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Top 10 Best Dry Bags
- Earth Pak Waterproof (Editor’s Choice)
- Earth Pak Summit Series (Luxury Choice)
- VGUARD Waterproof Kayaking (Best Value)
- MARCHWAY Waterproof Roll Top (Best Floating)
- Ultra-Dry Adventurer Premium (Best for Hiking)
- Blackace Waterproof
- Unigear Adjustable
- Piscifun Waterproof
- Osprey Ultralight
- RUNACC Waterproof
A good dry bag is a crucial tool for travellers, athletes, and lovers of the great outdoors, but it’s not always easy to find the best waterproof backpack to suit your needs.
These versatile products come in a range of shapes and sizes, some with a roll-top closure, others with adjustable shoulder straps, and some with various internal compartments. Choosing the product that suits you means thinking about how you’re going to be using your bag, and which features will make your life easier.
To save you some time, we’re going to explore the best dry bags in the UK, with insights into some of their most attractive features.
Dry Bag Reviews
Earth Pak Waterproof (Editor’s Choice)
Spacious, convenient, and durable, the Earth Pak dry bags are some of the best on the market, offering an excellent way to keep your goods dry and safe. Considered the best waterproof bag, this option is built to last, with sturdy materials recognised internationally by some of the world’s leading publications. The bag can float on water as well.
One of the best dry bags on the market, the Earth Pak waterproof bag is a proven lightweight bag that can keep your things dry in any environment. The compact and sturdy design is comfortable to carry, and there’s a single shoulder strap and sternum strap included for extra stability. A large interior compartment and roll-top closure make this product easy to use and clean.
The Earth Pak is great for outdoor adventures, comes with a waterproof phone case, and is available in a range of colours. Unfortunately, the shades are a little too bright for some. The fibres on the bottom of the bag can also become weaker over time.
Pros:
- Easy to store your belongings with a large central space
- Roll top construction for ease of use
- Keeps your gear dry and floats on water
- Easy to clean after outdoor adventures
- Lightweight material built for comfort
Cons:
- Fibres on the bottom of the bag may deteriorate over time
- Bright colours may not appeal to everyone
Earth Pak Summit Series (Luxury Choice)
Designed by one of the best known outdoor companies in the world, the Earth Pak Summit is a state of the art dry bag where you can pack all of your belongings before heading out on an adventure. The Summit series waterproof backpack will keep all of your equipment dry wherever you go. There’s a roll-top closure so you can pack all of your stuff with ease, and an extra pocket compartment too.
Offering some of the best durability and protection on the market, the Earth Pak Summit series makes every adventure easier. There’s plenty of room for storage with pockets on both the outside and inside of the bag. You get a large splash-proof zipper and zippered pocket, a mesh compartment, and a comfortable back panel.
The convenient design also means you can take this dry bag with you when you’re travelling by air as your carry-on luggage. One slight issue is that the buckles can be a little flimsy and may snap with regular use. The shoulder straps also aren’t the most comfortable compared to other dry bags.
Pros:
- Easy to store your belongings with a large central space
- Roll top construction for ease of useeps your gear dry and floats on water
- Easy to clean after outdoor adventures
- Lightweight material built for comfort
Cons:
- May not be comfortable as a rucksack
- Buckles can be a little flimsy and may snap over time
VGUARD Waterproof Kayaking (Best Value)
A reliable dry bag is essential for keeping your belongings safe and dry. The right product will protect critical gear and tools from damage caused by moisture. The VGUARD waterproof kayaking bag aims to ensure that you can keep your items protected, even when you’re hanging out in, or on the water. This compact bag can hold everything from your watch to your tablet.
Small but effective, the VGUARD waterproof bag comes with a convenient shoulder strap made from reliable nylon which feels great against the skin. The practical design comes with triple seal welded seams to ensure that your stuff remains totally dry, even when dropped under water. Though, it’s best to check that the bag is 100% waterproof after you buy it.
With a 24-month warranty, the VGUARD will give you the functionality you like with the peace of mind you need. It’s adjustable as well. One downside is that it doesn’t hold up well to scratches and tears. The mobile holder that comes with it is also a little chunky and difficult to use.
Pros:
- Hardwearing waterproof materials
- Lightweight structure and a compact size
- Separate phone holder
- Will keep your gear dry even when you drop the bag in water
- Nylon strap for extra comfort
Cons:
- Mobile holder may be a little chunky for some (hard to fit in your pocket)
- May not have the best durability against scratches and tears
MARCHWAY Waterproof Roll Top (Best Floating)
If you need a bag for carrying your sports gear on boats and kayaks, the MARCHWAY floating dry bag could be the ideal choice. Unlike other backpacks, this lightweight and compact bag comes with sturdy welded seams to protect against moisture. You can also adjust the size to suit your needs with the roll-top, and there are various colours to suit your style.
Ready to suit any need, this adventure bag from MARCHWAY will protect your gear wherever you go. The durable sack comes with a roll-down top for a completely waterproof seal. There are options for 10 litres and 20 litres depending on your needs, and each bag comes with a nylon removable shoulder strap.
This bag’s construction allows it to float in water too, without letting any water seep through the material. It’s perfect for use on boating trips. Unfortunately, the waterproofing may fail to live up to expectations when the sack is fully submerged.
Pros:
- Floating lightweight bag for use on boats
- Sturdy welded seams to keep products dry
- One of the best bags for style and comfort
- Removable shoulder strap
- Easy to clean and use
Cons:
- May not be 100% waterproof when submerged
- May not work well when filled too much
Ultra-Dry Adventurer Premium (Best for Hiking)
A good dry bag is a fantastic product to have handy whenever you’re on the road. With a reliable roll top enclosure and durable construction, the Ultra-Dry Adventurer Premium bag will work well in almost any situation. This lightweight but tough dry bag is comfortable to carry and ready to protect you against the rain.
With a waterproof phone case included, the Ultra-Dry Adventurer bags give you everything a standard backpack can’t, including protection against water. There’s an extra-long shoulder strap that you can adjust however you like. The top of the backpack also rolls down for a completely airtight experience.
This waterproof bag also comes with a full year of warranty and care after you buy it, so you can reach out to one of the customer service representatives if you have trouble. One possible issue is that there may not be enough space in this backpack for all of your gear. The bag also only has a single strap.
Pros:
- Complete protection if your backpack goes overboard
- Adjustable shoulder strap
- Premium smartphone holder included with the rucksack
- Lightweight and durable material
- Customer care and support after you buy
Cons:
- 20 litres may not be enough for some outdoor enthusiasts
- Single strap might not be comfortable for everyone
Blackace Waterproof
Built in a range of colours to suit your style, this outdoor dry bag from Blackace is great for snowboarding, fishing, and camping. No matter where the outdoors takes you, the Blackace water-resistant bag is designed to keep your things from getting wet. Unlike other backpacks, this product is also available in a range of size options.
Versatile and convenient, the Blackace bag will stop your gear from getting wet wherever you go. There’s a set of extra-long shoulder straps included that you could adjust however you like. A metal carabiner is also included for your keys. Easy to adjust and versatile, this rucksack is a great way to get ready for any outdoor trip.
One issue that some customers have is that the material feels quite thick and rubbery, which also makes it less flexible than with other backpacks. The heavy design might make this rucksack less appealing for people who prefer lightweight options.
Pros:
- Durable materials built to stop products from getting wet
- Suitable for all kinds of outdoor gear and situations
- Different sizes from 5 litres to 30 litres
- Shoulder straps can be adjusted however you like
- Range of 100% waterproof colours to help you spot your bag if it goes overboard
Cons:
- May not be the most flexible at the top due to rubbery material
- Backpack can be quite heavy due to the thick and heavy components
Unigear Adjustable
Find the dry bag to suit your needs with this roll-top closure waterproof backpack from Unigear. One of the leading waterproof backpack choices in our list, this product guarantees to stop your items from getting wet. The stiff 600D material and roll-top closure work together to ensure that the rucksack 100% waterproof, even when your belongings go overboard.
With a range of size options to choose from ranging all the way to 40 litres, you’re sure to find a waterproof backpack you can trust from Unigear. This roll-top bag has anti-tear and anti-leak features to protect all of your gear in any situation. The rucksack is also surprisingly comfortable and easy to carry, with one or two shoulder straps depending on the bag’s size.
Thanks to its lightweight structure, this dry bag can float on water when someone goes overboard from a canoe or kayak. Unfortunately, the creases in the bag can wear the material down quite quickly. The texture of the material may not be as thick as you expect either.
Pros:
- Lightweight waterproof sports backpack with roll-top closure
- Material is thick and durable enough to withstand going overboard
- Straps are adjustable (one or two depending on size)
- Bags all the way up to 40 litres available
- Easy to clean
Cons:
- Material may not be as thick as other dry bags
- Folding and creasing the bag can cause wear over time
Piscifun Waterproof
Versatile and multifunctional, the Piscifun waterproof backpack is a great choice for outdoor enthusiasts. If you’re looking for one of the strongest bags around, this sack is crafted from 500D PVC to help withstand the abuse of any adventure.
Versatile and available in a range of colours, the Piscifun waterproof backpack will keep your sports gear and equipment protected in any environment. You can use it for carrying products when camping, exploring the wilderness, or rafting. There’s a strong welded seam construction all the way to the top of the bag, to keep it safe from water should it go overboard.
This backpack is also available in sizes ranging from 10 litres to 40 litres. As an added extra, you also get an IPX8 waterproof phone case. The larger dry roll-top bags can be difficult to roll for some. You might also find that the waterproof case isn’t as strong as it seems.
Pros:
- 100% waterproof backpack to keep your belongings dry
- Suitable for use on the water with canoes and kayaks
- Welded seam construction to protect your belongings after going overboard
- IPX8 waterproof holder included for your smartphone
- Versatile range of sizes up to 40 litres
Cons:
- The large 40 litres bag can be harder for some people to use
- Waterproof mobile holder is a bit flimsy to some
Osprey Ultralight
One of the most well-known names in athletic and sports equipment, Osprey offers the Ultralight waterproof backpack for equipment protection. Promising exceptional durability and the waterproofing you need for your sports gear; the Osprey will be a great investment for any athlete or explorer.
Whether you’re carrying sports equipment, or you want to prevent your items from getting wet when you’re camping, Osprey has you covered. This roll-top closure waterproof backpack features 40D ripstop nylon to ensure you’re protected from all kinds of water. Designed with a rectangular structure, packing and unpacking this sack is quick and easy.
The simple design won’t draw your eye, but Osprey ensures that its waterproof backpacks can stand the test of time. The rucksack, unfortunately, doesn’t have any adjustable straps for easier transportation. One other issue is that this backpack might not float for very long if it goes overboard on a boat.
Pros:
- Easy to use roll-top structure
- 100% waterproof bag works in any conditions
- Excellent for sports gear and equipment
- One of the more stylish dry bags on the market
- 40D ripstop nylon fabric for long-term durability
Cons:
- May not float for long if it goes overboard
- No adjustable straps may make transportation trickier
RUNACC Waterproof
Ready to tackle all kinds of outdoor adventure, the RUNACC waterproof backpack is available as a fantastic alternative to traditional sports bags. RUNACC’s lightweight design makes carrying large amounts of equipment easier. In addition, there are separate compartments to divide your wet and dry clothing if you’ve been caught in the elements.
If you’re looking for a versatile dry bag with strong seams and plenty of bonus features, the RUNAAC waterproof bag could be the one for you. Capable of holding up to 20 litres with ease, this backpack will protect your belongings should they end up going overboard, thanks to a floating structure.
This is one of the few waterproof backpack options that can handle virtually any environment. What’s more, this versatile waterproof backpack features one of the best dry protection phone cases as an added extra. Unfortunately, it can be difficult to figure out how to make sure that this product is truly waterproof. You may also find that this dry bag can’t handle as much weight as some alternatives.
Pros:
- Comfortable waterproof backpack with adjustable straps
- Waterproof backpack and phone holder combo kit
- Lightweight material will float if the backpack goes overboard
- Dry bag features 210 Dacron for extra durability
- One of the only dry bag options with wet/dry segments
Cons:
- May not hold as much as other leading bags
- Can be a little tricky to use well at first
How to Choose the Best Dry Bag
Dry bags or a waterproof backpack can be a valuable addition to any adventure. These bags help to keep your critical gear and equipment in good condition when you need it most. Many people wouldn’t think of going canoeing, hiking, or camping without a good waterproof backpack handy.
Of course, choosing the right dry bag for your needs can be easier said than done. You must think about everything from whether you need a roll-top closure, to whether your bag should float if it goes overboard when you’re on your kayak. Here are a few things to think about when making your choice.
Size and Design
The best waterproof bags for your needs have to be large enough to hold all of your equipment, but still comfortable enough to carry wherever you go.
It’s hard to find the line between a bag that can hold up to 40 litres of gear, and one that you can keep on your back for hours at a time
Think about the size of the bag that you need in litres carefully before making your choice. It’s also worth dedicating some time to the design of the bag, and how you’re going to carry it. Does your backpack come with adjustable straps so you can find the fit that suits you? Are you going to have extra pockets and segments in the backpack for storing separate pieces of equipment?
Material
A water resistant backpack isn’t enough if you’re going to be spending time on the water in a canoe or kayak. You need something that’s 100% waterproof, and strong enough to hold up against the elements too. See to it that you choose a waterproof backpack that features the right durable material to keep your items dry.
It’s also worth checking to see whether the material is flexible, so you can ensure that all of your items will fit easily inside it, without you having to fill the bag all the way to the top. The right material will keep your belongings protected on your next adventure while ensuring you’re looking great too.
Features
Great dry bags come in a range of designs to suit individual needs. Some have welded seams that can help to reassure you that your gear will stay protected should you accidentally drop your bag overboard.
Other bags might come with additional features that you need, like the ability to float on water if they do end up overboard at some point.
Don’t just look for the sports brand or name that you know best. Check all the aspects of your waterproof backpack to find the features you need. This might include everything from well made adjustable straps to a separate compartment for your mobile device, or padding to protect your camera as well as your sports equipment.
Finding Your Ideal Dry Bag
The best dry bags UK companies can offer will depend on your personal needs. You might want a dry bag that includes separate sections where you can keep wet and dry clothing separate after tackling the outdoors. Or maybe you’re looking for a dry bag that will float when it goes overboard on a canoe or kayak.
There’s no one size fits all strategy for choosing the best dry bag, but one of our favourites has to be the Earth Pak Waterproof. This dry bag can hold up to 20 litres of equipment for your outdoor adventures, and it floats when it goes overboard too. The Earth Pak checks plenty of boxes with its durable and lightweight design, plus there’s a sternum strap for extra stability.
