A dry bag is an essential tool for keeping your belongings safe and dry during outdoor adventures. Whether you’re kayaking, camping, hiking, surfing, or heading to the beach, a watertight dry bag provides protection from water, dirt, and dust. In this guide, we’ll explain how to use a dry bag effectively, what to pack, and how to ensure your items remain completely dry.
For durable and reliable dry bags designed for surfers and outdoor enthusiasts, check out our collection at FARO Board Bags.
What Is a Dry Bag?
A dry bag is a waterproof bag made from durable, flexible materials like vinyl, PVC, or nylon. It’s designed to keep moisture out, protecting your gear from water damage. Dry bags come in various sizes, from small pouches to large sacks or backpacks, and they often feature a roll-top closure for a secure seal.
If you need a dry bag that pairs well with your surfboard gear, check out our wetsuit backpacks, designed to keep your essentials dry and organized.
What Is a Dry Bag Used For?
Dry bags are versatile and can be used for many outdoor activities, including:
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Kayaking and Canoeing – Protect your belongings from splashes and capsizing. When you're on the water, unpredictable conditions can put your gear at risk, and a dry bag ensures your essentials stay safe. Many kayakers use multiple dry bags to separate items like food, clothing, and electronics.
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Surfing – A dry bag is useful for surfers to store their dry clothes, towels, and electronics while they’re out in the water. It also prevents sand and saltwater from damaging their gear. For a reliable way to carry and protect your essentials, check out our collection of wetsuit backpacks, designed for surfers who need waterproof storage on the go.
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Camping and Hiking – Store clothes, electronics, and food safely. Unexpected rain or river crossings can lead to soaked gear, which can ruin your trip. Dry bags offer a lightweight, compact way to store important items without adding extra bulk.
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Boating and Fishing – Keep essentials dry in case of water exposure. Whether you’re on a small fishing boat or a larger vessel, water splashes and humidity can be a challenge. Dry bags help store bait, tackle, and even a change of clothes safely.
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Beach Trips – Prevent sand and water from ruining your valuables. Sand can be as problematic as water, and keeping your phone, wallet, and extra clothes in a dry bag ensures they stay clean and dry. For additional protection for your surf gear, check out our wetsuit backpacks.
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Travel and Backpacking – Organize and protect your gear from unexpected rain. Long-term travellers and backpackers often encounter different climates, making dry bags a smart choice for keeping gear dry and organized.
Additional Benefits of Using a Dry Bag
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Buoyancy – Most dry bags float, making them easier to retrieve if dropped in the water.
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Compression – You can remove excess air to make packing more efficient.
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Durability – They are resistant to abrasions, making them long-lasting for outdoor use.
How to Use a Dry Bag Properly
Using a dry bag correctly ensures maximum protection for your belongings. Follow these steps:
1. Choose the Right Size
Dry bags come in different sizes, usually measured in litres. Consider the following:
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5L – Ideal for small essentials like a phone, wallet, and keys. These are perfect for keeping personal items safe during short trips.
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10L – Good for a change of clothes and personal items. If you're carrying items like a towel and a light jacket, this size works well.
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20L – Suitable for a day’s worth of gear. This size can hold multiple clothing layers, a camera, and snacks.
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30L+ – Best for long trips or bulky equipment. If you're carrying sleeping gear, larger food supplies, or even multiple dry bags inside one another, this is ideal.
2. Pack Your Items Wisely
When packing a waterproof bag, follow these tips:
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Use smaller bags – For added protection, place electronics in a separate ziplock or dry pouch.
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Distribute weight evenly – Heavier items should be at the bottom.
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Leave some space – Don’t overfill the bag; leaving some air allows it to float if dropped in water.
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Organize by priority – Place frequently used items at the top for easy access.
3. Roll and Seal the Dry Bag
The roll-top closure is key to waterproofing a bag. Here’s how to seal it properly:
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Fold the top edge down at least three times.
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Press out excess air before sealing.
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Clip the buckle securely to keep the roll in place.
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Ensure a tight seal by testing the closure before submerging.
4. Attach the Bag Securely
Depending on your activity, secure your dry bag by:
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Strapping it to a kayak or boat to prevent it from floating away.
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Use a carabiner to clip it to your backpack.
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Keep it inside a backpack for extra protection while hiking.
What to Pack in a Dry Bag
The items you pack depend on your adventure, but here are common essentials:
Short Outdoor Trips
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Phone and wallet (inside waterproof cases for extra security)
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Snacks and a water bottle
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Sunglasses and sunscreen
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Lightweight clothing
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Towel
Camping and Hiking
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Extra clothing layers
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First-aid kit
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Headlamp or flashlight
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Maps and compass/GPS
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Lightweight sleeping bag
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Fire-starting kit
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Portable stove and food supplies
Water Sports (Kayaking, Boating, Surfing and Fishing)
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Dry clothes
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Fishing gear
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Snacks and hydration
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Camera or action cam
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Emergency whistle
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Waterproof notebook
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Extra rope or bungee cords
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Wetsuits
How to Maintain and Store Your Dry Bag
To prolong the life of your dry sack, follow these maintenance tips:
Cleaning Your Dry Bag
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Rinse with fresh water after use, especially if exposed to salt water.
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Use mild soap and avoid harsh chemicals.
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Air-dry completely before storing to prevent mould.
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Check for stuck debris and wipe it clean before rolling it up.
Storing Your Dry Bag
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Keep in a cool, dry place to avoid material degradation.
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Store unrolled to maintain flexibility.
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Check for wear and tear before each use.
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Use silica gel packets inside to absorb moisture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using a Dry Bag
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Not rolling the top enough – Always fold at least three times.
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Overpacking – Avoid stretching the bag beyond capacity.
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Ignoring small holes or leaks – Inspect regularly and patch if necessary.
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Not testing the seal – Before heading out, put tissue inside and submerge the bag to check for leaks.
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Using it as a flotation device – While it floats, it’s not meant to support body weight.
Conclusion
A dry bag is a must-have for anyone spending time outdoors, offering waterproof protection for your belongings. By choosing the right size, packing wisely, and sealing it correctly, you can ensure your items stay dry no matter the conditions.
Whether you’re kayaking, camping, hiking, or boating, using a watertight dry bag correctly can make all the difference in keeping your gear safe.
If you're a surfer looking for additional protection for your gear, explore our collection of surfboard bags to keep your board in top condition. For those carrying wetsuits, our wetsuit backpacks provide a convenient storage solution.
