A waterproof duffel bag is made of extremely robust material and offers plenty of storage space. The ideal companion for your outdoor adventures.
The best is yet to come:
A river crossing, a capsized kayak or heavy rain are no problem for a good duffel bag. Unfortunately, not all offers deliver what they promise.
This allows you to recognize quality and avoid buying mistakes:
BeyondSurfing spent over 63 hours researching the most popular products and analyzing their features. As a result, we present the top 10 best dry bags 2024.
The best duffel bag 2024?
Content
- 1 These are the top duffel bags 2024
- 1.1 1. The North Face Unisex Gilman Duffel
- 1.2 2. Patagonia Duffel Bag Black Hole
- 1.3 3. Osprey Transporter Duffel Bag
- 1.4 4. Semptec Urban Survival Technology Trekking Backpack
- 1.5 5. Såk Gear Duffel bag
- 1.6 6. the friendly Swede duffel bag with backpack function
- 1.7 7. under armour duffle sports bag with backpack function
- 1.8 8. Normani duffel bag made from tear-resistant canvas
- 1.9 9. Us duffel bag with double strap
- 1.10 10. Vaude Drybag Light
- 2 Bestsellers: The most popular duffel bags
- 3 Buy a duffel bag: How to make the right decision
- 4 FAQ: Frequently asked questions and answers
- 5 Conclusion: The most popular duffel bags reviewed
- 6 Specialist literature, sources & further links
In a hurry? Our favorite duffel bag:
- High capacity
- Ergonomic shoulder straps
- Separate compartment with zipper
- Padded handles
- Extremely hard-wearing
Duffel bag Checklist
- Models: A duffel bag usually only consists of one large compartment. Waterproof duffel bags are also called dry packs or dry bags.
- Material: Not all water-repellent coatings are harmless.
- Cleaning: Wash a duffel bag by hand only.
Also interesting: The most popular swim bags 2024.
These are the top duffel bags 2024
1. The North Face Unisex Gilman Duffel
Advantages
- Separate compartment with zipper
- Ergonomic shoulder straps
- Padded handles
- Extremely hard-wearing
- Water-repellent pocket for e.g. passport
- High capacity
Disadvantages
- Shoulder straps interfere when not in use
Summary
This duffel bag from The North Face in size M has a volume of 71 liters. A zippered mesh pocket allows for good organization.
The adjustable shoulder straps make it easy to carry on the back or over the shoulder. Padded side handles allow you to carry it in your hand or pull it in the snow.
The material is extremely hard-wearing and has special stitching techniques that are water-repellent. The inner compartment is equipped with additional waterproof insulation.
Conclusion
The ideal companion for various camping adventures or sports. The various bags and carrying systems are suitable for organized packing.
The bag is not suitable for kayak tours where there is a risk of capsizing as it is not 100% waterproof.
Product details
Size: 72 liters | Material: Polyester | Weight: 330 g
Customer ratings
The dry bag can easily hold luggage for 3 weeks. The contents do not get soggy in the rain. The straps make it easy to attach to the car roof or trailer. The bag is suitable for all weather conditions and is dirt-repellent. You can also simply pull the bag behind you in the snow. The design is modern and high quality.
Around 8% are neutral about the product, while 3% rate the product as poor and inadequate.
One customer regrets that the shoulder straps are not detachable and therefore get in the way when not in use.
FAQ
2. Patagonia Duffel Bag Black Hole
Advantages
- Large capacity
- Sustainable manufacturer
- Removable straps
- Low dead weight
- Particularly compact for storage
Disadvantages
- High purchase price
Summary
The Patagonia duffel bag is not a heavyweight despite its 55 l volume. The manufacturer’s sustainable philosophy is another plus point. But the bag also leaves nothing to be desired in technical terms:
- The U-shaped zipper opening provides a good overview of the luggage.
- The padded base protects the interior from shocks.
- The detachable shoulder straps allow flexible transportation.
- There are also special buckles for attaching to roof racks or other bags.
The eyelets on the outside allow you to strap on equipment such as hiking poles. Inside, clip fasteners compress the luggage. The design is a water-repellent eye-catcher with a glossy lacquered surface.
Conclusion
Particularly easy to store and transport, the Patagonia Duffel Bag is the perfect bag for flexible nature lovers. Sustainability is a top priority here and the quality is impressive across the board.
Customers looking for a dry pack for canoe trips opt for a different product.
Product details
Size: 40 L | Material: Polyester | Weight: 0.5 kg
Customer ratings
This backpack can carry an extremely large volume and weight. The name Black Hole describes the backpack well. Why? An infinite number of things easily disappear inside.
The seams are of high quality. The carrying system is flexible, efficient and versatile. The tare weight is kept low. You can stow the bag in the attached outer pocket for easy storage.
There are no negative reviews of this product yet.
FAQ
3. Osprey Transporter Duffel Bag
Advantages
- Stowable shoulder straps
- Various compartments
- Lockable zipper
- Various volumes available
- Low dead weight
Disadvantages
- High purchase price
Summary
The Duffel Bag from Osprey is extremely robust and equipped for heavy-duty use. The loading area of a pick-up or transportation on a donkey are no problem.
Four different carrying handles with padded backpack straps ensure comfortable transportation. An extra chest strap prevents the shoulder straps from slipping.
The TPU coating is water-repellent and extremely robust. It is easy to wipe clean should the bag get dirty.
Conclusion
The chest strap prevents the shoulder straps from slipping off. This also makes the bag very suitable for short distances on uneven ground. Ideal for climbing stairs or steep slopes.
The material is very water-repellent but not 100% waterproof.
Product details
Size: 40 – 120 L | Material: Polyester | Weight: 1.72 kg
Customer ratings
The bag is lightweight and robust. It is easy to store and takes up little space. The material is waterproof and well stitched. The price ratio is good and the bag is great for air travel. Even rough handling by flight personnel cannot harm the material. The lifetime material guarantee provides additional security. The different carrying options are very practical.
FAQ
4. Semptec Urban Survival Technology Trekking Backpack
Advantages
- 100% certified waterproof
- High-frequency welded seams
- Extra side compartments
- Padded straps
- Low purchase price
Disadvantages
- Can only be worn as a backpack
- Only one color available
- Inner compartment without dividers
Summary
The Urban Survival Drypack from Semptec is an extremely waterproof all-purpose companion. It has an official IPX6 certification. This means it offers “protection against strong water jets and temporary flooding”!
The seams are high-frequency welded. The shoulder straps are comfortably padded and a waist strap ensures that they do not slip. The opening is closed with a “roll top”. This means that the size can be varied according to requirements.
There are two mesh pockets for water bottles on the sides. The main compartment holds 40 liters. The extra carrying handle on the top is reinforced. This means that even heavy loads are no problem.
The backpack is plain black with brand lettering printed in white.
Conclusion
The ideal companion for motorcycle or boat tours. Hours of rain or a fall into the water are no problem for this absolutely waterproof duffel bag in backpack design.
If you prefer to carry it over your shoulder, the Såk Gear Duffel bag is the right choice.
Product details
Size: 40 L | Material: Truck tarpaulin, Tarpaulin | Weight: 750 g
Customer ratings
The capacity is large, just like the carrying comfort. The roll closure makes the size flexible depending on requirements. The material is extremely waterproof. Even if the backpack is completely submerged in water, the luggage inside remains dry.
The material is odorless. The straps are comfortable and there is no feeling of pressure. If you want to store the bag, it can be rolled up extremely small.
Around 7% are neutral about the product, while 5% rate the product as poor and inadequate.
The material is not breathable and causes perspiration on the back when worn. One customer writes that the rucksack smelled of chemicals at first. Another misses a hip belt for stabilization.
FAQ
5. Såk Gear Duffel bag
Advantages
- 6 different colors
- Various sizes
- Welded seams
- Low dead weight
- Wide roll top opening
Disadvantages
- Cannot be worn as a backpack
- Eye-catching logo print
- No extra compartment inside
Summary
The duffel bag from Såk Gear has a particularly wide roll top opening. This makes it waterproof and provides a good overview of the luggage.
A transparent address compartment enables personalization. There is an outer pocket with a zipper. However, this is not waterproof.
Inside there is a small extra compartment for a smartphone. Everything else fits in the main compartment.
The material is waterproof PVC with taped seams. This protects the contents even if the boat capsizes.
Customers can choose between 6 different colors.
Conclusion
If an unusual design and a particularly wide opening are important to you, this is the product for you. No other roll top is as wide.
If you like to carry your duffel bag on your back, the Semptec Urban Survival duffel bag is the right choice.
Product details
Size: 40 – 60 L | Material: PVC | Weight: 1.4 kg
Customer ratings
The duffel bag is ideal for motorcycle trips. Even if water gets into the boat while kayaking, this is not a problem. Rain is safely kept out. The material feels very high quality and the design is appealing. The bag is large and has a wide roll-top opening. The seams are extremely robust and carefully applied.
Around 3% are neutral about the product, while 1% rate the product as poor and inadequate.
It is difficult to attach the bag to anything. There are no eyelets or straps for transportation on the motorcycle. Creativity is required here.
FAQ
6. the friendly Swede duffel bag with backpack function
Advantages
- Chest strap
- 8 different colors
- Several inner mesh pockets
- Various sizes
- 3-year guarantee
Disadvantages
- Material is not very hard-wearing
- Closure of the straps difficult to operate
Summary
The duffel bag from The friendly Swede comes in a particularly wide range of colors and sizes. Depending on the project, you can choose a size between 30 – 90 L volume.
The mesh pockets on the inside still ensure a very good overview even with a lot of luggage.
The shoulder straps are all padded and can be worn as a backpack, over the shoulder or in the hand. There is even a chest strap that stabilizes the shoulder straps.
The material is made of tear-resistant industrial PVC, which is also used to make truck tarpaulins. It has been tested for substances of concern and proves to be absolutely non-toxic.
If you are dissatisfied with the model or have a problem with the Duffel Dry Bag, the manufacturer offers a 3-year guarantee.
Conclusion
If you are looking for additional security when making a purchase decision, this manufacturer’s long guarantee is a good option.
This bag is not waterproof and is therefore not suitable for boat trips with capsize potential.
Product details
Size: 30 – 90 L | Material: Industrial PVC (truck tarpaulin) | Weight: 1.5 kg
Customer ratings
The design is chic and simple. The material is stable and well suited for air travel. The shoulder straps distribute the weight evenly. It is also ideal as a sports bag. It is supplied in a protective bag that is ideal for use as a laundry or waterproof bag. The 60 l version is sufficient for two weeks of luggage. The compartments are practical and provide an overview of valuables.
Around 3% are neutral about the product, while 7% rate the product as poor and inadequate.
Some customers report that the material wears out quickly. The seams do not withstand heavy rain for long. Dirt stands out strongly on the yellow version. The material discolors easily. The belt attachment is complicated.
FAQ
7. under armour duffle sports bag with backpack function
Advantages
- Extra compartment for shoes
- With extra waist belt and mesh pockets
- Low dead weight
Disadvantages
- Only one color available
Summary
This duffle bag from Under Armour not only withstands rain but also high speeds. Thanks to the special loop system, the bag can be easily attached to the motorcycle or car roof.
Several carrying options and a convenient backpack function make transportation child’s play.
The material is robust polyester and withstands wind and weather very well. The zippers are covered by the fabric so that no rain can get through.
Conclusion
Anyone who prefers a simple, high-quality design will find this model a good companion. The particularly comfortable backpack function is suitable for longer distances on foot.
This duffel bag is also not a drypack and therefore not suitable for kayaking.
Product details
Size: 40 L | Material: Polyester | Weight: 720 g
Customer ratings
The bag has no inherent odor and offers space for all kinds of items. The seams and material are very robust and durable. The backpack version is comfortable to carry and some customers would even take it on shorter hikes. The tare weight is particularly low.
Around 4% are neutral about the product, while 4% rate the product as poor and inadequate.
One customer found the 40-liter bag too small.
FAQ
8. Normani duffel bag made from tear-resistant canvas
Advantages
- 3 different colors
- Low dead weight
- Secured opening
Disadvantages
- Narrow opening
- No inner compartments
- Fabric soaks up rain
Summary
This bag from Normani is a duffel bag like the original. The manufacturer sticks to the tried-and-tested design and has not kept up with the various modern innovations.
The duffel bag is made from tear-resistant cotton and can be worn as a rucksack or by the handle. The large opening is secured with a snap hook. There is an extra layer of fabric underneath to prevent thieves from reaching in.
The volume of the bag is 30 liters. 3 color variants leave nothing to be desired. The outer pocket with button closure is just the right size for a cell phone.
Conclusion
Anyone who likes simple design and originality will love this cotton duffel bag.
The material is not suitable for heavy rain as it becomes soaked.
Product details
Size: 30 L | Material: Cotton | Weight: 824 g
Customer ratings
The workmanship is very solid and all handles can easily withstand the weight. The small side pocket is practical for a cell phone. The duffel bag can be closed very tightly. A whole family can easily store their swimming equipment in it. The seams are neatly finished. The material has no inherent odor. The colors correspond exactly to the pictures on Amazon.
FAQ
9. Us duffel bag with double strap
Advantages
- Extra high, for long items of luggage
- Outside cell phone pocket
- Low purchase price
Disadvantages
- Narrow opening
- No inner compartments
- Fabric soaks up rain
Summary
The US duffel bag from Mil-Tec is a robust Bundeswehr version. The exterior is in camouflage colors and is well suited for the navy, hunters or animal watchers. It blends in visually with the surroundings.
The material is tear-resistant, water-repellent and wipeable. The duffel bag can be carried on the back or in the hand. The handles are firmly sewn. The shoulder straps are padded and individually adjustable.
There is a small cell phone pocket on the outside that closes with a press stud. There is even space for a GPS device. This is practical when you are out and about in the forest, for example.
Conclusion
Nature lovers who don’t want to attract attention when birdwatching, for example, reach for this bag. The product is also very popular with the military.
The duffel bag is only water-repellent and not completely waterproof.
Product details
Size: 45 L | Material: Polyester | Weight: n/a
Customer ratings
The duffel bag is exactly as described. It is suitable for a lot of luggage and has a high-quality finish. You can also use it as a laundry bag when you’re not traveling. Heavy loads are no problem. The handles and straps can withstand loads. The design is cool and really big.
Around 11% are neutral about the product, while 0% rate the product as poor and inadequate.
The diameter is narrow. Some customers would have liked a wider duffel bag. The closure could be more stable.
FAQ
10. Vaude Drybag Light
Advantages
- Particularly light
- Small foldable
- Variable size
- Low purchase price
Disadvantages
- No extra compartments
- Cannot be worn as a backpack
Summary
This mini version of a duffel bag is a great everyday companion. It is extremely lightweight and can be folded up compactly. This means it can even be carried in a trouser pocket.
The material is coated with silicone and is highly water-repellent. The roll-top opening is adjustable and can vary the size of the bag. There is plenty of space for shopping.
Conclusion
If you are looking for a practical pack sack for everyday use, this is the product for you. The contents will not get wet even in sudden rain showers.
Unfortunately, this product is not suitable for longer trips or kayak tours.
Product details
Size: 20 L | Material: Synthetic | Weight: 40 g
Customer ratings
The bag is suitable for washing clothes in when traveling, for example. The price-performance ratio is very good. It can easily be carried in your trouser pocket and protect your shopping in the event of spontaneous rain. The bag is well made and extremely light. The roll top reliably withstands rain.
Around 3% are neutral about the product, while 16% rate the product as poor and inadequate.
The material is too thin and not durable enough for use in a kayak.
FAQ
More articles you might find interesting:
Bestsellers: The most popular duffel bags
(**Last update 2024-12-04)
Buy a duffel bag:
How to make the right decision
A duffel bag is actually a simple and tried-and-tested product for transporting items. It is characterized by:
- an opening,
- a large inner compartment,
- two carrying options and
- robust material.
But products change:
Over time, manufacturers are adding more and more innovations and new materials. This quickly turns the familiar duffel bag into an all-round backpack.
Which duffel bag is the best depends on various factors:
Find out in the following buying guide how to recognize good quality and which duffel bag suits you best.
What you need to consider when buying a duffel bag (incl. Checklist)
When looking for the best duffel bag, you must pay attention to the following features and characteristics:
- Material
- Size
- Weight
- Closure type
- Wearing comfort
- Color
Material of duffel bags and dry bags?
Originally, duffel bags were made from canvas (cotton). This is processed in a similar way to canvas and is tear-resistant and water-repellent.
Advantages and disadvantages of cotton
- Material is washable.
- Has no inherent odor.
- In heavy rain, cotton can become soaked and extremely heavy.
Newer models are made from TPU (truck tarpaulin) or other synthetic materials. Some manufacturers use recycled material.
Advantages and disadvantages of TPU
- Material is waterproof.
- Material is wipeable.
- It is not machine washable.
- Stiffer than cotton.
Take care: Avoid sharp objects that can damage the material from the inside!
The right duffel bag size?
Duffel bags are available with capacities from 4 liters to well over 150 liters. Which size you choose depends largely on the desired area of application:
4 – 10 liters
Mini duffel bags are suitable as small shopping backpacks or gym bags for school.
11 – 40 liters
The standard duffel bag size with space for vacation luggage or work clothes.
60 – 100 liters
An XXL duffel bag is ideal for longer (world) trips or expeditions.
150 liters
There are oversized duffel bags. However, these can hardly be lifted by an untrained person and are more suitable for transporting materials, e.g. for the German armed forces.
Pro tip: There are also transport bags with wheels. This is a kind of duffel bag trolley.
Weight of the duffel bag?
This criterion for the right weight is simple:
Make sure the weight is as low as possible but remain realistic.
Certain add-ons such as snap hooks inevitably add some weight. If you don’t want to do without it, be more generous when calculating the weight.
Closure of Duffel Dry Bag?
The way of closing a duffel bag has changed over time:
- In the past, the sack was simply closed with a rope through a drawstring. Pull it, knot it and you’re done.
- Today, roll-top systems or snap hooks are the most common fasteners.
How do roll-top systems work?
Carrying comfort of duffel bags and dry bags?
Unlike waterproof backpacks, duffel bags are not very comfortable to carry per se. But that’s not what they are built for. The most important feature of duffel bags is their storage space.
Factors that influence duffel bag comfort:
- Load: The heavier and more uneven the load, the more the bag will press on your back.
- Carrying system: A backpack carrying system is attached to most duffel bags, others only have handles.
- Padded straps: If the straps are padded, this increases comfort enormously.
The right duffel bag color?
The right duffel bag color can make all the difference:
- Eye-catching colors: Eye-catching colors look good in traffic.
- Inconspicuous colors: Inconspicuous colors look good in nature. Striking colors scare animals away and in the military they will be visible from a great distance.
Care tips for your duffel bag
Cotton duffel bags
Duffel bags made of plain cotton can be washed in the washing machine without any problems:
- Select the wool wash program for this.
- This reduces spin and protects the fasteners.
Duffel bags made from plastic materials
All synthetic materials or coated cotton must be cleaned by hand:
- Use mild cleaners mixed with baking soda (1 tablespoon for disinfection).
- Mix this in a container with warm water.
- Wipe the duffel bag with the mixture and a cloth.
- Leave to dry on the drying rack.
- A gentle disinfectant can also be used.
Heidi Nothegger ★★★★★
(from Switzerland)
The silica bags are available here, for example:
Duffel bag tests by Consumer Reports and Öko Test
Consumer Reports and Öko-Test have not yet carried out any duffel bag tests.
Important for your well-being:
Some fabrics from outdoor companies are contaminated with harmful chemicals. Greenpeace tested 11 branded products for toxic chemicals (click to download).
Why is this important?
Chemical substances are used to make the duffel bag waterproof. In the Greenpeace test, the following brands were found to be harmless:
Vaude, Patagonia and Jack Wolfskin
Watch out:
Many brands offer one or more duffel bag models in their range. Please always find out in advance about the safety of the fabrics and return options.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions and answers
Is a duffel bag waterproof?
How do I close a duffel bag correctly?
What is the best material for a duffel bag?
Where can I buy a duffel bag?
Conclusion: The most popular duffel bags reviewed
A duffel bag is a real space saver. It is not for nothing that some models are also called “black holes”.
The best:
The material of duffel bags can withstand even the roughest impacts.
Conclusion:
If you are looking for a robust companion to protect your luggage on adventures, then a duffel bag is definitely the right choice!
Specialist literature, sources & further links
You can find more information on this topic here:
- Sew a duffel bag: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ql8ROi_uQDQ
- Silicia Beutel: https:%C3%
- Outdoor Report Greenpeace: https://www.greenpeace.de/presse/publikationen/outdoor-report-2016
- What is a roll top? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cfJgQoowiI4
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