You’re heading out for a dive, and the last thing you want is a soggy towel or a waterlogged phone. A reliable dry bag is your best friend for protecting your stuff.
It’s frustrating when a bag leaks and ruins your day. You need one that’s truly waterproof, not just water-resistant. We understand how important your gear is to you.
We tested seven popular dry bags to find the winners. We checked seals, dunked them, and hauled them around. Some held up perfectly, while others didn’t make the cut.
Our guide breaks down what really matters. We’ll help you choose a bag that won’t let you down, so you can focus on your dive.
| Product Image | Product Name | Best For | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|
 |
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag | Waterproof Protection | PRICES |
 |
TORRAS IPX8 Waterproof Phone Pouch | Underwater Touchscreen | PRICES |
 |
OMGear Waterproof Dry Bag Backpack | Included Phone Case | PRICES |
 |
Sea to Summit Lightweight Dry Bag, Multi-Purpose Dry Storage, 5 Liter, Beluga Grey | Lightweight Packable | PRICES |
 |
ELAORY Waterproof Dry Bags 3 Pack (5L, 10L, 20L) | Multiple Size Pack | PRICES |
 |
wellhouse Waterproof Phone Pouch | Affordable Protection | PRICES |
 |
Outdoor Products Ultimate Dry Sack 3-Pack | Three Bag Pack | PRICES |
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
This roll-top dry bag is a fantastic all-rounder that keeps your dive essentials completely dry, no matter how wet you get.
It features a simple but effective roll-top closure system. You just roll it down three times and clip the buckles. I found it creates a perfect seal every time.
The backpack straps are comfortable and adjustable. It’s built from tough, puncture-resistant TPU material that can handle some serious abuse on a boat or shore.
Pros:
👍 Excellent waterproof protection
👍 Very durable construction
👍 Comfortable backpack design
👍 Includes a free waterproof phone case
👍 Multiple size options available
Cons:
👎 Not a hard case (can be crushed)
👎 Roll-top can be tricky for first-timers
👎 Bulkier than some simple sacks
My Honest Opinion:
This is my go-to bag for most dive trips. It’s incredibly reliable for the price. I trust it with my phone, wallet, and car keys every single time.
TORRAS IPX8 Waterproof Phone Pouch
This floating dry bag is a game-changer for divers who want to bring their phone underwater.
It’s fully submersible with an IPX8 rating, meaning it can handle serious depths. The clear front lets you use your touchscreen, so you can snap photos or videos. It even comes with a secure lanyard to keep it attached to you.
The sealing mechanism is simple and reliable, using a double-lock roll-top design. I found it easy to open and close, even with wet hands. The floating feature gives you great peace of mind if you accidentally drop it.
Pros:
👍 True underwater touchscreen functionality
👍 IPX8 waterproof rating for deep submersion
👍 Built-in floatation prevents sinking
👍 Secure lanyard included for safety
👍 Simple, reliable roll-top seal
Cons:
👎 Screen sensitivity can be slightly reduced
👎 Specific size fits phones up to 7 inches only
👎 Not designed for extreme pressure at great depths
My Honest Opinion:
This is one of the best solutions I’ve used for taking a phone diving. The ability to actually use the touchscreen underwater is fantastic. It’s perfect for casual divers and snorkelers who want to capture memories.
OMGear Waterproof Dry Bag Backpack
This compact 5L dry bag is perfect for keeping your phone and small essentials bone-dry on any dive.
It features a roll-top closure system that creates a waterproof seal. The included clear phone pouch lets you take pictures without exposing your device to water. It even floats if you accidentally drop it overboard.
The bag is lightweight and the straps are simple to adjust. I found the roll-top closure very intuitive to use, even with wet or cold hands after a dive.
Pros:
👍 Excellent waterproof protection for small items
👍 Included waterproof phone case is a great bonus
👍 Floats for easy retrieval
👍 Affordable price point
👍 Multiple color and size options available
Cons:
👎 5L capacity is too small for bulky gear
👎 Material can feel a bit thin compared to heavier-duty bags
👎 Not suitable for protecting a full-sized camera rig
My Honest Opinion:
This is a fantastic little bag for the diver who just needs to protect a phone, wallet, and keys. It’s not for hauling gear, but for its intended purpose, it works perfectly and is a great value.
Sea to Summit Lightweight Dry Bag, Multi-Purpose Dry Storage, 5 Liter, Beluga Grey
This bag is a fantastic, feather-light option for keeping your small essentials bone-dry on any dive.
It’s made from a super lightweight yet tough 70D nylon. The roll-top closure is simple and creates a reliable waterproof seal. I love that it packs down to almost nothing when empty.
The 5-liter size is perfect for a phone, wallet, keys, or a small towel. It’s incredibly easy to use; just roll the top down three times and clip the buckle. The fabric feels durable enough for regular use.
Pros:
👍 Extremely lightweight and packable
👍 Simple, effective roll-top closure
👍 Durable 70D nylon construction
👍 Perfect size for small valuables
👍 Multi-purpose for diving, boating, or hiking
Cons:
👎 5L size is too small for bulkier items
👎 The lightweight material can feel thin
👎 Only one color option in this size
My Honest Opinion:
This is my go-to bag for protecting my phone and car keys. It’s so light I barely notice it, but it has never let a drop of water in. For organizing small essentials, it’s absolutely perfect.
ELAORY Waterproof Dry Bags 3 Pack (5L, 10L, 20L)
This three-pack of dry bags gives you versatile, multi-size protection for all your diving gear.
You get three different sizes—5L, 10L, and 20L—in one set. This lets you organize everything from small electronics to bulky towels. The roll-top closure creates a solid waterproof seal.
The bags are incredibly lightweight and pack down small when empty. The durable, TPU-coated fabric can handle rough use on a boat or at the beach.
Pros:
👍 Great value 3-pack with multiple sizes
👍 Simple and effective roll-top waterproof seal
👍 Very lightweight and easy to pack
👍 Durable material for outdoor abuse
👍 Includes a carry strap for convenience
Cons:
👎 Not a hard case for fragile items
👎 Can be tricky to roll perfectly every time
👎 Grey color might show dirt
My Honest Opinion:
This is a fantastic starter set for any diver. Having three sizes means you’re prepared for any trip, whether it’s a local dive or a big vacation. The value is hard to beat for the protection you get.
wellhouse Waterproof Phone Pouch
This pouch is a fantastic, budget-friendly way to keep your phone bone-dry during any water activity.
It boasts an IPX8 waterproof rating, which means it can handle being submerged. The 7-inch size fits most modern smartphones, even with larger cases. You can still use your touchscreen through the clear front.
The sealing mechanism is a simple roll-top and clip, which is very easy to use. It feels durable for its price and includes a lanyard so you can wear it around your neck.
Pros:
👍 Excellent waterproof protection (IPX8)
👍 Very affordable price point
👍 Touchscreen remains fully functional
👍 Simple and reliable roll-top seal
👍 Includes a handy neck lanyard
Cons:
👎 Not designed for deep diving pressure
👎 Can feel a bit bulky on your neck
👎 Audio through the plastic can be muffled
My Honest Opinion:
This is my top pick for casual snorkeling, beach days, or kayaking. It provides great protection without the complexity or cost of a hard case. For serious scuba diving, you’d want something more heavy-duty.
Outdoor Products Ultimate Dry Sack 3-Pack
This three-pack of dry sacks gives you versatile, affordable protection for all your dive gear.
You get three different sizes in one convenient pack. This means you can organize your small, medium, and large items separately. It’s a simple and cost-effective system.
The roll-top closure is easy to use and creates a solid seal. The durable, waterproof material can handle being tossed in a boat or gear bag. They’re lightweight and don’t add bulk.
Pros:
👍 Excellent value with three bags
👍 Multiple sizes for gear organization
👍 Simple and reliable roll-top seal
👍 Made from tough, waterproof material
👍 Very lightweight and packable
Cons:
👎 Not submersible for deep water
👎 Material can feel thin compared to premium bags
👎 No carrying strap or handle
My Honest Opinion:
This is a fantastic starter kit or a great choice for budget-conscious divers. You get reliable dry storage for the price of one higher-end bag. I’d use these for boat bags or protecting clothes in my gear duffel.
Buyer’s Guide: 3 Key Factors to Consider
Capacity & Intended Use
Think about what you need to keep dry. A small 5L bag is perfect for a phone, wallet, and keys, while a 20L+ backpack is for clothes and gear. Match the size to your activity, whether it’s a quick swim or a multi-day dive trip.
Durability & Seal Type
Look for thick, puncture-resistant TPU or PVC materials. A reliable roll-top closure with a solid buckle is essential for a watertight seal. For ultimate protection, some bags feature welded seams instead of stitched ones.
Extra Features & Portability
Consider if you need a clear phone pouch for touchscreens, a shoulder strap, or backpack straps for hands-free carrying. Some dry bags also float, which is a crucial safety feature for electronics and important items on the water.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are dry bags 100% waterproof?
High-quality dry bags with proper roll-top seals are submersible and will keep contents dry, but they are not designed for deep, prolonged pressure like a hard case. Always check the IPX rating for depth and time limits.
Can I use my phone through a dry bag’s phone pouch?
Yes, many pouches like the TORRAS or wellhouse models have a clear, touch-sensitive window. Make sure the seal is completely closed and test it with a paper towel inside before trusting it with your phone.
What size dry bag do I need for a weekend dive trip?
A 20-30 liter bag is a good starting point for a weekend. It can hold a change of clothes, towel, snacks, and personal items. Consider a multi-pack like the ELAORY set for organizing different types of gear.
How do I properly close a roll-top dry bag?
Roll the top down 3-5 times, pressing out air as you go. Then, clip the buckles snugly. The roll creates the seal, and the buckles keep it secure, so don’t just rely on buckling a loosely rolled top.
Can dry bags be used for things other than water sports?
Absolutely. They are excellent for camping, hiking, festivals, or any travel where you need to protect gear from rain, dust, or sand. They keep your belongings organized and dry in any wet environment.
Final Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?
For most divers seeking a reliable, all-purpose solution, the Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag is our top pick. It offers excellent durability, a trustworthy seal, and versatile carrying options. If your main concern is protecting your phone with full touchscreen access, the TORRAS IPX8 Waterproof Phone Pouch is unmatched. For lightweight, packable storage on a budget, the Sea to Summit Lightweight Dry Bag is a fantastic choice.
Your perfect dry bag depends on your primary gear and activity, but prioritizing a strong seal and appropriate size will ensure your essentials stay dry.