Imagine this: You trek for miles, finally reach your perfect hunting spot, and then—a sudden downpour. Your expensive gear, your ammo, even your phone, gets soaked. That sinking feeling is something every hunter dreads. Keeping your essential equipment dry is non-negotiable when you are deep in the backcountry.
Choosing the right dry bag might seem simple, but it quickly becomes complicated. Do you need heavy-duty PVC or lighter TPU? What size actually works for your week-long trip versus a single day hunt? The wrong choice means ruined electronics, soggy clothing, and potentially ruined opportunities. You need gear that works as hard as you do, resisting tears, abrasions, and the worst weather nature throws at you.
This guide cuts through the confusion. We will break down the key features, materials, and sizing you need to know. By the end of this post, you will confidently select the perfect dry bag system to protect your investment and focus purely on the hunt. Let’s dive into how to keep your crucial gear safe from the elements.
Table of Contents
Top Dry Bags For Hunting Recommendations
- Top Rated By Wirecutter: Durable, reliable, and wallet-friendly are just a few of the reasons why The NY Times Wirecutter chose earth pak as one of the top dry bags of 2024! Our classic roll-top design keeps your contents dry and all our bags are all protected by a five-year warranty.
- Shoulder Strap: 10L & 20L dry bags come with a 24-42 Inch single shoulder strap. 30L, 40L, and 55L waterproof backpacks are equipped with backpack style shoulder straps that also come with a sternum strap for added stability. Our new 55L also comes equipped with a heavy duty waist-belt, which relieves added pressure and helps support your load.
- IPX8 Certified Waterproof Phone Case: We have included our IPX8 Certified 6.5 Inch waterproof phone case that will fit even the largest of phones. This case features a very simple snap and lock access that has dual-sided clear windows that allow to take pictures while still inside the case. Suitable for phones up to 6.5 Inches of diagonal screen size.
- Ideal For Travel: Our water bag is very lightweight and compact making it an essential dry bag for all your travel plans. Easy to fold and pack tight in any sized luggage!
- Keep Your Items Dry and Protected: Protect Your Valuables with our 5L, 10L, 20L, 30L, 40L, or 55L Dry Bags! Just toss your gear inside your water bag, roll it down, and you’re good to go on your next adventure.
- Keep Your Gear Organized: A set of 5 ultralight Dry Sacks in Five Different Colors and Sizes (3L,5L,10L,15L,20L), so you can easily recognize the contents. Best design for food, clothes, hats, and all of the outdoor gear.
- Stay Dry on your Adventure: Pro-grade Waterproof Polyester with a fully taped seam, combined with a Solid roll-top closure system provides a secure watertight seal. (Avoid full submersion)
- Ultralight & Durable: Made of 210T high-quality Tear Resistant Polyester Material, Effectively balances LIGHTWEIGHT ( 3L-35g,5L-40g,10L-45g,15L-55g,20L-60g), and DURABILITY, keep your belongings dry and clean as barely adding any weight.
- Considerate Design: 1. The base of the sack is rectangular for space-efficient packing, and the black base is dirty-resistant. 2. D-ring is easy to clip to your backpack.
- Ultimate Versatility: Ideal for backpacking, hiking, kayaking, boating, camping, cycle touring, travel, and more.
- Camouflage Shell Pouch: Made from durable 500D PVC tarpaulin, the dry shell pouch features a military-style pattern that blends with outdoor gear. It helps protect shells and essentials from mud, moisture, and field use during hunting or fishing.
- Compact 2L Dry Bag: Holds two boxes of shotgun shells along with small essentials like keys, wallet, or license. Measuring 4.75" circumference × 7.5" height, our water proof pouch for beach offers convenient, organized storage for field or water activities.
- Secure Roll-Top Closure: Roll top dry bag helps seal out water, dust, and dirt during outdoor use. The sturdy buckle closure provides protection from splashes and light rain while keeping essentials easy to access in the field
- Lightweight Carry Convenience: Weighing only 0.5 lb, the waterproof dry bag is compact, easy to carry, and includes clip and D-ring points for quick attachment to waders, belts, or packs, no shoulder strap required
- Space-Saving Design: Dead Bird dry sack waterproof backpack features a slim, easy-to-pack build that fits into any gear bag or tight space. Designed for hunters and outdoor users, it keeps small essentials organized and protected during field use
- Waterproof Protection: Abrasion-resistant 500D PVC and secure roll-top closure locks out water
- Welded Seams: Fully welded seams provide a tenacious water barrier, keeping your belongings safe; Waterproof valve releases trapped air, making compression easy and the packed size smaller
- Stable Storage: Oval-shaped flat bottom helps the bag stand up on its own and prevent rolling; easy to fill
- Easy Transport: Backpack carry straps make it easy to carry and keep your hands free; Convenient grab handle
- Specs: Capacity - 35L / 2135 in³; Weight - 1 lb. 5 oz.; Dimensions (after 3 rolls) - 21" H x 13" W x 8" D
- Waterproof Protection: Abrasion-resistant 500D PVC and secure roll-top closure locks out water
- Welded Seams: Fully welded seams provide a tenacious water barrier, keeping your belongings safe; Waterproof valve releases trapped air, making compression easy and the packed size smaller
- Stable Storage: Oval-shaped flat bottom helps the bag stand up on its own and prevent rolling; easy to fill
- Easy Transport: Backpack carry straps make it easy to carry and keep your hands free; Convenient grab handle
- Specs: Capacity - 50L / 3050 in; Weight - 1 lb. 9 oz.; Dimensions (after 3 rolls) - 21" H x 15" W x 10" D
- IP68 Certified Waterproof: With excellent water-resistant seal performance (IP68 rating), this 100% sealed waterproof bag provides comprehensive protection for your phone and other belongings in a variety of environments; The waterproof roll-top closure ensures a perfect seal and keeps out water, snow, dust, sand, and dirt
- Multifunctional Outdoor Usage: This multifunctional dry bag is perfect for outdoor activities such as camping, kayaking, boating, rafting, hiking, swimming, and fishing; Take it with you to the lake, beach, or on a jet ski for reliable protection against water, sand, and dirt; The buckle and D-rings are made with upgraded POM material, making them stronger and more durable for frequent use
- Reliable Protection: Our Waterproof Marine Series dry bags offer reliable protection for even the most rugged users; They are built to last for years and provide water-resistant protection; The designated waterproof compartment is made of high-quality material and allows easy storage and carrying of your phone (up to 7" screen in diagonal size); With designated touch screen access to your phone, you can even check messages or emails without removing your phone, making it easy to stay connected and protected
- Adjustable Shoulder Strap: Carry your dry storage bag with ease using the detachable and adjustable shoulder strap; You can wear it like a backpack or cross it over your chest for hands-free hiking and adventures; The bag also includes a D-ring (keychain) for easy attachment to a kayak, canoe, backpack, or boat
- Package Contents: 1 Unit of 5L Pelican Waterproof Dry Bag - Marine Series Hunter Camo + (1) Detachable Keychain Lanyard; 1-Year Warranty
- 100% WATERPROOF GUARANTEED: Utilizing high-frequency seam bonding technology, our dry bag backpack ensures your essentials stay dry during all your adventures — be it kayaking, hiking, skiing, river tubing, jet skiing, fishing, hunting or on a boat. It even floats in case it ends up in the water.
- ORGANIZED & SECURE STORAGE: Benefit from a spacious interior for all your must haves, alongside a wet/dry mesh front pocket with adjustable cargo straps for easy-access to all your essentials.
- EASY-TO-USE ROLL TOP CLOSURE: Keep water out effortlessly with our intuitive roll-top closure. Simply fold the dry pack down 3-4 times, secure the buckles, and you're set for any adventure!
- UNMATCHED COMFORT & CONVENIENCE: Our ergonomic medium drybag includes padded, adjustable shoulder straps for a comfortable, customized fit, plus an over-molded top carry handle. Carry it as a backpack using 2 straps, a cross-body bag using 1 strap, or down at your side with the carry handle.
- ENHANCED SAFETY FEATURES & DURABLE DESIGN: Travel with peace of mind thanks to a reflective strip on the front wet/dry pocket for increased visibility in low-light conditions. Made of high-quality materials these marine dry bags were built to last and are easy to maintain – simply use a damp cloth to wipe off any dirt or debris.
- Field-Proof Design: This waterproof hunting backpack is engineered for rugged use and protects gear from rain, mud, and harsh marine conditions. Reinforced closure and welded seams of waterproof roll top backpack block out water and dust, ensuring dependable performance across outdoor environments
- Spacious Storage: Built for organization, camo dry bag provides a large roll-top compartment and exterior zip pocket for carrying gear, tools, or clothing. Suitable for hunters, travelers, and outdoor enthusiasts needing a waterproof backpack.
- Adjustable Fit: Dead Bird waterproof waterfowl backpack includes padded straps, chest strap, and grab handle for comfort and balance. Weighing 2.5 lb and sized 20" × 12", it distributes weight evenly for long outdoor use.
- Durable Build: EVA-reinforced base combined with abrasion-resistant PVC tarpaulin gives dry backpack exceptional strength and longevity. MOLLE webbing and D-rings provide adaptable attachment points to it.
- Camouflage Design: M81 pattern gives military waterproof bag a rugged look that merges with outdoor and tactical setups. Engineered for demanding environments, it provides the strength and reliability hunters, campers, and field users depend on.
The Essential Buying Guide for Dry Bags Built for the Hunt
Hunting means facing the elements. Rain, snow, mud—your gear needs protection. A good dry bag keeps your clothes, electronics, and important documents safe and dry, no matter how tough the trail gets. Choosing the right one is crucial for a successful trip. This guide helps you pick the best dry bag for your next outdoor adventure.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping, focus on these important features. They make a big difference in how well the bag works when you really need it.
1. Waterproof Rating (IP Code)
Look for bags rated IP67 or higher. This tells you how waterproof the bag truly is. A higher number means better protection against water immersion.
2. Closure System
The seal is the most important part. Most quality dry bags use a roll-top closure. You roll the top down tightly three or more times, then clip the buckles. This creates a strong, watertight seal. Avoid bags with simple zippers unless they are specifically designed as waterproof zippers (like heavy-duty TIZIPs).
3. Durability and Abrasion Resistance
Hunting grounds are rough. Your bag needs to handle scrapes against rocks and branches. Look for reinforced seams and tough exterior fabric.
4. Carrying Comfort
If you carry the bag for long distances, comfortable straps matter. Look for padded shoulder straps and sternum straps, especially on larger bags. Some bags offer backpack-style carrying systems.
Important Materials That Matter
The material determines weight, flexibility, and how long the bag lasts.
- TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane): This is a top-tier material. It is very durable, highly abrasion-resistant, and stays flexible even in cold weather. TPU seals are often welded, making them stronger than stitched seams.
- Heavy-Duty PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride): PVC is very tough and offers excellent waterproofing. However, it can become stiff and crack in very cold temperatures.
- Nylon with PU Coating (Polyurethane): This is common and lighter weight. Ensure the PU coating is thick; a thin coating wears off faster, reducing the waterproof quality.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Not all dry bags are created equal. A few details separate the excellent bags from the mediocre ones.
Quality Boosters:
- Welded Seams: High-quality bags use heat-welded seams instead of stitching. Welded seams do not allow water to seep through the needle holes.
- Heavy-Duty Buckles: Strong, impact-resistant buckles will not break when dropped or crushed under weight.
- D-Rings and Attachment Points: Extra loops let you secure the bag to ATVs, boats, or pack frames easily.
Quality Reducers:
- Thin Fabrics: Very thin materials puncture easily. A puncture ruins the waterproof protection immediately.
- Basic Sewing: If the seams are only stitched, water can easily enter, especially during heavy rain or accidental drops in a stream.
- Flimsy Roll-Tops: If the material you roll down feels thin or weak, the seal will not hold up under pressure.
User Experience and Common Use Cases
Think about how you will use the bag on your hunt. This determines the size and style you need.
Protecting Electronics and Optics
For small items like rangefinders, phones, or GPS units, a small (5L to 10L) cylinder-style bag works perfectly. You can toss this smaller bag inside a larger, less waterproof backpack for a second layer of security.
Keeping Clothing and Sleeping Gear Dry
If you are backpacking or camping, you need larger bags (20L to 40L). These keep your spare socks, insulated layers, and sleeping bag dry, which is vital for survival if you get soaked.
Transporting Game
Some hunters use large, extremely durable dry bags (60L+) to line their backpacks when packing out meat. This prevents blood and moisture from soaking into the main backpack fabric, making cleanup much easier later.
Top 10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Hunting Dry Bags
Q: What size dry bag do I need for a weekend hunt?
A: For clothing and essential gear for a 2-3 day trip, a 20-liter to 30-liter bag usually provides enough space.
Q: Are dry bags airtight?
A: When sealed correctly, yes, they are airtight. This feature is important because it helps keep things dry even if submerged briefly.
Q: Can I use a dry bag as a floatation device?
A: No. While they float when empty or lightly loaded, they are not designed or tested as life-saving devices.
Q: How do I clean mud and dirt off my dry bag?
A: Rinse the exterior with cool water. Use a mild soap if necessary, but avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the waterproof coating.
Q: Should I get a roll-top or a zipper dry bag?
A: For maximum waterproofing reliability in the field, always choose a roll-top closure.
Q: Will a dry bag protect my gear from animal teeth?
A: No. Standard dry bags offer zero protection against sharp teeth. Keep them stored securely away from bears or other curious animals.
Q: What is the purpose of the D-rings on the bag?
A: D-rings let you lash the bag securely onto a pack frame, kayak, or tree branch so it does not get lost.
Q: Do dry bags need to be completely submerged to fail?
A: Not necessarily. Heavy, driving rain or continuous pressure from being packed tightly in a wet environment can force water through weak seams or poor seals.
Q: Are colored dry bags better than black ones?
A: Brightly colored bags (like orange or yellow) are easier to spot if you drop them in water or leave them behind in tall grass.
Q: How long should I expect a quality TPU dry bag to last?
A: With proper care, a high-quality TPU dry bag can easily last five to ten years or more.