The 5 Best Dry Bags for Kayaking

Whether you’re gliding through calm lakes, braving coastal surf, or paddling a backcountry river, your equipment needs protection from splashes, rain, and the occasional capsize. Dry bags seal out moisture and keep your gear bone dry. These bags are must-haves for kayaking trips of any length.

The best dry bags for kayaking aren’t just waterproof—they’re durable, easy to carry, and suited to different types of gear. Some are compact enough to fit in a hatch, while others can carry clothes, food, or even a sleeping bag for multi-day adventures. The right model will depend on your paddling style, gear you’ll bring, and how rough the conditions get. In this guide, we’ve picked five of the best dry bags for kayaking—each one tested for toughness, waterproof performance, and usability.

The 5 Top-Rated Dry Bags for Kayaking

Let’s take a closer look at which models truly keep your gear safe and dry on the water.

Dry Bag	Capacity	Material	Closure Type	Waterproof Rating	Image
Sea to Summit Big River Dry Bag	5L – 65L	420D Nylon with TPU laminate	Hypalon roll-top with D-ring	Highly water-resistant (not submersible)
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag	10L – 55L	500D PVC	Roll-top with buckle	IPX6 waterproof
YETI Panga Dry Duffel 50	50L (duffel style)	Thick, puncture-resistant TPU-laminated nylon	Hydrolok zipper	Submersible
NRS Tuff Sack Dry Bag	5L – 55L	19 oz PVC/polyester	StormStrip™ roll-top	Water-resistant
SealLine Baja Dry Bag	5L – 55L	19 oz vinyl sides, 30 oz vinyl bottom	DrySeal™ roll-top	Water-resistant

1. Sea to Summit Big River Dry Bag — Best for Multi-Day Trips

The Sea to Summit Big River Dry Bag is a favorite among paddlers who demand dependable gear for extended trips. Its strong 420D nylon can handle rough use, sharp gear, and wet environments without breaking down. This one is tough but light, making it a go-to for serious kayakers who need to stay agile on multi-day expeditions.

The TPU laminate gives it solid water resistance without making it stiff or overly heavy. While it’s not meant for full submersion, it holds up incredibly well against rain, splashes, and even temporary dunking. The Hypalon roll-top seals up tight, and the D-ring lets you clip it securely to your kayak.

Another smart design feature is the oval-shaped base. This keeps the bag from rolling around in your kayak or canoe. The reinforced lash loops let you strap it down without worry, and it comes in a variety of sizes to match how much gear you’re hauling. For multi-day paddling adventures, the Big River bag offers that perfect balance between strength, packability, and real-world function.

2. Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag — Best Budget Option

If you’re looking for a dry bag that delivers solid protection without draining your wallet, the Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag is hard to beat. It’s built from 500D PVC material that is better than many other bags in this price range. Although it’s not technically rated for submersion, it offers IPX6-level waterproof rating, which means your gear will stay dry through rain, splashes, and most kayak flips—so long as the seal is properly closed.

The roll-top closure is easy to manage and forms a tight seal with just a few folds and a buckle. Each bag includes an adjustable shoulder strap (or backpack-style straps on the larger models), plus a waterproof phone case—great for those spontaneous photo ops on the water.

It’s available in multiple sizes and colors, and the cylindrical shape is compact enough to slide into kayak compartments. Although it’s not the lightest or most advanced dry bag on the market, it offers excellent day-to-day performance and durability for new paddlers or those looking for extra storage at a great price.

3. YETI Panga Dry Duffel 50 — Best for Maximum Protection

Let’s not sugarcoat it—this beast is built like a tank. The YETI Panga 50 isn’t just a dry bag. It’s a straight-up fortress for your gear. This duffel-style dry bag laughs in the face of waves, saltwater, rain, or accidental swims. You could literally toss it overboard and your gear would come out drier than your humor on a bad day.

What makes it different? First, the Hydrolok zipper. It’s the kind you wrestle with the first time because it’s airtight—but that’s the point. Once it’s sealed, not even humidity gets a chance. And the material? Forget cheap plastic. This is high-density nylon wrapped in thick TPU, ready to take on whatever jagged shoreline or muddy bank you throw it on.

Comfort isn’t skipped either. The DryHaul™ straps make it surprisingly easy to carry, even when packed full. It wears like a backpack or hauls like a duffel, and the internal mesh keeps the small stuff in check. The price tag will make your eyebrows twitch, sure. But if you want elite-level gear protection for serious water adventures—this one’s not just worth it, it’s essential.

4. NRS Tuff Sack Dry Bag — Best for Casual Trips

Not every paddler needs a bag that can survive the apocalypse—but if you’re looking for something reliable for casual paddling, the NRS Tuff Sack is just what you need. You can toss in your kayak, head out for a few hours on the lake, and know your gear will stay dry. Whether it’s your lunch, dry clothes, or a change of shoes, this bag can handle it all without breaking a sweat.

It won’t win any awards for being ultra-light, but it’s more than tough enough for everyday water excursions. The StormStrip™ roll-top closure seals securely—even if you hit a few waves or forget to keep the bag upright.

The wide opening gets your gear in and out simple. Also, the reflective logo comes in handy if you’re paddling in low light. For those who prefer simplicity with durability, the Tuff Sack is a go-to. It doesn’t have the bells and whistles of some high-end models, but it gets the job done for day trips and light adventure.

5. SealLine Baja Dry Bag — Best for Rugged Durability

SealLine Baja Dry Bag can withstand some of the harshest conditions. This dry bag is for those who want to push their gear to the limits. Its 19 oz vinyl sides and a thicker 30 oz vinyl bottom give it the toughness to endure sharp rocks, tree branches, and the occasional awkward landing. If you’re planning on tackling rough waters, this bag is your sidekick.

Though it’s not fully submersible, its DrySeal™ roll-top closure seals tightly. This will keep rain, splashes, and accidental drops out. It’s built for adventure seekers who want something practical but strong. With reinforced stitching and a durable base, it can take a beating on the trail or when thrown into the back of your truck.

The bag’s no-nonsense design makes it easy to carry and pack, and its bright colors make it easy to spot even on murky waters. It isn’t just for kayaking—it’s versatile enough for boating, rafting, and any outdoor activity where you need to keep gear dry.

Buying Guide for Dry Bags for Kayaking

Here’s a breakdown of factors to consider when making your choice:

1. Capacity

Dry bags come in various sizes, ranging from 5L to 55L or more. The size you choose will depend on how much gear you need to store:

• Small (5L-10L): Ideal for short day trips or carrying essentials like snacks, a phone, or a light jacket.
• Medium (20L-30L): Great for day trips with a bit more gear—think extra layers, a first aid kit, or a lunch.
• Large (40L+): Best for multi-day trips where you’ll need to carry tents, sleeping bags, clothes, and other bulky items.

2. Material

Dry bags are generally made from either PVC (Polyvinyl chloride) or nylon with a TPU laminate (Thermoplastic polyurethane). PVC is known for its ruggedness and is often used in budget-friendly options, but it’s heavier and can be stiffer. Nylon with TPU laminate is lightweight, flexible, and offers excellent water resistance. They’re used in high-end bags.

3. Waterproof Rating

Dry bags are water-resistant, meaning they can handle splashes, rain, or short submersions. However, they are not all water resistance. Water-resistant (IPX6 rating) is great for rain and splashes but won’t keep your gear dry if submerged. Submersible (IPX8 rating) is the best protection for full submersion; ideal if you’re planning to paddle in rough conditions or the bag may fall into the water.

4. Closure Type

Most dry bags use a roll-top closure to create a seal. Some models have a hydro-lock zipper for an airtight seal: Roll-top closure is secure, effective, and easy to use, though it requires several folds to create a waterproof seal. Hydro-lock zipper found in premium bags, offering an airtight seal and easier access to contents.

5. Durability

Look for bags with reinforced seams and heavy-duty materials like vinyl or strong nylon if you’re planning on using them in challenging conditions. A thick base and sturdy stitching can change your experience.

6. Extra Features

Some dry bags come with useful features such as:

• Shoulder straps or backpack-style carry options for easy transport.
• Lash points for securing the bag to your kayak.
• Mesh pockets for organizing smaller items like keys or a wallet.

FAQs

Are dry bags really waterproof?

Dry bags are water-resistant but not completely waterproof. Although many can handle rain, splashes, and brief submersions, they’re not guaranteed to keep your gear dry if fully submerged for long periods. Some bags are submersible and provide the best protection for fully submerged conditions.

How do I clean and maintain my dry bag?

To clean your dry bag, rinse it with freshwater after use, especially if it’s been in saltwater. Use mild soap and warm water for a deeper clean if needed. Let the bag dry completely before storing it to avoid mold growth. Check the closure system regularly for wear and tear to ensure the seal remains tight.

How do I pack my dry bag efficiently?

Start by packing smaller, more delicate items in a way that they are near the top for easy access. Roll up larger items, like clothes or tents, tightly to save space and keep everything organized. Consider using dry bags inside your main dry bag to create compartments and keep gear separated.

Can I use a dry bag for kayaking in the ocean?

Yes, dry bags are excellent for ocean kayaking, as they offer solid protection against splashes, waves, and rain. However, if you’re kayaking in rough, unpredictable conditions or close to the surf, you might want a submersible dry bag (like the YETI Panga) for maximum protection.

Conclusion

Whether you’re looking for maximum durability, ease of use, or extra protection against water, there’s a dry bag on this list to suit every kayaker. From the mountainous, submersible YETI Panga to the budget-friendly yet reliable NRS Tuff Sack, these options deliver top-notch protection and convenience for keeping your gear dry on the water. Additional features to find the perfect fit for your next kayaking trip.