for organizing gear and heavy-duty versions for rough river trips. Choose by size, material and how you'll carry it. Here are four from Sea to Summit, NRS and Earth Pak.
Sea to Summit Big River 35L
Best heavy-duty dry bag
- 35-liter roll-top
- Abrasion resistant
- For rugged trips
Earth Pak Dry Bag
Best value dry bag
- Roll-top
- Multiple sizes
- Straps on many sizes
Sea to Summit Lightweight 8L
Best lightweight dry sack
- 8-liter roll-top
- Light nylon
- Great for organizing
Dry Bags Compared
| Dry Bag | Size | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Sea to Summit Big River | 35L | Rugged river trips |
| Earth Pak | Multiple sizes | Value, beach and boating |
| Sea to Summit Lightweight | 8L | Organizing, backpacking |
| NRS Bill's Bag | 110L | Rafting and expeditions |
The Best Dry Bags
1. Sea to Summit Big River 35L
The Big River is an ultradurable, abrasion-resistant 35-liter roll-top dry bag, a dependable choice for rugged paddling and boating trips.
Good to Know
- Very durable
- Good size for clothes and gear
Watch Out For
- Heavier than lightweight sacks
2. Earth Pak Dry Bag
Earth Pak's roll-top dry bags come in multiple sizes, with straps on many sizes for carrying. It's a popular value choice for kayaking, paddle boarding and beach days.
Check Price on Amazon3. Sea to Summit Lightweight 8L
This lightweight nylon 8-liter roll-top bag is a versatile dry sack for organizing gear inside a kayak hatch or backpack.
Check Price on Amazon4. NRS Bill's Bag 110L
The Bill's Bag is a large 110-liter dry bag with a PVC/polyester body, a heavier bottom and a fold-down StormStrip closure, built for rafting and expeditions.
Check Price on AmazonDry Bag Size Guide
| Size | Fits |
|---|---|
| About 2–5L | Phone, keys, wallet |
| About 10–20L | Snacks, a jacket, first-aid kit |
| About 20–35L | Day trip clothes and gear |
| About 50L+ | Camping gear, sleeping bag |
How to Choose a Dry Bag
- Material: heavy PVC or coated fabric for abrasion; light nylon for organizing.
- Closure: roll-top is standard; some have extra seals.
- Straps: shoulder straps or backpack straps for carrying.
- Visibility: bright colors are easier to find; clear windows show contents.
- Attachment points: D-rings to clip to your boat.
How to Seal a Dry Bag
- Pack items, leaving space at the top.
- Squeeze out excess air.
- Fold the top over at least three times.
- Buckle the ends together.
Tips
- Double-bag electronics for extra security.
- Clip bags to your kayak or board.
- Rinse and dry after use, especially after salt water.
Plan your trip with kayak GPS units, kayak PFDs and inflatable kayaks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are dry bags fully waterproof?
Roll-top dry bags are designed to keep water out from splashes, rain and brief dunks. Few are rated for long submersion; check the maker's claims.
How do I close a dry bag properly?
Push out excess air, roll the top down at least three times, then buckle it.
What size dry bag do I need?
Small (about 5–10L) for phones and keys, medium (about 20–35L) for clothes and day gear, large (about 50L+) for camping gear.
Do dry bags float?
Sealed bags with trapped air usually float, but don't rely on this; clip them to your boat.
Can I put a phone in a dry bag?
Yes, but a dedicated phone pouch lets you use the touchscreen.