10 Best Dry Bags 2026 in the United States

The YETI Panga 50 is a sturdy dry bag designed for outdoor enthusiasts who need a reliable way to keep their gear safe and dry. One of its standout features is the Hydrolok zipper, which ensures a watertight seal, making this bag excellent for use in wet conditions or even when submerged. The thick, high-density nylon material paired with TPU lamination provides good protection against punctures and abrasions, which is ideal for rugged adventures. Its Dryhaul straps offer versatile carrying options, making it comfortable to transport, whether you're holding it or using it as a backpack.

There are considerations to keep in mind. While it excels in keeping your items dry, it does not function as a cooler, so if you're looking for a multi-use bag, this might not meet all your needs. Additionally, its capacity is designed to hold 50 liters, which is great for extended trips, but may be too large for casual day trips, leading to excess bulk. It is also relatively heavier than some alternatives, which could be a drawback for those concerned about weight during long hikes.

The YETI Panga 50 is an excellent choice for anyone needing a durable, waterproof solution for their gear, especially in harsh weather or environments. However, if you're looking for versatility in a cooler or a lighter option for short adventures, you might want to explore other choices.

The IDRYBAG Waterproof Backpack is a solid choice if you need a reliable dry bag for outdoor adventures like hiking, kayaking, or camping. Made from tough 500D PVC material, it’s both waterproof and scratch-resistant, helping keep your gear dry and safe even in rough conditions. It has a 40-liter capacity, which is spacious enough for most day trips or short excursions. The closure system uses a roll-top style that you need to roll 3-5 times and buckle to seal, which is effective but requires a bit of practice to get fully watertight.

Its shape and size (20 x 5 x 15 inches) are practical for carrying on your back comfortably, and the ergonomic honeycomb padded straps add to the comfort during longer use. The bag also features handy extras like an outer splash-proof pocket and an inner zippered pocket for organizing small essentials, plus reflective strips that improve visibility at night. The D-clips on shoulder straps allow attaching extra gear, which is useful outdoors.

The bag weighs around 2.79 pounds, which might feel a bit heavy compared to simpler dry bags, and while the roll-top closure is reliable, it may not be as quick to open or close as some zipper-based systems. With strong user ratings and versatility across many water and land-based activities, this dry backpack serves as a dependable companion for keeping your gear dry and protected.

The YETI Sidekick Dry 6L Gear Case is a sturdy, waterproof dry bag designed to keep your gear safe and dry during outdoor activities. Its durable vinyl material, called Dryhide, is strong enough to handle rough conditions, similar to what you'd find on high-performance whitewater rafts. The bag uses a Hydroshield closure with magnets, which provides a reliable, 100% waterproof seal, and RF-welded seams add extra protection against leaks. With a capacity of 6 liters and dimensions of about 13.5 x 9.7 x 3.15 inches, it’s a good size for storing items like fly fishing boxes, first aid kits, or a spare clothing layer without being bulky. It also fits well with other YETI gear like Camino, Hopper, and Panga backpacks, which is convenient if you already own those products.

On the downside, the 6L capacity might feel a bit small if you plan to carry larger equipment or more items. The bag’s shape is more rectangular and slim, which is great for organization but might not suit everyone’s packing style. Also, being made of vinyl, it’s a bit heavier than some ultralight dry bags made from nylon or TPU. This dry bag is a solid choice for outdoor enthusiasts looking for tough, reliable waterproof storage in a compact form, especially if you appreciate quality construction and compatibility with other YETI gear.