When your kayaking trip takes you to glacial sea waters or rocky coastlines, a dry bag is essential to protect and keep your gear dry. There is nothing worse than getting your gear wet. A dry bag is made of durable fabrics that are perfect for storing all your fishing equipment.
However, there are plenty of options for dry bags on the market, and choosing the best dry bag for kayaking can be difficult. But don’t worry. You’ve come to the right place!
Choose the best dry bag for kayaking for you from our list below.
6 Best Dry Bags for Kayaking
- Best Overall – Sea to Summit Lightweight Dry Sack
- Best Multi-Purpose Dry Bag – Sea to Summit Event Compression Dry Sack
- Best Lightweight Grab-and-Go Dry Bag – Osprey UltraLight 12 Dry Sack
- Best Dry Bag for Handling the Waves – Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
- Best Custom Dry Bag for Easy Transport – WILDERNESS SYSTEMS Custom Dry Bag
- Best Roll-Top Dry Bag for Convenient Mobility – Ocean Tackle International Roll-Top Dry Bag
1. Sea to Summit Lightweight Dry Sack
Best Overall
Key Features:
- 13L lightweight roll-top, quality dry bag, suitable for camping, sea kayaking, etc
- Waterproof seams are tape-sealed, secured Hypalon closure with D-ring
- The cylindrical base has an ideal height-to-width ratio for easy packing
- Lightweight PU-coated 70D nylon and waterproof material
- Ideal for carrying extra clothes or as a critter/bear bag
The Sea to Summit Lightweight is made from 70D, waterproof, durable Nylon fabric. Moreover, it can be used for camping or on the move, but what makes it different from other bags is its internal polyurethane coating which allows it to hold more items without getting too wet.
2. Sea to Summit Event Compression Dry Sack
Best Multi-Purpose Dry Bag
Key Features:
- A handle that you can pull on the bottom for hauling gear, a repair buckle that you can replace
- This 6L dry bag has extra layers and a dry storage option for backpacking, camping, etc
- Reinforced waterproof seams, secured roll-top closure with four straps
- Manufactured from lightweight PU-coated 70D nylon with 40D nylon
- A durable, versatile roll-top/compression dry sack
The Sea to Summit Event Compression Dry Sacks is the epitome of durability, versatility, and compression. Made from waterproof 70D nylon.
In addition, they have Hypalon roll-top non-wicking closure for a secure seal and a dry feel. Also, this waterproof dry bag is super durable, and perfect for your outdoor adventures.
3. Osprey UltraLight 12 Dry Sack
Best Lightweight Grab-and-Go Dry Bag
Key Features:
- Comes with a waterproof roll-top closure and helps compress items within your sack
- An imported backpack made from durable material 40D ripstop nylon
- Various sizing and color options to choose from
- Rectangular-shaped for an efficient packing
The Osprey Ultralight 12 allows you to pack more efficiently, stay organized, and keep your belongings dry.
This bag features a waterproof roll-top closure, perfect for shielding your gear from getting wet. Additionally, this is the ideal kayak dry bag because of its lightweight and high durability.
4. Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
Best Dry Bag for Handling the Waves
Key Features:
- 10L and 20L dry bags come with shoulder straps, 30L-50L are equipped with backpack straps
- Various choices from 10L-55L dry bags for a wider capacity
- A durable dry bag that provides waterproof protection
- An IPX8-certified 6.5-inch waterproof phone case
The Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bags are made from PVC. Moreover, it comes with a roll-top closure, removable shoulder strap, and buckles.
It also comes in various sizes and colors. In addition, it includes a waterproof phone case and an extra single shoulder strap.
5. WILDERNESS SYSTEMS Custom Dry Bag
Best Custom Dry Bag for Easy Transport
Key Features:
- Can fit most equipment and gear of other brands of sit-on-top kayaks
- Equipped with waterproof zipper and interior pocket for quick access
- RF welded seams for superior dryness and durability
- Comes with universal lash down points
The WILDERNESS SYSTEMS Custom Dry Bag is a waterproof, secure, adjustable dry bag for your kayak. It comes with a front zipper for easy access from the top and an interior pocket for storing small items you want to get to quickly.
You can also carry handles on the sides of the bag, making it perfect for transporting kayak accessories.
6. Ocean Tackle International Roll-Top Dry Bag
Best Roll-Top Dry Bag for Convenient Mobility
Key Features:
- Features a click-lock closure system and an adjustable shoulder strap for convenient mobility
- Puncture-resistant and reinforced vinyl construction that will keep your gear dry
- Perfect for use on hiking, fishing, boating, kayaking, rafting, and camping trip
- A 10L shoulder strap dry bag with D-rings and PVC bag construction
The Ocean Tackle Roll-Top Dry Bag is the perfect piece of equipment for keeping your gear dry and protected from the elements.
With a puncture-resistant, reinforced vinyl construction, these rugged bags are prepared to keep your most important equipment dry for many seasons out on the water.

Things to Consider When Buying the Best Dry Bags for Kayaking
Materials
The materials you should look for in Dry Bags should provide durability and flexibility. Moreover, the two most popular materials used in making dry bags are nylon and vinyl.
Vinyl is the sturdiest dry pack material, while nylon is much lighter and more flexible.
Security
It is important to use a secure dry bag. The seal should be very firm and not flimsy, which will easily open up to expose your belongings.
If the dry bag is not secure, water could enter the bag through an opening. Hence, leading to damage or even loss of your kayaking gear.
Style of Bag
The style of the bag depends on your personal preference and convenience. Some bags have single straps that can be worn either on your shoulder or across your body.
Meanwhile, double straps can be worn like a backpack and are preferred when traveling a longer distance.
Price
The cost of the dry bag you’re going to buy depends on the size you need and the material it’s made from. If you can afford an expensive dry pack, don’t hesitate to invest in one.
Weight
Most dry packs are easy to carry. However, there are other bags out there that can be quite heavy as well. Choosing the weight of a dry bag depends on your trip.
Are you going to be moving a lot? Or stay in one place? Take those factors into consideration.
Size
You must understand that size is essential in picking the perfect dry bag. For example, you’re planning a quick paddleboarding trip.
You choose to bring your phone, wallet, and keys. Therefore, a 10L bag is enough to store those items.
Dry packs with 15-30L are best for a day-long or weekend paddle trip. You can store a few of your clothes and other essentials.
Moreover, bags with 30L and above can hold more of your needs when you go for a multi-day paddle trip.
Color
Although choosing the color of your bag isn’t a top priority, a brightly colored dry pack has many benefits.
It can help you locate your bag quickly, especially when there’s an emergency or when you’re looking for your bag in the dark.
Frequently Asked Questions
The size of the bag you’re going to need for kayaking depends on you and your boat. If you think that you’ll be having a short trip, below 15L should suffice.
Moreover, if you’re going to have a longer outing, 15L and above is appropriate.
Dry Bags can store all the essential things you need for kayaking. Examples of these essential things are sleeping bags, clothes, water bottles, etc.
However, how much stuff you can bring depends on the size of your bag.
A single tie-down line will secure your equipment in place while not exposing the load to risk during the loading process.
It is a safe, easy, and inexpensive way to load and unload your gear. By doing this, your kayaking trips will be stress-free.
Yes, you can submerge water-resistant dry bags, but don’t keep them underwater too long, or you may risk water seeping into the bag. Hence, soaking up all the items you’ve put inside.
Hitting Rock Bottom
The best dry bag for you will depend on your needs and belongings. You might find a small bag appropriate for short paddling trips. Moreover, a medium to the large bag will help you carry your kayaking essentials for long kayaking and paddling trips.
Lastly, don’t forget to pick a bag according to your style and what suits you best. And to keep your things dry, why not also get a waterproofing spray?