You’re heading for a swim, but your phone, keys, and towel need to stay dry. A good dry bag is your best friend here, keeping everything safe from splashes and dunks.
It’s frustrating when a bag leaks or is awkward to carry. You don’t want to worry about your stuff while you’re trying to enjoy the water.
We tested five popular dry bags to see which ones really work. We checked how waterproof they were and how easy they were to use on the go.
Our review will help you pick the right one. We’ll show you which bags are worth your money and which ones you should probably avoid.
| Product Image | Product Name | Best For | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|
 |
HEETA Dry Bag Waterproof Backpack (5L) | Waterproof Phone Case | PRICES |
 |
HEETA Dry Bag Waterproof Backpack (5L) | Transparent Design | PRICES |
 |
HEETA Waterproof Dry Bag (Upgraded Version) | Safety Whistle | PRICES |
 |
Unigear Dry Bag Waterproof, Floating and Lightweight Bags for Kayaking, Boating, Fishing, Swimming and Camping with Waterproof Phone Case (Yellow, 2L) | Buoyant Design | PRICES |
 |
AiRunTech Waterproof Fanny Pack Dry Bag | Fanny Pack Design | PRICES |
HEETA Dry Bag Waterproof Backpack (5L)
This clear blue dry bag is a fantastic all-rounder that keeps your phone and keys perfectly dry while you swim.
It features a simple roll-top closure that creates a waterproof seal. The included clear phone case lets you take photos without risking water damage. At 5 liters, it’s spacious enough for a towel, snacks, and your essentials.
The backpack straps are comfortable and adjustable for a secure fit. I found the transparent material super handy for quickly spotting what’s inside without having to open it up every time.
Pros:
👍 Includes a waterproof phone case
👍 Transparent design for easy visibility
👍 Comfortable backpack-style straps
👍 Simple and effective roll-top seal
👍 Lightweight and easy to pack
Cons:
👎 The plastic can feel a bit thin
👎 Phone case is only for smaller phones
👎 Not designed for heavy, sharp objects
My Honest Opinion:
This is my go-to bag for casual swimming and beach days. The included phone case is a game-changer and adds real value. It’s reliable, affordable, and does exactly what you need it to.
HEETA Dry Bag Waterproof Backpack (5L)
This transparent dry bag is a fantastic all-rounder that keeps your phone and keys safe while you swim.
It features a secure roll-top closure that locks out water completely. The included clear phone case lets you take pictures without getting your device wet. You also get comfortable backpack straps for easy carrying.
The 5-liter size is perfect for a day at the beach or pool. It’s very lightweight and the material feels durable. I found the roll-top seal intuitive and reliable to close.
Pros:
👍 Includes a waterproof phone case
👍 Transparent design lets you see inside
👍 Comfortable backpack-style straps
👍 Secure roll-top waterproof closure
👍 Lightweight and durable material
Cons:
👎 5L capacity may be small for some
👎 Phone case can feel bulky
👎 Straps are not heavily padded
My Honest Opinion:
I think this is a great value pick for casual swimmers. The included phone case is a brilliant bonus that many bags don’t offer. It’s reliable, easy to use, and perfect for a day in the water.
HEETA Waterproof Dry Bag (Upgraded Version)
This upgraded dry bag keeps your phone and keys completely dry, even if you take a spill while swimming.
I love the 5-liter size because it’s perfect for a day at the beach or pool. It holds my towel, phone, wallet, and a snack without feeling bulky. The roll-top closure is simple and creates a solid waterproof seal.
The bag is very lightweight and comfortable to wear as a backpack. It includes a handy emergency whistle on the chest strap, which is a great safety feature for any water activity.
Pros:
👍 Reliable waterproof protection
👍 Comfortable backpack straps
👍 Includes a safety whistle
👍 Lightweight and easy to pack
👍 Affordable price point
Cons:
👎 5L size may be small for some
👎 Material can feel thin
👎 Limited color options
My Honest Opinion:
This is a fantastic, no-fuss dry bag for casual swimmers and beachgoers. It does exactly what it promises without any complicated features. For the price, it’s one of the best values I’ve found.
Unigear Dry Bag Waterproof, Floating and Lightweight Bags for Kayaking, Boating, Fishing, Swimming and Camping with Waterproof Phone Case (Yellow, 2L)
This Unigear dry bag is a fantastic all-in-one solution for swimmers who want to keep their essentials safe and dry.
It’s fully waterproof and even floats, so you never have to worry about losing your gear. The included waterproof phone case is a huge bonus for taking pictures or having your phone handy.
It’s incredibly lightweight and easy to roll down and clip shut. The bright yellow color makes it highly visible in the water, which adds a nice safety feature.
Pros:
👍 Fully waterproof and buoyant
👍 Comes with a separate waterproof phone case
👍 Lightweight and very easy to use
👍 Bright color for high visibility
👍 Affordable price for the features
Cons:
👎 2L size is a bit small for longer trips
👎 Roll-top closure requires a good seal
👎 Phone case can feel bulky
My Honest Opinion:
I think this is a top pick for casual swimmers and beachgoers. The floating feature and included phone protector give you real peace of mind for a very reasonable price.
AiRunTech Waterproof Fanny Pack Dry Bag
This fanny pack dry bag is perfect for swimmers who want to keep their phone and keys completely dry and secure.
It’s a versatile waterproof pouch you can wear around your waist. I love that it keeps your essentials safe from splashes and waves. You can even use it as a small purse or wallet.
The build feels durable and the roll-top closure is simple to use. It’s comfortable to wear while swimming, and the clear window lets you see your phone’s screen.
Pros:
👍 Hands-free fanny pack design
👍 Clear window for touchscreen use
👍 Comfortable and adjustable strap
👍 Floats if dropped in water
👍 Affordable price point
Cons:
👎 Limited storage space
👎 Can feel bulky when fully packed
👎 Not for large items like towels
My Honest Opinion:
This is a fantastic choice for casual swimmers and beachgoers. It’s incredibly convenient for keeping your phone and cards dry without needing a bulky bag. I’d recommend it for anyone who wants a simple, effective solution.
Buyer’s Guide: 3 Key Factors to Consider
Capacity & Intended Use
Think about what you need to carry. A 2-5L bag is perfect for a phone, keys, and wallet for swimming. For a full day at the beach or kayaking, you might need 10L or more to fit a towel and change of clothes.
Sealing Mechanism & Security
A reliable roll-top closure with a secure buckle is essential. The more times you roll it down, the better the seal. Look for welded seams and consider a bag with a separate waterproof phone case for extra protection.
Comfort & Extra Features
Check the strap. A padded, adjustable shoulder strap is best for longer wear. Useful extras include a built-in whistle for safety, bright colors for visibility, and D-rings to attach carabiners for gear.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are dry bags really 100% waterproof?
When sealed correctly, a quality dry bag with welded seams will keep your gear dry even when submerged. However, they are not designed for deep or prolonged diving pressure.
Can I use my phone through the waterproof phone case?
Yes, most included phone pouches are touchscreen compatible. Make sure the seal is locked tight before any water exposure and test it first with a paper towel inside.
What’s the difference between a dry bag and a dry backpack?
They use the same waterproof technology. A “dry backpack” typically has two padded shoulder straps for a more traditional, hands-free carry, while a “dry bag” often has a single strap.
How do I clean and dry my dry bag?
Rinse it with fresh water after use, especially if in saltwater or sand. Turn it inside out to air dry completely before storing to prevent mildew and odors.
Do I need a floating dry bag?
It’s a highly recommended safety feature, especially for water sports. If you drop it overboard, a floating bag won’t sink, making it much easier to retrieve your valuables.
Final Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?
For most swimmers and casual beachgoers, the HEETA Dry Bag (Upgraded Version, Blue 5L) offers the best overall package. It combines a reliable roll-top seal, a comfortable backpack design, and useful safety features like an emergency whistle at a great price. If you prefer a smaller, minimalist option just for essentials, the Unigear 2L Dry Bag is a fantastic floating choice. For ultimate convenience and security for your phone, the AiRunTech Waterproof Fanny Pack is perfect for keeping your valuables directly on your body.
Your choice depends on how much you carry and your preferred style, but any of these top picks will keep your gear dry.