Earth Pak waterproof dry bags live up their namesake, as the products are easily the best dry bags for kayaking currently on the market.

All Earth Pak bags are fashioned from 500D PVC fabrics, which does a remarkable job of keeping water out and ensuring interior items stay safe and dry. Yet, the fabric alone is not enough to prevent water seepage, so to combat leakage, the bag has reinforced seams and a buckled roll top. All three factors combine to form a product that is extremely resistant to water, dust, and snow.

The technology of the bag is certainly appealing, but so too are the added features such as the IPX-8 waterproof phone case, waist strap for added comfort, and swivel hooks for easy transfer. With sizes ranging from 10 to 55 liters, the accessory is certainly the best waterproof backpack for paddle boarding, kayaking, and canoeing.

Popular Choice

Waterproof Dry Bag EARTH PAK

★★★★★EARTH PAK Waterproof Dry Bag for kayaking

Top PickMost Popular

Panga Kayaking Dry Bag YETI

★★★★★YETI Panga Waterproof bag for kayaking with Waterproof zippers

Best Value

Event Compression SEA TO SUMMIT

★★★★★

SEA TO SUMMIT Event Compression Lightweight Dry Bag best for Backpacking, Camping and Water Sports

ALL THE DRY BAGS FOR KAYAKING THAT WE TESTED

YETI Panga

OUR TOP PICK

YETI Panga Waterproof bag for kayaking with Waterproof zippers

General Impression

The YETI Panga is every outdoor fanatic’s dream come true. The dry bag for kayaking, which is built with a whopping 1680D fabric count, is nearly as tough as rhino skin. This consequently makes it almost perfectly waterproof, as liquids just can’t seem to find their way inside it.

The waterproof bag for kayaking possesses not only durable fabric but also a sturdy EVA foam bottom attached to its underside. The additional hard panel protects the bag from rock punctures, sticks, or hooks while on the move. The final icing on the cake is the Hydro-lok zipper system, which entirely keeps water out thanks to its thermal polyurethane coating and laminate.

However, no experienced adventurer would doubt the incredible technology put into the Panga dry bag for kayaking, as YETI simply stops at nothing to produce top of the line products, every time. The only potential issue with the bag is its size, as adventurers must choose between either 50 or 75 liter duffels. Neither size would fit well into a single person or kayak or freshwater kayak, as there just isn’t enough space. Nevertheless, the accessory is an item that belongs on far more than just a kayak drybag review, as it is useful for so many other outdoor sports and water activities as well.

Specifications

TYPE: Duffel
WEIGHT: 83 oz
CAPACITY: 50, 75 L
BEST SUITED FOR: Kayaking, sea kayaking, fishing, camping, boating

PROS

  • 1680 denier nylon fabric
  • EVA foam bottom for durability
  • Convenient grab handles
  • Waterproof zippers

CONS

  • Bulky and heavy

SEA TO SUMMIT Event Compression Dry Bag

BEST VALUE

SEA TO SUMMIT Event Compression Lightweight Dry Bag best for Backpacking, Camping and Water Sports

General Impression

Sea to Summit delivers a model of a dry bag for kayaking that’s long-lasting, sturdy, and versatile – it can be safely used as a sleeping bag, as a backpacking sack, for camping, and for water sports.
Being a compression bag translates to it being super handy for storing clothes while camping, for example.
Fashioned out of lightweight, PU-layered, 70D nylon, with a 40D nylon breathable, waterproof base enables this dry bag for kayaking to deliver a waterproof and lightweight adventuristic experience. Also, there are 4 compression straps and a Hypalon roll-top closure.

Specifications

TYPE: Roll-up
WEIGHT: 7.4 oz
CAPACITY: 30 L
BEST SUITED FOR: All-season sleeping bag; Backpacking; Camping; Water Sports

PROS

  • Space-efficient construction
  • Lightweight
  • Good straps
  • A pull-handle at the bottom for easy carry

CONS

  • Larger sizes can be more expensive

EARTH PAK Waterproof Dry Bag

General Impression

Earth Pak waterproof dry bag for kayaking live up their namesake, as the products are easily the best dry bags for kayaking currently on the market.

All Earth Pak dry bags for kayaking are fashioned from 500D PVC fabrics, which does a remarkable job of keeping water out and ensuring interior items stay safe and dry. Yet, the fabric alone is not enough to prevent water seepage, so to combat leakage, the bag has reinforced seams and a buckled roll top. All three factors combine to form a product that is extremely resistant to water, dust, and snow.

The technology of the dry bag for kayaking is certainly appealing, but so too are the added features such as the IPX-8 waterproof phone case, waist strap for added comfort, and swivel hooks for easy transfer. With sizes ranging from 10 to 55 liters, the accessory is certainly the best waterproof backpack for paddle boarding, kayaking, and canoeing.

Specifications

TYPE: Roll top
WEIGHT: 13.6 oz
CAPACITY: 10, 20, 30, 40, 55 L
BEST SUITED FOR: Kayaking, sea kayaking, canoeing, snorkeling, boating, hiking, fishing, paddle boarding

PROS

  • 500D PVC fabric
  • IPX-8 dual-sided clear window phone case
  • Waist strap for added comfort on 55L
  • Durable roll over buckle

CONS

  • Lacks interior and exterior pockets

EARTH PAK Summit Waterproof Dry Bag

General Impression

One of the best kayak dry bags for carrying large amounts of gear is the Earth Pak Summit.

The Earth Pak Summit is a hefty dry bag for kayaking that can hold either 35 or 55 liters of gear, depending on the model. It’s designed with a comfortable shoulder harness system, which latches together across the chest. Just a foot below lies a stomach clip that provides additional support. The large-scale travel accessory is crafted with 500D PVC material, a reflective strip, and a roll-top entrance that is secured by a single strap.

Due to its large size, the bag is an ideal choice when fishing, kayaking, camping, and other sports that lead to long term overnight stays. Hence why the bag may appear on more than just the best kayaking dry bags review, as it really is useful in so many situations.

Specifications

TYPE: Roll top backpack
WEIGHT: 40 oz
CAPACITY: 35, 55 L
BEST SUITED FOR: Kayaking, sea kayaking, fishing, canoeing, SUP, boating, snorkeling

PROS

  • Comfortable reinforced shoulder straps
  • Exterior pockets for water-resistant items
  • Breathable mesh backing
  • Well-designed toll top

CONS

  • Lacks interior pockets

IDRYBAG Waterproof Dry Bag

General Impression

Fashioned out to deliver performance and quality without hitting your wallet too hard, IDryBag offers a superb waterproof bag that soon became a fan-favorite of many dedicated climbers, mountaineers, kayakers, and campers.
Featuring a unique backpack design, this dry bag for kayaking can withstand even the harshest conditions, hot or cold. Thanks to its reinforced nylon fabric at all the key pressure points, this dry bag is both sturdy and waterproof.
The adjustable straps and buckles deliver the right amount of safety and comfort, plus, with the lifeguard whistle incorporated into the buckle, you get one extra detail for protection.

Specifications

TYPE: Backpack
WEIGHT: 40 oz
CAPACITY: 30 L
BEST SUITED FOR: Camping; Backpacking; Kayaking; Motorcycle riding

PROS

  • High-quality fabric
  • Ergonomic design
  • Super-spacious
  • Scratch-proof and waterproof

CONS

  • No easy-access pocket

KASTKING Dry Bags

General Impression

KastKing dry bags are, without a doubt, some of the most sought after dry packs for canoeing and kayaking on the market due to their impressive reliability.

Most of the products that land on a dry bag for kayaking review are roll-top bags that entirely hide the goods inside. KastKing steps away from this trend by implementing a transparent window on two sides of the bag, to give handlers a chance to check on their items without opening it up.

That’s not to say that the window allows leakage though, as it does just the opposite. The military-grade 500D PVC is fusion-welded at all of the seams, to ensure that water never makes its way into the sack. However, just for extra precaution, there is an additional double overlap roll-top that seals the bag entirely. For this reason, the dry bag for kayaking can be entirely submerged for brief moments without incurring any water damage. Although the product is somewhat new, it will surely appear on every kayak bag review sooner than later.

Specifications

TYPE: Roll top
WEIGHT: 16.1 oz
CAPACITY: 10, 20, 30 L
BEST SUITED FOR: Kayaking, sea kayaking, canoeing, swimming, snowmobiling, hiking, fishing, paddle boarding

PROS

  • Transparent window design
  • IPX-8 waterproof phone case
  • Double overlap roll-top
  • Fusion-welded seams

CONS

  • Shoulder strap lacks padding

SKOG A KUST DrySak

General Impression

Although the name is Swedish, Skog Å Kust is an American outdoor brand that specializes in creating water-resistant accessories. And amongst those fine accessories is the DrySåk, which is an ultra-high-quality product that appears on nearly every kayak drybag review.

The DrySåk comes in just two different sizes, 10 and 20 liters with an abundance of different color options available. Avid adventurers can choose from blue camo, palm, army green, and mint just to name a few. Regardless of color, every model is fitted with the same components. There’s a removable shoulder strap, reflective trim, and splash-proof exterior pocket for water-resistant items. The splash pocket doesn’t keep water out, so only items such as keys, credit cards, or tools should be placed in it.

On the contrary, the interior compartment stays bone dry, which is all thanks to the products 500D PVC fabric material composition. Whether cramming in extra clothes or food, handlers can be sure that their goods will stay perfectly dry with the dry bag for kayaking that seems to appear on every kayak drybag review out there.

Specifications

TYPE: Roll top
WEIGHT: 17.1 oz
CAPACITY: 10, 20 L
BEST SUITED FOR: Kayaking, sea kayaking, canoeing, camping, fishing, paddle boarding

PROS

  • IPX-6 water protection
  • Removable shoulder strap
  • Reflective trim for visibility
  • Quick access outer pocket

CONS

  • No interior organization

SEALLINE Baja Dry Bag

General Impression

Sometimes, simplicity is the way to go with outdoor equipment. At least that is certainly the route that SealLine took with its Baja dry bag for kayaking, as the model is definitely one of the best kayaking bags for those concerned about water permeation.

The Baja dry bag for kayaking shoots for the moon with a whopping 1000D vinyl fabric construction and complemented by scrim-reinforced sides and bottoms. The Denier count alone is impressive, as few other bags offer such a high rating. Yet, that rating would be useless without a good roll top, so thankfully SealLine made sure to design the bag with a high-quality entry point that totally cinches the fabric together.

The dry bag for kayaking lacks straps, a feature that many other kayak waterproof bags have, but does still provide a handle for transport. However, due to the bag’s extreme durability, it is ideal for situations such as camping, motorcycle riding, and fishing. Sizes range from 5 liters to 30 liters.

Specifications

TYPE: Roll top
WEIGHT: 16 oz
CAPACITY: 5, 10, 20, 30 L
BEST SUITED FOR: Kayaking, sea kayaking, motorcycle venturing, camping, fishing, canoeing

PROS

  • 1000D vinyl fabric
  • Scrim-reinforced sides and bottom
  • Great for multiple environments
  • Floats on water surface

CONS

  • No carrying straps

PISCIFUN Waterproof Dry Bag Backpack

General Impression

Piscifun is a relatively new fishing brand that strives to win the market over by implementing cutting-edge technology and incorporating radical features into its products. Both of those aspects can be found in its dry bags, as the waterproof bags for canoeing and kayaking are advanced in more ways than one.

The Piscifun dry bag for kayaking is a roll down backpack style bag equipped with two shoulder straps for transport. Once the top is totally rolled down, two simple clips come together to secure the interior and keep water out. On the front side of the bag is a spiderweb mesh pocket, which can house items such as water bottles, sandals, and sunglasses. Those hunting for a decent sized canoe dry bag for fishing or hunting can easily make use of Piscifun dry bags, as they range in size from 10 to 40 liters.

Best of all, every model of the dry bag for kayaking includes an IPX-8 waterproof phone case to ensure that mobile devices never sustain water damage in any situation.

Specifications

TYPE: Roll top backpack
WEIGHT: 35 oz
CAPACITY: 5, 10, 20, 30, 40 L
BEST SUITED FOR: Kayaking, sea kayaking, fishing, hiking, canoeing, SUP, camping, surfing

PROS

  • IPX-8 waterproof phone case
  • Fully welded seams
  • Mesh exterior pocket
  • Durable carrying handle

CONS

  • Awkward shoulder straps

SKOG A KUST BackSak Waterproof Floating Backpack

General Impression

The American made Skog Å Kust BackSåk is easily one of the best dry bag for kayaking and extended trips, due to its hefty size and durability.

Skog Å Kust are the Swedish words for forest, creek, and coast, indicating the brand’s intended markets. So naturally, it’s no surprise that the BackSåk is a product meant for all those environments.

The BackSåk is made of 500D PVC fabric, with an IPX-6 waterproof rating. The exterior of the dry bag for kayaking is equipped with a splash-proof zipper pocket that can keep water-resistant items in place when needed. Other notable features include adjustable sternum straps, reflective trim, and a carrying handle for convenience. Because of its incredible quality, the product appears on nearly every best kayaking dry bags review.

Specifications

TYPE: Roll top backpack
WEIGHT: 16 oz
CAPACITY: 25, 35 L
BEST SUITED FOR: Kayaking, sea kayaking, fishing, canoeing, rafting, camping

PROS

  • Side-mounted D rings for attachments
  • Interior mesh pockets for fine items
  • Floats on water
  • High frequency welded seams

CONS

  • No large-scale pockets for organization

BEST DRY BAGS FOR KAYAKING
Buyer's Guide

Material

Dry bags are made from a variety of materials such as polyester, nylon, and vinyl that do an excellent job of keeping water out. However, just the fabrics alone aren’t enough to keep items water safe, as the additional facets are just as essential to keep things dry. Other critical aspects to look for when choosing from the best kayak dry bags are Denier, additional coatings, and welded seams.

Denier

The Denier of a material refers to the relative thickness of the fabric material, by making one strand of silk equivalent to one Denier. Thus, a rating of 700 Denier would be equivalent to 700 strands of silk in one fiber. Consequently, having more fibers in a given patch would mean that there are fewer holes for water to pass through. So, when it comes to water resistance, the higher the Denier Rating, the better.

Welded Seams

Simply stitching multiple parts together is not enough to prevent water from working its way through cracks. The current most effective way to prevent seepage is by welding the seams of two components together, however that process requires advanced tools and machinery. Nevertheless, the process has become so standard for creating dry sacks for kayaking, that nearly every manufacturer now implements it.

Additional Coatings

An affordable way to waterproof a kayak dry bag is to simply apply additional coatings. Additional coatings such as Teflon, thermoplastic, and polyurethane do a great job in increasing the waterproof capabilities, as the materials simply cover or fill in many of the holes between the fabric fibers. Almost all dry bags for kayaking come standard with additional coatings, as they are the most budget-friendly way to keep water out.

Size

Before purchasing a dry bag, it’s important to consider what sort of items will be stored in the accessory.

Dry bags range in size dramatically, as some are as small as 5 liters, while others are as large as 55 liters. A 5 liter dry bag for kayaking may be useful to carry phones, keys, and other small accessories, but it certainly won’t be large enough to carry much more.

Most kayakers are best suited with a 20-30 liter dry bag. The mid-size bag has enough storage to fit clothing, food, and other essential items for outdoor adventures. However, those who are extra cautious can even purchase smaller dry bags to fit in their larger models.

BEST DRY BAGS FOR KAYAKING
FAQs

1. What is a dry bag?

A dry bag is a storage accessory meant to keep essential goods away from water when rafting, kayaking, boating, snorkeling, or snowmobiling. Unlike a traditional travel bag, a dry bag is sealed in every opening to prevent liquid from entering and damaging the goods inside.

The best dry bags for kayaking and other water sports look quite similar to standard travel bags, with a few minor exceptions. Dry bags are almost always made of a waterproof variant of nylon, that is sealed around the seams. Their appearance often resembles a tube with an opening on the top where goods must enter. Once the goods are placed inside, the opening rolls itself up to a flat point where it is then connected with buckles. It is the rolling aspect that prevents water from entering the dry bag. They can be used to store anything from snorkeling masks to delicate electronics.

2. Why are dry bags so important?

It’s nearly impossible to go on a trip these days with nothing more than the clothes on one’s back. So naturally, people end up bringing all sorts of tools, accessories, and necessary items on ordinary trips. However, while these items may fair well in ordinary travel bags for most occasions, they certainly don’t do well around water.

After a few ruined phones and cameras, any novice kayaker would be on the hunt for the best dry bag for kayaking. If properly maintained and used, a quality dry bag can totally prevent water seepage and protect the interior goods from potential damage. Those who try to save money by using an old travel bag often find their goods to be soaking wet, and occasionally ruined. So consequently, it only makes sense to spend a few dollars extra on a waterproof bag for kayaking and guarantee the safety of essential items that could cost hundreds to replace.

If you are looking for more detailed information on waterproof dry bags, there is a great review on Core Mountaineering that explores dry bag capacity and much more.

3. What size dry bag is best for kayaking or canoeing?

The best sized dry bag for kayaking or canoeing falls in the range of 20-30 liters.

Most kayaks simply don’t have much storage room in them, especially freshwater kayaks taken down tumultuous rivers. As a result, riders have to be somewhat conscious about the amount of equipment that they choose to take with them. A 55 liter bag is simply too big for most kayaks, and may even throw off the balance of the vessel.

Thus, the mid-size bags, that are in the 20-30 liter range are most efficient for both storage and transport. They can easily hold food rations for a few days, roughly two days’ worth of spare clothing articles, and an emergency kit if needed. The modest amount of equipment makes it easy for adventurers to still maneuver their vessels around. Any best kayaking dry bags review would surely point to the same sizes, as they clearly are the most convenient when heading out for an overnight adventure.

4. What size dry bag is best for stand-up paddle boarding?

Any dry bag in the range of 10-20 liters is appropriate when journeying on a stand-up paddle board.

Paddleboarding is far more difficult than onlookers may believe, as it requires an incredible amount of core strength and balance. For this very reason, it is not advised to carry much more than 20 liters, as the balance of the paddleboard may be thrown off with the added weight.

For the most part, there is also no need to carry any more than 20 liters when journeying on a paddleboard. Unlike kayaking, stand-up paddleboards aren’t taken on long adventures, as the sport is simply far too exhausting to do for multiple days in a row. Granted, there are individuals who may try such things, but the majority of the population is best with a bag in the size of 10-20 liters for those day trips.

5. What is the best dry bag for food storage when sea kayaking?

The best dry bag for food storage when adventuring on a sea kayak is the SealLine Baja dry bag.

Although the Baja dry bag may look like any other waterproof bag for kayaking, it is a fair bit more durable, due to its 1000D fabric material. 500D is the standard for most dry bags, as it keeps water out and interior items protected. But with 1000D, there are twice as many fabric strands in one fiber, meaning that there is even less space for water to enter. Such material is also far tougher, meaning that abrasions, pointed objects, and sunlight will have less of an effect on the item.

When carrying things such as perishable foods, having a bag with better protection means everything. Hence why adventurers are best prepared with a bag such as the SealLine Baja, which truly is one of the best dry bags for kayaking. The ultra-durable and reliable accessory ranges in size from 5 liters to 55, and partners well with a travel bag or high-quality fishing backpack for additional storage.

REACH OUT

As always, we create our content with you, fellow adventurers, in mind. So, how’d we do? Did you find this informative? Did it help you make a decision? Did we miss anything? We’d love to hear from you below. Thanks for reading and we hope your next adventure is a great one!

David Stefanoski

David Stefanoski is an avid outdoorsman who loves to explore the deepest, most exciting crevices of nature and then write about them. From the maximum depth that a scuba suit can go, to the maximum heights that his legs will take him, David enjoys the outdoors in its warmest, sunniest days on the prairie, to the iciest, dampest little spots in Eastern Europe. After 15 years of trudging, his favorite outdoorsman activity is still chopping wood due to his large body size. He says it's like splitting toothpicks!

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