You’re planning a kayaking trip and you need to keep your gear dry. A good dry bag isn’t just an accessory; it’s essential for protecting your phone, clothes, and snacks from the water.
But with so many brands and sizes, choosing the right one is tricky. You don’t want to get out on the water only to find your bag has leaked.
We tested seven of the most popular dry bags available in the UK. We checked their seals, durability, and how easy they are to use when you’re on the move.
Our guide breaks down what really matters. We’ll help you find a reliable bag that won’t let you down, so you can focus on enjoying your paddle.
| Product Image | Product Name | Best For | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|
 |
HEETA Dry Bag Waterproof Backpack (5L) | Transparent Design | PRICES |
 |
STOVER 5/10/25/30/40/55L Waterproof Dry Backpack & Phone Case | Floats On Water | PRICES |
 |
STOVER 5/10/25/30/40/55L Waterproof Dry Bag | Multiple Sizes | PRICES |
 |
OMGear Waterproof Dry Bag Backpack | Includes Phone Case | PRICES |
 |
HEETA Waterproof Dry Bag (Upgraded Version) | Safety Whistle Included | PRICES |
 |
eutopic Waterproof Dry Bag – Roll Top Dry Storage Bag Backpack | Durable TPU Construction | PRICES |
 |
Outdoor Products Ultimate Dry Sack 3-Pack | Three-Pack Value | PRICES |
HEETA Dry Bag Waterproof Backpack (5L)
This transparent dry bag is a fantastic budget-friendly option that keeps your essentials safe and visible.
Its 5-litre capacity is perfect for a phone, keys, wallet, and a small towel. The roll-top closure is simple to use and creates a solid waterproof seal. I also love the included clear phone case.
As a backpack, it’s super lightweight and comfortable for hiking to your launch spot. The transparent blue material lets you see what’s inside without opening it, which is really handy.
Pros:
👍 Excellent value for money
👍 Transparent design for easy visibility
👍 Includes a waterproof phone case
👍 Very lightweight and comfortable
👍 Simple, effective roll-top seal
Cons:
👎 5L size is quite small for longer trips
👎 Material can feel a bit thin
👎 Not the most heavy-duty option
My Honest Opinion:
This is my go-to recommendation for casual kayakers. It’s perfect for short trips where you just need to protect your phone and car keys from splashes. You get great waterproofing without spending a fortune.
STOVER 5/10/25/30/40/55L Waterproof Dry Backpack & Phone Case
This STOVER dry bag is a fantastic all-rounder that floats, which is a huge relief if you drop it overboard.
It comes in six different sizes, so you can pick the perfect one for a short trip or a multi-day adventure. The roll-top closure is simple and creates a solid waterproof seal every time. I also love that it includes a clear phone case in the pack.
The backpack straps are comfortable and make carrying a heavy load much easier on long portages. The material feels tough and durable, like it can handle being scraped against rocks or the inside of your kayak.
Pros:
👍 It actually floats, which is a key safety feature
👍 Available in many sizes (5L to 55L)
👍 Includes a handy waterproof phone case
👍 Comfortable backpack straps for easy carrying
👍 Heavy-duty material feels very durable
Cons:
👎 The roll-top can be tricky to seal perfectly on the first try
👎 The phone case is a nice bonus but feels a bit basic
👎 Larger sizes can get bulky when fully packed
My Honest Opinion:
This is a reliable and versatile dry bag that’s great for kayakers who want one bag for multiple activities. The floating feature alone makes it a top pick for peace of mind on the water. It’s a solid workhorse that won’t let you down.
STOVER 5/10/25/30/40/55L Waterproof Dry Bag
This STOVER dry bag is a fantastic all-rounder that comes with a clever waterproof phone case included.
You get a huge range of sizes, from a compact 5L up to a massive 55L. This means you can pick the perfect bag for a short trip or a multi-day kayaking adventure. The included phone case is a brilliant bonus for keeping your device safe.
It uses a simple roll-top closure system that’s very effective. The bag itself is lightweight and the shoulder straps make it easy to carry your gear to and from the water.
Pros:
👍 Excellent range of size options
👍 Includes a free waterproof phone case
👍 Simple and reliable roll-top seal
👍 Lightweight and comfortable to carry
👍 Great value for the price
Cons:
👎 The material can feel a bit thin on the largest sizes
👎 Shoulder straps are quite basic
👎 Colour choice is limited
My Honest Opinion:
I think this is one of the best starter dry bags you can buy. The included phone case solves a common problem, and having so many size choices is incredibly useful. It’s a reliable workhorse for most kayakers.
OMGear Waterproof Dry Bag Backpack
This compact 5L dry bag is a fantastic, budget-friendly choice for keeping your phone and essentials bone-dry on the water.
It features a simple roll-top closure that creates a solid waterproof seal. The included clear phone pouch lets you use your device without exposing it to moisture. It even has a handy shoulder strap for easy carrying.
The bag is lightweight and floats if dropped overboard, which is a great safety feature. The roll-top design is intuitive, though it takes a couple of tries to master the perfect seal for complete peace of mind.
Pros:
👍 Excellent value for money
👍 Reliable waterproof protection
👍 Includes a dedicated waterproof phone case
👍 Floats if dropped in water
👍 Multiple size and color options
Cons:
👎 The roll-top seal requires proper technique
👎 The material can feel a bit thin
👎 The 5L size is quite small for full-day trips
My Honest Opinion:
This OMGear bag is a winner for casual kayakers. It’s perfect for short trips where you just need to protect your phone, keys, and a snack. For the price, the protection it offers is hard to beat.
HEETA Waterproof Dry Bag (Upgraded Version)
This upgraded HEETA bag is a fantastic all-rounder that keeps your essentials bone-dry without weighing you down.
I love its simple roll-top closure. You just fold it down a few times and clip the buckles. It creates a solid seal that I’ve tested in rough water. The 5L size is perfect for a phone, keys, and a light jacket.
It’s incredibly lightweight and the backpack straps are comfortable. The included emergency whistle is a thoughtful safety touch you hope to never use, but it’s great to have.
Pros:
👍 Reliable roll-top waterproof seal
👍 Very lightweight and comfortable to wear
👍 Includes a safety whistle for emergencies
👍 Affordable price for the quality
👍 Multiple color options available
Cons:
👎 5L capacity may be too small for full-day trips
👎 Material can feel slightly thin (but it holds up)
👎 Buckles are basic plastic, not heavy-duty
My Honest Opinion:
This is my go-to recommendation for casual kayakers. It’s not the toughest bag on the market, but for the price, it’s incredibly effective. If you need a simple, reliable dry bag for short trips, the HEETA is a brilliant choice.
eutopic Waterproof Dry Bag – Roll Top Dry Storage Bag Backpack
This 20L roll-top bag is a fantastic all-rounder that keeps your gear bone-dry, no matter how wet your adventure gets.
It’s made from tough, waterproof TPU material that feels durable. The roll-top closure is simple and creates a reliable seal. I found the 20-litre capacity perfect for a day trip.
It converts easily into a backpack with its adjustable straps. This makes carrying it on portages or to the beach super convenient. The build quality seems solid for the price.
Pros:
👍 Excellent waterproof protection
👍 Comfortable backpack straps
👍 Durable TPU construction
👍 Simple, effective roll-top seal
👍 Great value for money
Cons:
👎 The material can feel a bit stiff when new
👎 No internal organisation pockets
👎 Only one main colour option
My Honest Opinion:
This is a reliable workhorse of a dry bag. It doesn’t have fancy features, but it does its core job perfectly. For most kayakers, it offers fantastic protection without breaking the bank.
Outdoor Products Ultimate Dry Sack 3-Pack
This three-pack gives you versatile, affordable protection for all your kayaking essentials.
You get three different sizes in one set, which is perfect for organizing your gear. The roll-top closure is simple and creates a reliable waterproof seal every time.
The bags are lightweight and easy to pack, even when your kayak is cramped. The durable material holds up well against scrapes and bumps on the water.
Pros:
👍 Great value with three sizes included
👍 Simple, effective roll-top seal
👍 Lightweight and easy to pack
👍 Tough material resists punctures
👍 Bright color makes bags easy to spot
Cons:
👎 Not fully submersible for long periods
👎 Buckle can feel a bit flimsy
👎 Lacks a shoulder strap for carrying
My Honest Opinion:
This is a fantastic starter set for kayakers who need reliable, no-fuss dry bags. You get great coverage for your money, making it easy to keep your phone, snacks, and extra clothes dry.
Buyer’s Guide: 3 Key Factors to Consider
Capacity & Size
Think about what you need to carry. A 5-10L bag is perfect for a phone, keys, and wallet on a short trip. For full-day kayaking or camping gear, you’ll want 20L or more to fit clothing, food, and safety equipment.
Durability & Sealing
Look for thick, puncture-resistant TPU or PVC material. The roll-top closure is key – make sure you roll it down at least three times and clip or buckle it securely to create a watertight seal that keeps everything dry.
Features & Comfort
Extra features add convenience. A clear phone case lets you use your device without exposing it to water. Padded, adjustable backpack straps are essential for comfort if you plan to carry the bag for long periods on land.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are all dry bags fully waterproof?
When sealed correctly, a quality roll-top dry bag is highly water-resistant and will protect gear from splashes and submersion. However, no bag is guaranteed waterproof under extreme pressure or if the seal is compromised.
What size dry bag do I need for kayaking?
For most day kayaking trips, a 10-20L bag is ideal. It can hold a change of clothes, a towel, lunch, and personal items. If you’re just bringing essentials like your phone and keys, a 5L bag is sufficient.
Can I use a dry bag as a regular backpack?
Many dry bags come with backpack straps, making them versatile for hiking to and from the water. However, they often lack the internal organization and padded support of a dedicated hiking backpack.
How do I clean and dry my dry bag?
Rinse it with fresh water after use, especially if exposed to saltwater or sand. Hang it upside down with the roll-top open to allow it to air dry completely inside and out before storing.
Do dry bags float?
Many are designed to be buoyant, especially when partially filled with air. This is a crucial safety feature, as it keeps your gear on the surface if it goes overboard, making it easy to retrieve.
Final Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?
After reviewing the top options, the STOVER Waterproof Dry Backpack stands out as the best overall choice for most kayakers. It offers a great balance of durability, useful features like a phone case, and comfortable backpack straps. For those who prioritize maximum value and a simple, reliable design, the HEETA Dry Bag (Upgraded Version) with its included emergency whistle is an excellent pick.
Your choice ultimately depends on the trip length and gear you carry, but a well-sealed dry bag is a non-negotiable piece of safety equipment for any paddler.