What Size Dry Bag Do I Need? A Comprehensive Guide to Choosing the Perfect Size

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dry bag on beach waiting to be loaded

Embarking on an adventure and unsure of the right dry bag size to keep your gear safe and secure? In this article, we’ll unravel the mysteries behind the question that haunts many outdoor enthusiasts: what size dry bag do I need?

The size of the dry bag you need depends on the amount and type of gear you plan to store. Consider the volume and dimensions of your belongings, ensuring there is enough room for proper closure and protection while also allowing for any potential expansion or additional items you may acquire during your adventure.

Keep reading to learn more tips about picking the right size dry bag based on your specific needs and planned adventure!

Best Roll Top Dry Bag
Best Zipper Sealed Dry Bag

Sea to Summit roll top dry bags come in various colors and sizes ranging from 5 - 65 liters! These bags are functional, durable, and a steal for the price.

This watertight, durable duffel comes in 50, 75, and 100-liter size options. Unlike other zipper closures, those on the Yeti are very easy to operate.

Best Roll Top Dry Bag

Sea to Summit roll top dry bags come in various colors and sizes ranging from 5 - 65 liters! These bags are functional, durable, and a steal for the price.

Best Zipper Sealed Dry Bag

This watertight, durable duffel comes in 50, 75, and 100-liter size options. Unlike other zipper closures, those on the Yeti are very easy to operate.

Determining the Right Size

When it comes to choosing the right size dry bag, there are a few factors to consider.

First, think about the amount of gear you need to carry and the activities you’ll be doing.

Additionally, you’ll need to measure your gear to ensure that it will fit in the chosen dry bag.

Factors to Consider

The size of the dry bag you need will depend on the amount of gear you need to carry.

For example, if you’re going on a day hike and only need to carry a few items such as a phone, wallet, and a small first aid kit, a 2-liter dry bag will suffice.

However, if you’re going on a multi-day trip and need to carry a sleeping bag, tent, and other gear, you’ll need a larger dry bag, such as a 30-liter dry bag.

Another factor to consider is the activities you’ll be doing. If you’re going kayaking or rafting, you’ll need a dry bag that can withstand submersion in water.

On the other hand, if you’re going on a hike, you may not need a fully waterproof dry bag, but rather one that is water-resistant.

Measuring Your Gear

To ensure that your gear will fit in the chosen dry bag, you’ll need to measure it. Start by laying out all the gear you plan to bring and measuring the height, width, and length of each item.

Once you have these measurements, you can compare them to the dimensions of the dry bag you’re considering.

It’s important to note that the dimensions of a dry bag refer to the interior of the bag, not the exterior. Additionally, you’ll want to leave some extra space in the dry bag for air and to ensure that your gear can be easily packed and unpacked.

In conclusion, when determining the right size dry bag, consider the amount of gear you need to carry and the activities you’ll be doing.

Measuring your gear before choosing a dry bag will ensure that everything fits properly and is protected from the elements.

dry bag sitting on beach near water

Types of Dry Bags

When it comes to choosing a dry bag, there are two main types to consider: roll-top dry bags and zipper-sealed dry bags.

Roll-Top Dry Bags

Roll-top dry bags are the most common type of dry bag. They are made of a waterproof material and have a roll-top closure that creates a watertight seal.

To use a roll-top dry bag, you simply roll the top of the bag down several times and then clip it closed.

One advantage of roll-top dry bags is that they are relatively easy to use and can be quickly opened and closed.

They are also lightweight and come in a variety of sizes, from small 2-liter bags to large 30-liter backpacks.

Best Roll Top Dry Bag
Sea to Summit Big River Dry Bag

Sea to Summit roll top dry bags come in various colors and sizes ranging from 5 - 65 liters! These bags are functional, durable, and a steal for the price.

Check Current Price

Zipper-Sealed Dry Bags

Zipper-sealed dry bags are a newer type of dry bag that are becoming more popular. They are similar to roll-top dry bags, but instead of rolling the top of the bag down, they have a zipper that creates a watertight seal.

One advantage of zipper-sealed dry bags is that they are easier to access than roll-top dry bags. With a zipper-sealed bag, you can simply unzip the bag and access your gear without having to unroll the top of the bag.

However, zipper-sealed dry bags are generally heavier than roll-top dry bags and can be more difficult to seal properly. They also tend to be more expensive than roll-top dry bags.

Overall, the type of dry bag you choose will depend on your personal preferences and the specific needs of your trip.

Both roll-top and zipper-sealed dry bags are effective at keeping your gear dry, so it’s really a matter of which type you find more convenient and practical.

Best Zipper Sealed Dry Bag
YETI Panga 50

This watertight, durable duffel comes in 50, 75, and 100-liter size options. Unlike other zipper closures, those on the Yeti are very easy to operate.

Check Current Price

Additional Features to Consider

When choosing a dry bag, there are several additional features to consider beyond just the size of the bag.

These features can affect the bag’s durability, waterproofness, and ease of use.

Material and Durability

The material of the dry bag is an important consideration!

Some dry bags are made from lightweight materials like nylon, which are great for backpacking or hiking, but may not be as durable as heavier materials like vinyl.

Look for bags made from tough, puncture-resistant materials that can withstand wear and tear.

Waterproof Rating

Dry bags are designed to keep your belongings dry, but not all bags are created equal.

Look for bags with a high waterproof rating, measured in IPX (Ingress Protection) or PSI (Pounds per Square Inch). A higher rating means the bag is more waterproof and can withstand more water pressure.

Shoulder Straps and Handles

Consider how you will be carrying the dry bag.

Look for bags with comfortable shoulder straps and handles that make it easy to carry, especially if you plan on carrying the bag for long periods of time.

Some bags even come with additional features like waist straps or chest straps to help distribute the weight of the bag evenly.

Overall, when choosing a dry bag, it’s important to consider the size, material, waterproof rating, and ease of use.

By taking these factors into account, you can ensure that you choose a dry bag that is durable, waterproof, and easy to carry.

Dry Bag Sizing FAQs

What will a 5-liter dry bag hold?

A 5-liter dry bag can hold small essentials such as a smartphone, wallet, keys, and a few other compact items.

It provides enough space to keep your valuables dry and protected, making it ideal for shorter outings or situations where minimal gear is required.

How big is a 25-liter dry bag?

A 25-liter dry bag offers a moderate storage capacity, suitable for carrying essential gear and belongings.

With its compact yet versatile size, it provides ample space for clothing, personal items, electronics, and other essentials required for day trips or shorter outdoor adventures.

How big is a 75-liter dry bag?

A 75-liter dry bag provides a spacious storage solution, accommodating a significant amount of gear and equipment.

With its large capacity, it is well-suited for extended expeditions or situations that require carrying bulky items, making it an ideal choice for adventurers embarking on longer trips or expeditions.

Conclusion on dry bag sizing

When it comes to choosing the right size dry bag, it’s important to consider the amount of gear you’ll be carrying and the activities you’ll be doing.

A 2-liter dry bag is perfect for carrying small personal items and organizing your backpack, while a 5-liter dry bag is great for carrying a few essentials for a day trip.

If you’re planning a longer trip or need to carry more gear, a 10-liter or 20-liter dry bag might be more suitable. These sizes can accommodate clothing, a sleeping bag, and other larger items.

For those who need to pack even more gear, a 30-liter dry bag or backpack is a good option. These larger sizes can fit everything you need for a multi-day trip, including a tent, stove, and food.

Ultimately, the size of the dry bag you need will depend on your specific needs and preferences. It’s always a good idea to have a few different sizes on hand, so you can choose the right one for each adventure.

If you found this article helpful, make sure to take a look at some of my other dry bag articles linked below!

Hi, I'm Zach Reed and I'm a Colorado-based outdoor lover! For more information about me, take a look at my dedicated about me page.

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