Bombproof 420D nylon, IPX8 waterproof rating, lifetime warranty. It’s a pricier but worth it for serious adventurers.
Affordable workhorse with a lifetime warranty. Reliable IPX6 protection in various sizes, perfect for budget-minded paddlers.
100% waterproof ZipDry closure, bombproof 420D nylon, lifetime warranty. Expensive but unmatched protection for serious gear.
Tired of soggy sandwiches and drowned electronics on your kayaking adventures? A reliable kayak dry bag is your ticket to keeping gear safe and dry, no matter how wet things get.
Ready to explore the best options of 2024 and find the perfect dry bag for your next adventure? Let’s dive in.
What is the Best Kayak Dry Bag in 2024?
The “best” kayak dry bag depends on your specific needs, but some stand out for their durability, waterproofness, and overall value. Let’s take a look at the top contenders of 2024 to keep your gear safe and dry on your next paddling adventure.
1. Sea Summit
This bad boy is the workhorse of dry bags. Built tough, it’ll handle whatever you throw at it (or in it).
Our Take
The Sea to Summit Big River Dry Bag is a top-notch choice for serious kayakers who demand the best. Its rugged construction, reliable waterproofness, and lifetime warranty make it a worthy investment for any paddling adventure.
Key Benefits
- Waterproofness: IPX8 rating (submersible to 1.1 meters for 30 minutes)
- Durability: 420D nylon fabric with TPU lamination for puncture and abrasion resistance
- Closure System: Hypalon roll-top closure with buckle for a secure seal
- Size and Capacity: Available in various sizes from 13L to 65L
- Attachment Points: Multiple lash points for secure attachment to your kayak
- Additional Features: Oval base for stability, reinforced stitching, field repairable
- Warranty: Lifetime warranty
Pricing
- Price: Starting at $39.95
Pros
Cons
2. NRS Bill's
It's a classic for a reason. NRS Bill's Bag is a reliable workhorse that won't let you down.
Our Take
NRS Bill's Bag is a great all-around dry bag that offers excellent value for the price. It's tough, waterproof, and comes in a variety of sizes to suit any need. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of some pricier bags, it's a dependable choice for most kayaking adventures.
Key Benefits
- Waterproofness: IPX6 rating (protected against powerful water jets)
- Durability: 210D nylon fabric with urethane coating
- Closure System: Heavy-duty roll-top closure with buckle
- Size and Capacity: Available in various sizes from 10L to 110L
- Attachment Points: Multiple lash points for secure attachment
- Additional Features: Reinforced bottom, sturdy grab handles, bright colors for visibility
- Warranty: Lifetime warranty
Pricing
- Price: Starting at $199.95
Pros
Cons
3. Watershed Ocoee
This bag means business. It's built like a tank, and it shows.
Our Take
The Watershed Ocoee Dry Bag is the ultimate in waterproof protection. If you're looking for a dry bag that can withstand anything you throw at it, this is the one. The ZipDry closure is a game-changer, and the bag's overall construction is top-notch.
Key Benefits
- Waterproofness: ZipDry closure is 100% waterproof
- Durability: 420D nylon with polyurethane coating
- Closure System: Patented ZipDry closure, no rolling required
- Size and Capacity: Available in various sizes from 30L to 100L
- Attachment Points: Webbing handles and lash points for secure attachment
- Additional Features: Removable shoulder strap, internal mesh pocket, bright colors for visibility
- Warranty: Lifetime warranty
Pricing
- Price: Starting at $139.95
Pros
Cons
4. SealLine
This lightweight champ is perfect for minimalist paddlers.
Our Take
The SealLine Baja Dry Bag is a great choice for kayakers who prioritize lightweight gear and only need a few bells and whistles. It's durable enough for most adventures and offers excellent value for the price.
Key Benefits
- Waterproofness: IPX6 rating (protected against powerful water jets)
- Durability: 300D polyester with polyurethane coating
- Closure System: Roll-top closure with buckle
- Size and Capacity: Available in various sizes from 5L to 55L
- Attachment Points: D-rings for attachment
- Additional Features: Lightweight and packable
- Warranty: Lifetime warranty
Pricing
- Price: Starting at $14.27
Pros
Cons
5. Earth Pak
This budget-friendly bag punches above its weight. It may have some of the fancy features, but it gets the job done.
Our Take
The Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag is a great value option that offers solid performance without breaking the bank. If you're on a budget or just starting with kayaking, this is a great choice. It's tough, waterproof, and comes with a lifetime warranty, so you can't go wrong.
Key Benefits
- Waterproofness: IPX8 rating (submersible to 30 meters)
- Durability: 500D PVC tarpaulin
- Closure System: Roll-top closure with buckle
- Size and Capacity: Available in various sizes from 10L to 55L
- Attachment Points: D-rings for attachment
- Additional Features: Removable shoulder strap, phone case window (on some models)
- Warranty: Lifetime warranty
Pricing
- Price: Starting at $17.49
Pros
Cons
6. OverBoard
This bag is designed for active paddlers who need quick and easy access to their gear.
Our Take
The OverBoard Waterproof Pro-Sport Dry Bag is a decent choice for recreational kayakers who prioritize convenience and comfort. While it may not be the most waterproof bag on the market, it's easy to use and comes with some handy features.
Key Benefits
- Waterproofness: IPX6 rating (protected against powerful water jets)
- Durability: 420D nylon with TPU coating
- Closure System: Fold-seal system with velcro and buckle
- Size and Capacity: Available in various sizes from 10L to 50L
- Attachment Points: D-rings and elastic cord for attachment
- Additional Features: Reflective strips for visibility, mesh side pocket, padded shoulder strap
- Warranty: 2-year warranty
Pricing
- Price: Starting at $70.95
Pros
Cons
7. Skog Å Kust
This stylish and functional bag will turn heads on and off the water.
Our Take
The Skog Å Kust DrySåk Waterproof Dry Bag is a great option for kayakers who want a bag that looks as good as it performs. It's durable and comfortable and comes with handy features like a front pocket and padded shoulder straps.
Key Benefits
- Waterproofness: IPX7 rating (submersible to 1 meter for 30 minutes)
- Durability: 500D PVC tarpaulin
- Closure System: Roll-top closure with buckle
- Size and Capacity: Available in various sizes from 5L to 40L
- Attachment Points: Daisy chains and D-rings for attachment
- Additional Features: Reflective details, waterproof front pocket, padded shoulder straps
- Warranty: Lifetime warranty
Pricing
- Price: Starting at $25.95
Pros
Cons
What to Look for in a Dry Bag?
- Waterproofness: This is non-negotiable. Look for bags with a high IPX rating (IPX6 or higher) and welded seams for maximum protection against water intrusion.
- Durability: Your dry bag will likely get knocked around, so choose one made from durable materials like PVC or nylon with reinforced stitching.
- Closure System: Roll-top closures are generally the most secure, but some people prefer zippers for quicker access.
- Size and Capacity: Consider how much gear you typically bring on your kayaking trips and choose a bag that's large enough to accommodate everything.
- Attachment Points: D-rings, loops, and lash tabs allow you to secure the bag to your kayak, keeping it within easy reach.
- Additional Features: Some bags offer extra features like padded straps for comfortable carrying, external pockets for quick access to essentials, or bright colors for better visibility.
How Can Kayak Dry Bags Benefit You?
Imagine a world where your phone, snacks, and even your sleeping bag stay completely dry on your kayaking adventures. Well, with a trusty waterproof kayak bag, that world becomes a reality.
These ingenious bags shield your gear from splashes, waves, and even full submersion thanks to their durable, waterproof materials and secure closure systems.
But wait, there's more! Many kayak dry bags also boast features like compression straps to minimize bulk, multiple compartments for organization, and even comfortable shoulder straps for easy carrying.
Some bags even float, offering extra peace of mind if they happen to go overboard.
With all these benefits, it's no wonder kayak dry bags are a must-have for any paddler. So, ditch the worry about soggy gear dry and invest in a kayak dry bag for a stress-free and enjoyable paddling experience.
Buyers Guide
When doing our research to find the best kayak dry bag, we determined the winners using these factors:
Waterproofness: We prioritized bags with high IPX ratings or proven waterproof closure systems like the ZipDry closure.
Durability: We looked for bags made from tough materials like PVC or nylon with reinforced stitching and a proven track record of withstanding abuse.
Closure System: We assessed the effectiveness and ease of use of different closure systems, favoring roll-top closures for their security and zip closures for their convenience.
Size and Capacity: We considered a variety of sizes to accommodate different needs, from small bags for day trips to larger bags for multi-day expeditions.
Attachment Points: We favored bags with ample attachment points, such as backpack straps, daisy chains, two plastic D rings, and lash tabs, for securely attaching the bag to your kayak or deck bag.
Additional Features: We evaluated additional features like padded straps, external pockets, and reflective details to determine their value and usefulness.
Warranty: We prioritized bags with lifetime warranties, as this indicates the manufacturer's confidence in the product's durability and quality.
Pricing: We considered the price of each bag in relation to its features and overall value, aiming to find the best balance of affordability and performance.
Customer Reviews: We scoured online reviews and forums to get insights from real users about the pros and cons of each bag, paying close attention to feedback about waterproofness, durability, and ease of use.
Expert Opinions: We consulted with experienced kayakers and outdoor gear experts to get their recommendations and insights on the best kayak dry bags on the market.
By combining our hands-on testing with extensive research and expert opinions, we've compiled a list of the seven best kayak dry bags that are sure to keep your gear safe and dry on your next paddling adventure.
Wrapping Up
Choosing the right waterproof kayak bag is crucial for keeping your gear dry, whether it's your phone, snacks, or even a yoga mat.
Remember, the best bag for you depends on your individual needs and budget.
If you prioritize ultimate waterproofness and durability, the Watershed Ocoee and Sea to Summit Big River are top contenders. For those seeking value and versatility, NRS Bill's Bag and Earth Pak offer great options.
If convenience and style are important, consider the OverBoard Pro-Sport or Skog Å Kust DrySåk.Remember, all the bags we've discussed here are excellent choices, each with its unique strengths.
Consider the features that matter most to you, such as size, closure system, and additional features like backpack straps or a wide mouth opening.
With so many great options available, you're sure to find the perfect kayak dry bag to keep your stuff dry and protected on all your paddling adventures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are all kayak dry bags completely waterproof?
While all kayak dry bags are designed to be water-resistant, not all are fully waterproof. Look for waterproof kayak bags with a high IPX rating (IPX6 or higher) or proven waterproof closure systems like roll-top closures or zip closures (e.g., Watershed's ZipDry closure).
What size kayak dry bag do I need?
The size you need depends on how much gear you typically carry and the length of your kayaking trips. Smaller bags (5-20L) are great for day trips and essentials, while larger bag (30L+) are better for multi-day adventures or if you need to pack bulkier items.
Can I use a regular dry bag for kayaking?
Yes, you can, but dedicated waterproof kayak bags often have features like reinforced materials, multiple attachment points, and more ergonomic designs that make them better suited for kayaking.
How do I attach a kayak dry bag to my kayak?
Most kayak dry bags come with attachment points like D-rings, loops, or straps. You can use these to secure the bag to your kayak using carabiners, straps, or bungee cords. Some kayaks also have built-in attachment points specifically designed for dry bags.
What's the best way to pack a kayak dry bag?
Start by placing heavier items at the bottom for stability. Roll soft items like clothing tightly to save space and prevent air pockets. Use separate smaller bags for organizing items, and consider using a compression sack to reduce bulk further. Make sure to leave some air in the great bag to help it float if it falls overboard.
