You’re heading to the water and you need your gear to stay dry. A good tow float dry bag is your best friend for swimming, kayaking, or paddleboarding.
It can be tricky to find one that’s truly waterproof and floats well. You don’t want your phone, keys, or snacks getting soaked on your adventure.
We tested seven popular models to see which ones hold up. We checked their seals, buoyancy, and how easy they are to tow behind you.
Our hands-on review will help you choose. 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
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OMGear Waterproof Dry Bag Backpack | Waterproof Protection | PRICES |
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Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag | Puncture-Resistant Material | PRICES |
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Treklean Dry Bag, Waterproof Floating and Lightweight Dry Bags, Roll Top Sack Keeps Gear Dry, for Kayaking, Rafting, Boating, Swimming, Camping, Hiking, Beach, Fishing outdoor (Orange-10L) | Durable TPU Construction | PRICES |
 |
HEETA Dry Bag Waterproof Backpack (5L) | Waterproof Phone Case | PRICES |
 |
Fetch 50 Swim Buoy Dry Bag | Double Air Chamber | PRICES |
 |
HEETA Waterproof Dry Bag (Upgraded Version) | Roll-Top Seal | PRICES |
 |
ECOHUB Waterproof Dry Bag for Women Men, 5L/10L/20L Roll Top Lightweight Dry Storage Bag Backpack | Multiple Sizes | PRICES |
OMGear Waterproof Dry Bag Backpack
This compact 5L dry bag is a reliable, floating safety companion for your essentials on the water.
It’s fully waterproof and designed to float, keeping your phone, keys, and wallet safe and dry. The roll-top closure creates a tight seal, and it includes a clear phone pouch for touchscreen use.
It’s lightweight and easy to carry with its adjustable shoulder strap. The bright camouflage color adds visibility, which is a smart safety feature if it drifts away.
Pros:
👍 Reliable waterproof and floating protection
👍 Includes a separate clear phone case
👍 Compact and lightweight for essentials
👍 Adjustable and comfortable shoulder strap
👍 High-visibility color for safety
Cons:
👎 5L capacity is quite small
👎 Phone pouch can feel bulky inside
👎 Material can feel thin compared to heavier-duty bags
My Honest Opinion:
This is a fantastic little bag for securing your most critical items. I’d recommend it for short trips where you just need your phone, wallet, and keys to stay 100% dry and afloat.
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
This roll-top dry bag is a fantastic all-rounder that keeps your valuables bone-dry while you tow it behind you.
It features a tough, waterproof TPU material that can handle bumps and scrapes. The roll-top closure is simple and creates a reliable seal every time. It even comes with a waterproof phone case as a bonus.
As a backpack, it’s comfortable with adjustable straps. The bright colors make it highly visible on the water, which is a major safety plus when you’re using it as a tow float.
Pros:
👍 Excellent waterproof protection
👍 Durable, puncture-resistant material
👍 Highly visible safety colors
👍 Comfortable backpack straps
👍 Includes a free phone case
Cons:
👎 Can be bulky when fully packed
👎 Roll-top takes practice to seal perfectly
👎 Phone case feels a bit cheap
My Honest Opinion:
I think this is one of the most reliable and versatile dry bags you can get. The backpack feature is a game-changer for carrying gear to and from the water. It’s a top choice for anyone who wants a do-it-all dry bag that doubles as a great tow float.
Treklean Dry Bag, Waterproof Floating and Lightweight Dry Bags, Roll Top Sack Keeps Gear Dry, for Kayaking, Rafting, Boating, Swimming, Camping, Hiking, Beach, Fishing outdoor (Orange-10L)
This bright orange 10L bag is a fantastic all-rounder that keeps your gear dry and visible on the water.
It’s built with tough, waterproof TPU material that can handle bumps and scrapes. The roll-top closure is simple to use and creates a reliable seal every time.
I found it very lightweight and easy to pack, which is great for long days out. The included shoulder strap makes carrying it a breeze when you’re not in the water.
Pros:
👍 Excellent waterproof protection
👍 Highly visible orange color for safety
👍 Lightweight and easy to carry
👍 Durable TPU construction
👍 Simple, effective roll-top seal
Cons:
👎 10L size may be small for some trips
👎 Strap attachment points could be more robust
👎 Not the most heavy-duty option available
My Honest Opinion:
This is a reliable and affordable workhorse. If you need a straightforward, effective dry bag for casual water sports, it’s a solid choice. The bright color is a major plus for safety.
HEETA Dry Bag Waterproof Backpack (5L)
This HEETA bag is a fantastic all-rounder that works great as a tow float and a waterproof backpack.
It features a simple roll-top closure that keeps your gear completely dry. The included clear phone case is a brilliant touch for keeping your device accessible. It’s lightweight and comes with comfortable shoulder straps.
The 5-liter size is perfect for a day on the water, holding keys, a towel, and snacks. The bright white color makes you highly visible, which is a key safety feature for swimming.
Pros:
👍 Includes a clear, waterproof phone case
👍 Doubles as a comfortable backpack
👍 Highly visible white color for safety
👍 Simple and reliable roll-top seal
👍 Lightweight and easy to pack
Cons:
👎 5L size may be too small for some trips
👎 White color can show dirt easily
👎 Shoulder straps are not removable
My Honest Opinion:
I love the versatility of this bag. The included phone case solves a major problem for swimmers who want to take pictures. It’s my top pick for anyone who wants a tow float that also works as a great dry bag backpack.
Fetch 50 Swim Buoy Dry Bag
This tow float gives you serious peace of mind with its super bright color and clever double-chamber design.
I love that it has two separate air chambers. If one gets punctured, the other keeps you afloat. The bright fluorescent yellow makes you highly visible to boats and other swimmers.
It’s easy to inflate with the oral valve, and the handles are comfortable to hold. The included dry bag keeps your phone and keys safe, and there’s even a small pouch for energy gels.
Pros:
👍 Double air chamber for safety
👍 Extremely bright, high-visibility color
👍 Includes a reliable dry bag compartment
👍 Handy nutrition pouch and safety whistle
👍 Comfortable handles for towing
Cons:
👎 Slightly bulkier than single-chamber floats
👎 The yellow can show dirt over time
👎 Whistle isn’t the loudest on the market
My Honest Opinion:
The Fetch 50 is my top pick for safety-conscious swimmers. The double-chamber design is a real game-changer that lets you swim with extra confidence, especially in open water.
HEETA Waterproof Dry Bag (Upgraded Version)
This upgraded HEETA bag is a fantastic all-rounder that keeps your gear dry without weighing you down.
It features a secure roll-top closure that locks water out completely. The 5-liter size is perfect for a phone, keys, wallet, and a small towel. It even includes a handy emergency whistle for safety.
The bag is very lightweight and converts easily from a dry sack to a simple backpack. The straps are comfortable enough for short carries from your car to the water’s edge.
Pros:
👍 Reliable waterproof roll-top seal
👍 Includes a safety whistle
👍 Lightweight and easy to pack
👍 Converts to a backpack
👍 Affordable price point
Cons:
👎 Backpack straps are basic, not for hiking
👎 The 5L size is a bit small for a full day trip
👎 Material can feel thin compared to some brands
My Honest Opinion:
I think this is a great value bag for most casual users. It’s perfect for swimming, beach days, or a short kayak trip where you just need to protect your essentials from splashes.
ECOHUB Waterproof Dry Bag for Women Men, 5L/10L/20L Roll Top Lightweight Dry Storage Bag Backpack
This versatile dry bag is a fantastic all-rounder that keeps your gear dry while also serving as a tow float.
It comes in three handy sizes so you can pick the perfect one for your trip. I love that it includes a waterproof phone case, which is a must-have for any water activity. The roll-top closure is simple and creates a reliable seal.
It’s very lightweight and the backpack straps make it easy to carry when you’re not in the water. The bright colors are great for visibility, which is a key safety feature for a tow float.
Pros:
👍 Includes a free waterproof phone case
👍 Available in multiple sizes (5L, 10L, 20L)
👍 Doubles as a backpack with comfortable straps
👍 Highly visible colors for safety
👍 Simple and effective roll-top closure
Cons:
👎 The included phone case can feel a bit cheap
👎 Backpack straps are not heavily padded
👎 Not the most heavy-duty material for extreme conditions
My Honest Opinion:
This is a great value pick that covers all the basics well. You get a functional dry bag, a tow float, and a phone case in one package. It’s perfect for casual kayakers, hikers, or beach-goers who want versatile protection for their stuff.
Buyer’s Guide: 3 Key Factors to Consider
Capacity & Intended Use
Think about what you need to carry. A 5L bag is perfect for just a phone, keys, and wallet for a swim. For a full day of kayaking or hiking, you’ll want 20L or more to hold clothes, food, and other gear.
Visibility & Safety Features
Bright colors like yellow or orange make you more visible in the water, which is a key safety feature. Look for extras like a built-in whistle or reflective strips, especially if you’ll be swimming in open water.
Durability & Seal Type
A reliable roll-top closure with sturdy buckles is essential for keeping water out. Check the material thickness (measured in denier or TPU) – a higher number generally means a tougher, more puncture-resistant bag.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are tow float dry bags actually waterproof?
When sealed correctly using the roll-top closure, high-quality dry bags are submersible and will keep your gear completely dry, even if the bag is fully underwater for a period of time.
Can I use any dry bag as a swim buoy?
No. A proper swim tow float is specifically designed with buoyant foam and a secure tether. While some dry bags float, a dedicated swim buoy is safer and more reliable for open water swimming.
How do I choose the right size?
For a simple swim with essentials, 5-10L is sufficient. For holding a towel, change of clothes, and supplies for activities like kayaking, look at 20-40L capacities.
What’s the difference between a dry bag and a dry bag backpack?
A dry bag backpack has padded shoulder straps, making it much easier to carry heavier loads over distance, like on a hike to your launch point or a portage.
Do I need the included waterproof phone case?
It’s a highly recommended bonus. Even if the main bag seals perfectly, having your phone in a separate, transparent, submersible case adds a crucial layer of protection and allows you to use it without exposing it to moisture.
Final Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?
For most people looking for a reliable all-rounder, the Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag is our top choice due to its proven durability, excellent waterproof seal, and range of useful sizes. If your primary activity is open water swimming, the Fetch 50 Swim Buoy Dry Bag is the dedicated safety tool you need. For those wanting great value with useful extras, the HEETA Upgraded Version Dry Bag offers a fantastic package with its included whistle and case.
Your perfect dry bag depends on your main activity, but focusing on a secure seal and the right capacity will ensure your gear stays dry.