You’re heading out for a swim, but your keys, phone, and towel need to stay safe and dry. That’s where a good dry bag becomes your most important piece of gear.
We know you’ve got choices, from cheap roll-tops to fancy backpacks. It’s confusing to figure out which one will actually keep your stuff safe when you’re in the water.
We tested seven popular dry bags in real swimming conditions. Some kept everything perfectly dry, while others let us down when it mattered most.
This review is based on our hands-on experience. We’ll help you find a reliable bag so you can focus on your swim, not your soggy belongings.
| Product Image | Product Name | Best For | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|
 |
HEETA Dry Bag Waterproof Backpack (5L) | Clear Design | PRICES |
 |
CACOE Universal Waterproof Phone Case | IPX8 Waterproof Rating | PRICES |
 |
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag | Durable Material | PRICES |
 |
HEETA Dry Bag Waterproof Backpack | Transparent Design | PRICES |
 |
UNBREAKcable IPX8 Waterproof Phone Pouch 2-Pack | Double Compartment | PRICES |
 |
HEETA Waterproof Dry Bag (Upgraded Version) | Roll-Top Seal | PRICES |
 |
HEETA Dry Bag Waterproof Backpack (5L) | Built-In Phone Case | PRICES |
HEETA Dry Bag Waterproof Backpack (5L)
This transparent dry bag is a fantastic all-rounder that keeps your gear dry and visible.
I love the clear design because you can see what’s inside without opening it. The included waterproof phone case is a brilliant bonus for swimmers. It’s also surprisingly lightweight for its 5-liter capacity.
The roll-top closure is simple and secure once you get the hang of it. It converts easily from a bag to a backpack, which is super handy. The material feels durable enough for regular beach and pool use.
Pros:
👍 Clear design lets you see contents
👍 Includes a separate waterproof phone case
👍 Converts from bag to backpack straps
👍 Lightweight and easy to pack
👍 Affordable price point
Cons:
👎 Roll-top seal requires practice for a perfect close
👎 Backpack straps are basic, not heavily padded
👎 Transparent material can show scratches over time
My Honest Opinion:
This is a great value pick for casual swimmers. The included phone case alone makes it worth considering. It’s reliable for keeping your towel and keys dry after a swim.
CACOE Universal Waterproof Phone Case
If you want to keep your phone safe and accessible while swimming, this two-pack of floating phone pouches is a fantastic value.
These IPX8-rated dry bags fit phones up to 7 inches. They come with a handy neck lanyard so your device is always within reach. The bright, iridescent design also makes them easy to spot in the water.
I found the sealing mechanism simple and secure. You just roll the top down three times and clip it shut. The clear front lets you use your touchscreen, which is super convenient.
Pros:
👍 Comes in a practical two-pack
👍 Adjustable neck lanyard for easy access
👍 IPX8 waterproof rating for real protection
👍 Floats, so it won’t sink if dropped
👍 Clear window allows full touchscreen use
Cons:
👎 Can feel bulky around your neck
👎 Touchscreen sensitivity can be reduced
👎 Not designed for deep diving pressure
My Honest Opinion:
This is a great budget-friendly option for casual swimmers. You get two reliable pouches for the price of one, which is perfect if you swim with a partner. I’d recommend them for pool laps or calm open water.
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
This roll-top dry bag is a fantastic all-rounder that keeps your phone and gear completely dry, no matter how rough the water gets.
It’s built from heavy-duty 500D PVC tarpaulin, which is incredibly tough. The roll-top closure system creates a perfect waterproof seal. It even includes a clear waterproof phone case as a bonus.
I found it very easy to use. You just roll the top down three times and clip the buckles. The backpack straps are comfortable for carrying your gear to and from your swim spot.
Pros:
👍 Extremely durable and puncture-resistant material
👍 Reliable roll-top seal keeps everything dry
👍 Includes a handy waterproof phone case
👍 Comfortable backpack straps for easy transport
👍 Available in multiple sizes and colors
Cons:
👎 The material can feel a bit stiff when new
👎 Not the most compact option when empty
👎 Phone case can be bulky for some phones
My Honest Opinion:
This is my go-to bag for reliability. I’ve taken it on choppy swims and it’s never let a drop in. It’s built to last and the included phone case is a great touch.
HEETA Dry Bag Waterproof Backpack
This transparent dry bag is a fantastic all-rounder that keeps your gear dry and visible.
I love the 5-liter capacity for a swimmer’s essentials. The roll-top closure is simple and creates a solid waterproof seal. It even includes a separate waterproof phone case.
The backpack straps make it easy to carry to and from the water. The transparent material lets you see what’s inside without opening it, which is super convenient.
Pros:
👍 Transparent design for easy visibility
👍 Includes a separate waterproof phone case
👍 Comfortable backpack-style straps
👍 Simple and effective roll-top seal
👍 Lightweight and versatile for many activities
Cons:
👎 5L size may be small for longer trips
👎 Phone case can feel a bit bulky
👎 Material can feel thin compared to some heavier-duty bags
My Honest Opinion:
This is a great value pick for most open water swimmers. The included phone case is a brilliant bonus, and I really appreciate the see-through design when I’m in a hurry.
UNBREAKcable IPX8 Waterproof Phone Pouch 2-Pack
This two-pack of waterproof pouches is perfect for swimmers who want to keep their phone and essentials safe and accessible.
It has a double compartment design. This lets you separate your phone from other small items like keys or cash. The IPX8 rating means it can handle being submerged in water.
The clear front lets you use your touchscreen while it’s sealed. The adjustable lanyard is long enough to wear around your neck comfortably during a swim.
Pros:
👍 Comes in a convenient two-pack
👍 Double compartment for better organization
👍 IPX8 waterproof rating is very reliable
👍 Touchscreen works through the clear window
👍 Adjustable lanyard for secure wear
Cons:
👎 Might feel bulky with larger phones
👎 Zipper can be tricky to seal perfectly
👎 Not designed for larger items beyond a phone and keys
My Honest Opinion:
I think this is a great value for open water swimmers. Having two pouches means you can share one or have a backup. The separate compartments are a smart feature that really helps keep things organized.
HEETA Waterproof Dry Bag (Upgraded Version)
This upgraded dry bag is a fantastic all-rounder that keeps your gear bone-dry without weighing you down.
It features a secure roll-top closure that’s simple to use. The 5L capacity is perfect for a swimmer’s essentials like keys, phone, and a towel. I also love the included emergency whistle for added safety.
The bag is very lightweight and comfortable to carry as a backpack. The material feels durable, and the bright blue color is easy to spot in the water.
Pros:
👍 Reliable roll-top waterproof seal
👍 Lightweight and comfortable backpack straps
👍 Includes a safety whistle
👍 Affordable price point
👍 Durable, puncture-resistant material
Cons:
👎 5L size may be small for longer trips
👎 Whistle is basic but functional
👎 Only one main compartment
My Honest Opinion:
This is a great value pick for most open water swimmers. It does its core job perfectly, keeping everything dry without any fuss. For quick swims where you just need the basics, it’s hard to beat.
HEETA Dry Bag Waterproof Backpack (5L)
This versatile dry bag is a fantastic all-rounder that keeps your valuables bone-dry while you swim.
It features a secure roll-top closure that locks out water completely. The included clear phone case is a brilliant touch for swimmers. You can easily check your phone without exposing it to moisture.
As a backpack, it’s lightweight and comfortable to carry to the shore. The 5-liter size is perfect for a towel, keys, wallet, and a snack for your swim session.
Pros:
👍 Excellent waterproof protection
👍 Built-in clear phone case is super handy
👍 Comfortable backpack straps for easy transport
👍 Lightweight and doesn’t add bulk
👍 Affordable price for the features
Cons:
👎 The 5L size is a bit small for bulky gear
👎 Phone case can feel slightly flimsy
👎 Only one main compartment for storage
My Honest Opinion:
I think this is a top pick for most open water swimmers. The phone case alone solves a major hassle. It’s reliable, simple to use, and gets the job done without fuss.
Buyer’s Guide: 3 Key Factors to Consider
Capacity & Intended Use
Think about what you need to carry. A 5L bag is perfect for a phone, keys, and a small towel for swimming. For longer kayaking trips or carrying clothes, you’ll want a larger 10L or 20L bag.
Durability & Seal Type
The roll-top closure is the most common and reliable. Look for thick, puncture-resistant TPU or PVC material. A secure buckle or clip on the roll is essential to keep water from getting in.
Extra Features & Portability
Many bags come with a waterproof phone case and a lanyard, which is very convenient. Shoulder straps or backpack-style carrying options make it easier to transport your gear to and from the water.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are dry bags really 100% waterproof?
When sealed correctly, a quality dry bag will keep your gear completely dry, even when submerged. Always do the roll and clip properly, and test it with a paper towel inside first.
Can I use a regular waterproof phone case instead of a dry bag?
For open water swimming, a dedicated dry bag is better. It protects your phone from impacts and can hold other essentials, while a phone pouch alone offers less protection.
What size dry bag do I need for swimming?
For most swimmers, a 5-liter bag is ideal. It’s compact, buoyant, and can easily hold a phone, goggles, keys, and energy gels without being bulky.
How do I clean and dry my dry bag?
Rinse it with fresh water after use, especially if used in saltwater or chlorinated pools. Turn it inside out to air dry completely before storing to prevent mildew.
Can I use a dry bag as a regular backpack?
While convenient for short trips to the beach or lake, dry bags lack the padding and structure of a hiking backpack. They are best used for their primary purpose: keeping things dry in water.
Final Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?
After testing these top dry bags, the Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag stands out for its rugged durability and reliable, no-leak performance. For swimmers who want a complete kit with a great phone case, the HEETA Dry Bag (Upgraded Version) offers fantastic value and useful extras like an emergency whistle.
Your choice depends on your primary activity. For pure swimming, a simple 5L bag is perfect. For multi-sport use, invest in a tougher, feature-rich model.