Waterproof dry bags and cases for emergency gear.

Product Category: Waterproof Bags

Waterproof dry bags and cases for emergency gear.

Sea to Summit Hydraulic Dry Bag

Sea to Summit Hydraulic Dry Bag Review

Overview

When you need genuine waterproof protection that goes beyond splash resistance, the Sea to Summit Hydraulic Dry Bag is the professional’s choice. This isn’t another roll-top bag that claims to be waterproof — it’s genuinely submersible with welded seams that eliminate every potential leak point. Trusted by kayakers, rafters, and dive operators worldwide, the Hydraulic series represents the gold standard in dry bag technology.

At $34.95, you’re investing in equipment that professionals stake their lives on. The 420D nylon construction with fully welded seams means zero stitch holes, zero weak points, and zero compromises. Available in sizes from 2L to 65L, there’s a Hydraulic bag for every gear protection need.

Key Capabilities

The Hydraulic’s defining feature is its truly submersible waterproofing. While most dry bags use sewn-and-taped seams, Sea to Summit employs radio frequency welding to create molecularly bonded seams stronger than the fabric itself. The result: a bag you can trust when your gear goes underwater.

The 420D nylon face fabric balances puncture resistance with flexibility. It’s tough enough to withstand abrasion from rocks and gear while remaining supple enough to compress when partially full — critical for efficient packing. The roll-top closure requires a minimum of three rolls and uses a clip-and-loop system that’s both secure and user-friendly.

The clear TPU window panel is a game-changer for organization. See exactly what’s inside without opening the bag and compromising waterproof integrity. For multi-day trips with multiple dry bags, this visibility saves time and frustration.

Build Quality & Design

Sea to Summit’s construction quality is immediately apparent. The welded seams show no thread, no tape, no potential failure points. The D-rings and attachment points are bar-tacked with reinforcement patches that distribute load across the fabric. The roll-top material is precisely calibrated — stiff enough to maintain the seal, flexible enough to roll easily even in cold conditions.

The bag comes with detailed care instructions, but the reality is these bags require minimal maintenance. Rinse after saltwater exposure, let dry completely before long-term storage, and they’ll last years of professional use.

Best Use Cases

The Hydraulic excels anywhere submersion is a real possibility: whitewater kayaking, rafting, sailing, dive operations, or any water sport where your gear might go under. It’s also the right choice for protecting critical electronics and documents in extreme wet environments — think jungle expeditions, monsoon-season travel, or professional guide work.

For photographers and videographers, the clear window lets you inventory expensive camera gear without exposure. For expedition travelers, the range of sizes means you can organize by category: electronics in one bag, clothing in another, food in a third.

The professional-grade protection also makes the Hydraulic ideal for motorcycle touring, where sudden rainstorms and roadspray can soak conventional luggage.

Considerations

The Hydraulic represents the premium end of dry bag pricing, which is worth noting for budget-conscious buyers. For casual use where true submersion isn’t a factor — like keeping rain off camping gear or protecting items in a car trunk — less expensive options provide adequate protection. Think of the price premium as insurance: necessary when you can’t afford failure, optional when stakes are lower.

When new, the material is noticeably stiff, requiring break-in time before it achieves optimal pliability. This is actually a positive indicator of material quality, but expect the first few uses to require more effort when rolling and compressing. The stiffness disappears after 4-5 packing cycles.

Weight-conscious ultralight backpackers should note that welded construction and heavy-duty fabric add grams compared to minimalist dry sacks. The Hydraulic prioritizes protection over weight savings — a deliberate design choice that serves professional users who need reliability above all else.

Our Take

The Sea to Summit Hydraulic Dry Bag is the clear choice when waterproof protection is mission-critical. At $34.95, you’re paying for welded-seam construction that eliminates failure modes inherent in sewn bags, professional-grade materials proven in the harshest conditions, and a clear window that adds genuine functional value.

This is equipment designed for people who can’t afford gear failure: river guides protecting client belongings, adventure photographers safeguarding $10,000 camera kits, expedition travelers crossing monsoon regions. The Hydraulic’s submersible rating isn’t marketing hyperbole — it’s tested, proven protection.

For recreational users who want the absolute best, the Hydraulic provides peace of mind that cheaper bags can’t match. It’s the bag you buy once and trust for a decade of adventures. When your gear matters — your electronics, your documents, your critical supplies — the Hydraulic’s premium price becomes a modest investment in protection you can count on absolutely.

Bottom line: Best overall waterproof bag. Professional-grade submersible protection with welded seams, clear organization window, and bomb-proof construction. Worth every penny when your gear can’t afford to get wet.

Pelican 1060 Micro Case

Pelican 1060 Micro Case Review

Overview

When protection matters more than weight, size, or cost, professionals choose Pelican. The 1060 Micro Case represents military-grade protection for small valuables: electronics, medication, memory cards, cash, documents. IP67 certified for waterproof, dustproof, crushproof protection, backed by Pelican’s legendary lifetime guarantee. At $24.95, it’s the case professionals use to protect critical gear in the harshest environments on earth.

The 1060 isn’t trying to be lightweight or minimalist — it’s engineered to survive being dropped from helicopters, crushed under vehicle weight, submerged in saltwater, and exposed to extreme temperatures. For items that absolutely cannot fail, this is the protection standard.

Key Capabilities

The IP67 certification means the 1060 is completely dustproof and waterproof to 1 meter for 30 minutes. But the real-world capability exceeds the rating — Pelican cases regularly survive submersion well beyond these minimums. The O-ring seal is double-molded and creates a positive seal that maintains integrity even under pressure.

The crushproof polycarbonate shell resists deformation from massive force. Drive over it with a vehicle, drop it from height, pack it at the bottom of checked luggage under 50 pounds of gear — contents remain protected. The shell flexes slightly to absorb impact energy rather than transferring shock to contents.

The rubber liner inside provides additional shock absorption and cushioning. For electronics with sensitive screens or hard drives with moving parts, this multi-layer protection system prevents damage from impact and vibration.

The dual-lock latch system requires deliberate action to open, preventing accidental release if the case is dropped or compressed. The latches snap positively and provide tactile feedback when properly secured.

Build Quality & Design

Pelican’s construction quality is legendary among professionals. The polycarbonate shell is precision-molded with consistent wall thickness. The O-ring seal fits perfectly in its channel and compresses evenly when the case closes. The latches operate smoothly with substantial over-engineering that ensures decades of reliable function.

The interior dimensions (8.3 x 4.3 x 3.1 inches) accommodate phones, small electronics, multiple memory cards, medication bottles, cash, passports, and similar valuables. The rubber liner is removable for cleaning or replacement.

The exterior remains functional at temperature extremes from -10°F to 160°F. The polycarbonate doesn’t become brittle in cold or soft in heat — maintaining protection across the full temperature range encountered in global travel.

Best Use Cases

The Pelican 1060 is essential for protecting mission-critical electronics: satellite phones, GPS units, emergency locator beacons, backup hard drives, memory cards containing irreplaceable footage. Professional photographers use them for transporting memory cards worth thousands of dollars of work.

Medical professionals rely on Pelicans for transporting temperature-sensitive medications, insulin supplies, EpiPens, and emergency medical equipment. The crush and waterproof protection ensures medications remain viable regardless of transport conditions.

Adventure travelers use them for protecting passports, backup cash, emergency credit cards, and important documents during extreme expeditions. Jungle travel, desert crossings, polar expeditions — conditions where gear failure isn’t acceptable.

Military and first responder applications include protecting communication equipment, night vision batteries, ammunition electronics, and critical supplies. The 1060 is standard issue equipment for many special operations units.

For everyday users, it’s ideal for protecting expensive small electronics during checked luggage travel, where bags face rough handling and compression.

Considerations

The 1060’s capacity is limited to small items by design. This isn’t a case for laptops, tablets, or bulk gear — it’s purpose-built for protecting small, critical items that require maximum protection. Users needing larger capacity should look at Pelican’s 1120, 1200, or larger models. The 1060’s compact size is actually a feature for most users, providing maximum protection in a format small enough for daily carry.

The rigid polycarbonate construction means the case doesn’t compress or pack flexibly. It maintains its external dimensions regardless of contents, requiring dedicated space in bags or luggage. This rigidity is precisely what provides crush protection, but it does mean the case takes up consistent space whether full or empty.

At 8 ounces empty, the 1060 is heavier than soft alternatives like dry bags or zippered pouches. Weight-conscious ultralight backpackers note this, but for the target user — someone protecting critical gear — the weight penalty is negligible compared to the protection provided.

The case interior, while cushioned, doesn’t include foam organization or dividers in the base model. Users protecting multiple small items may want to add custom foam inserts or small pouches to prevent items from shifting during transport.

Our Take

The Pelican 1060 Micro Case is the uncompromising choice for protecting small valuables when failure isn’t acceptable. At $24.95, it’s remarkably affordable given the military-grade protection and lifetime guarantee. This is the case trusted by professionals who stake their lives on equipment reliability — special operations soldiers, expedition leaders, professional photographers in conflict zones.

The IP67 certification, crushproof construction, and lifetime guarantee mean you buy it once and trust it forever. For protecting items worth hundreds or thousands of dollars — camera memory cards, satellite phones, emergency medications, critical electronics — the $25 investment is trivial compared to replacement costs if items are damaged.

The 1060 is particularly valuable for international travel, where checked luggage faces rough handling and extreme temperature variations. Pack your expensive electronics in the 1060, throw it in checked luggage, and know with certainty that items arrive undamaged.

Is it overkill for protecting items that don’t require extreme protection? Absolutely. But for critical gear, there is no overkill — there’s only reliable protection or gambling with failure. The Pelican 1060 is the standard by which all other protective cases are measured.

Bottom line: Military-grade protection for critical small valuables. IP67 waterproof, crushproof polycarbonate construction, lifetime guarantee. The professional choice when gear absolutely cannot fail. At $24.95, cheap insurance for expensive or irreplaceable items.

Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag

Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag Review

Overview

The Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag delivers the essential question every value-conscious buyer asks: can I get 90% of premium performance at half the price? The answer is yes. At $16.95, the Earth Pak provides genuinely waterproof protection with 500D PVC construction, a secure roll-top closure, and a bonus phone dry pouch that would cost $10-15 separately.

Available in sizes from 10L to 55L with multiple color options, Earth Pak has built a reputation for reliable wet-weather protection at prices that make sense for recreational users. This is the bag trusted by weekend kayakers, beach-goers, and travelers who need waterproof protection without professional-grade price tags.

Key Capabilities

The 500D PVC construction provides robust waterproofing through welded seams and a roll-top closure. The material is thicker and more durable than budget alternatives, offering genuine protection against rain, splashes, and brief submersion. For most recreational water activities — kayaking, paddle boarding, beach trips, boating — it provides all the waterproofing you need.

The included phone dry pouch is legitimately useful. Unlike the main bag’s opaque PVC, the phone pouch uses clear material that maintains touchscreen functionality underwater. Keep your phone protected while still able to take photos, answer calls, or navigate. This bonus accessory alone represents $10-15 of value.

The padded shoulder strap transforms carrying comfort, especially important for the larger 40L and 55L sizes. The padding distributes weight across your shoulder, preventing the concentrated pressure that makes unpadded straps uncomfortable during long carries.

Build Quality & Design

Earth Pak uses heat-welded seams throughout, eliminating the stitch holes that create potential leak points in sewn bags. The roll-top closure system uses a side-release buckle and D-rings that secure tightly after three complete rolls. The closure mechanism is simple and reliable — no complicated straps or clips that can fail.

The PVC material is noticeably heavier and less flexible than nylon alternatives, but this rigidity actually helps the bag maintain its shape when partially full. The material feels substantial in hand — this isn’t a flimsy beach toy but legitimate waterproof gear.

D-rings at the top allow attachment to boats, kayaks, or backpacks. The bright color options (orange, blue, yellow, green) make the bags easy to locate and serve as visibility markers in emergency situations.

Best Use Cases

The Earth Pak excels for recreational water activities where budget matters: weekend kayaking, beach days, pool trips, boat outings, camping in wet weather, and motorcycle touring. It’s ideal for protecting clothing, towels, electronics, and food from water exposure without investing in professional-grade equipment.

For travelers, it’s perfect for protecting gear during rain-heavy seasons or keeping items dry in humid environments. Throw one in your backpack for tropical travel or use it to separate wet swimwear from dry clothing.

The phone pouch makes it valuable for water sports where you want photographic capability — paddle boarding, snorkeling, beach volleyball. Keep your phone protected and functional simultaneously.

The larger sizes (40L-55L) work brilliantly as motorcycle panniers or car camping gear storage, keeping contents dry through unexpected rainstorms or morning dew.

Considerations

The PVC construction, while waterproof and durable, lacks the flexibility of nylon-based premium bags. Expect the material to feel stiffer and less packable than Sea to Summit alternatives. This matters most when trying to compress the bag into tight spaces or when packing it away for storage. For most uses, the rigidity is perfectly acceptable.

Earth Pak rates the bag for splash, rain, and brief submersion rather than extended underwater use. For casual water activities this is more than sufficient, but technical users planning deep-water adventures should opt for bags specifically rated for submersion. Think of this as shower-proof rather than scuba-proof.

The welded seams, while effective when new, may weaken slightly faster than premium alternatives under heavy professional use. For recreational users who treat gear reasonably, expect years of reliable service. Professional guides putting equipment through daily abuse might find premium bags offer better long-term value.

The larger sizes, when fully loaded, can feel bulky compared to more streamlined designs. The PVC material doesn’t compress as efficiently as flexible nylon, meaning a 40L Earth Pak takes up more space than a 40L Sea to Summit when both are half full.

Our Take

The Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag is the smart choice for recreational users who want genuine waterproof protection without premium pricing. At $16.95 including a bonus phone pouch, it represents exceptional value — less than half the cost of professional-grade bags while delivering reliable performance for casual use.

This is the bag that makes sense for most people most of the time. Unless you’re a professional river guide, dive instructor, or expedition leader, the Earth Pak provides all the waterproofing you’ll actually need. The 500D PVC construction holds up to recreational abuse, the heat-welded seams prevent leaks, and the padded shoulder strap makes carrying comfortable.

The phone pouch inclusion is brilliant product design — it’s the accessory every water sports enthusiast needs anyway, included for free. That alone makes the Earth Pak compelling value.

Buy this if you want waterproof protection that works without paying for professional-grade features you don’t need. The Earth Pak is proof that good gear doesn’t require premium prices — just honest construction and smart design.

Bottom line: Best value waterproof bag. 90% of premium performance at 50% of the price, plus a bonus phone pouch. The smart choice for recreational users who want genuine waterproof protection.

YETI Sidekick Dry

YETI Sidekick Dry Review

Overview

The YETI Sidekick Dry solves a problem every waterproof bag user faces: the roll-top hassle. Roll three times, clip, secure, hope you did it right — then unroll when you need access 30 seconds later. The Sidekick eliminates this frustration with YETI’s HydroLok waterproof zipper: open, close, done. Waterproof protection without the roll-top ritual.

At $49.99, the Sidekick is purpose-built for valuables protection: passports, cash, electronics, documents, medication. The hard-sided DryHide shell prevents crushing, the magnetic closure keeps it secure, and YETI’s reputation for overbuilt quality means this is waterproof protection you can trust absolutely. This is the case for items that can’t get wet and can’t get crushed.

Key Capabilities

The HydroLok zipper is the Sidekick’s defining innovation. Unlike roll-top closures that require careful execution to maintain waterproof integrity, the zipper provides reliable submersible protection with effortless operation. Open the zipper, access contents, close the zipper — waterproof seal reestablished. For frequent-access items, this convenience is transformative.

The DryHide shell construction provides rigid protection that soft dry bags cannot match. Cameras, hard drives, glass prescription bottles, passports, electronics — all protected from crushing forces. Throw it in a stuffed backpack or checked luggage and contents remain protected from both water and compression.

The magnetic closure adds an extra security layer. The magnets snap together positively, providing tactile confirmation of proper closure even when you can’t see the case. For travel documents and valuables, this secondary security feature prevents accidental opening.

Build Quality & Design

YETI’s construction quality is immediately apparent. The HydroLok zipper operates smoothly with substantial, over-engineered pulls. The DryHide shell flexes slightly but resists deformation, protecting contents from impact and pressure. Internal organization includes a mesh pocket and elastic loops for securing small items.

The RF-welded construction eliminates seams and stitch holes. The zipper teeth are molded into the waterproof material itself — there’s no vulnerable interface where water can penetrate. This is the same technology used in professional diving equipment.

The compact size (fits documents, phone, passport, cash, cards) makes it ideal for body carry. Attach it to belt loops, slip it in a daypack, or carry it in hand. The 8-ounce weight is noticeable but justified by the protection provided.

Best Use Cases

The Sidekick excels as a document and valuables protector for international travel. Store passport, vaccination cards, backup credit cards, emergency cash, and important documents in one crushproof, waterproof case. Access documents quickly at border crossings without fumbling with roll-top closures.

For water sports, it’s perfect for car keys, wallet, phone, and ID — items you need protected but may need to access quickly. The zipper means you can retrieve your keys in seconds rather than unrolling a dry bag while standing in water.

Photographers appreciate it for protecting backup memory cards, batteries, and small accessories. Medical users rely on it for prescription medication, insulin supplies, or EpiPens that must stay dry. Adventure racers use it for GPS units, satellite communicators, and other electronics requiring frequent access.

For motorcycle touring, it’s ideal for protecting electronics and documents from road spray while maintaining quick-access capability at fuel stops or border crossings.

Considerations

At $49.99 for a small-capacity pouch, the Sidekick represents premium pricing, which is appropriate given YETI’s build quality and the HydroLok zipper technology. Budget-conscious users protecting less critical items might find adequate protection in less expensive alternatives. The premium makes sense when contents are valuable or irreplaceable — passports, medications, important documents, expensive electronics.

The capacity is deliberately limited to valuables-sized items. This isn’t a bag for clothing, towels, or bulk gear — it’s designed specifically for documents and small electronics. Users needing larger waterproof storage should look at roll-top dry bags. The Sidekick’s purpose is protecting small, critical items that need frequent access.

The rigid shell and zipper mechanism make the Sidekick heavier than soft dry pouches of similar capacity. At 8 ounces, it’s approximately double the weight of a soft alternative. This weight penalty buys crush protection and zipper convenience — features worth the weight for the intended use cases.

The zipper, while extremely reliable, does require proper closing technique. Users must ensure the zipper pull reaches the end of its track for complete waterproof seal. This is straightforward with minimal practice but represents slightly more potential for user error than a properly rolled dry bag.

Our Take

The YETI Sidekick Dry is the best choice for protecting valuables that need frequent access. The HydroLok zipper delivers genuine waterproof protection without roll-top hassle — a convenience that becomes more valuable every time you need to access contents. At $49.99, you’re paying for zipper technology that works, crush-resistant protection for fragile items, and YETI’s overbuilt construction quality.

This is the case for your passport during tropical travel, your medications during water activities, your electronics during motorcycle tours, your backup drives during adventure photography. It’s purpose-built for items where both waterproof protection and frequent access matter simultaneously.

The crush resistance is particularly valuable for items traditional dry bags can’t protect: prescription bottles, electronics with screens, glass vials, cameras. The hard-sided shell means you can pack it anywhere without worrying about compression damage.

Is it expensive for a small pouch? Yes. Is it worth it when protecting a $1,200 passport replacement, $400 worth of prescription medication, or a $2,000 camera? Absolutely. The Sidekick is insurance that costs $50 once rather than hundreds or thousands when items get damaged.

Bottom line: Best waterproof case for valuables. HydroLok zipper eliminates roll-top hassle, crush-resistant shell protects fragile items, YETI quality means absolute reliability. Worth the premium for items that can’t get wet or crushed.

Skog A Kust DrySak Dry Bag

Overview

The Skog A Kust DrySak proves that reliable waterproof protection does not have to come with a premium price tag. Starting at just $11.99, this dry bag delivers genuine waterproofing through 500D PVC construction and welded seams — the same fundamental technology used by bags costing three to five times as much. Whether you are kayaking through Class III rapids, hiking in a sudden downpour, or simply need a dependable bag to protect your gear on a beach day, the DrySak keeps your belongings dry when it matters most. Available in sizes ranging from 10L to 40L across a variety of colors, it adapts to virtually any adventure scenario. The included shoulder strap adds carrying convenience that many competing budget options omit. For outdoor enthusiasts, travelers, and anyone who spends time around water, this bag represents an exceptional entry point into waterproof gear that genuinely works.

Key Capabilities

The DrySak’s waterproofing system centers on its roll-top closure design, one of the most proven and reliable sealing methods in the dry bag world. By folding the top over at least three times and buckling it shut, you create an airtight seal that keeps water out even during submersion. The welded seams eliminate the needle holes that plague sewn bags — there are simply no pathways for water to penetrate. The 500D PVC material provides a sturdy, puncture-resistant barrier that stands up to the scrapes and bumps of outdoor use. The included shoulder strap makes carrying comfortable, especially in the larger 20L and 40L sizes, and the D-ring attachment points allow you to secure the bag to watercraft, packs, or anchor points. The flat profile when rolled means it packs down efficiently when not in use, and the range of available sizes lets you choose the right capacity for your specific gear. The 10L is perfect for electronics and wallets on day trips, while the 40L can swallow a full change of clothes, towel, and camera equipment.

Build Quality & Design

Skog A Kust has focused their engineering budget on the elements that matter most: waterproof material and sealed construction. The 500D PVC is thick enough to resist punctures from typical outdoor hazards while remaining flexible enough to fold and roll without cracking. The welded seams run cleanly along the bag’s edges, creating a seamless barrier against moisture intrusion. The buckle hardware on the roll-top closure is functional and snaps securely into place. The shoulder strap attachment points are reinforced, and the strap itself is adjustable for different carry positions. The color options range from practical blacks and greys to vibrant hues that are easy to spot in outdoor settings. The PVC material does have a firmer hand feel compared to TPU-based bags, which gives the bag a structured shape that some users actually prefer because it holds its form when partially loaded. The overall construction is honest and straightforward — no unnecessary features, no wasted material, just reliable waterproof performance.

Best Use Cases

The DrySak is an ideal choice for a wide range of water-adjacent activities. Kayakers and canoers will appreciate the dependable roll-top seal that protects phones, wallets, keys, and spare clothes from splashes, rain, and even brief submersion. Beach-goers get a trustworthy place to store valuables while swimming. Hikers and campers can keep sleeping bags, clothing, and electronics dry during unexpected rain. Fishermen can protect tackle, electronics, and lunches from spray and rain. Travelers who visit tropical destinations or participate in water excursions gain a reusable protective bag at a fraction of the cost of waterproof cases. The 10L size is perfect for everyday carry protection, the 20L handles day-trip gear, and the 40L serves as a waterproof duffel for multi-day adventures. At this price point, many outdoor enthusiasts buy multiple sizes to cover different scenarios.

Considerations

The 500D PVC material, while excellent at waterproofing, is stiffer than the TPU fabric found in premium dry bags like those from Sea to Summit. This means the bag does not compress quite as small when empty and takes a moment to work with when loading and rolling. Over years of heavy use, welded seams on any PVC bag can begin to show wear, so it is good practice to inspect seams periodically, especially if the bag sees regular submersion duty. The DrySak does not include a clear window panel, so you will need to open the bag to find specific items. For the price, however, these are minor trade-offs that most users will happily accept. Many buyers use this as their first dry bag and find it serves them faithfully for years of regular outdoor use.

Our Take

The Skog A Kust DrySak is the dry bag we recommend to anyone who wants proven waterproof protection without spending premium prices. At $11.99, it removes every financial barrier to owning a genuine waterproof bag, and the 500D PVC with welded seams delivers real protection — not marketing protection. It will not win awards for luxury materials or cutting-edge features, but it will keep your gear dry, and that is exactly what a dry bag is supposed to do. Whether you are outfitting yourself for a first kayaking trip, building an emergency kit, or simply want a reliable waterproof bag for travel, the DrySak delivers outstanding value. Buy one for every pack, every vehicle, and every family member — at this price, there is no reason not to.