Finding the Right Dry Bag for Kayaking

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Kayaking can be a wet but wonderful sport. Being out in the water or even swimming in it by your kayak makes the activity so enjoyable. But every kayaker has to face the predicament: how do I keep my stuff dry? Dry bags are the solution! But choosing the right dry bag for kayaking can be difficult.

This article will help you find the right dry bag for kayaking based on my experience. It isn’t necessarily hard to find the right dry bag. You just need to look out for key factors. Additionally, as I always enjoy saying, the right dry bag for kayaking depends on your situation.

For example, if you’re new to kayaking, you might need a no-frills dry bag that will hold the basics, like car keys and your phone. If you are on whitewater, you might need an immensely durable, floating dry bag that’s bright in color. Your situation is always key when choosing the “tools of the outdoors” regardless of activity.

The Dry Bag Purpose

A dry bag for kayaking in its simplest form is a way to keep your stuff dry. That should be obvious. But your situation truly defines the dry bag purpose as I mentioned above.

Staying Dry in All Submersion Events

How wet your stuff will get defines the dry bag you need. Most dry bags are meant for light submersion on the surface of the water. A basic dray bag for kayaking flat water should be able to handle splashes of water. A more intense submersion in rapids will need to go completely underwater and still stay dry.

Prevent the Dry Bag from Sinking

Unless you want to go diving, your dry bag should float! Your dry bag comes in handy during those “rapid, unscheduled” dismemberments from your kayak. In no time, your precious phone could be at the bottom of the lake!

Additionally, the color of the dry bag is a forgotten element. A dark blue or green color easily blends in with the water if you fall out of the kayak. You risk losing your stuff regardless of if it’s a fast-flowing river you are on. Bright oranges and reds are a safe bet.

Durability

The durability of any product is key, especially with dry bags for kayaking. Make sure the material is tear-resistant, the mechanisms work, and any waterproof sealing is tough. Hard case dry bags are usually the most resistant to wear and tear. But these do not store well.

For my purposes, I opt for a hard case dry “bag”. I don’t carry much in terms of sensitive gear. A hard case like the Evergreen 56 ToughBox works perfectly for carrying your phone, keys, etc. A soft dry bag for kayaking, like the Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag is better when you need flexible storage.

Dry Bag for Kayaking Checklist

• Is the durability there based on reviews and materials used?
• Is the dry bag proven to float with items in it?
• Can it hold my stuff the way I need it to?
• Does it fit my situation? Does it meet my waterproof needs?
• Will I lose the dry bag if I fall in?

Recommendations

As far as actual product recommendations, the hard case and soft dry bag mentioned above are perfect for basic kayaking applications. I’ll provide some more insight below. A third choice for a robust storage solution would be a backpack-style dry bag for kayaking. Perfect if you plan to go kayak camping or carry the family’s gear!

Hard Case – Evergreen 56 Tough Box

The Evergreen 56 Tough Box checks all of my marks when it comes to a simple, durable option. Just big enough for the basics, floats, tough construction and it comes in BRIGHT orange! It’s perfect for most solo kayaking sessions. The biggest drawback is the lack of storage if you are bringing something like camera gear.

Soft Dry Bag – Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag

I like this choice due to all the various sizes that Earth Pak carries. If you have more stuff, this will work. But it’s less likely to hold up to any real submersion. It should float given its design, so if the Earth Pak falls off, you should be good. I’d also test the phone case that’s provided before using it underwater. However, the Earth Pak is still a suitable option as a dry bag for kayaking.

Dry Bag Backpack – Pelican ExoDry Large Dry Bag

For something you can wear, the Pelican is a great bang-for-your-buck choice. It has a similar design to most dry bags, but it’s wearable and contains extra pockets for storage. This dry bag is great if you bring a large chunk of sensitive gear with you. However, I would also be wary of getting this fully submersed in water. Plus, the color options aren’t the best. Regardless, for most kayakers’ needs, this is perfect when you require larger storage. With a great price!

Final Thoughts

There are a ton of options for dry bags to bring kayaking. As long as you know your situation, all the possible scenarios and what you are bringing, you should have no trouble finding the right option for you.

Now if you need somewhere to kayak in the Carolinas. I have the perfect blog section for you! My section about the North Carolina Piedmont features a few of my favorite spots for kayaking. Now, go out there, get your gear and enjoy the day!