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The 9 best drybags?

by Laura

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Whether for city life, stand-up paddling, camping or kayaking – a drybag keeps valuables, clothing and papers dry. In our checklist, we have set out what else is important when buying drybags and what you need to pay particular attention to.

Which drybags are good?

We have spent over 23 hours researching and presenting the top drybags 2024 in our review. We explain what makes a good drybag in our buying guide.

Contents:

  1. Recommendation: The best drybags 2024 in review.
  2. Checklist: These features are important.
  3. Bestseller: The most popular drybags.
  4. Guide: How to make the right decision.
  5. FAQ: Frequently asked questions and answers about drybags.

The best drybags 2024 in review.

How do we rate? Our experts thoroughly research and evaluate each recommendation. We take into account the most important product features, adherence to quality standards, prices, customer reviews, our own experiences, and much more. Learn more about our process.

1. best drybag with inner and outer pocket

Incl. Waterproof cell phone case
MNT10 Dry Bag*

    The MNT10 Dry Bag offers reliable protection for all valuables during water sports activities, equipped with practical features and a comfortable carrying system.

    What we like:

    • High-quality, thick and tear-resistant nylon fabric
    • Waterproof, even with prolonged contact with water
    • Practical inside and outside pockets
    • Comfortable carrying system with shoulder straps
    • Includes waterproof cell phone pouch
    What we don’t like:

    • Not suitable for permanent immersion

    Why we like it:

    The MNT10 Dry Bag “Cliff-Bag” proved to be extremely robust and reliable in our test. The thick, tear-resistant nylon fabric withstands even the harshest weather conditions and ensures that all valuables stay dry, even if the bag is submerged in water for a long time.

    The additional inner and outer pockets offer practical storage space for smaller items that need to be within easy reach at all times.

    An outstanding feature of the Cliff-Bag is the practical carrying system. The shoulder straps make it possible to carry the dry bag comfortably like a rucksack, which is a particular advantage on longer trips.

    The included waterproof phone pouch is a useful extra so that you can carry your smartphone safely and use it during activities.

    Recommended for:

    The MNT10 Dry Bag “Cliff-Bag” is ideal for anyone who regularly practises water sports and is looking for dry bags with thicker material.

    Thanks to its robust and waterproof construction, it is perfect for safely storing valuables and protecting them from the elements.

    2. perfect companion for stand-up paddling or kayaking

    Versatile in use
    Restube Drybag*

      The Restube Drybag offers reliable protection against moisture and is a practical companion for various outdoor activities.

      What we like:

      • Spacious design with 20L capacity
      • Extremely light (only 184g)
      • Versatile use for various outdoor activities
      • Secure Hypalon roll closure
      What we don’t like:

      • Material appears thinner in review compared to competitors

      Why we like it:

      The Restube Drybag impresses with its versatility and robustness. Made from high-quality, TPU-coated 420D nylon, it outperforms many of its competitors with a 10,000 mm water head rating.

      Particularly noteworthy is the low weight of just 184 grams, which makes transportation effortless even on long hikes or demanding kayak tours.

      The Hypalon roll-top closure allows for quick and secure closure, which reliably protects the contents and makes handling easier in review of other drybag designs.

      During our test, the material proved to be very robust and resistant despite its lightness.

      Recommended for:

      The Restube Drybag is ideal for water sports enthusiasts who want to transport their equipment safely and dry.

      The different size options (5L, 10L and 20L) make it an ideal companion for different needs, from the safe storage of small valuables to the storage of larger items such as clothing.

      Whether for stand-up paddling, kayaking or simply out and about in the rain – this drybag offers sufficient protection and practical handling.

      For users who require absolute waterproofness over longer periods of time, however, an upgrade to more expensive models could be advisable.

      3. best portable drybag for SUPs

      Practical
      Earth Pak Summit*

        The Drybag backpack is completely waterproof thanks to the robust PVC tarpaulin and the roll-top closure. The three selectable sizes of 35, 55 and 85 liters ensure that the backpack can be used flexibly. An IPX8 waterproof phone case is also included.

        What we like:

        • Watertightness
        • Longevity
        • Wearing comfort
        • Size
        What we don’t like:

        • Price

        Why we like it: The drybag impresses with its robust design, which protects the contents and the drybag itself from damage. You can choose your own size and the shoulder straps make it very comfortable to carry.

        Recommended for: This drybag is suitable if you are looking for a drybag backpack with a waterproof cell phone cover.

        4. best drybag for divers

        Inexpensive
        Cressi Dry Bag 5 L*

          The robust drybag is completely waterproof thanks to the durable material and the roll-top closure. Thanks to its size and practical carrying straps, this drybag is particularly easy to transport, but only has a capacity of 5 liters.

          What we like:

          • Watertightness
          • Longevity
          • Portability
          • Price
          What we don’t like:

          • Capacity

          Why we like it: This drybag impresses with its particularly high stability and waterproofness. The price-performance ratio of the drybag is excellent and it offers enough space for the most important equipment.

          Recommended for: The Drybag is particularly suitable for boating or other water sports.

          5. best value drybag for water sports enthusiasts

          Inexpensive
          Earth Pak Dry Bag 20 L*

            This drybag from Earth Pak is made of waterproof PVC tarpaulin and is designed for a long service life. With a weight of 500 g and the practical carrying strap, the Drybag can be used as a shoulder bag, although this is not very comfortable when loaded.

            What we like:

            • Watertightness
            • Longevity
            • Weight
            • Price
            What we don’t like:

            • Wearing comfort

            Why we like it: This drybag impresses with its high-quality materials and reliable waterproofness. In addition to the drybag, a practical cell phone case with shoulder strap is also included. The weight and small pack size make the packsack very useful.

            Recommended for: The inexpensive drybag is ideal for storing the equipment of a water sports enthusiast or angler.

            6. best drybag for cyclists

            Comfortable
            Semptec Urban Survival Technology Bicycle Bag*

              The drybag has a capacity of 20 liters and is equipped with two side mesh pockets. The backpack is generally waterproof, but should not be kept under water for long periods of time. Thanks to the roll-top closure, an increased volume can be achieved if required.

              What we like:

              • Capacity
              • Longevity
              • Wearing comfort
              What we don’t like:

              • Watertightness

              Why we like it: The drybag with practical backpack function weighs approx. 1 kg and is very comfortable to carry thanks to the back padding. The wear-resistant PVC material gives the drybag a particularly long service life.

              Recommended for: This drybag is particularly recommended for cyclists due to the helmet holder and the wearing comfort.

              7. best drybag for beach vacationers

              Special Offer
              Nordlight Dry Bag*

                The Drybag is available in sizes from 2 to 30 liters and in many different colors. The tear- and scratch-resistant PVC tarpaulin makes the drybag particularly robust and durable. It is equipped with a long carrying strap, but is still not comfortable to carry when heavily loaded.

                What we like:

                • Watertightness
                • Longevity
                • Price
                What we don’t like:

                • Portability

                Why we like it: The Drybag can be used comfortably as a shoulder bag, but offers no additional padding. The equipment is safely protected from moisture in this lightweight pack sack.

                Recommended for: This drybag is particularly suitable for beach vacations because the size can be selected according to your needs.

                8. best drybag for environmentally conscious buyers

                Sustainable
                Patagonia Unisex-Adult Black Hole Pack 32L Sport*

                  The high-quality backpack is made from 100% recycled material, which protects the contents of the backpack from water and damage. It is equipped with a spacious main compartment and a versatile, padded laptop compartment.

                  What we like:

                  • Capacity
                  • Longevity
                  • Watertightness
                  • Wearing comfort
                  What we don’t like:

                  • Price

                  Why we like it: This drybag backpack combines the most important features of a drybag and backpack. It is comfortable to wear, well padded and keeps the stowed equipment dry at all times. Its volume of 32 liters makes it very spacious

                  Recommended for: This backpack is ideal if you have a high budget for a really high-quality and sustainably produced drybag backpack.

                  9. best drybag for children

                  From 3 years
                  Johnny Urban Rolltop backpack waterproof*

                    This waterproof backpack is suitable for children and is available in several colors. The outer fabric and inner lining are made from recycled plastic bottles. There is padding on the straps and on the back. The backpack can hold up to 8 liters.

                    What makes the product stand out?

                    The Johnny Urban backpack has a roll-top and is suitable for both boys and girls. The seams are well finished and look very sturdy. It is available in various designs, so there is a model to suit every taste. What’s great is that the outer fabric and inner lining are made from recycled plastic bottles.

                    Recommended for: The waterproof and dirt-repellent bag is suitable for children aged 3 and over. With a capacity of 8 liters and a weight of only approx. 350 grams, it is comfortable for children to carry.

                    Drybag checklist: These features are important in the test

                    • Waterproofness: A bag is only a real drybag if it remains watertight when dropped into water.
                    • Use: The use is not only worthwhile for boaters – water protection is also helpful in everyday life.
                    • Seal of quality: Play it safe and look out for TÜV or CE certificates.

                    Also interesting: The most popular sailing bags 2024.

                    Bestsellers: The most popular drybags

                    What do others buy? In our bestseller list, we present the TOP 11 most purchased offers. The selection is updated daily.

                    (**Last update 2024-09-07)

                    Buy a drybag?
                    How to make the right decision!

                    drybag guide

                    Here are the most important points to consider when choosing the right drybag:

                    1How waterproof?

                    To ensure that your luggage is really protected during transportation in the drybag, the material must be absolutely waterproof. The term “waterproof” is not protected and may also be used for light splash protection. It is therefore not enough for this term to appear in the product description. Pay attention to the specified water column.

                    2What size and capacity?

                    Drybags are available in many sizes from 10 L to over 100 L. Bigger is not always better. Before buying, customers should ask themselves what the bag will be used for: in everyday life, on the bike and when shopping? A small to medium-sized version is sufficient here. A larger drybag is recommended for sailing or hiking.

                    3Material and resistance?

                    Here, too, the choice depends on the location. On demanding sailing trips, where the bag has to withstand a lot, carbon fiber is the preferred choice. PVC is sufficient for everyday use.

                    These materials are most commonly used for drybags:

                    • Dacron
                    • Carbon fiber (test winner in the robustness category)
                    • Nylon
                    • PVC

                    4Organization and additional subjects?

                    Drybags can have a large main pocket or be equipped with compartments as well as inner and outer pockets. This makes it easier to organize the contents and smaller objects can be accessed more quickly. However, the large main compartment is more suitable for clothing, as the subdivisions already take up storage space.

                    4Which area of application?

                    When hiking, the drybag must have special straps for the chest and hips. When sailing, on the other hand, straps are useful for tightening in rough seas. If you cycle with your drybag, you can choose a model with a luggage rack holder. Ultimately, the area of application also determines the right model.

                    FAQ: Frequently asked questions and answers

                    What is a drybag?

                    A dry bag is a bag or rucksack that can withstand very heavy exposure to water. Theoretically, it can be thrown into a river and the contents would remain dry while the drybag floats on the surface. This type of bag is equally suitable for boaters and urban cyclists.

                    How does a dry bag work?

                    These bags usually have a roll-top opening. This is rolled up tightly and then clamped in place with a mechanism that “seals” the bag. This protects the inside from water.

                    In review, dry bags are much safer than waterproof bags or backpacks. This is also confirmed by independent tests.

                    There are also models that have a built-in valve. This helps to allow rolled-up air to escape in order to achieve the smallest possible pack size.

                    Which dry bag size is the right one?

                    There are small and large models depending on the area of application. Those going on longer sailing trips will choose a large version, while urban cyclists will need a medium-sized dry bag. The size is calculated in liters.

                    How expensive are good drybags?

                    A solid drybag is now available from $15. In this price category, however, the design is usually very simple and functional. If you are looking for a super robust model with special straps or pockets, you should expect a price of $40 or more.

                    Branded products from Mistral, Ortlieb or Vissla also tend to fall within this price range. Here, buyers benefit from high-quality workmanship and a wealth of experience. Extra-class products can cost as much as $350.

                    Where can you buy drybags?

                    A solid selection can be found at outdoor stores such as Empty or Empty. Lidl always has seasonal products such as dry bags on offer.

                    However, most models can definitely be found on Amazon. With this enormous selection, buyers should pay attention to tips from buying guides or satisfied customers.

                    What alternatives are there to drybags?

                    In addition to dry bags, there are also dry bags that are often used for sports. These are water-repellent, but cannot be completely flooded. You can also use a pack sack with a waterproof cover.

                    Hikers who want to protect themselves against rain should choose a rucksack with rain protection. When camping or traveling, however, a bag with water-repellent material can also be used.

                    Is there a test from Stiftung Warentest or Ökotest for drybags?

                    There is currently no test or test winner in the drybag category. Nevertheless, the most popular and most frequently purchased models can be found in our bestseller list.

                    Editor's note: The opinions expressed here are those of the author alone. The content has not been endorsed, reviewed, approved, or in any way financially supported by any advertiser. We only include products we believe to be useful. How we work

                    *Price includes VAT, plus shipping. Customer reviews, prices, delivery times and costs may change in the meantime. By linking to selected online shops and partners, we may receive a small affiliate commission. There are no additional costs for you.

                    Laura

                    Beach and snorkeling expert
                    Laura lives in Greece and couldn't imagine a day without the sea on her doorstep. When she's not writing for BeyondSurfing, she likes to spend her free time on the beach or in the water with snorkeling gear.

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