One dunking can destroy a phone, a GPS, or a camera. Dry bags and waterproof cases are cheap insurance against expensive accidents. Here is how to choose.
Dry Bags
A dry bag is a welded or taped seam bag with a roll-top closure — roll the top three to four times and clip it closed and the contents are waterproof to a stated depth rating. They are the most versatile waterproofing solution for outdoor use: stuff a sleeping bag inside one, roll the top, and it floats; wedge one behind your kayak seat with your phone, wallet, and car keys inside, and it survives a capsize.
Material: 500D PVC is bombproof and heavy; 210D nylon is light but less abrasion-resistant. For gear that is protected rather than carried, PVC is appropriate. For items you carry all day in a pack, nylon weight is worth the trade-off.
Sizing: 5L for phone, wallet, and small valuables. 10L for a full-day's food and a camera. 20–30L for a sleeping bag or a significant portion of a pack's contents. Buy multiple sizes rather than one large bag you partially fill — an underfilled dry bag does not compress and is awkward to pack.
Waterproof Pouches for Phones
A waterproof pouch is a sealed bag with a transparent face that allows touchscreen use and photography through the material. Adequate for kayaking, wade fishing, and boating where the phone is in and out of spray regularly. Not a substitute for a rated waterproof case if you intend to take photos underwater or in heavy rain while using the phone actively.
Hard Cases (Pelican, SKB)
Injection-moulded with O-ring seals and pressure relief valves. Rated to significant depth (3+ metres). Crush-resistant. The right solution for cameras, GPS units, and electronic equipment on remote trips where pack loads put gear under compression. Heavy and bulky — appropriate for vehicle travel and float trips, less so for backpacking. Browse our outdoor accessories and storage range.
