Outdoor activities can be fun until it begins raining. Even when the activities you choose involve being in the water, you will require a safe place to keep your essential kit to protect it from water damage. The best item for this is a dry bag. You will need a dry bag whether you are cycling, canoeing, camping, storing important documents in a storm-prone area, or backpacking.

Is a dry bag waterproof?

A dry bag is a watertight bag that keeps your items dry during wet conditions. Wet gear is a turn-off. Just as much as you require a waterproof jacket for yourself, you will need a dry bag for your gear.

A dry bag is used to keep moisture from reaching the bag’s contents- food, phone, wallet, etc. It is totally water-impermeable and is therefore fully waterproof.

What are waterproof dry bags made of?

The best dry bags are strong and are resistant to abrasion. They are made from vinyl or nylon. Vinyl is used for smaller sized dry bags that you can use to put small personal items like a phone or wallet. Nylon is used to make most larger dry bags because it is more durable.

The nylon material is then covered with siliconised Cordura, which works as a waterproof coating and enables the bag to be abrasion-resistant. The density of the nylon fibres used to make a bag will determine how tough it will be.

How effective are dry bags?

Some dry bags have fully taped seams. This reinforcement keeps the seam waterproof and gives additional protection for your items. It also ensures that the bag’s contents remain dry even if the bag is completely submerged.

Additionally, dry bags are sealable, a feature that helps keep water from getting in. This means that a dry bag is designed to work effectively.

What is a dry bag used for?

The best dry bag has various uses. You can use tough and abrasion-resistant bags for hiking.

You can store your clothes, sleeping bag, food items, electronics, etc. Dry bags will carry the items you need for your hiking trip.
Some are equipped to compress items like jackets using a purge valve.
You can also use old dry bags to keep your trash Instead of leaving litter traces.
Some dry bags also have split chambers for both wet and dry gear.

How do you use a dry bag for best results?

Using a dry bag is not a complicated process. But you need to know how to use it for the best results.

Pack all the items you will need for your trip. It would help if you did not place any sharp objects pointing outwards as they may damage the bag. For your electronics, wrap them in your clothes to create a shock absorber. Also, heavy items should go to the bottom, while the items you will mostly use should be on top. Sensitive items or items that can be easily damaged should not be stored at the bottom.
Compress your items as much as is needed. Compressing is essential for removing air in the dry bag.
Fold over the edges at the bag’s opening about three times or until there’s no space left.
Buckle up the clips together on the side that is rolled up. This ensures the roll top is secure and watertight.

Do dry bags float?

Dry bags will float because sealing them traps air inside the bag, making it possible to float. This floating feature makes retrieving your bag easy. However, to prevent your bag from floating away, you should string it to the boat.

Can I get submersible dry bags?

Yes, these are the best dry bags in fabric dry bags. They are durable and are made from tough fabric with sealed seams. They can stay underwater for a decent amount of time but not for prolonged periods. But if you can pair them with smaller dry bags, they will keep your gear dry for longer.

How to store a dry bag

After use, hand wash your dry bag with water and a non-detergent soap and air dry it thoroughly. Turn the dry bag inside out and air dry for a while, then turn it right side out and let it air dry. Fold your dry bag loosely and put it in a container that will allow free air circulation. Store it in a cool, dry place.

Best dry bags

You will find the best dry bags in various sizes and shapes. Some look like backpacks with super comfortable carry harnesses, small sizes for your phone or documents, and duffels tough enough for tying to your car’s roof or a raft.

Dry bag model

Roll-top dry bags

These bags seal water out more effectively. A snapping buckle accompanies the rolling of the top to ensure the bag is watertight while providing handles for easy carrying.

Zipper seal bags

These dry bags have a zipper, and they look like freezer bags. The zipper effectively seals out water. However, the zipper requires proper lubrication to ensure the seal works as it should.

Size

There are various sizes available to suit your needs. A small 5-litre bag is ideal for small personal items like a first aid kit, electronics, toiletries, food, etc. A 10-litre bag is suitable for storing extra clothes, while a 20-litre bag can store a few days change of clothes, a sleeping bag, among others.

30-litre bags are ideal for storing a change of clothes for two people and other essentials you require for a weeklong trip.

Straps

Depending on the dry bag you purchase, carrying straps will differ. Some bags have backpack straps that come with the bag. A duffel bag, on the other hand, has straps that you can throw over your shoulder.

Versatility

Not only is the best dry bag waterproof, but it is also sand, snow and dirt-proof. They can protect your gear from damage by these elements. It can also carry all the items you require for your trip. Fill a 10-litre bag with clothes to make a cosy pillow. Also, you can use a bag that has a cushioned interior as an insulated sit mat.

Conclusion

A dry bag is a worthy investment for all your outdoor activity trips. The durability and effectiveness of your dry bag will highly depend on the materials used to make the bag, as well as its current condition. If the bag is well maintained, it will serve you for longer.

A dry bag will work, but for the particular purpose it is designed to be used. It is essential to know its limitations.

Also, it is important to know when to double or triple-bag your gear and to ensure you use the dry bag that’s most appropriate for your trip.