A dry bag is one of the most practical and useful accessories you can carry on a kayak. It keeps your phone, wallet, keys, spare clothing, and food dry regardless of conditions you’re facing such as getting caught in rain, capsizing or water coming through to the cockpit.
Not all dry bags are equal. The difference between a quality dry bag and a cheap alternative becomes apparent the moment your kayak flips. We’ve reviewed 6 of the best dry bags for kayaking across a range of sizes and budgets to help you find the right one.
1. Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag – Best Overall
The Earth Pak is our top pick for the best dry bag for kayaking. The 500 denier PVC construction is tough, durable, and genuinely waterproof to IPX8 standard, meaning it can be submerged to 3 metres (10 feet) without allowing water inside.
Available in 10L, 20L, 30L, and 40L sizes at USD$20 to USD$50 (AUD$30 to AUD$80), the Earth Pak suits everything from a short day paddle to a multi-day touring trip. The roll-top closure with buckle strap is simple and reliable, and the bag floats if dropped overboard. A waterproof phone case is included with every size.
What We Liked
- IPX8 waterproof rating
- Available in four sizes
- Includes waterproof phone case
- Floating design
- Durable 500 denier PVC construction
What We Didn’t Like
- Shoulder strap quality could be better
2. MARCHWAY Floating Waterproof Dry Bag — Best Budget
The MARCHWAY is the best budget dry bag on this list. Available in sizes from 5L to 40L at USD$15 to USD$35 (AUD$25 to AUD$55), it covers every paddling scenario at an accessible price. The 500 denier tarpaulin construction is durable and the roll-top buckle closure provides a reliable seal.
The bag floats if dropped overboard, and the bright colour options make it easy to spot on the water. Available with a single shoulder strap on smaller sizes and backpack straps on the larger options. A practical and affordable starting point for paddlers who want reliable dry storage without spending a lot.
What We Liked
- Most affordable option
- Available in five sizes
- Bright colours easy to spot on water
- Floating design
- Durable tarpaulin construction
What We Didn’t Like
- Some users report seal quality could be better on budget sizes
3. Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Dry Sack – Best Lightweight
The Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil is the lightest dry bag on this list. Made from ultra-light silicone-coated nylon, it weighs as little as 28g for the smaller sizes while still providing reliable waterproofing. Sea to Summit is an Australian outdoor brand with a strong reputation for quality gear.
Available in sizes from 1L to 35L at USD$12 to USD$50 (AUD$18 to AUD$80), the Ultra-Sil is the best choice for paddlers who want to minimise pack weight. The simple roll-top closure is lightweight and reliable, and the compact packed size fits easily into a hatch or cockpit. Best suited to internal storage rather than as a standalone carry bag.
What We Liked
- Extremely lightweight
- Australian brand
- Available in a wide range of sizes
- Compact packed size
- Simple reliable roll-top closure
What We Didn’t Like
- No shoulder strap
- Best for internal storage rather than standalone carry
4. HEETA Waterproof Dry Bag – Best Value
The HEETA is the best value dry bag on this list. Available in both standard and transparent versions at USD$12 to USD$30 (AUD$20 to AUD$50), the transparent option is particularly useful for quickly identifying contents without opening the bag. The roll-top lightweight design floats if dropped overboard.
Available in 10L and 20L sizes with a detachable shoulder strap for carrying between the vehicle and the water. A practical and affordable option for recreational paddlers who want reliable waterproofing without paying for premium features.
What We Liked
- Excellent value
- Transparent option for easy content identification
- Floating design
- Detachable shoulder strap
- Lightweight construction
What We Didn’t Like
- Less durable than premium 500 denier options
5. Pelican Exodry Dry Bag – Best Premium
The Pelican Exodry is the premium option on this list. The thick PVC construction is more durable than most dry bags in this category, and the roll-top compression closure removes excess air and compresses the bag for a more compact pack.
Available in multiple sizes at USD$25 to USD$60 (AUD$40 to AUD$90), the Exodry is worth the investment for paddlers who want long-lasting protection for valuable gear. The Pelican brand is well regarded for durable waterproof equipment.
What We Liked
- Premium thick PVC construction
- Roll-top compression closure
- Trusted waterproof gear brand
- Multiple sizes available
What We Didn’t Like
- Higher price point than budget alternatives
6. NRS Tuff Sack Dry Bag – Best for Serious Paddling
The NRS Tuff Sack is the best choice for serious paddlers who need maximum durability and reliability. NRS is one of the most respected brands in paddling equipment and the Tuff Sack reflects their understanding of on-water use. The heavy-duty PVC construction handles the repeated abrasion and impact that comes with active paddling in demanding conditions.
The large roll-top closure accommodates bulky items, and the reinforced seams and welded construction provide a secure seal even under sustained submersion. Available at USD$35 to USD$70 (AUD$55 to AUD$110) depending on size. A worthwhile investment for sea kayakers, whitewater paddlers, and anyone who paddles regularly in challenging conditions.
What We Liked
- Heavy-duty PVC construction
- Trusted paddling brand
- Reinforced welded seams
- Suitable for demanding conditions
- Large roll-top closure
What We Didn’t Like
- Bulkier than ultralight alternatives
- Higher price point
What To Look For in a Kayak Dry Bag
Waterproof rating
Look for a bag with an IPX8 waterproof rating, which means it can be submerged to 3 metres (10 feet) without allowing water inside. Most quality dry bags meet this standard. Budget bags may only be water-resistant rather than fully waterproof — check the product description carefully.
Material and construction
500 denier PVC is the most common material for durable dry bags. Higher denier ratings indicate thicker, more durable fabric. Ultralightweight bags use silicone-coated nylon, which is significantly lighter but less abrasion-resistant. Welded seams provide better waterproofing than stitched seams.
Size
Choose your size based on what you need to carry:
- 2L to 5L: Phone, wallet, keys, small valuables
- 10L to 20L: Clothing, food, small electronics for a day paddle
- 30L to 40L: Multi-day gear, sleeping bag, spare clothing
- 40L and above: Full expedition gear and bulky items
For most recreational day paddles, a 10L to 20L bag is the most practical size.
Closure system
Roll-top closures with buckle straps are the most common and reliable. Roll the top down at least three times before clipping the buckle for a secure seal. Some premium bags use compression closures that remove excess air and reduce the packed size.
Floating capability
A dry bag that floats if dropped overboard is a significant practical advantage for kayaking. Most quality dry bags float when sealed, but check the product description to confirm.
Carrying options
Smaller bags typically come with a single shoulder strap. Larger bags often include backpack straps for comfortable carrying between the vehicle and the water. Choose based on how far you typically need to carry your gear.
Are Dry Bags Completely Waterproof?
Quality dry bags with a roll-top closure and IPX8 rating are fully waterproof when sealed correctly. The key is rolling the top down at least three times and securing the buckle before getting on the water.
Most manufacturers recommend against submersion for extended periods even on waterproof-rated bags. For brief submersion during a capsize, a properly sealed dry bag will keep contents dry. For long-term underwater exposure, a hard waterproof case provides more reliable protection.
Final Thoughts
For most recreational kayakers, the Earth Pak or MARCHWAY provide the best combination of waterproofing, durability, and value. For paddlers who want to minimise weight, the Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil is unmatched at its price point. For serious paddling in demanding conditions, the NRS Tuff Sack is the most reliable option available.
A dry bag is one of the most important accessories you can carry on a kayak. The cost of losing a phone or set of car keys to water damage far exceeds the cost of a quality dry bag.
For more on kayak accessories, read our guides on best kayak GPS and best life jackets for kayak fishing.