Keeping your electronics, clothing and food dry while kayaking is critical to having an epic adventure. We all know there are oodles of choices out there but we’ve selected our top 5 based up capacity, durability, usability, and price. Our top 5, in no particular order, are:
1) Sealline Black Canyon Boundary Pack - $114.95
This pack comes in 35, 70 and a whopping 115-liter capacity. It’s ideal for carrying large loads over short distances. It’s made from RF welded 300D urethane. It weights 2.8 lb. and comes in blue, green, red and yellow. We like the padding on the back top but wish it also had it on the bottom.
2) KastKing Dry Bags - $20.98
This is an economical and basic drybag. Smaller in size as it comes in 10, 20, and 30-liter editions and is available in multiple colors. It’s small enough to strap to the kayak, just about anywhere and has a simple enclosure and strap. You would not want to carry this on your back very far, but to keep a few things dry and to be able to see inside, it does the job.
3) Malo’o Waterproof Backpack - $37.99
This premium waterproof bag is great for keeping your gear dry and it good for a long hike to and from the water. It’s 30 L with 2 netted side pockets and a large see-though front pocket, so you can keep an eye on your text messages without having to stop. It has an IPX6 rating and can go from ocean to snow to stream, and has 2-way closure. It has great padding on the shoulder straps and on the bag back, allowing maximum airflow. It's available in multiple colors and we wish they would make a larger one for longer trips.
4) BackSak Waterproof Backpack – $54.95
This bag is made from 500-denier PVC with welded seams and roll down top. It comes in 25- and 35-liter editions and has multiple colors. It has a nice front pocket for smaller items and one inside, which is nice. The back is padded along with the straps, but we found it can get a little sweaty. It has a clean and European design to it.
5) Swede Waterproof Backpack - $56.99
This pack is made from industrial grade 500 denier polyvinyl and holds 33 liters. It has a 2-way closure and a good size from pocket and 2 side netted pockets for water bottles or flasks. It also has an inner pocket for laptops and other items. The color and appearance are striking but more effort could have been put into the straps and backpack components of this dry bag.
Here are some great options for your kayaking adventures. Some carry more, some carry it better and some do the basic job of keeping your gear dry. If you have other recommendations, please leave them in the comments and we’ll take a look at them.
