Dry bag

In this category you'll find dry bags, which are virtually indispensable when practising water sports such as kayaking or SUP. They allow you to take your belongings out on the water without the risk of getting them wet. They therefore function like a waterproof backpack and come in different sizes.

For example, on this page you'll find 15-litre dry bags that provide plenty of space, while at the same time not taking up too much space when you take them out on the open water. It's important to find dry bags of the right quality to ensure that the dry bag you buy is completely waterproof.

What do you use a dry bag for?

In short, a dry bag is a cross between a storage bag and a waterproof backpack. There are different designs, but the principles behind it are still the same. It's designed to keep the things you put in it dry when you're on or around water. That's why there are different types of dry bags that come in a wide range of sizes and waterproofness.

The latter is particularly important depending on what you need your dry bag for. If you're taking it out on the water on a paddleboard (SUP), it's critical that it's made from materials that are 100% waterproof. Especially if it's going to be wet for a long time.

Some dry bags are mostly designed for hiking, where they are meant to protect your belongings from rain. Therefore, they are not suitable for travelling on open water for long periods of time.

The great thing about a dry bag is that you can take water-sensitive items on the water without worrying about them getting wet. For example, a phone, wallet, car keys, music player or whatever else you need to avoid leaving unattended on the shore.

This means you don't have to worry about your most precious possessions being stolen while you're out on the water. It also means you don't have to rely on others to keep an eye on them while you paddle out on the water.

How does a dry bag work?

Most dry bags have the same closing mechanism, which is because it's the most effective way to keep water out. Even the smallest opening, such as a zip, will allow water to enter a dry bag and defeat the whole purpose.

However, that doesn't mean it's difficult to close a dry bag and get it to seal tightly. Simply fold the top of your dry bag 3-4 times and then click the buckles together, and you are now guaranteed that your dry bag is 100% waterproof from the opening.

As the dry bag's closing mechanism requires you to fold it min. 3 times, it is important not to overfill it. Otherwise, you won't be able to fold your dry bag properly so that it remains watertight.

This may 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 on the safe side.

Furthermore, our dry bags come with a click system that allows you to click them onto a SUP board. This ensures that it won't float away from you if you fall in the water. You can also find a dry bag that comes with a strap so you can carry your dry bag as a waterproof backpack or shoulder bag.

The proper maintenance of a dry bag

A dry bag is relatively easy to maintain with simple cleaning. To make it easier, we have listed the different points you need to be aware of:

• Since a dry bag comes in a smooth and water-repellent material, it's easy to remove dirt and debris with a damp cloth. This applies to both the inside and outside
• Since dry bags are only functional as long as there are no holes in them, it's important not to be too rough with a dry bag. Therefore, avoid throwing it, putting sharp objects in it or dragging it over rough surfaces
• To avoid putting too much wear and tear on the material that dry bags are made of, it's critical not to overstretch them. The material may seem quite durable, but if you stress it too much - such as overstuffing it - the material will eventually crack, which will cause it to leak
• If your dry bag has been in salt water, always wash it after use and dry it well. Like a lot of water sports equipment, salt is hard on materials, and the same goes for a dry bag. If you don't wash off the salt, it will soften the material and eventually holes will appear in your dry bag. This means it will no longer be waterproof

You can always check whether your dry bag is watertight by filling it halfway with water and closing it. Then fold it until there is maximum water pressure inside your dry bag. Hold the pressure for a minute and check to see if water seeps out of it.

If it doesn't, you can be sure that your dry bag is still watertight. Then pour the water out of the dry bag and remember to wipe it dry on the inside before putting it in place. It is generally important that it is completely dry after each use, otherwise you risk mould and fungus getting inside.

Use dry bags for the right purpose

Most dry bags are designed to be taken out of the water, which means they are not particularly suitable for carrying in the water. They will hold up well, as a dry bag is very waterproof, but if you swim around with it on, you risk the closing mechanism on your dry bag loosening and opening.

We would therefore recommend using a swim buoy / sea bag if you are going to swim in open water. A dry bag is most useful on a paddleboard or in a kayak. In other words, those water sports where you are more on top of the water than in it.

If your search for a waterproof dry bag has made you more curious about SUP or you need equipment for your paddleboard, we recommend having a look at our paddleboard category, which you can find here.

Buy your dry bag here at Watery.ie

We'd love to help you navigate the world of dry bags. If you have any questions or need advice and guidance, our customer service team is ready to help you. Together we'll find exactly what you need. And of course, when you shop with us, you'll also get some customer benefits:

• Free shipping on orders over €79
• 3-5 days delivery
• Our customer service is ready all weekdays from 8 AM to 10 PM

So you can be fully prepared for the next time you're heading out on the water or hiking in wet conditions. A dry bag is the closest you'll get to a fully waterproof backpack.