11 Best Dry Bags for Kayaking – Keep Your Gear Dry & Protected

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Best Dry Bags for Kayaking

If you love kayaking, then you must admit that one of the hardest things you have ever had to do is keep your stuff dry when you are on the water. Whether that is for a few hours or days, it is important that your gear remains dry, especially since the hatches in most kayaks are not completely dry. 

While zip lock bags and plastic-wrapped contraptions might seem like an alternative, they aren’t as effective and most of the time, your stuff will still be damp at the end of the day and that’s where dry bags come in.

Top 5 Best Kayaking Dry Bags (Summary)

Image Product Details
MARCHWAY Floating Waterproof Dry Bag... Most VersatileMARCHWAY
  • Suitable for carrying small or larger valuables
  • Comfortable to transport
  • Well-designed
Waterproof Dry Bag - Transparent... Most AffordableFreegrace
  • Ultra-light in weight
  • Budget-friendly
  • Has a double closure strip seals for maximum safety
Boncas Waterproof Backpack, 20L Dry Bag... Most DurableBoncas
  • Lasts for a long time
  • Comes with two adjustable and removable straps
  • Enough space is available to accommodate more valuables
Unigear Dry Bag Waterproof, Floating and... Unigear
  • Entirely waterproof
  • Abrasion-resistant
  • Convenient to use and transport
Sea to Summit Big River Dry Bag,... Sea to Summit
  • Large internal space
  • Made of waterproof material
  • Strong

For more detailed and complete product reviews on benefits and features, keep reading.

By packing your gear into dry bags and stowing it in the hatch, your clean clothes, cellphones, batteries, food and even sleeping bags will not get soggy by the time you are reaching your destination.

11 Best Dry Bags for Kayaking Compared

1. Earth Park Roll Top

Created for outdoors lover who craves to fulfill their ongoing passion for exploration, Earth Pak Dry bag is designed to inspire and guide you in your adventure. It does this by keeping your supplies from getting damp while kayaking or canoeing.

Considering the design, it’s made of 500D PVC material, making it compact. It will also be able to withstand tears and cuts, including an incredible strength that makes it suitable for packing heavy-duty gears. It’s light in weight and lasts for a long time.

This dry bag is available in 10L and 20L with a 24-42-inch single shoulder strap and 30L, 40L and 55L featuring a backpack shoulder strap. It features a heavy-duty waist-belt responsible for relieving you of the added pressure as well as support your load.

These allow you to wear it as a normal backpack without hindering your movement, especially while paddling. You’ll find it easy to close and wrap up so as to prevent your gear from getting wet. The handle makes it easy to transport comfortably and its orange color makes it visible all the time.

Pros

  • Light in weight and comfortable to transport from one location to another
  • Available in different colors and size
  • Resistant to liquid, so you don’t have to worry about your gear getting wet
  • Made of high-quality material that’s resistant to tear and wear

Cons

  • Straps are a bit small for big guys

2. MARCHWAY

The top option of dry bags is MARCHWAY. Suitable for extreme use, this lightweight bag is compactly designed with ripstop tarpaulin and a sturdy welded seam, which makes it durable.

This item will serve you longer as it’s made of components that are resistant to tear, rip or puncture. Also, the presence of the solid roll-top closure system provides a secure watertight seal.

This feature also helps to protect your valuables by keeping your gear dry and dirt free. Again, the perfect midsize of 10 and 20 liters will surely meet all your expectations and demands. This is because it includes an easy to adjust and a removable shoulder strap for cross-body or shoulder carrying.

The surface is smooth and the cleaning process only involves 3 to 5 times tight roll down with subsequent plunging of the buckle to make it completely seal. Just make sure you put your gear in a bag and grab the top woven tape. After this, you can dry the sack by wipe cleaning.

Pros

  • Versatile and lasts for a long time
  • Well-designed and comfortable to transport
  • Suitable for carrying small or larger valuables

Cons

  • Folding of the bag also eliminates some allotted space

3. Unigear

Unigear is a 100% waterproof dry bag. Specially made of stiff 600D PVC material, this bag is designed with roll-top closure to enhance its waterproof functionality and to keep your gear safe at all times.

It is double sewed and comes with a reinforce stress point of D-rings that are upgraded with POM material.

This makes it the perfect bag for those who love to spend long hours engaging in water activities like swimming, paddling, hiking and many more.

This dry bag is abrasion-resistant, which makes it last long and it is resistant to tear and leak. It is easy and comfortable to carry as it comes with a single strap for 2L/5L/10L/20L dry bags plus two straps for 30L and 40L. It is also extra-long and easy to adjust for a convenient carry and comfort handling.

Pros

  • Convenient to use and transport
  • Entirely waterproof
  • Reinforced and abrasion-resistant

Cons

  • Not available in multiple colors

4. Skog Å Kust

Specially made from heavy-duty 500-D PVC to seal out the elements, Skog Å Kust is also equipped with a reflective trim around the pocket zipper to help keep your items safe and visible at night in case you want to use them.

This also makes it easier for you to spot and retrieve it in case it falls overboard, without looking for external light. The presence of a splash-proof outer zip pocket in this bag guarantees the safe storage of your gear.

This unit has a removable, adjustable shoulder strap that not only allows you to sling the strap over your shoulders but also to attach it to your boat or kayak.

Whether you want 10L or 20L size, you will surely love the sleek, amazing features and the simple design with no tacky slogans or garish logos.

Pros

  • Has a reflective trim around its pocket zipper that allows the user to see it at night
  • Suitable for kayaking, canoeing or paddling at night
  • Comfortable and adjustable nylon shoulder strap enhances transportation

Cons

  • Once fold down up to four times, the number of contents you can keep inside will be limited

5. KastKing

KastKing is a round base, polyurethane-coated and fully seam-sealed dry bag for ultimate waterproof action. Built with rugged materials, this lightweight bag is designed with an innovative transparent window.

This window allows you to see clearly what gear is inside your bag. It also comes with a detachable shoulder that is easy to adjust. It is double layered, which helps to guarantee optimum security during use.

Its waterproof components include a 500D PVC material, which is widely known to offer greater water protection in extreme weather, including inside snow, sand, dust and many more.

Although this bag cannot replace a PFD, still, it can be used as a supplemental emergency flotation device due to the presence of the air circle padding around the pouch that allows easy floatation on water after it has been rolled. Also, this military-grade bag comes in different colors and sizes, depending on your choice.

Pros

  • Affordable
  • Once puffed, it can be used as a life jacket
  • Has a clear window which allows you to see what is inside

Cons

  • Proper handling and care are needed to function properly

6. Freegrace

If you are looking for a low-priced dry bag that meets your budget, then Freegrace will meet your expectations. This is an amazing bag that is waterproof and features the perfect combination of premium quality and extreme durability. Plus, it offers maximum protection for your gear.

Contrary to the traditional waterproof dry bag that needs to be rolled before your valuables are kept safe, this bag doesn’t work like that. Instead, it is equipped with an upgraded double zip lock seals that give optimum safety to your belongings even if submerged underwater. This unit uses a premium, double closure strip seals, which are safer than most traditional roll-top dry bags.

The product also has an IPX8 certified waterproof phone case. This cell phone case features a very simple snap and lock access that has dual-sided clear windows.

Pros

  • Budget-friendly
  • Ultra-light in weight
  • Has a double closure strip seals for maximum safety

Cons

  • Not all the features are of premium quality

7. Piscifun

Renowned for its outstanding performance, Piscifun is a rugged, yet flexible bag that will last you for a longer period while still retaining its exclusive functions.

It has an adjustable padded strap for comfortable carrying, as well as an outer mesh and an elastic rope for holding clothing or accessories.

The bag is exceptionally good for water sport activities since it is fully waterproof. This dry bag is affordable and accessible.

However, the item might not be suitable for shorter people because the straps are way long.

Pros

  • Has adjustable backpack straps
  • Affordable and accessible
  • Perfect for all water sports activities

Cons

  • Not suitable for short people as the straps may be too long and sit too low

8. Boncas

Boncas is an amazingly durable dry bag with a roll-top and a solid construction conjoined with stout seams. It also contains a heavy-duty PVC tarpaulin, strong, durable plastic buckles and D-rings. These features ensure that it’s able to withstand heavy-duty usage and also guarantee its long-term service.

The large circular base enhances its stability even when big loads are kept inside. It comes with a back pocket that allows you to keep items that can quickly be reached in case of an emergency. Also, the front mesh is specially designed for keeping damp items safe.

The item has a waterproof space for your cell phone to be kept. This 20L size waterproof dry bag also comes with two adjustable and removable backpack-style shoulder straps.

The strap makes it easy to attach the bag to the kayak, plus it ensures it does not spill out its contents. It contains a durable hook, all joined in complementing the other functions.

Pros

  • Enough space is available to accommodate more valuables
  • Lasts for a long time
  • Comes with two adjustable and removable straps

Cons

  • Not very stable

9. HEETA

Built with quality materials that meet the demand of those who love water sport but not underwater sport, HEETA Dry Bag is made from 0.02 in (0.6 mm) thick wear-resistant PVC material that makes it a perfect fit for all outdoor activities.

The multifunction bag has convenient and easy to adjust the shoulder strap. This allows you to carry it tirelessly for a longer period.

This bag is also transparent and you can easily locate your items without trouble. The most remarkable features are its sizes (5L/ 10L/ 20L/ 30L) and colors.

Make sure to purchase the right size so that all of your items fit in, but without the additional weight.

Pros

  • Available in different sizes and varieties of colors
  • 10L size can accommodate almost all daily needs including food and drinks
  • Weight stabilizes the front of the kayak, so it tracks better

Cons

  • Easy to pick the wrong size

10. Sea to Summit

Made of 420D nylon fabric that’s resistant to water, Sea to Summit Dry Bag is a lightweight item designed to keep your items dry at all times. It’s resistant to abrasion and can be used for outdoor activities in situations where your items can get wet.

Thanks to its lightweight, you’ll find it easy to take care of it during your adventures. The internal section is coated with polyurethane and double stitched for waterproofing. Not only does it keep your items dry, but it also keeps them dirt free by shielding them from sand and dust.

Its internal section has enough space to allow you to pack all the items you need to have a great water sports adventure. Also, it comes with a Hypalon lash loops that allow you to secure attachment so as to keep your items dry and dirt free.

It is easy to store after use, but not recommended to store in electrical equipment, due to the damage that can be caused by water. Also, it will be able to float on water if you use it to pack items that are light in weight.

Pros

  • Made of waterproof and abrasion-resistant material
  • Strong and durable
  • Large internal space and light in weight

Cons

  • Doesn’t have a wide selection of colors

11. CAOS Gear

If you’re planning to embark on a kayaking or boating trip with your friends or family, CAOS Gear Dry Bag is the ideal option to keep your items clean and dry. It does this thanks to the 500D PVC tarpaulin material that’s waterproof and resistant to wear and tear.

This dry bag provides you with maximum comfort and ease of use as it features a shoulder strap that’s suitable for cross-body use. You don’t have to worry about your items getting dirty or wet thanks to its roll-top design that helps secure the dry pack from mud, rain and snow.

It has a watertight seal with which you can safely float it while paddling or kayaking. In addition, it is durable and easy to store.

This dry bag is available in different colors, sizes and other unique characteristics. Also, it comes in four sizes: 10 L, 15L, 20 L and 30 L. With this, you’ll be able to choose the perfect sack to help transport all your gear so as to have memorable kayaking.

Pros

  • Light in weight, portable and lasts for a long time
  • Available in different sizes and colors so you can choose your perfect dry pack
  • Made of high-quality material that is resistant to water, wear and tear

Cons

  • Can’t be completely submerged in water

What Is a Dry Bag for Kayaking

Fishing from a kayak is quite enjoyable, but at the end of the end it all, the challenge has always been how to keep your gear dry for the entire duration of your fishing trip. 

Dry bags are waterproof storage bags that are cylindrical in shape and come in a range of sizes, materials, and waterproofing that is meant to suit different uses. When you are choosing a dry bag, it is important for you to consider what you will pack into it and the kind of conditions you might encounter. 

For those who love kayaking and other water sports, the invention of dry bags has been a game-changer and it has become an important piece of equipment that you need to keep your gear protected from the elements. 

This ability to seal all your valuables in a waterproof bag means that you can enjoy kayaking without worrying about your stuff getting damp or soggy. 

However, just like with any other product like a cordless electric fillet knife, not all dry bags you find on the market are the same. There are some that are of a higher quality, which is what you should be aiming for. 

Benefits of Using a Dry Bag for Kayaking

Regardless of where you are kayaking, whether on a calm, scenic lake, a leisurely paddle or in challenging rapids, you need to keep your items dry at the end. 

Just like baitcasting reel for saltwater has to be resistant to corrosion to give you value for your money, there are certain benefits of a dry bag that are often overlooked.

Valuable stuff Don’t Get Wet

This is the most obvious and probably the main reason why anyone would buy a dry bag. The mistake that most beginners make is to forego dry bags if their boats have dry compartments. 

While a dry compartment can do, at the end of the day, a dry bag is sufficient in keeping your gear with you as well as out of the way when you are kayaking. 

Protection From the Sun

A lot of us underestimate the power the sun has when it comes to not only our skin but gear. While you may wear sunscreen when you are kayaking, your gear also needs to be protected against the harmful UV rays.

Contrary to popular belief, the UV rays of the sun can wreak havoc on your gear when you are on the water even during overcast days. A dry bag will protect your items like safety gear and electronics from degrading when exposed to the sun. 

Keeps Things Safe and Accessible

Benefits of Using a Dry Bag for Kayaking - Keeps Things Safe and Accessible

Most dry bags have different attachment systems that are meant to keep your stuff not only secure but reachable when you are paddling. As such, go for a dry bag that is not only waterproof but one that rolls down and buckles. 

Float on the Surface

Besides keeping your gear and clothes dry, some dry bags are designed to float on the surface when they have been packed correctly. This makes it very easy to recover your items in case you end up capsizing. Additionally, you can use the dry bag as a makeshift float in an emergency. 

Easy to Spot

Dry bags come in bright colors that are easy to spot when floating on the water. They are also light in weight, which will come in handy when you are loading up the kayak. 

How Does a Dry Bag for Kayaking Work

Have you ever wondered how you can manage to keep your clothes and phone from getting wet when you are hiking, kayaking or on any other outdoor adventure? 

Ziplocs have always been the go-to bags when you want to keep your phone or cash dry when you are outdoors. But what happens when you need to protect more items like your clothes and food? 

Putting them in different Ziplocs can be inconveniencing and, not to mention, there is no guarantee that your items will even remain dry. What you need in such a case is a dry bag, but how do these bags work?

A dry bag is usually a container that is in the form of a bag that is designed to keep your sensitive things dry.

Dry bags are made from nylon or vinyl, materials that are usually 100 percent waterproof.  They are made of water-resistant fabric, plastic or even plastic-covered fabric that is designed in such a way that it will be water impermeable. 

Additionally, a dry bag has a roll-top cover that is either folded three times or rolled to ensure a watertight seal when you are kayaking and is usually made by welding, gluing or sewing. 

Dry Bag for Kayaking Materials

Dry Bag for Kayaking Materials

Whether you are using a recreational kayak that offers more control in rough waters or an abrasion-resistant inflatable kayak, a dry bag is a must-have if you are to keep your valuables dry. Dry bags are usually made of different materials, all meant to be water-resistant. 

Nylon

This is one of the common materials used to make dry bags for kayaking. Compared to vinyl, coated nylon is lighter, which makes it an ideal companion for campers and backpackers.  

Since nylon is not entirely waterproof, the one used to make dry bags is coated with silicone or a thin plastic so as to ensure that water doesn’t get in. Despite this, however, its waterproofing quality is nothing compared to vinyl. 

Vinyl

Vinyl is thicker, tougher and is way more waterproof than nylon. It also has a grippy exterior, which means that the bag is easy to grab even when it’s wet. 

Vinyl is also easy to maintain in that you can easily patch and repair the bag on your own when it gets damaged. 

Polyurethane

This is another material that is used to make dry bags. Polyurethane is usually water-resistant and is used as a protective layer on hardwood and now dry bags, but the material is not entirely waterproof. 

PVC

If you are looking for a strong dry bag, then go for one made of PVC. PVC is known to be very tough, but due to the welded seams and high density, such a bag can prove heavier hence not ideal for backpackers or campers. 

It is, however, used in extreme sports since it can withstand force and pressure. 

Tarpaulin

Tarpaulin is usually a strong and flexible material that comes as a cloth-like canvas or polyester coated with polyurethane. 

It is used to make dry bags since it is both water-resistant and waterproof; hence your gear will never get wet when you go kayaking in a tandem kayak, for instance.  

How to Choose the Best Dry Bag for Kayaking

If you know what you are looking for, finding a quality dry bag is not that hard. Here are a few factors that you need to consider so as to ensure that you get a bag that meets all your needs and is durable. 

Shape

A majority of dry bags are usually cylindrical in shape with an opening at one end. However, you could also get a tapered dry bag which is shaped to fit into the kayak nose. 

Also available on the market are holdall dry bags that are usually shaped like duffle bags, which makes it easier to access your things. 

Such bags are great to be placed on top of the kayak if you need yours for a longer expedition. They, however, don’t pack efficiently into kayak hatches, which is something you need to be aware of before you make a purchase. 

Wearability

Dry Bag for Kayaking Wearability

Some people prefer dry bags that they can wear easily, but there are those who prefer straps.  For most kayakers, simple drawstrings will work just fine. 

However, if you are a paddler who also goes on hikes, then a wearable bag will come in handy. Dry bags that have waist straps are also ideal for hikers and campers. 

Visible On and Off the Water

Most kayaking dry bags come in pastels or neons. There are others that have a natural brown or black tone. 

It will be in your best interest to buy a brightly colored bag in case you ever lose it when you are on the water. A bright bag will be much easier to track down than the brown or black ones. 

It is also recommended that you buy a bag that has reflectors. This will make the bag more visible in low light conditions and also makes it easy for you to be seen by other kayakers. 

Materials

The materials that are used to make dry bags for kayaking vary in terms of flexibility, weight, and durability. The most durable bags are the ones that are made from vinyl.

While vinyl is heavy and stiffer, it stands up well to elements and has excellent waterproof capabilities and will come in handy when you want to carry heavy and abrasive items. 

Waterproofed nylon, on the other hand, is light in weight but not as durable as vinyl. It is, however, more flexible and is great for packing in very tight spaces or putting in a larger bag.  

Such bags are, however, not the best for submersion since they are likely to go underwater, but they are still great for kayaking. 

Weight

How to Choose the Best Dry Bag for Kayaking - Weight

This can be tied to the point above. A majority of dry bags for kayaking are usually light in weight. However, that is not to say that there aren’t those that are heavy. 

When you are shopping for a dry bag, consider the weight of the bag itself before you put any items in it. The last thing you need is a bag that is too heavy, especially if you also do backpacking and hiking. 

Gear Capacity

Knowing the gear capacity that you will be taking with you will help you decide on the dry bag that will meet your needs. 

Most manufacturers will have indicated the cubic inch and liter capacities on the description. Even so, the most important thing that you need to consider is the liter capacitor than the cubic inches. 

Submersible or Not

When kayaking, how often do you get submerged underwater? This is an important factor to consider because it will determine the bag you get.

If you get submerged quite often, then you need a dry bag that can still keep your belongings dry when that happens.

Such bags come with a lock and open seal openings so that you can suck the air out of them. Bags that are not designed to be submerged underwater will often have a zipper or nylon drawstrings. 

Style of Bag

The style of the bag is all a matter of personal preference, as well as convenience. That said, there are bags that have only a single strap that is worn across your body or on your shoulder.

There are also dry bags that have shoulder straps such that they can be worn like backpacks. Such bags will come in handy if you are traveling long distances on foot or have a heavier or larger bag.

For campers, a dry bag that can double up as a backpack is ideal since it frees up your hands to carry other gear. 

Colors

While you may want a bag in your favorite color, when it comes to dry bags, the color of the bag makes a difference. With that in mind, it would be in your best interest to consider just how visible you will be in case of an emergency. 

Brighter colors tend to be more noticeable both on and off the water and will help you get located in case you encounter difficulties when on the water. A brightly colored dry bag is also easier to locate if it falls overboard than the black or brown ones. 

Size

The size of the bag will depend on what you intend to use it for. Just like traditional backpacks, dry bags for kayaking are measured in terms of the liters, in which case, the higher the volume, the more gear the bag can hold. 

If you want a bag to keep a few essentials like clothes, wallet, and phone dry for a couple of hours, then a 10-liter bag will do. If you are going on longer trips, then consider bags that have a liter capacity of between 30 and 40.

At the same time, if you are planning an extended trip on a canoe or kayak, it is recommended that you take with you more than one dry bag. 

This will allow you to keep camping gear, clothing, and food dry for the entire duration of the trip. 

Durability

Just like with a premium kayak paddle, the durability of the dry bag will help you get value for your money. In such a case, consider the materials used to make the bag. Bags made of vinyl are more durable than those made of plastic or any other material. 

Closure

When it comes to closure, there are two types that are used to seal the tops of dry bags; zipper seals and roll tops. Roll tops are usually sealed by folding the top of the closure a few times and clipping the two ends. 

Such closures offer better waterproofing capabilities and not to mention the clipped buckle can also double up as a handle. 

Zipper seals resemble the seals on Ziploc bags, but they are larger and way more durable. They are, however, not as waterproof as roll tops since the seal can break hence the reason why you need to double-check the zipper seal before you get on the water. 

There are dry bags that make use of both types of seals providing excellent foolproof waterproofing. 

Shoulder or Handle

How to Choose the Best Dry Bag for Kayaking - Shoulder or Handle

There are people who prefer carrying their dry bags with just the shoulder strap, while others prefer them as backpacks. Normally, smaller bags will often come with a shoulder strap that can be adjusted to fit the preference of the user. 

Bigger bags, on the other hand, have two shoulder straps so that you can wear them as backpacks. 

There are smaller bags, however, that come with two shoulder straps. Whatever bag you get will depend on what you are going to use it for and how long you will be gone.

Campers and backpackers are better off with the dry bags that can double up as backpacks, but if you just need something to keep your essentials dry for a few hours, then a small bag with a shoulder strap can work fine.  

Kayak You Have

Whether you are using a kayak that’s easy to control even for beginners or the best kayak for big guys, you will have to consider the kind of dry bag that you need. 

For instance, if you have a kayak that has an allotted storage space, then you can do with a larger bag. If the cockpit is small, however, then a 10-liter dry bag may be all you can fit in after you have put down the paddle. 

How to Use a Dry Bag for Kayaking

Step 1 – Put the items inside

Start by putting your gear and other essentials that you will be taking with you in the bag. Ensure that you leave at least a ¼ of space on top. 

Step 2 – Remove the air

Next, proceed to remove the remaining air inside. You could, however, leave the air inside if you want the dry bag to float on water.  

Step 3 – Close the seal

This will depend on the type of closure on your dry bag. For roll tops, twerk the top of the dry bag and then fold the edges. Fold the fabric three times and then merge the buckles together to secure a fitted seal. After that, you can then put it in your kayak and be on your way. 

How to Clean and Maintain a Dry Bag for Kayaking

Maintaining a dry bag for kayaking is usually easy and straightforward. 

Step 1 – Cleaning the bag

Rinse both sides with fresh water. If the bag is extremely dirty, then you may add a little mild soap in the water.

Step 2 – Drying the bag

When you are done cleaning, hang the bag in a well-ventilated area to dry. 

Step 3 – Getting rid of mildew odor

Since dry bags are used in wet conditions, they can develop mildew odor after some time. When that happens, take the bag in a well-ventilated area and fill a bowl with one-part water and one-part vinegar. 

Wipe the surfaces of the dry bag with the vinegar solution and then clean the inside and outside with warm water and mild detergent or soap. Leave the bag to air dry for at least a day. 

Alternative Uses of a Dry Bag for Kayaking

The best thing about dry bags for kayaking is that they are very versatile and can be used for other purposes besides keeping your stuff dry when you are on the water. 

Makeshift Cooler

If you don’t want to bring your lunch cooler when on a picnic, a dry bag can double up as a makeshift cooler that you can fill with crabs, fish, and lobster. 

Depending on how waterproof the bag is, you can fill it with ice and it will keep your food fresh for some time. Heavy-duty vinyl bags are ideal for this since they are highly durable. 

Seat/Pillow

It may not be the most comfortable pillow, but a dry bag can work as a pillow when you are on a camping trip. Ideally, you can fill your dry bag with dry leaves and use it as a seat when you are camping in the woods. 

Carry Freshwater

Another way you can use a dry bag is to carry freshwater. In most cases, you may not have a bucket with you and as such, you may fill your bag with fresh water from a nearby creek or stream to use later. 

Separate Wet Clothes

Dry bags come in handy when you want to keep your dry clothes separated from the wet ones. If you are going camping, especially, it makes sense to bring a smaller dry bag with you that you can use for wet clothes. 

Laundry Bag

Since dry bags are waterproof and water-resistant, you can use yours as a laundry bucket. While it will not be as perfect as when you do your laundry at home, if you are on a camping trip, it will get the job done by ensuring that you have clean clothes to change into.   

Suspend Food Away from Animals

Another way you can use a dry bag, especially when on a camping trip is to keep food away from animals. If, for instance, you are camping in an area that has bears, the last thing you want is to have your food eaten by them.  

Float/Buoy

Depending on the type of bag you have, it can easily float on the surface when submerged. While it will not work as perfectly as a dive float, it can be used as a float in case of an emergency. 

Does More Spending Mean More Quality

When it comes to dry bags, to some extent, more spending does mean more quality. At the end of the day, you want a high-quality bag that is completely waterproof. 

Bags made of high-quality materials like vinyl may cost slightly higher than those made of plastic, but they are worth it in the end.

This is because vinyl is highly durable and even though it is heavy, it is highly waterproof. You may also be forced to pay slightly higher for a bag that has a roll-top type of seal.

At the end of the day, rather than getting too stuck on the price, ensure that the bag you are buying will fit all your needs and, above all, is durable. 

Do’s and Don’ts With A Dry Bag for Kayaking

  • Do go for brightly colored dry bags since these are more noticeable when they go overboard or you capsize. 
  • Do clean the bag after a while to get rid of dirt and any mildew odor.
  • Don’t overload the bag as this can compromise its quality and floating capabilities. 
  • Don’t buy a cheap quality dry bag just because you want to spend as little as you can.  

FAQ About Dry Bags for Kayaking

How do you seal a dry bag?

This depends on the closure system of the bag. For roll-top seals, twerk the top of the bag and fold the edges. Fold the fabric at least three times and then merge the buckles together to create a watertight seal. 

What are welded seams?

Fabric welding works just like metal welding. In such a case, welded seams are two fabrics that are bonded together to create a waterproof piece. They provide way more protection than sewn seams and are of higher quality. 

What to use when repairing a dry bag?

When it comes to dry bag repair, it is very important that you get it right from the word go to avoid damaging your bag further. There are so many adhesives on the market that you can use to repair small holes or gaps by creating a watertight seal. 

How do you remove mildew from a dry bag?

To remove mildew from a dry bag, add vinegar to water and then wipe the surface of the bag. You can also use lemon juice or salt and avoid putting the bag in a dryer since the heat can damage the bag. Rather air dry it for about a day. 

Are dry bags submersible?

Yes, and no. This is because it is dependent on the material as well as the type of dry bag.

Are dry bags waterproof?

Yes, all dry bags on the market are waterproof. However, some have higher levels of water-resistant than others, so it’s up to you to check with the manufacturer as well as online reviews to determine how waterproof the bag you are about to buy is. 

Do dry bags float?

Again, this depends on the type of bag. There are some dry bags that are designed to float while others will sink. At the end of the day, regardless of the ones you have, ensure that you can easily locate it and that it does not allow water inside. 

Conclusion

Dry bags for kayaking have been in existence for decades and continue to grow in popularity among kayakers. This is because they are designed in such a way that your essentials remain dry when you are on the water. When you are buying a dry bag, the most important things you need to consider are the material, gear capacity, the weight of the bag, wearability, color, size, type of closure and the kayak you have.

Photos from: PixelsAway / depositphotos.com, eightstock / depositphotos.com, serguastock / depositphotos.com and astrophytum / depositphotos.com.

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Sammy Garrard

I am the Founder and Chief Editor of outdoorsity.net and a prepper with over 15 years of experience. I’m excited to my knowledge and the things I learn while travelling in British Columbia, Canada where I live and around the world. Feel free to follow me on Twitter, Facebook!

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