Choosing the right dry bag size for kayaking depends on how long you are paddling and what you need to keep dry. A bag that is too small leaves important gear unprotected. A bag that is too large is awkward to store in a kayak hatch or on the deck.
This guide covers how to choose the right dry bag size for different trip lengths and what to look for when buying.
What Size Dry Bag Do I Need?
Short Day Paddles — 5L to 10L
For a short recreational paddle of a few hours on flat water, a 5L to 10L dry bag is sufficient for most people. This size comfortably fits a phone, wallet, keys, sunscreen, a small snack, and a light layer. A 5L bag is compact enough to fit in a PFD pocket or under deck bungees.
Full Day Paddles — 10L to 30L
For a full day on the water, a 10L to 30L bag gives you enough room for a change of clothes, food and water for the day, a first aid kit, and electronics. A 20L bag is the most versatile size for single-day paddling as it fits most standard hatch openings while providing adequate storage.
Multi-Day Trips — 30L to 60L
For overnight or multi-day kayaking and camping trips, a 30L to 60L bag is needed to store sleeping gear, multiple changes of clothing, and food supplies. Most paddlers on multi-day trips use a combination of sizes — a large bag for clothing and sleeping gear stored in the stern hatch, and smaller bags for items needed during the day.
General Size Guide
| Trip Type | Recommended Size | What Fits |
|---|---|---|
| Short paddle (2 to 3 hours) | 5L to 10L | Phone, keys, snacks, sunscreen |
| Full day paddle | 10L to 30L | Clothing, food, electronics, first aid |
| Overnight trip | 30L to 40L | Sleeping bag, clothing, camping gear |
| Multi-day expedition | 40L to 60L | Full camping and cooking equipment |
What To Look For in a Kayak Dry Bag
Size
Match the bag size to your trip length and storage space. Measure your kayak’s hatch opening before buying a large dry bag — many bulkhead hatches have smaller openings than the compartment inside, which limits the size of bag that will fit through.
Construction
Look for bags made from 500 denier PVC or nylon with welded seams. Higher denier ratings indicate thicker, more durable fabric. Welded seams provide better waterproofing than stitched seams. Avoid bags with exposed stitching at stress points.
Closure system
Roll-top closures with buckle straps are the most reliable for kayaking. Roll the top down at least three times before clipping the buckle. Zippered closures are convenient but less reliably waterproof for submersion.
Carrying style
- Sling bags are compact and easy to carry over one shoulder. Best for small day bags.
- Backpack style bags distribute weight evenly across your back and are the most comfortable for multi-day trips where you need to carry gear between your vehicle and the water.
- Duffel style bags have the largest capacity and are best strapped to the deck rather than stored inside a hatch.
- Tapered bulkhead bags are specially shaped to maximise the usable space inside kayak hatch compartments.
Colour
Bright colours make a dry bag easier to spot if it goes overboard. Orange, yellow, and red are the most visible on the water. Avoid dark colours for bags stored on the deck as they absorb heat in direct sunlight, which can be a problem for electronics and food stored inside.
Floating capability
A sealed dry bag filled with gear will generally float if dropped overboard. Check the product description to confirm floating capability before buying.
Final Thoughts
For most recreational kayakers, a 10L to 20L dry bag covers the majority of day paddle needs. For multi-day trips, a combination of a large 40L to 60L bag for bulky gear and smaller 5L to 10L bags for items needed during the day is the most practical approach.
For product recommendations across all sizes and budgets, read our guide to the best dry bags for kayaking.