Best Dry Bags of 2023: Our Top 7 Travel Picks!

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Written By Robert

Robert is passionate about traveling, technology, and reading books on his phone.

Are you an outdoor enthusiast or adventurer looking for a reliable way to protect your gear from the elements? These are the best dry bags we were able to find this year!

First: what’s a dry bag? They’re perfect for all types of outdoor activities, from hiking and camping to kayaking and swimming. With their rugged construction and waterproof designs, you can rest assured that your gear will stay dry and protected no matter what mother nature throws your way.

In this post, we’ve scoured the market to bring you the seven best dry bags for your next adventure. We’ve tested and researched each one to bring you the most comprehensive information on features, specifications, and overall value.

So, whether you’re planning a weekend camping trip, a long-distance hike, or a day of water sports, these dry bags are sure to meet your needs.

Keep reading to find out which ones made our top seven list!

Choosing the Best Dry Bag for Your Needs

When it comes to outdoor activities, having the right gear is crucial. And if your activities involve water, a dry bag is a must-have item. With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the best dry bag for your needs. That’s where we come in. We’ve done the research and testing so you don’t have to.

Size Matters: How to Choose the Right Capacity

One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a dry bag is size. The capacity of the bag you need will depend on the length and type of your trip, and the amount of gear you need to carry. If you’re just going on a short day trip, a 10-20 liter bag will suffice. For longer trips, you’ll want to consider a 30-40 liter bag. And for extended trips where you need to carry more gear, a 55-liter bag is a great option.

dry bags during van life 1

Material and Durability: What to Look For

Dry bags are made from a variety of materials, but the most common are vinyl, PVC, nylon, or TPU. Look for bags made from high-quality materials that are durable and able to withstand the elements. Pay attention to the seams as well – welded seams are stronger and more durable than stitched seams.

Keep Your Gear Safe and Dry: How to Choose the Right Waterproofing

Not all dry bags are created equal when it comes to waterproofing. While all dry bags are designed to keep your gear dry, some are more waterproof than others. Look for bags with a high waterproof rating – the higher the rating, the more waterproof the bag. A bag with a rating of IPX6 or higher is a good choice for most activities.

Comfort is Key: Straps and Carrying Options

When you’re carrying a heavy load, comfort is key. Look for dry bags with adjustable straps and carrying options that make it easy to carry your gear. Padded shoulder straps, waist belts, and sternum straps are all features that can make a big difference in terms of comfort.

Additional Features: Pockets and Colors

Finally, consider any additional features that may be important to you. Some dry bags come with extra pockets that make it easy to access your gear, while others come in a range of colors that allow you to choose a bag that matches your personal style. Consider what features are important to you and choose a bag that meets your needs.

Overall, the best dry bag for you will depend on your personal needs and preferences. By considering the factors we’ve outlined here, you’ll be able to choose a bag that will keep your gear safe and dry, and make your next outdoor adventure even more enjoyable.

Top 7 Best Dry Bags of 2023

Dry bags are an essential item for anyone who wants to keep their gear dry during outdoor activities, water-based sports, or rainy weather. After thorough testing, we have narrowed down the top 7 best dry bags of 2023.

1. YETI Panga Dry Duffel

YETI Panga 50 Dry Duffel 1 1
YETI Panga 50 Dry Duffel 2

The YETI Panga is a top-of-the-line dry bag that offers exceptional durability and water resistance. Made from high-density nylon and a TPU lamination, it’s incredibly tough and abrasion-resistant. The Hydrolok Zipper makes sure no water seeps inside, and it has a wide mouth opening for easy access to your gear.

2. Sea to Summit Hydraulic Dry Pack

Sea to Summit Hydraulic Dry Pack 3
Sea to Summit Hydraulic Dry Pack 1

The Sea to Summit Hydraulic Dry Pack is a versatile option with its durable and waterproof TPU-laminated fabric, welded seams, and a roll-top closure. It’s available in different sizes ranging from 35L to 120L, and it comes with padded shoulder straps and a hip belt for comfortable carrying.

3. Osprey Ultralight Dry Sack

Osprey UltraLight 30 Dry Sack 1
Osprey UltraLight 30 Dry Sack 2 1

The Osprey Ultralight Dry Sack is a lightweight and affordable option that is perfect for backpackers and hikers. It has a roll-top closure and made of 40D Ripstop Nylon, which makes it durable and water-resistant. The sack is available in different colors and sizes ranging from 3L to 30L.

4. Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag

Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag 1

The Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag is a popular choice due to its affordable price and durability. Made from 500D PVC material with welded seams, it’s incredibly tough and resistant to water. It’s available in sizes ranging from 10L to 55L and comes with an adjustable shoulder strap for easy carrying.

5. Sea to Summit Big River Dry Bag

Sea to Summit Big River Dry Bag 1
Sea to Summit Big River Dry Bag 4

The Sea to Summit Big River Dry Bag is a durable and reliable option for all your water-based adventures. Made with heavy-duty nylon and a reinforced waterproof seal, it’s designed to withstand the rigors of water sports, rafting, and kayaking. It comes in a variety of sizes to fit all your gear, and the roll-top closure ensures a secure and waterproof seal.

6. NRS Expedition Dri Duffel

NRS Zippered Expedition DriDuffel 2
NRS Zippered Expedition DriDuffel 3

The NRS Expedition Dri Duffel is a top-of-the-line waterproof bag that is perfect for any adventure. Whether you’re rafting down rapids or trekking through rainforests, this bag will keep your gear dry and protected. It also features padded shoulder straps and handles for easy transport, as well as external daisy chains for attaching additional gear. If you need a high-quality waterproof bag that can handle anything, the NRS Expedition Dri Duffel is an excellent choice.

7. IDRYBAG Waterproof Backpack

IDRYBAG Waterproof Backpack Dry Bag 3
IDRYBAG Waterproof Backpack Dry Bag 1

The IDRYBAG Waterproof Backpack is a durable option for hikers and aquatic activities. It’s made from 500D waterproof PVC with a customizable honeycomb design carrying system for optimal comfort. It comes with inner and outer pockets, an extra 2L dry bag, and is available in 20L, 30L, and 40L sizes.

In conclusion, these are the top 7 best dry bags of 2023, each with their unique features, materials, and designs. Choose the one that best suits your needs, and you can rest assured that your gear will stay dry and safe during any outdoor adventure.

Comparison Table: The 7 Best Dry Bags of 2023

Brand and ModelMaterialWaterproof RatingCapacityExtra FeaturesPrice
YETI Panga 50 Dry DuffelHigh-density nylon and TPU laminateIPX750LEVA molded bottom for stability and abrasion resistanceSee latest price here!
Sea to Summit Hydraulic Dry PackTPU-laminated 420D nylonIPX635L-120LDurable buckle and roll-top closureSee latest price here!
Osprey Ultralight Dry Sack40D Ripstop NylonN/A3L-30LRectangular shape for efficient packingSee latest price here!
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag500D PVC material with welded seamsIPX810L-55LSplash-proof front zip pocketSee latest price here!
Sea to Summit Big River Dry BagHeavy-duty nylon and waterproof sealN/A3L-65LOval base resists rollingSee latest price here!
NRS Expedition Dri DuffelHeavy-duty PVCN/A35L-105LDaisy chain attachment points and compression strapsSee latest price here!
IDRYBAG Waterproof Backpack500D waterproof PVCIPX620L-40LInner and outer pockets, extra 2L dry bagSee latest price here!

Dry Bags for Traveling: The Conclusion (and your TL;DR!)

After hours of research and testing, we have narrowed down the top seven dry bags of 2023. Each of the bags on this list have their own unique features and benefits, so it’s important to consider your individual needs before making a final decision.

The YETI Panga Dry Duffel is an excellent choice for anyone who needs a bag that can withstand the toughest outdoor adventures.

The Sea to Summit Hydraulic Dry Pack is a versatile option that provides excellent waterproof protection and comes in different sizes to fit your needs.

The Osprey Ultralight Dry Sack is perfect for backpackers and hikers who need a lightweight and affordable option for their gear.

swimming in clothes that later goes in dry bag

The Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag is a popular choice due to its affordability and durability, making it a great all-around option.

The Sea to Summit Big River Dry Bag provides a reliable and secure waterproof seal for your belongings, making it an excellent choice for water sports and outdoor activities.

The NRS Expedition Dri Duffel is a top-of-the-line waterproof bag that can handle anything from rafting down rapids to trekking through rainforests.

The IDRYBAG Waterproof Backpack is a durable and customizable option that is perfect for hikers and water-based activities.

With these top 7 best dry bags of 2023, you’re sure to find the perfect one for your outdoor adventures. Each one has its unique features and materials, so choose the one that best suits your needs and rest assured that your gear will stay dry and safe during any activity. See latest price here!