Are you heading out for a fun day on the water? Whether you’re going deep sea fishing, diving the reef, or just enjoying watersports on the lake, a dry bag is an essential piece of equipment. The dry bag holds your essentials like your phone and other electronics, as well as towels, clothes, and other equipment you need to keep dry on the trip.
Boat dry bags are an essential piece of kit for your trip, and they come in several models to suit your needs and carry style. Whether you need a dry bag that floats out on the water or stays on board to keep your stuff dry, we have a lineup of models to suit any requirement. From premium models to budget-beater bags, you’ll find something in this post to suit your needs.
Let’s unpack our top choices for the best boat dry bags. We have models to suit any budget, and we’ll make suggestions on the best bag for your boating adventure. Our buyer’s guide walks you through everything you need to know about choosing the best boat dry bag.
Contents
Our Top Picks
- Best Overall Boat Dry Bag – Earthpak Dry Bag
- Best Premium Boat Dry Bag – YETI Panga 75
- Best Budget Boat Dry Bag – HEETA Waterproof Dry Bag
Boat Dry Bag Reviews
A boat dray bag is a quintessential piece of kit for any dedicated angler, diver, or watersports enthusiast. Check out these reviews on the best models available and choose the dry bag that suits your time out on the water.
Best Overall Boat Dry Bag – Earthpak Dry Bag
If you’re looking for the best boat dry bag at the best price, we recommend the Earthpak This bag features design and construction with 500D PVC, providing a waterproof, durable, tear-free material. The material layering features a strong double-sided PVC and high-tenacity polyester with mesh inter-layer.
As a result of the material design and layering, you get a virtually impenetrable bag. If you snare it on a branch or rock, the bag won’t tear or split, and the high-grade band thread on the roll-down seal provides a watertight seal that features double-stitching for durability and resilience.
- Top Rated By Wirecutter: Durable, reliable, and wallet-friendly are just a few of the reasons why The NY Times Wirecutter chose earth pak as one of the top dry bags of 2024! Our classic roll-top design keeps your contents dry and all our bags are all protected by a five-year warranty.
- Shoulder Strap: 10L & 20L dry bags come with a 24-42 Inch single shoulder strap. 30L, 40L, and 55L waterproof backpacks are equipped with backpack style shoulder straps that also come with a sternum strap for added stability. Our new 55L also comes equipped with a heavy duty waist-belt, which relieves added pressure and helps support your load.
- IPX8 Certified Waterproof Phone Case: We have included our IPX8 Certified 6.5 Inch waterproof phone case that will fit even the largest of phones. This case features a very simple snap and lock access that has dual-sided clear windows that allow to take pictures while still inside the case. Suitable for phones up to 6.5 Inches of diagonal screen size.
- Ideal For Travel: Our water bag is very lightweight and compact making it an essential dry bag for all your travel plans. Easy to fold and pack tight in any sized luggage!
- Keep Your Items Dry and Protected: Protect Your Valuables with our 5L, 10L, 20L, 30L, 40L, or 55L Dry Bags! Just toss your gear inside your water bag, roll it down, and you’re good to go on your next adventure.
The heavy-duty plastic buckle secures the bag, preventing it from opening on the water. When sealed correctly, this bag will float in the water without allowing water to enter the pack and damage your gear.
This bag has a hot melt welding design with a seamless exterior to prevent snagging or loose threads, providing the best level of waterproofing possible.
The backstrap on the bag provides easy carry, and you have a choice of 8 color options to suit your style.
No need to worry about losing your gear – When rolled up and full of air, the brightly colored waterproof dry bags float seamlessly on the surface of water and are easy to spot.
What We Liked
- Welded seams for durability and waterproofing.
- Roll-down top for easy packing and unpacking.
- Available in a range of colors.
- Floats when sealed.
- Affordable.
- 5 Year Warranty
Best Premium Boat Dry Bag – YETI Panga 75
YETI is a premium outdoor brand, and it’s no surprise that they make this list with the best premium model in this review. The YETI Panga 75 comes with a dual configuration as a backpack or shoulder-sling, and it offers 100% waterproofing, allowing for floating on the water when sealed correctly.
The Hydrolok zipper ensures no water penetrates the bag, with the U-Dock on the zipper providing an airtight seal. The bag’s outer shell features design and construction with rip-proof high-density nylon and six lash points arranged linearly, allowing you to secure the bag in any position.
- A 100% dry duffel. But definitely not a cooler. Hydrolok zipper makes sure water stays out so your gear stays bone-dry, no matter how torrential it gets.
- U-dock the terminal end of your hydrolok zipper that ensures a completely airtight seal
- Thickskin shell made of high-density nylon and thick tpu lamination to be puncture- and abrasion-resistant
- Dryhaul straps in the hands or on the back, they’re as durable as they are comfortable
- Metallock hardware this hardware can take on smacks and whacks without breaking
This boat dry bag features a thick TPU lamination for puncture and abrasion resistance. There are drag handles at either end, allowing carry as a duffel, and the expert stitching and welded seams provide excellent waterproofing and durable resilience against splitting.
All zips feature Metallock hardware for long service life, with Dryhaul straps providing fast drying times. The storm-grey color is attractive, but unfortunately, it’s the only color option; we would have liked to see some hi-viz options. Overall, it’s an expensive bag, but its high-quality design, construction, and versatility make it the best premium choice in this review.
What We Liked
- High-quality design and build.
- 100% waterproof.
- Hydrolok zippers with Metallock hardware.
- Dual shoulder strap and backpack configurations.
- Drag handles on either side.
- Welded seams and high-quality stitching.
Best Budget Boat Dry Bag – HEETA Waterproof Dry Bag
While the YETI is the most expensive model available, why pay the extra money when you can get the same utility and waterproofing from a more affordable model like the HEETA? This bag presents you with the best value-for-money option on this list.
This model comes with the same roll-down sealing mechanism we see in the Marchway, with watertight sealing. The bag features design and construction with transparent, high-quality PVC materials providing a rip-proof cover. The welded seams remain watertight and won’t split if you overload the bag. You get multifunctional shoulder straps for configuration as a shoulder strap or backpack and a duffel configuration.
- Waterproof - Use professional seamless technology. Our dry bag has the overall waterproof capability, making sure to keep your items and valuables dry when you do some water sports like boating and kayaking but not underwater sports.
- Durable - Made by 0.02 in (0.6 mm) thick wear-resistant PVC material of the bottom and 0.01 in (0.3 mm) of the side, suitable for outdoor activities, waterproof bag nicely adapts to all kinds of weather and environment.
- Multifunctional - Adjustable Shoulder Straps & Handle for shoulder carrying and backpack, very convenient for different occasions like boating, rafting, kayaking, swimming, mountaineering, etc. The lightweight dry bag won’t aggravate the burden of your arms or shoulder.
- Visible - Transparent dry bag, easy to find your items without trouble, you don’t have to rummage through the bag to find your things, and it’s able to read the message on your phone or pad.
- 5 Sizes (5L/ 10L/ 20L/ 30L/ 40L) to choose, a right choice for the gift to women and men, each bag comes with a free waterproof cell phone case, bring comprehensive waterproof protection to your water sports. You can control the size of the dry bag by the number of times you roll the top edge.
The durable nylon straps and plastic clasps are strong and easy to open and close, with wide buckles. This model has tight stitching on seams and vacuum sealing for ultimate waterproofing that allows floating on the water.
You have several sizing options in 5L/ 10L/ 20L/ 30L/ and 40L configurations with nine color options. The most impressive feature of the bag is its affordable price tag. You get high-quality materials and outstanding design without the high price tag.
What We Liked
- Excellent price.
- 100% waterproof.
- Shoulder, duffel, and backpack configurations. Several color and size options.
- It comes with an integrated phone case.
- Durable materials and stitching.
Earth Pak Voyager Waterproof Duffel Bag
The Earth Pak waterproof duffel is a great choice for families and people that require more storage capacity when out on the water. You get design and construction with commercial-grade nylon materials for durability and tear resistance and thermo-welded seams for ultimate waterproofing of the bag.
The bag features two interior storage compartments. One of the internal sections features smaller slip-pockets for holding gear like phones, electronics, passports, and more. The exterior wet-dry pocket is ideal for storing wet items, and you get removable straps for configuration as a hand-held duffel or a shoulder sling option.
- Watertight Protection: Constructed from commercial-grade materials for high performance and durability, our waterproof duffel is meant to last a lifetime! All seams are thermo welded shut to ensure all your gear stays completely dry! Ideal weekender bag for all your sailing, fishing, camping, sporting, boating, and travel adventures.
- Extra Storage: Equipped with two interior mesh pockets for the smaller belongings you need easy access to and one large external mesh pocket with nylon coiled zipper, providing a separate slot for personal items you to need to grab on the go!
- Easy to Use & Store: Featuring a large main compartment with roll-top closure and single reinforced strip.... simply fold the bag down 3-4 times, buckle, and you are ready to go! Our boat bag is soft sided and completely collapsible to make storage easy!
- Comfortable Straps Assembled with an adjustable, removable cushioned shoulder strap and padded double handles for comfy & easy carry.
- Secure for Travel: Sturdy buckle straps situated on all sides of your waterproof luggage ensuring your items stay in place! Side panels are complete with reflectors as an added extra for better visibility. Also reinforced with 1000D PVC MOLLE System looping on the front and back sides of the duffel, providing anchor points to latch onto while boating, kayaking, rafting, or riding a motorcycle. In addition, 4 attached D-rings for quick fastening.
The handles feature design and construction with thick, durable nylon and UV-resistant plastic buckles. The bag has a watertight zipper and a fold-down configuration for a watertight seal. The front of the bag also features a 1000D PVC MOLLE loop system for attaching other packs and accessories.
The Earth Pak Voyager comes in 50L and 70L sizes, so it’s not suitable for someone looking for a smaller pack. You also only have options for four colors to suit your gear requirements.
What We Liked
- Very durable.
- Excellent pricing.
- Plenty of room.
- 100% waterproof.
- 1000D PVC MOLLE loop system
- Plenty of interior pockets for dedicated storage.
- Available in four color options.
COR Waterproof 60L Duffel Bag
If you enjoy surfing, paddleboarding, or kayaking, the COR waterproof duffel is an excellent option. Developed by a family of surfers, this bag has a massive 60L capacity for carrying all your gear. The bag features design and construction with durable, heavy-duty PVC and welded seams with high-quality stitching throughout the bag.
- Made to Endure the Harshest Elements the COR Surf premium waterproof duffle bag features sonically welded seams that ensure 100% waterproof and dirt proof integrity, complete with two compression straps on each end to secure the bag tight. This means your gear stays dry and safe when you need it most.
- Humongous 60-Liter Appetite: you’ll be shocked how much you can fit. This multifunctional waterproof duffle bag is as ready for adventures as you are. It's the buddy you can always count on through snow, wind, rain, hail, rivers, ocean, or on the back of your motorcycle.
- COR Surf large capacity duffle bag features a large exterior zip pocket for fast and easy access while an interior zip pocket keeps your smaller-sized travel essentials organized. Moreover, strategically placed D-rings, handles, and webbing straps let you conveniently attach it to your car, motorcycle, snowmobile, canoe, or other devices.
- Versatile Usage the multi-purpose with a detachable and adjustable padded shoulder strap as well as reinforced Velcro handles, the COR Surf duffel dry bag can be used as a gear bag, scuba dive, rafting, snowboarding, travel, surfing and camping trips.
- Specifications of COR Surf Waterproof Duffle bag: Foldable 60 liters weekender bag; (length) 24 inches x (width) 2.1 inches x (height) 14.2 inches; gray and black.
You get a roll-top design with waterproof zippers and strategically positioned D-rings for the reinforced handles and shoulder strap. Two compression straps loop over the center of the bag, allowing you to compress it to save space on board a boat or watercraft like a kayak. There’s also an exterior pocket for easy access to your gear without opening the center zip.
We like the reflective strip across the top and sides of the bag, allowing for easy identification in misty weather. The padded shoulder strap also makes for a comfortable carry, and the lightweight PVC materials won’t add more weight to the bag, allowing for more capacity for your heavier items.
What We Liked
- D-rings for easy attachment.
- Comfortable shoulder straps.
- Compression straps.
- Durable PVC construction with welded seams.
- 60L capacity for carrying all your gear.
- Reflective strip for easy identification.
Oak Creek Canyon Falls 30L Dry Bag Backpack
We like the slimline form factor of this Relentless boat dry bag. You get design and construction with 500D Tarpaulin material providing a tough, rugged, and durable bag that won’t fade in the sun.
- Waterproof Dry Bag Backpack Made of Heavy Gauge PVC Protects Your Gear and Valuables from Exposure to Water; Large 30L Volume Allows for Plenty of Gear to Be Kept Dry; Measures 18” H (when closed) x 12” W
- Roll Top Buckle Closure with a Reinforced Strap Ensures Items Stay Dry and Doubles As a Handle for Easy Transportation
- Padded, Adjustable Shoulder Straps, Sternum Strap, and Padding on the Back pack Itself Make It Easy and Comfortable to Carry Heavy Loads; Zippered Front Pocket Provides Easy-to-Access Area; Includes Mesh Net Side Pockets for Water Bottles and Bungee Corded Exterior to Carry Additional Items
- Great, Multi Functional Bag for All Outdoor Activities Including Boating, Rafting, Fishing, Camping and Hiking
- Also works great for motorcycle riders
This model has padded, adjustable shoulder straps, sternum strap, and padding on the back pack itself making it easy and comfortable to carry heavy loads. It also has a zippered front pocket which provides easy-to-access area. It also includes mesh net side pockets for water bottles and a bungee corded exterior to carry additional items.
What We Liked
- Mesh water bottle holders on the sides.
- Comfortable padded shoulder straps.
- 30L capacity for day trips.
- Heavy-duty 500D Tarpaulin materials.
- Outer dry/wet pocket.
KastKing Waterproof Dry Bags
If you’re looking for a 100% waterproof bag that floats on the water, pick up the KastKing. This model features military-grade construction with durable PVC material and hot welded seams for rugged use. The exterior of the bag has two shoulder straps for backpack carry or conversion into a duffel.
- Innovative Transparent Window Design: You will love the clear see-through window panel that allows you to see what gear is inside your dry bag without unpacking.
- Double Layer Gives Extra Security: Tough, durable 100% waterproof 500D PVC material, fusion welded seams, removable adjustable shoulder carry strap make it a great compression dry sack. Unique water-tight DOUBLE overlap roll top provides the best-in-class waterproof performance. Use a versatile KastKing Dry Bag for Kayaking, Beach, Rafting, Boating, Hiking, Camping and Fishing.
- Never worry about dropping it in water or water getting in. Unique water-tight DOUBLE overlap roll top provides the best-in-class waterproof performance. Use a versatile KastKing Dry Bag for camera, or can double as a fishing tackle bag or travel bag.
- KastKing Dry Bag - waterproof, snow proof, sand proof, dustproof. Forge rivers, go kayak fishing, canoeing, or be caught in a heavy rain with confidence.
- Versatility: KastKing Dry Bags will not replace a PFD but can be used as a supplemental emergency flotation device.Use as a kayak bag, boat bag, dry hiking bag, or swim bag.
The double overlock roll-down design allows for compressed packing, and the Hydrolok zipper ensures a watertight main compartment. The durable nylon straps and plastic buckle allow for a handle carry, and you have a choice of four size options in 5L/ 10L/ 20L/ and 30L.
You get two plastic D-rings for hanging your keys and other survival items, as well as an IPX8 waterproof carry case included for your cellphone.
What We Liked
- Waterproof welded seams.
- Four size options.
- Military-grade construction.
- Suitable for floating on the water.
- Several color options.
- Dedicated cellphone pouch.
- Transparent window to check bag contents.
OverBoard Pro-Sports Boat Dry Bags
We recommend going with the Overboard sports duffel for anglers and divers that need the most amount of storage onboard. This model features 40L/ 60L/ and 90L sizes for the largest storage requirements. You get a dual duffel and backpack carry design, featuring two removable padded backstraps for a comfortable carry and a shoulder strap for duffel carry.
- 100% waterproof hold all with Fold Seal System
- Padded Backpack Straps
- Internal wet / dry pocket
The top of the bag features a Hydrolok zipper with roll-down sealing and a Velcro strip holding it in place. Compress the bag using the two nylon straps secured by plastic buckles to reduce space onboard your boat. There is a weatherproof external zipper pocket for storing your cellphone and a mesh side pocket for wet/dry capabilities.
The side of the bag also features a drag handle for easy pulling around the boat, and you get a design with durable PVC materials and hot welded seams for 100% waterproofing. This model is a great choice for the longest trips on the water, with enough space for all your gear.
What We Liked
- Hot welded, waterproof seams.
- Roll-down zipper with Velcro clasp.
- Dual backpack and duffel configurations.
- Drag handle.
- Exterior drainage and mesh pockets.
- Compression straps.
- Reflective lining.
- Your choice of four colors and three size options.
Other Best Selling Options
- Waterproof - Use professional seamless technology. Our dry bag has the overall waterproof capability, making sure to keep your items and valuables dry when you do some water sports like boating and kayaking but not underwater sports.
- Durable - Made by 0.02 in (0.6 mm) thick wear-resistant PVC material of the bottom and 0.01 in (0.3 mm) of the side, suitable for outdoor activities, waterproof bag nicely adapts to all kinds of weather and environment.
- Multifunctional - Adjustable Shoulder Straps & Handle for shoulder carrying and backpack, very convenient for different occasions like boating, rafting, kayaking, swimming, mountaineering, etc. The lightweight dry bag won’t aggravate the burden of your arms or shoulder.
- Visible - Transparent dry bag, easy to find your items without trouble, you don’t have to rummage through the bag to find your things, and it’s able to read the message on your phone or pad.
- 5 Sizes (5L/ 10L/ 20L/ 30L/ 40L) to choose, a right choice for the gift to women and men, each bag comes with a free waterproof cell phone case, bring comprehensive waterproof protection to your water sports. You can control the size of the dry bag by the number of times you roll the top edge.
- Heavy Duty Material: Made of 500D PVC Material, Piscifun dry bag offers durability and protection for your items during outdoor activities
- Sealed and IPX8 Waterproof Phone Case: The backpack comes with a fully welded seal which helps in a stronger, durable waterproof construction. It also comes with a waterproof phone case, which is suitable for phones up to a diagonal screen size of 6.5 inches. They also have a touch friendly design as it helps you to operate your phone during water activities
- User Friendly Design: Each of those super user friendly dry bags have adjustable shoulder straps. They also have an outer mesh pocket which helps you to hold things which gives you space for non-dry storage
- Convenient Shoulder Strap: These dry bags have adjustable double shouldered straps which provide safety and stability while wearing the bag. These sturdy straps help the bags in not slipping off the shoulders during the water activities
- Multifunctional: These waterproof bags also float on the water when rolled and buckled, which makes it visible to you all the time even on the water. are perfect for camping, beach, fishing, hiking, kayaking, rafting, skiing, snowboarding and boating. They also make the perfect gift for outdoor lovers
- Different Sizes:The waterproof bags with lanyard contain three sizes.Large: 16" x 10.63"; Medium: 12.4" x 7.1"; Small: 9" x 5.13" ;You can choose different sizes according to your needs
- Water-Resistant: Our dry bag has the overall waterproof capability with PVC material. The Matte and transparent surface allows you to use a cell phone without opening the bag
- Multiple Seals: Use seamless professional technology, not easy to tear. Sealing strips, Fold down protection, and magic tape gives your items multiple protections. It can prevent water, humidity, dust, sand, and snow from damaging your valuables
- Wide Range of Uses: HEETA file holder suitable for outdoor and indoor use. The waterproof bag can be used as a waterproof document holder, mobile phone bag, document bag, etc. It can also be used when you are walking, hiking, fishing, swimming, and camping
- Note: Please perform a waterproof test before using these bags. Put a piece of paper in the waterproof bag and put it in the water to check whether the paper gets wet after 30 minutes.
Boat Dry Bag Buyer’s Guide
A boat dry bag is an essential piece of kit for anyone that enjoys life out on the water. When you’re onboard your boat, you’ll encounter sea spray and rain that will drench your equipment. Storing them in a boat dry bag is ideal for keeping everything from getting wet.
The last thing you need is for your camera and cellphone to get spray or water in them, ruining the electronics. If you’re out on the boat on a sunny day, it might seem like you don’t need a dry bag. However, the humidity out on the water and the ocean spray will quickly saturate your gear.
Storing your stuff in a dry bag prevents you from dishing out thousands of dollars to replacer your equipment. There are various styles of dry bags in different colors and sizes to suit your needs. With so many models available, how do you know which one to choose for your boating experience?
This buyer’s guide unpacks everything you need to know about selecting the right boat dry bag to suit your requirements out on the water.
Materials for Your Boat Dry Bag
Boat dry bags are available in a range of materials. The most common option is PVC. PVC provides a waterproof finish to the bag, ensuring that your gear stays dry. Other models use materials like Nylon and Tarpaulin for rugged, tear-proof bags that offer excellent water resistance.
Typically, material bags will have an inner lining made from PVC to ensure the bag stays dry. You have options for materials from 500D to 1000D, providing you with a rugged, durable bag that won’t rip if you share it on the boat.
Sizing the Right Boat Dry Bag for Your Needs
It’s critical that you size your boat dry bag to your needs. If you frequently take day trips, then you need a 20L to 30L bag. Going with a larger capacity means you’ll have more room that you don’t use in the bag, taking up valuable space on the boat.
Conversely, if you have a bag that’s too small, you’re not going to fit all your gear into it, leaving you with the dilemma of trying to find extra storage space on the boat for your equipment. Boat dry bags come in a range of sizes from 5L capacities to 90L for the largest gear storage requirements.
D-Rings
Look for bags that have D-rings on the straps. These rings let you hang the bag from clips around the boat or secure it so it doesn’t fall overboard when you hit a big swell. The D-rings are also useful for hanging your keys and other waterproof accessories.
Carry Straps
Look at the carry straps on the bag. If you’re going with a larger model over 20L, it’s a good idea to get padded straps, or the material will eat into your shoulders, making carrying it uncomfortable. Many boat dry bags come with multi-configuration for backpack or duffel carry, and several models offer you a drag handle for easy access on the boat.
Closing Style
Most boat dry bags come with roll-top designs and water lock zippers that allow for 100% waterproof protection of your gear. The roll-don closure creates a watertight seal for the bag, keeping your equipment dry and safe out on the water. Some models also include straps or Velcro to hold the roll-down top in place. You’ll find roll-down tops on the most reliable waterproof models that float out on the water when you attach them to a buoy.
Side Pockets
Many boat dry bags come with exterior pockets. Some models have mesh pockets for wet storage or your water bottle, and others have draining pouches to prevent the need to put wet gear inside the bag. Many models come with dedicated pockets for cellphones and electronics on the exterior of the pack.
Reflection Strips
Many boat dry bags feature reflective strips on the exterior allowing for easy identification of the bag onboard in low-light or misty conditions out on the water.
Submersible Functionality
Some of the roll-down models allow for full submersion underwater without leaking. These models are ideal for surfers, kayakers and divers that want to keep their bag put on the water without the threat of soaking their gear.
Durable Welded Seams
The best waterproof models feature PVC materials with hot-welded seams for a completely watertight bag. Look for models that come with exterior cellphone pouches offering you waterproof protection for your device.
Compression Straps
Many boat dry bag models come with compression straps that fit across the center of the bag and zipper. These straps prevent the accidental opening of the bag onboard the vessel. They also help to compress unused space in the bag, allowing for compact storage aboard your boat.
Waterproofing Rating
Some bags are more waterproof than others. Those bags featuring designs with materials like Cordura, Tarpaulin, and nylon typically offer less waterproofing than PVC models, and they are not submersible. However, these models that have a PVC design and roll-down zips are usually suitable for leaving out on the water. However, it’s important to note that these bags are not ideal as personal floating devices.
How Do I Maintain My Boat Dry Bag?
While most boat dry bags come with a high-quality design and waterproof materials, it’s advisable to rinse them off with fresh water after spending time out on the ocean. Saltwater is aggressive, wearing down everything it comes in contact with, even materials.
If you don’t clean your bag, then the salt will eventually wear into the materials, causing them to perish. Rinse the pack’s exterior with fresh water and let it dry completely in the shade before your next use.
Tips for Purchasing a Boat Dry Bag
When choosing your boat dry bag, we recommend you take the following tips into account.
Stick with Your Budget
Boat dry bags are available from several brands, and they range in price from as little as $20 to over $120. It’s easy to overspend when you’re shopping, so make sure you have a budget in mind and pick the right bag with the closest price tag to your budget. Our review has plenty of options at various price ranges to suit your budget.
Choose a Bright Color
If you’re out on the open water, we recommend choosing a high-viz color like yellow or orange. These colors stand out on the boat and in the water, even in low light and misty conditions.
Choose the Right Size
Select the right size to suit your purpose. Going too big or too small with your bag will cause you to waste space on the boat, or you won’t have enough room for all your gear.
Look for Models with Accessory Pouches
Some boat dry bags feature extra dedicated pouches for your electronic devices.
Don’t Rely on Your Boat Bag as a Flotation Device
If you pack your bag with clothes and towels, the smaller models can act as a pillow. However, never rely on the bag as a PFD (personal floatation device). PFDs are specialized devices, and using your bag to compensate for the lack of PFD on board the vessel is dangerous if something goes wrong, putting your life at risk.
Don’t Pack Mosquito Repellant Inside the Bag
Suppose you’re in an environment where you need to bring mosquito repellent along with you on your trip. Don’t store it inside the bag. Mosquito repellant contains harmful chemicals that can corrode PVC materials, reducing the watertight functionality of the pack.
Look for Models with Wet/Dry Storage
What’s the point of having a waterproof boat bag if you have to put wet towels and gear inside the bag? Look for models offering you external wet/dry storage pockets.
Keep a tube of PVC Seal in the Bag
Most boat dry bags come with a PVC material design. While they provide rugged, durable bags, there is always the chance you could snag it on a hook, tearing the material. Use the PVC weld to seal the bag and prevent water from getting inside.
What Activities Suit a Dry Boat Bag?
Boat dry bags are not only suitable for boating. There are dozens of applications for these handy packs. Some of the activities suiting the use of a boat dry bag include the following.
- Boating out on the ocean or in lakes and estuaries.
- Kayaking in rivers or rapids.
- Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) of fresh or saltwater.
- Sailing on lakes, dams, or out at sea.
- Canoeing trips down rivers or across lakes.
- Rafting adventures in rapids or still bodies of water.
- Snorkeling or diving trips.
- Cave diving and exploration.
- Snowboarding or skiing trips (the snow can melt and wet your gear).
- Travel through rainforests and other wet regions.
- Spending a day at the beach.
- Traveling on motorbikes in rainy weather.
- Hikes and trips in rainy weather.
- Fishing and hunting trips. (store your catch or your fishing gear).
- Surfing trips where you need to take your equipment out onto the water.
- Storing wetsuits and other wet gear when you don’t want it to get the car wet.
- Storing your damp and smelly clothing after a hard workout.
- The boat dry bag also serves as a laundry bag.
- Windsurfing and kiteboarding activities.
- The pack also provides protection from dust and other contaminants.
- It’s the ideal waterproof solution for camping trips.
- The bag also acts as a pillow; fill it with clothes and towels.
- Use it as a bucket for carrying water.
- Protect your camera, drone, and other electronics in wet weather conditions.
As you can see, there are plenty of uses for a boat dry bag that is outside of the water. Choose the best boat dry bag to suit your needs. There are dozens of models available, and we list the best in the industry in this review. We have bags available in different sizes and colors and at various price points to suit your requirements and budget.
Boat Dry Bag FAQs
Q: Can I swim or surf with a boat dry bag?
A: Yes, a waterproof dry boat bag allows for secure dry storage of all your gear. Pack your phone, camera, and essentials into the bag without the worry of everything getting wet.
Q: Will my dry boat bag float?
A: Some models offer you watertight sealing that’s suitable for use out on the eater. However, these models are not personal floating devices. If you’re going surfing or diving, clasp the bag to a buoy out on the water and pick it up when you finish with your activity.
Q: Why do I need a boat dry bag?
A: A boat dry bag is an essential piece of kit for anyone that enjoys the life aquatic. If you’re out on the boat, the bag protects your gear from spray and rain, and some models allow for floating on the water.
Q: How much stuff can I fit in a 20L dry boat bag?
A: A 20L pack is ideal for day trips, giving you enough space for all your essentials. You can carry your wetsuit, snorkeling gear, food, a change of clothes, a towel, and your electronics and passport with ease.
Boat Dry Bags – The Verdict
By now, you probably have your eye on a dry boat bag that suits your needs out on the water. We have several sizes and carry styles available in this review, with bags to suit any budget or waterborne needs. However, we understand that it’s challenging to settle on the right model for your needs and budget. If you’re still on the fence with your purchase, why not go with one of our top picks?
- The Best Overall Boat Dry Bag – Earthpak Dry Bag
- The Best Premium Boat Dry Bag – YETI Panga 75
- The Best Budget Boat Dry Bag – HEETA Waterproof Dry Bag
