Best Kayaking Dry Bags

Keep Your Kit Dry on the Water When Kayaking.

When out on a kayaking adventure one thing is guaranteed, you’re going to get wet and so is your gear (medicine, rescue kit, first aid, food, clothing, electronics, smartphones etc). It is amazing how quickly your kit can become waterlogged and ruined if it’s not protected by a waterproof bag. Dry bags are essential for all water activities, especially kayaking. These bags are designed to keep your gear dry and safe from water damage. So, what should you look for in a kayaking dry bag, and which are the best options available? In this article, we’ll review the best kayaking dry bags and highlight what makes them stand out.

Different kinds of kayaking

Kayaking is a popular activity for nature lovers and adventure seekers. There are different kinds of kayaking, ranging from leisurely paddling on calm waters to extreme whitewater kayaking. One of the most common types of kayaking is sea kayaking, where kayakers navigate the sea or large lakes while enjoying the sights and sounds of the water.

For those who enjoy a challenge, whitewater kayaking is a thrilling experience that involves tackling rapids and navigating through narrow canyons. Flat river kayaking is also a popular type where kayakers can paddle through beautiful scenery while enjoying the gentle flow of the river. Read our Water Safety article to understand white water grades.

Kayaking can also be used for fishing, with fishing kayaks specifically designed for this purpose. Kayaking is also a method of transportation in some areas, with kayakers paddling through narrow channels or fjords to explore the beauty of the area. Whatever kind of kayaking you prefer, it is an activity that can be enjoyed by all ages and skill levels, providing a great way to spend time outdoors. No matter the discipline you undertake, a dry bag will come in handy.

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Dry Bags for Kayaking: What to Look For?

First off, there are a number of different kayaking disciplines as well as a few different scenarios for having a dry bag whilst kayaking. For instance, creek boaters, canoeists and sea kayakers may take kit with them in dry bags, whilst play boaters may not. However, every kayaker will need a kit bag for storing key items, like their BA, wetsuit, drysuit, throw bags etc, these large kayaking dry bags are perfect for transporting the kit in the car etc.

So most kayakers will need a large dry bag kit bag and a selection of smaller dry bags for separating wet and dry kit. There are also deck bags which are used by sea kayakers to add storage to the exterior of the kayak for longer expeditions.

Waterproof Materials

You should be looking for a waterproof bag for kayaking, avoid any bag that claims to be “water-resistant” and opt for a dry bag that is completely waterproof. The best dry bags for kayaking are made with materials such as TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) or nylon with a waterproof coating. This way you will purchase a kayak dry bag that will work. Water always finds a way, water resistant dry abgs are no use.

Different Sizes and Capacities

Choose the correct dry bag for the job in hand, if your looking for a kayaking dry bag for kit make sure it has enough room to fit all your kayaking gear into. If you’re looking for a small dry bag to separate key items like your first aid kit,  dry clothes, and a communications device (smartphone etc), then grab a few small dry bags. Dry bags come in different sizes and capacities. Choose the appropriate size based on the length of your trip and the amount of gear you plan to bring.

For smaller internal bags to separate kit, you can choose sizes between 1 and 10L dry bags.

Lightweight and Convenient to Carry

When kayaking, it’s crucial to have gear that’s lightweight and easy to carry. For kit, choose a dry bag that’s portable,  Look for options that come with shoulder straps or handles for easy transport. usually called Dry bag rucksacks or dry bag holdalls.

Sea Kayaking and Sea Kayak Touring Dry Bag Options

Sea kayaking is probably the most intensive dry bag kayaking discipline. You will need kit bags, as well as dry bags to store items for long adventures, and deck bags. Sea kayaking expeditions, just like swimpacking, bikepacking or backpacking can take everything they require for overnight and multi-day adventures. Housing everything from tarps, tents, sleeping bag, stoves, tools, food, clothes and more in their onboard dry bags. A selection of robust, high-quality dry bags is recommended for expedition sea kayaking. 

Choosing the Best Dry Bag for Kayaking