Imagine this: you’re on an amazing adventure, maybe hiking near a waterfall or kayaking on a lake. Suddenly, a splash! Your phone, snacks, and dry clothes are soaked. That sinking feeling is the worst, right? Keeping your gear dry when you’re out exploring is super important, but finding the perfect dry bag backpack can feel like a puzzle.
There are so many different kinds out there! Some are huge, some are small. Some have lots of pockets, others are super simple. How do you know which one will actually keep your stuff dry and be comfortable to carry? It can be confusing and frustrating when you just want to focus on having fun.
But don’t worry! This post is here to help. We’ll break down what makes a great dry bag backpack and guide you through the choices. By the end, you’ll know exactly what to look for so you can pick a bag that keeps your belongings safe and dry on all your future adventures. Let’s dive in and find your perfect waterproof companion!
Our Top 5 Dry Bag Backpack Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Dry Bag Backpack Detailed Reviews
1. HEETA Dry Bag Waterproof for Women Men
Rating: 9.2/10
Adventure awaits, and the HEETA Dry Bag is your trusty sidekick! This waterproof bag, available in a cool Transparent Blue and a 5L size, keeps your gear safe and dry. It’s designed for both women and men, perfect for all your outdoor fun.
What We Like:
- This bag really keeps your stuff dry, even if it gets splashed or accidentally dropped in the water.
- It’s made of strong PVC that can handle rough use and is easy to clean.
- You can wear it as a backpack or carry it by hand, making it super handy.
- The transparent design lets you see what’s inside without opening it, saving you time.
- It comes with a free waterproof phone case that still lets you use your phone’s touchscreen.
- You can adjust how much you pack by rolling the top, so it fits just right.
- There are lots of colors and sizes to choose from, so you can find the perfect one.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s good for splashes and short dips, it’s not meant to be kept underwater for a long time.
Overall, this HEETA Dry Bag is a fantastic and practical accessory for anyone who loves the outdoors and wants to protect their belongings. It’s a great gift for yourself or a friend.
2. UPWELL Waterproof Dry Bag 30L Boating Backpack for Travel Hiking Camping Bags for Kayaking Hiking Waterproof Bags Swimming Floating Submersible Dry Bag Green
Rating: 8.9/10
Gear up for adventure with the UPWELL Waterproof Dry Bag 30L Boating Backpack! This bag is built tough to keep your belongings safe and dry, no matter where your explorations take you.
What We Like:
- The 100% waterproof fabric and heavy-duty construction mean your gear stays dry, even in heavy rain or if it splashes in the water.
- The padded back feels super comfy, even when you’re carrying it for a long time. It’s designed to fit your back nicely and take the pressure off.
- It has a cool zipper pocket on the front for quick access to smaller items. The roll-top closure is easy to use, and the side mesh pockets are perfect for water bottles or umbrellas.
- This bag is ready for anything – kayaking, hiking, camping, beach days, or even your daily commute. It’s super versatile!
- UPWELL stands behind their product, offering customer support if you’re not happy.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the main compartment is fully waterproof, the front zipper pocket might not be as submersible as the rest of the bag.
- The “green” color might appear slightly different in person than on screen.
This UPWELL dry bag is a reliable and stylish choice for anyone who loves the outdoors. It offers great protection and comfort for all your adventures.
3. MARCHWAY Roll Top Waterproof Backpack
Rating: 8.6/10
The MARCHWAY Roll Top Waterproof Backpack is built tough for any adventure. Whether you’re hitting the trails, paddling down a river, or just caught in a downpour, this bag keeps your gear dry and safe. It’s designed for comfort and organization, making it a great companion for all your outdoor escapades.
What We Like:
- Super strong and waterproof material protects your stuff from rain, splashes, and even submersion.
- Comfortable design with padded straps and a back panel that lets air flow, so you stay cool.
- Easy roll-top closure that also makes the bag float if it falls in the water.
- Plenty of pockets and loops to keep your gear organized and accessible.
- Reflective strips help you stay visible in low light.
- Comes in different sizes (20L, 30L, 45L) to fit your needs.
What Could Be Improved:
- The main compartment is one big space, so smaller items might get lost without using internal organizers.
- While it floats, it’s not meant to be fully submerged for long periods.
This backpack is a reliable choice for anyone who needs to keep their gear dry and secure in wet or challenging conditions. It offers great value for its durability and features.
4. STOVER 5/10/25/30/40/55L Waterproof Dry Backpack & Phone Case- Large Floating Dry Bag for Kayaking
Rating: 9.1/10
Conquer any adventure with the STOVER Waterproof Dry Backpack. This versatile bag keeps your gear safe and dry, no matter the conditions. It’s perfect for anyone who loves the outdoors, from kayakers to campers.
What We Like:
- It’s 100% waterproof, so your stuff stays dry even if it falls in the water.
- The roll-top closure is super easy to use.
- It has comfortable padded straps and back support for a good fit.
- The bag floats, which is great if it goes overboard.
- It includes a waterproof phone case that fits most large phones.
- There are handy pockets for easy access to things like keys.
- Reflective strips and a whistle make it safer in the dark or emergencies.
- It’s a great gift for anyone who enjoys outdoor activities.
What Could Be Improved:
- The outer pocket isn’t fully waterproof if submerged, so don’t put electronics there.
- While it has a mesh pocket for a water bottle, it would be nice to have more internal organization options for smaller items.
This STOVER dry bag is a reliable and practical choice for all your adventures. You can trust it to protect your belongings while keeping you comfortable.
5. Piscifun Dry Bag Waterproof
Rating: 9.1/10
Gear up for your next adventure with the Piscifun Dry Bag Waterproof Backpack! This 20L army green backpack is designed to keep your belongings safe and dry, no matter where your journey takes you. It’s perfect for kayaking, camping, hitting the beach, boating, or even just swimming. This bag is built for both men and women and is lightweight, making it easy to carry.
What We Like:
- The bag is made from tough 500D nylon material, which means it’s super waterproof and lasts a long time.
- It has a smart design with separate areas for wet and dry stuff. You can put wet clothes in the front zip pocket and keep other things dry in the main part.
- Wearing this bag is really comfortable! It has soft, breathable shoulder straps and an ergonomic design that fits your body well.
- You get awesome extras: a portable backpack, a waterproof pouch, and an IPX8 waterproof phone case. The phone case lets you use your phone’s screen and keeps it totally sealed. The extra backpack can be used on its own too.
- The bag keeps your stuff dry by creating a watertight seal when you roll down the top. This protects your gear from splashes, rain, and even brief dips in water.
What Could Be Improved:
- Remember, the bag keeps things dry *inside* only when it’s sealed properly. The outside fabric is water-resistant, but not completely waterproof on its own.
This Piscifun Dry Bag is a fantastic companion for all your outdoor activities. It offers great protection and comfort for your essentials.
Your Essential Guide to Choosing the Best Dry Bag Backpack
Heading out on an adventure? Whether you’re kayaking, hiking, camping, or just spending a day at the beach, keeping your gear dry is super important. A dry bag backpack is your best friend for this. It’s like a waterproof shield for your stuff. Let’s find the perfect one for you!
What to Look For: Key Features
When you’re shopping for a dry bag backpack, keep an eye out for these important things.
- Waterproof Rating: This tells you how well the bag keeps water out. Look for bags with high ratings, especially if you’ll be near a lot of water.
- Closure System: Most dry bags use a roll-top closure. This means you fold the top down multiple times and then clip it. It’s a simple but effective way to seal out water.
- Comfortable Straps: Since it’s a backpack, you want shoulder straps that are padded and adjustable. This makes carrying it easier, especially for longer trips.
- Size and Capacity: Think about what you need to carry. Dry bags come in different sizes, from small ones for your phone and wallet to large ones for clothes and camping gear.
- Durability: You want a bag that can handle bumps and scrapes. Strong stitching and tough materials are a good sign.
- Extra Pockets: Some dry bags have external pockets. These can be handy for quick access to things like water bottles or snacks.
Important Materials
The stuff your dry bag is made of really matters.
- PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride): This is a common material. It’s tough, waterproof, and usually pretty affordable.
- TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane): This is a newer material. It’s often more flexible than PVC, especially in cold weather. It’s also very strong and good at resisting tears.
- Nylon with a Coating: Some bags use strong nylon fabric with a waterproof coating, like polyurethane. These can be lighter but might not be as completely waterproof as PVC or TPU.
What Makes a Dry Bag Great (or Not So Great)
A few things can make a dry bag backpack stand out or fall short.
- Good Quality: Look for strong seams that are sealed well. The zippers (if any) should be waterproof too. A bag that feels sturdy and well-made will last longer.
- Bad Quality: Flimsy material, weak stitching, or zippers that don’t seal properly can let water in. If the material feels thin or easily ripped, it’s probably not a good choice.
Your Experience: Using Your Dry Bag Backpack
A dry bag backpack is super useful in many situations.
- Water Sports: Kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, and white-water rafting are perfect uses. Keep your electronics, snacks, and extra clothes safe and dry.
- Hiking and Camping: If you’re hiking in rainy weather or camping near a river, a dry bag backpack protects your sleeping bag, food, and clothing from getting wet.
- Beach Days: Protect your phone, keys, and towel from splashes and sand.
- Travel: Use it as an extra waterproof bag for any part of your trip where your belongings might get wet.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How do I make sure my dry bag backpack is truly waterproof?
A: The best way is to test it! Fill it with air, seal it, and then submerge it in shallow water for a few minutes. If no air escapes, it’s likely a good seal. Also, check that the roll-top closure is done tightly, folding it over at least three times.
Q: Can I put my electronics in a dry bag backpack?
A: Yes, you can! But it’s always a good idea to put electronics inside a smaller, sealed plastic bag or a waterproof phone case first, just for extra protection. Then, place that inside your dry bag.
Q: How do I clean my dry bag backpack?
A: You can usually just wipe it down with a damp cloth and mild soap. Rinse it well and let it air dry completely before storing it. Avoid harsh chemicals.
Q: Will a dry bag backpack float if it falls in the water?
A: Most dry bag backpacks will float if they are not completely filled with heavy items and are sealed properly. The air inside helps them stay afloat.
Q: What’s the difference between a dry bag and a regular backpack?
A: A regular backpack is not waterproof. A dry bag backpack is designed with special materials and closures to keep water out completely.
Q: How much weight can a dry bag backpack hold?
A: The weight capacity depends on the size and material of the bag. Check the product description for specific weight limits. Don’t overstuff it, as this can make it harder to seal properly.
Q: Are dry bag backpacks good for everyday use?
A: They can be, especially if you live in a rainy area or often carry things that need to stay dry. However, they might not have as many compartments as a regular backpack for organizing everyday items.
Q: Do I need to worry about UV rays damaging my dry bag backpack?
A: Some materials, like certain plastics, can become brittle over time with too much sun exposure. Storing your dry bag out of direct sunlight when not in use can help it last longer.
Q: Can I put sharp objects inside a dry bag backpack?
A: It’s best to avoid putting very sharp objects directly against the inside of the bag. They could puncture the material. Use protective cases for sharp items.
Q: How do I choose the right size dry bag backpack?
A: Think about what you usually carry. For a day trip with essentials like a water bottle, snacks, and a light jacket, a 20-30 liter bag might be enough. For longer trips or carrying more gear, consider 40 liters or more.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Melody Smith is a passionate writer, outdoor enthusiast, and camping expert based in the Seattle Metropolitan Area. With a deep love for nature and adventure, she shares her personal experiences, tips, and insights on MyCampingPro.com. A seasoned camper and traveler, Melody combines her creative background in design and writing with her love for the great outdoors, offering practical advice and inspiring stories to help others make the most of their outdoor experiences. When she’s not exploring the wilderness, you can find her painting, collecting vintage treasures, or diving into a good book.