When going on outdoor adventures like kayaking, boating, hiking, or camping, keeping your gear dry is very important. This is where a dry bag comes in. A dry bag is a waterproof bag that protects your belongings from rain, splashes, and even full submersion in water. People use dry bags to keep clothes, electronics, food, and other essentials safe and dry.
With more people enjoying water sports and outdoor activities, the demand for high-quality dry bags has grown. Many companies in the United States make strong, durable, and waterproof dry bags to help people protect their gear. Some brands focus on affordable, everyday use, while others create high-performance dry bags for extreme conditions.
In this blog, we will introduce the top 10 dry bag manufacturers in the US. These companies are known for making reliable, long-lasting dry bags that are perfect for different activities. Whether you need a lightweight bag for travel, a heavy-duty bag for boating, or a stylish bag for everyday use, you’ll find the best options here. Let’s explore the top dry bag brands and what makes them special.
What to Look for in a High-Quality Dry Bag?
A dry bag is an important item for people who love boating, kayaking, camping, hiking, and other outdoor activities. It helps keep your belongings safe and dry, even in wet conditions. But not all dry bags are the same. Some are more waterproof, stronger, and last longer than others. If you want a high-quality dry bag, here are the key features to look for.
1. Waterproof Material
The most important job of a dry bag is to keep water out. The material it is made from affects how waterproof it is.
- Best Materials for Dry Bags:
- PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)– Strong, flexible, and fully waterproof. Often used for heavy-duty dry bags.
- TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane)– Lighter and more flexible than PVC but still waterproof and durable.
- Nylon with Waterproof Coating– Some dry bags are made of thick nylon with a waterproof coating, making them lightweight and water-resistant.
- Why It Matters:
- A high-quality waterproof materialkeeps your gear safe, even in heavy rain or water splashes.
- PVC and TPU bags are better for boating and kayaking, while nylon dry bags work well for hiking and travel.
2. Strong and Durable Construction
A good dry bag should be tough and long-lasting. It should handle rough conditions, heavy use, and outdoor adventures.
- Key Features to Look For:
- Thick, tear-resistant fabricthat does not easily rip or wear out.
- Reinforced seamsto prevent leaks.
- Scratch and puncture resistanceto handle rough surfaces like rocks, sand, and boat decks.
- Why It Matters:
- A weak dry bag can develop holes or leaks, which means your items could get wet.
- A stronger bag lasts longer, saving you money over time.
3. Reliable Waterproof Closure System
Even if a dry bag is made from waterproof material, it must close properly to keep water out.
- Types of Waterproof Closures:
- Roll-Top Closure– The most common type. You roll the top 3–5 times and buckle it shut to create a tight, waterproof seal.
- Zipper Seals– Found on high-end dry bags, these airtight zippers offer full waterproof protection but can be expensive.
- Welded Seams– Instead of stitching, high-quality dry bags use heat-sealed seams to prevent water from seeping through.
- Why It Matters:
- A roll-top closureworks well for most outdoor activities.
- Zipper sealsare great for fully submersible dry bags but require maintenance.
- Heat-sealed seamsmake a bag more waterproof and durable.
4. Size and Capacity Options
Dry bags come in different sizes, and choosing the right one depends on what you need to carry.
- Common Dry Bag Sizes and Uses:
- 5L (Small)– Best for phones, wallets, keys, and small personal items.
- 10L (Medium)– Good for a change of clothes, food, or small gear.
- 20L (Large)– Fits several clothing items, a towel, and medium-sized gear.
- 30L+ (Extra Large)– Great for camping, kayaking, or multi-day trips where you need to store lots of gear.
- Why It Matters:
- Smaller bagsare easy to carry but may not fit everything you need.
- Larger bagshold more but can be bulky and heavy.
- Some dry bags come in sets with multiple sizes, giving you more options.
5. Comfortable Straps and Carrying Options
A good dry bag should be easy to carry, especially if you plan to use it for hiking, kayaking, or travel.
- Types of Carrying Straps:
- Single Shoulder Strap– Good for small- to medium-sized bags, making them easy to carry over one shoulder.
- Backpack-Style Straps– Found on larger dry bags, great for hiking and long trips.
- Hand Carry Handle– A strong handle makes it easy to grab and move the bag.
- Why It Matters:
- A comfortable carrying systemprevents strain on your shoulders and back.
- Backpack-style dry bags are best for long hikesor carrying heavy loads.
6. Extra Features for Convenience
Some dry bags come with extra features that make them more useful and easier to use.
- Waterproof Phone Case– Some dry bags include a small waterproof pouch for phones and electronics.
- External Pockets– Mesh or zippered pockets allow you to store small items separately.
- Transparent Windows– A clear panel lets you see inside the bag without opening it.
- D-Rings & Attachment Points– Useful for attaching the dry bag to a kayak, boat, or backpack.
Why It Matters:
- These features make organizing and accessing your items easier.
- They can add extra conveniencewithout making the bag too bulky.
Top 10 Dry Bag Manufacturers in the US
A good dry bag keeps your belongings safe and dry during outdoor activities like boating, kayaking, hiking, and camping. Many companies in the United States make high-quality dry bags that are strong, waterproof, and built to last. Some brands focus on affordable everyday use, while others create heavy-duty bags for extreme adventures.
Below are 10 of the best dry bag manufacturers in the US. These companies are known for making durable, reliable, and well-designed dry bags that fit different needs.
1. YETI – Best for High-End, Heavy-Duty Dry Bags
- About the Brand:YETI is a well-known company that makes high-quality outdoor gear, including coolers, backpacks, and waterproof bags.
- What Makes Their Dry Bags Special?
- Made from puncture-resistant, heavy-duty material.
- Uses HydroLok™ zipper technology, which is completely waterproof.
- Designed to handle rough conditionslike camping, fishing, and off-road adventures.
- Best For:Extreme outdoor use, professional gear storage, and heavy-duty protection.
2. SealLine – Best for Kayaking and Water Sports
- About the Brand:SealLine specializes in waterproof gear for kayaking, rafting, and paddleboarding.
- What Makes Their Dry Bags Special?
- Uses radio-frequency (RF) welded seamsfor 100% waterproofing.
- Made from marine-grade materialsthat resist UV damage, abrasion, and water pressure.
- Offers various sizes, from small day-use bagsto large expedition bags.
- Best For:Kayakers, boaters, and water sports enthusiasts.
3. Watershed Drybags – Best for Military-Grade Waterproofing
- About the Brand:Watershed Drybags makes extreme waterproof bags used by military, rescue teams, and professional adventurers.
- What Makes Their Dry Bags Special?
- Uses ZipDry® closure system, creating an airtight, leak-proof seal.
- Trusted by military and rescue teamsfor keeping gear dry in harsh conditions.
- Made from high-strength fabricwith reinforced seams for extra durability.
- Best For:Rescue operations, military use, and extreme outdoor adventures.
4. Earth Pak – Best for Affordable, Everyday Use
- About the Brand:Earth Pak creates affordable and durable waterproof bags for casual outdoor users.
- What Makes Their Dry Bags Special?
- Budget-friendlywithout sacrificing quality.
- Comes with a free waterproof phone case.
- Uses lightweight, flexible materialthat is easy to pack.
- Best For:Casual campers, travelers, and people looking for an affordable dry bag.
5. Skog Å Kust – Best for Stylish, Lightweight Dry Bags
- About the Brand:Skog Å Kust focuses on Scandinavian-inspired designs, making sleek, modern, and waterproof gear.
- What Makes Their Dry Bags Special?
- Uses lightweight TPU material, making it easy to carry.
- Available in bright, stylish colors.
- Includes backpack strapsfor easy carrying.
- Best For:Travelers, hikers, and those who want a stylish and lightweight dry bag.
6. NRS (Northwest River Supplies) – Best for Whitewater Rafting and Outdoor Adventures
- About the Brand:NRS is a top brand for river and water sports gear, including rafting, kayaking, and canoeing equipment.
- What Makes Their Dry Bags Special?
- Made with tough, waterproof PVC fabric.
- UV-resistant and abrasion-proof, making it great for long-term outdoor use.
- Designed for rafting, kayaking, and fishing trips.
- Best For:People who spend a lot of time on rivers, lakes, or oceans.
7. Pelican – Best for Rugged, Protective Dry Bags
- About the Brand:Pelican is famous for making rugged protective gear, including dry cases, waterproof bags, and storage solutions.
- What Makes Their Dry Bags Special?
- Offers crushproof and watertight dry casesfor electronics.
- Uses industrial-strength materialsto protect against water, dust, and impact.
- Great for protecting cameras, drones, and expensive gear.
- Best For:Photographers, travelers, and professionals who need tough protection.
8. Patagonia – Best for Eco-Friendly Dry Bags
- About the Brand:Patagonia is known for eco-friendly outdoor products made from sustainable and recycled materials.
- What Makes Their Dry Bags Special?
- Made from recycled, waterproof fabric.
- Uses welded seamsto prevent leaks.
- Designed for hikers and travelerswho care about sustainability.
- Best For:Environmentally-conscious adventurers.
9. Aqua Quest – Best for Lightweight and Compact Dry Bags
- About the Brand:Aqua Quest makes lightweight, packable dry bags for travelers and backpackers.
- What Makes Their Dry Bags Special?
- Ultra-lightweight design, perfect for hiking and travel.
- Offers compression dry bagsto save space.
- Affordable and easy to pack.
- Best For:Backpackers and travelers who need a lightweight, space-saving dry bag.
10. Mustang Survival – Best for Marine Safety and Heavy-Duty Use
- About the Brand:Mustang Survival makes marine safety gear, including dry bags for boating, fishing, and rescue operations.
- What Makes Their Dry Bags Special?
- Made from extra-durable, waterproof materials.
- Designed for coast guards, fishermen, and boaters.
- Includes marine-grade straps and bucklesfor secure fastening.
- Best For:People who need professional-grade waterproof storage for marine environments.
How to Choose the Best Dry Bag for Your Needs
Choosing the right dry bag is important if you want to keep your gear safe and dry during outdoor activities. Whether you’re boating, hiking, camping, or traveling, the best dry bag depends on how you plan to use it.
Different dry bags have different sizes, materials, and features. To make sure you get the best one for your needs, let’s break down the key things to consider when buying a dry bag.
1. Choose the Right Size
Dry bags come in many sizes, from small pouches to large storage bags. The size you need depends on what you want to carry.
Common Dry Bag Sizes and Their Uses:
- 5L (Small)– Holds small personal items like phones, keys, wallets, or snacks. Great for quick trips or short activities.
- 10L (Medium)– Can store a change of clothes, small towels, or light gear. Ideal for day hikes or kayaking trips.
- 20L (Large)– Can fit multiple clothing items, shoes, and bigger gear. A good choice for overnight trips or water sports.
- 30L+ (Extra Large)– Best for multi-day trips, camping gear, and larger equipment. These bags can hold tents, sleeping bags, and multiple outfits.
2. Pick the Right Material
Dry bags are made from different materials that affect durability, weight, and waterproofing.
Common Dry Bag Materials:
- PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)– A heavy-duty material that is completely waterproof and durable. Best for boating, rafting, and extreme outdoor use.
- TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane)– Lighter and more flexible than PVC but still very waterproof. Great for travelers and backpackers.
- Coated Nylon– A lightweight fabric with a waterproof coating. Works well for hiking and camping but may not be as waterproof as PVC or TPU.
3. Select a Reliable Waterproof Closure
Even if a dry bag is made of waterproof material, it needs a proper closure system to keep water out.
Types of Dry Bag Closures:
- Roll-Top Closure– The most common type. You roll the top 3–5 times and buckle it shut to create a watertight seal.
- Zipper Seals– Used on premium dry bags. These airtight zippers provide 100% waterproof protection but require maintenance.
- Welded Seams– High-quality dry bags have heat-sealed seams instead of stitching, preventing leaks.
4. Think About Carrying Comfort
Some dry bags are easy to carry, while others can be bulky and uncomfortable. If you need to carry your dry bag for long distances, look for one with comfortable straps.
Types of Dry Bag Carrying Options:
- Single Shoulder Strap– Great for small and medium-sized bags, making them easy to carry over one shoulder.
- Backpack-Style Straps– Found on larger dry bags, perfect for hiking and travel.
- Hand Carry Handle– A strong handle makes it easy to grab and move the bag.
Conclusion
Finding the right dry bag is important for keeping your gear safe and dry during outdoor adventures. Whether you’re boating, kayaking, hiking, or traveling, choosing a high-quality dry bag from a trusted manufacturer ensures better protection, durability, and long-lasting use.
In this article, we explored the top 10 dry bag manufacturers in the US, each offering unique features for different needs:
- YETI, Watershed, and Pelicanprovide heavy-duty, high-performance dry bags for extreme conditions.
- SealLine and NRSspecialize in waterproof bags for kayaking and whitewater sports.
- Earth Pak and Aqua Questoffer affordable, lightweight dry bags for everyday use.
- Skog Å Kust and Patagoniafocus on stylish, eco-friendly designs for travelers and hikers.
- Mustang Survivalmakes marine-grade waterproof bags for professionals and boaters.
When choosing a dry bag, consider size, material, waterproofing level, carrying options, and special features to find the best one for your activities. By selecting a trusted brand, you can enjoy better quality, longer lifespan, and superior protection for your belongings.
No matter where your adventures take you, investing in a well-made dry bag will help keep your gear dry and secure for years to come.
