You’re ready for a day on the water, but you need to keep your phone and keys safe. A good dry bag is your most important paddle boarding accessory.
It’s frustrating when a cheap bag fails and soaks your gear. You don’t want to worry about leaks when you should be enjoying the view.
We tested seven popular dry bags to find the best ones. We looked at durability, seal quality, and how easy they are to use.
Our guide will help you pick the right bag for your adventures. Let’s find one that keeps everything perfectly dry, trip after trip.
| Product Image | Product Name | Best For | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|
 |
HEETA Dry Bag Waterproof Backpack (5L) | Transparent Design | PRICES |
 |
HEETA Dry Bag Waterproof Backpack | Transparent Design | PRICES |
 |
OCKLILY Waterproof Dry Bag, 70L | Massive Capacity | PRICES |
 |
HEETA Dry Bags Waterproof Backpack 40L | Massive Capacity | PRICES |
 |
IDRYBAG Dry Bag for Kayaking Waterproof 2L/5L/10L/15L/20L | Multiple Sizes | PRICES |
 |
Pelican Marine IP68 Waterproof Dry Bag 2L | IP68 Rating | PRICES |
 |
OMGear Waterproof Dry Bag Backpack | Flotation Feature | PRICES |
HEETA Dry Bag Waterproof Backpack (5L)
This transparent dry bag is a fantastic, budget-friendly choice for keeping your essentials safe and visible on the water.
Its 5-liter capacity is perfect for a phone, keys, wallet, and a small towel. I love the clear design because you can see your gear without having to open the roll-top seal. It also includes a separate waterproof phone case for extra protection.
The bag is incredibly lightweight and converts easily from a dry sack to a comfortable backpack. The roll-top closure is simple to use and feels very secure once you clip it down.
Pros:
👍 Excellent value for the price
👍 Transparent design for easy visibility
👍 Includes a separate waterproof phone case
👍 Converts from sack to backpack
👍 Lightweight and easy to pack
Cons:
👎 The 5L size is a bit small for longer trips
👎 Material can feel thin compared to heavier-duty bags
👎 Backpack straps are basic but functional
My Honest Opinion:
If you need a simple, reliable dry bag for short paddle boarding sessions, this HEETA bag is a winner. The transparency is a game-changer for quick access, and you really can’t beat the price for the features it offers.
HEETA Dry Bag Waterproof Backpack
This transparent dry bag is a fantastic, budget-friendly option that keeps your essentials visible and dry.
Its 5-liter capacity is perfect for a phone, keys, wallet, and a small towel. The included clear phone case is a brilliant bonus for taking pictures on the water. I love that you can see what’s inside without having to open it.
The roll-top closure is simple and secure, creating a reliable waterproof seal. It’s very lightweight and the backpack straps make it easy to carry on and off your board. The material feels durable enough for regular use.
Pros:
👍 Excellent value for the price
👍 Transparent design lets you see contents
👍 Includes a waterproof phone case
👍 Simple and effective roll-top seal
👍 Comfortable backpack straps
Cons:
👎 5L size is on the smaller side
👎 Material can feel a bit thin
👎 Not for heavy-duty or sharp objects
My Honest Opinion:
This is my top pick for casual paddlers who need basic, affordable protection. The see-through design and included phone case make it incredibly convenient for a day on the water.
OCKLILY Waterproof Dry Bag, 70L
This massive 70-liter bag is your best bet for multi-day paddle boarding trips where you need to haul a lot of gear.
Its huge capacity means you can pack clothes, food, and camping equipment for an overnight adventure. The roll-top closure and welded seams create a reliable waterproof seal to keep everything dry.
I found the quick-fixed straps very handy for securing it to my board’s deck rigging. The included air valve lets you compress the bag down to save space once it’s packed.
Pros:
👍 Massive 70L capacity for long trips
👍 Reliable roll-top waterproof seal
👍 Handy quick-fix straps for secure attachment
👍 Air valve for compressing packed gear
👍 Durable, welded construction
Cons:
👎 Very large for short, casual outings
👎 Can be bulky when fully packed
👎 Might be overkill for a simple day trip
My Honest Opinion:
This is the workhorse of dry bags. If you’re planning a paddle boarding camping trip or need to carry gear for a family, it’s perfect. For a quick two-hour paddle, it’s probably too much bag.
HEETA Dry Bags Waterproof Backpack 40L
This 40L backpack is a fantastic all-in-one solution for paddle boarders who need serious storage and total waterproof protection.
It’s a roll-top dry bag built into a comfortable hiking-style backpack. The 40-liter capacity is huge, letting you pack clothes, food, and gear for a full day on the water. I found it perfect for longer trips where you need to bring everything.
The padded shoulder straps make it easy to carry even when it’s fully loaded. The roll-top closure is simple to use and creates a reliable seal to keep all your essentials bone-dry, even if you take a spill.
Pros:
👍 Massive 40L storage capacity
👍 Comfortable, padded backpack straps
👍 Reliable roll-top waterproof seal
👍 Versatile for hiking and travel too
👍 Heavy-duty, durable construction
Cons:
👎 Can be bulky when not full
👎 Larger size may be overkill for short trips
👎 Only one main compartment
My Honest Opinion:
This is my top pick for paddle boarders planning full-day adventures. It holds an incredible amount of gear comfortably, and the waterproofing is totally trustworthy. If you need a packhorse of a dry bag, this is it.
IDRYBAG Dry Bag for Kayaking Waterproof 2L/5L/10L/15L/20L
This dry bag is a fantastic budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on essential waterproof protection.
It comes in five different sizes, so you can pick the perfect one for your phone and keys or a larger one for a full change of clothes. The roll-top closure is simple and effective, creating a solid seal to keep water out.
It’s made from durable, lightweight TPU material that feels tough enough for regular use. The adjustable shoulder strap makes it easy to carry, whether you’re on the board or heading to the water.
Pros:
👍 Excellent value for the price
👍 Available in five useful sizes (2L to 20L)
👍 Simple, reliable roll-top closure
👍 Includes a comfortable adjustable shoulder strap
👍 Lightweight and surprisingly durable build
Cons:
👎 The material can feel a bit stiff when new
👎 Not as heavy-duty as some premium brands
👎 Color options are somewhat limited
My Honest Opinion:
If you need solid, no-frills waterproofing without spending a lot, this IDRYBAG is a top choice. I’ve found it perfectly reliable for typical paddle boarding trips where you just need to keep your essentials dry.
Pelican Marine IP68 Waterproof Dry Bag 2L
This compact Pelican dry bag is a powerhouse of protection, keeping your phone and essentials bone-dry even if you take a swim.
It boasts a serious IP68 waterproof rating, which means it’s built for total submersion. The roll-top closure is simple but super effective for sealing out water. I also love the included clear phone case that lets you use your device without taking it out.
The 2-liter size is perfect for just your phone, keys, and wallet, making it an ideal minimalist bag. The backpack straps are comfortable and make it easy to wear while you’re paddling. It’s also surprisingly tough for its compact size.
Pros:
👍 IP68 waterproof rating is top-tier
👍 Includes a handy clear phone pouch
👍 Comfortable backpack-style straps
👍 Very durable and puncture-resistant
👍 Simple, reliable roll-top closure
Cons:
👎 2L capacity is quite small
👎 Can only fit the bare essentials
👎 Phone pouch can feel bulky inside
My Honest Opinion:
This is the dry bag I grab when I want maximum security for my phone and wallet without any bulk. It’s not for hauling gear, but for protecting your most important items, it’s fantastic. If you’re a minimalist paddler, this Pelican is a perfect match.
OMGear Waterproof Dry Bag Backpack
This compact 5L dry bag is a fantastic, budget-friendly choice for keeping your phone and small essentials bone-dry on the water.
It’s a simple roll-top sack that’s incredibly easy to use. You just put your gear in, roll the top down three times, and clip the buckle shut. I love that it includes a separate waterproof phone pouch, so you can access your camera without exposing everything else.
The material feels durable for the price, and the bright camo color makes it easy to spot. It’s lightweight and floats, which is a huge relief if you accidentally drop it overboard while paddle boarding.
Pros:
👍 Includes a separate waterproof phone case
👍 Very affordable price point
👍 Simple, reliable roll-top closure
👍 Floats if dropped in water
👍 Multiple color and size options
Cons:
👎 5L size is quite small (best for phone, keys, wallet)
👎 Shoulder strap is very basic and thin
👎 Material isn’t as heavy-duty as premium brands
My Honest Opinion:
This is a perfect “starter” dry bag. If you just need to protect your phone and car keys without spending a fortune, it’s a great buy. For larger gear like a change of clothes, you’ll want a bigger size.
Buyer’s Guide: 3 Key Factors to Consider
Capacity & Intended Use
Think about what you need to carry. A small 5L bag is perfect for a phone, keys, and wallet on a short paddle. For all-day trips or carrying bulky items like a change of clothes, look for 20L to 40L models.
Durability & Sealing Method
A reliable roll-top closure is essential for keeping water out. Check for thick, puncture-resistant TPU or PVC material. Bags with welded seams are more durable than stitched ones, which can leak over time.
Comfort & Extra Features
If you’ll be carrying it for long, padded backpack straps are a must. Look for useful add-ons like a clear phone case, air-release valve for compressing clothes, and D-rings for attaching gear externally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are dry bags really 100% waterproof?
When properly sealed with a tight 3-4 roll closure, high-quality dry bags are submersible and will keep your gear dry. However, they are not designed for deep, prolonged diving pressure.
What size dry bag do I need for paddle boarding?
For most paddlers, a 10L to 20L bag is the sweet spot. It can hold essentials like water, snacks, a light jacket, and electronics. Use a smaller 5L bag for just your phone and keys.
Can I use a dry bag as a regular backpack?
Yes, many models like the HEETA 40L are designed with cushioned straps for dual use. They work great for hiking or travel, but remember the roll-top opening is less convenient for quick access than a zipper.
How do I clean and dry my dry bag?
Rinse it with fresh water after use and hang it upside down with the roll-top open to air dry completely. Avoid storing it while damp, as this can lead to mildew and odors.
Do dry bags float?
Most do, especially when they contain some air. An air-release valve lets you push out excess air to compress contents, but leaving a little air inside helps with buoyancy if dropped overboard.
Final Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?
After reviewing the top options, the HEETA Dry Bag Backpack 40L is our top overall pick for paddle boarding. It offers the perfect balance of large capacity, comfortable backpack carry, and durable, waterproof construction. For a smaller, versatile option, the Pelican Marine IP68 Dry Bag 2L is unbeatable for securing your phone and essentials with its rugged, reliable design.
Your choice ultimately depends on how much gear you carry, but focusing on a trusted roll-top seal and comfortable straps will ensure you stay dry and happy on the water.