Dry bag

In this category, you'll find drybags that are practically indispensable when engaging in water sports like kayaking or SUP. They allow you to take your belongings out on the water without the risk of them getting wet. They function just like a waterproof backpack and come in various sizes.

Here on the page, you can find, for example, 15 l drybags that offer good spaciousness while not taking up too much space when you take them out on open water. It's important to find drybags of the right quality to ensure that the drybag you buy is completely waterproof.

What is a drybag used for?

In short, a drybag is a cross between a storage bag and a waterproof backpack. There are different designs, but the principles behind them remain the same. It should keep the items you put inside dry when you're on or around water. Therefore, there are also different types of drybags, which come in widely varying sizes and with different levels of waterproofing.

The latter is particularly important depending on what you need your drybag for. If it needs to go out on the water on a paddleboard (SUP), it's important that it's made of materials that are 100% waterproof. Especially if it needs to be wet for extended periods.

Some drybags are primarily intended for hiking, where they need to protect your belongings from rain. Therefore, they are not suitable for being out on open water for extended periods.

The smart thing about a drybag is that you can take water-sensitive belongings with you on the water without fearing they will get wet. This could be, for example, a mobile phone, wallet, car keys, music player, or whatever else you need to keep from lying unattended on the shore.

This way, you don't have to worry about your most valuable belongings being stolen while you're out on the water. It also means you're not dependent on others keeping an eye on them while you paddle away on the water.

How does a drybag work?

Most drybags have the same closure mechanism because it's the most effective method to keep water out. Even the smallest opening, such as a zipper, would allow water to seep into a drybag, and the whole purpose would be defeated.

However, this doesn't mean it's difficult to close a drybag and make it watertight. You simply fold the top of your drybag 3-4 times, then click the buckles together, and you're now guaranteed that your drybag is 100% waterproof from the opening.

Since the drybag's closure mechanism requires you to fold it at least 3 times, it's important not to overfill it. Otherwise, you won't be able to fold your drybag properly to keep it waterproof.

It might take a bit of practice, which is why we recommend you try it a few times before taking it out on the water. Just to be safe.

Additionally, our drybag comes with a click system that allows you to attach it to a SUP board. This ensures it won't float away from you if you happen to fall into the water. You can also find a drybag that comes with a strap, allowing you to carry your drybag as a waterproof backpack or shoulder bag.

The right maintenance of a drybag

A drybag is relatively easy to maintain with simple cleaning. To make it easier, we've listed the different points you should be aware of:

• Since a drybag is made of a smooth and water-repellent material, it's easy to remove dirt and grime with a damp cloth. This applies to both the inside and outside.
• Since drybags are only functional as long as there are no holes in them, it's important not to be too rough with a drybag. Therefore, avoid throwing it, putting sharp objects in it, or dragging it over rough surfaces.
• To avoid wearing out the material drybags are made of, it's important not to overstretch them. The material may seem quite durable, but if you stress it too much - like by overstuffing it - the material will eventually crack, making it leaky.
• If your drybag has been in saltwater, you should always wash it after use and dry it thoroughly. Like much other water sports equipment, salt is harsh on materials, which also applies to a drybag. If you don't wash off the salt, it will weaken the material, and holes will eventually form in your drybag. Thus, it will no longer be waterproof.

You can also always check if your drybag is waterproof by filling it halfway with water and sealing it. Then fold it until maximum water pressure builds up inside your drybag. Hold the pressure for about a minute and watch to see if water seeps out.

If it doesn't, you're sure your drybag is still waterproof. Then pour the water out of it, and remember to dry it so it's dry inside before putting it away. It's generally important that it's completely dry after each use, as otherwise, you risk mold and mildew forming in it.

Use drybags for the right purpose

Most drybags are designed to be taken out on the water, which means they are not particularly suited for being in the water. They can withstand it, as a drybag is very waterproof, but if you swim around with it, you risk the closure mechanism on your drybag loosening and thus opening.

We therefore recommend using a swim buoy / sea bag if you need to swim in open water. A drybag is most effective on a paddleboard or in a kayak. In other words, the branches of water sports where you're more on top of the water than in it.

If during your search for a waterproof drybag you've become more curious about SUP or you need equipment for your paddleboard, we recommend taking a look at our paddleboard category, which you can find here.

Buy your drybag here on Watery.ie

We would love to help you navigate the world of drybags. So if you have questions or need advice and guidance, our customer service is ready to assist you. Together, we'll find exactly what you need.

So you can be fully prepared for the next time you go on the water or hike in wet environments. A drybag is indeed the closest you get to a completely waterproof backpack.