Keeping Gear Dry: A Guide to Using Dry Bags

When you’re heading into the backcountry or setting up a base camp near the water, keeping your essentials dry is non-negotiable. Learning how to use dry bags for camping is a fundamental skill that protects your comfort and safety. A dry bag is more than just a sack; it’s a waterproof system that, when used correctly, creates a reliable barrier against rain, splashes, and even brief submersion. This guide walks through selecting the right bag, sealing it properly, and packing it smartly so your spare clothes, sleeping bag, and electronics stay dry from trailhead to tent.

Choosing the Right Dry Bag for Your Trip

The first step in learning how to use dry bags for camping is selecting the appropriate one. Dry bags come in a wide range of sizes, measured in liters, and are made from different materials, each with its own balance of durability, weight, and flexibility.

Consider what you need to protect. A small bag is perfect for a phone, wallet, and headlamp. Medium sizes are ideal for a change of clothes or a sleeping bag. Large or even extra-large bags can hold a full outfit, a tent, or multiple sleeping bags. For a multi-day trip, you’ll likely use a system of multiple bags to organize different gear categories, a strategy we discuss in our camping gear organization article.

Mastering the Roll-Top Seal

The waterproof integrity of most dry bags hinges entirely on a proper roll-top seal. A poorly sealed bag is just a wet bag waiting to happen. Follow these steps every time:

1. Pack and Compress: Fill the bag, but do not overstuff it. Leave enough empty material at the top to make at least three to four rolls.
2. Remove Air: Before sealing, squeeze out as much air as possible. This makes the bag more compact and reduces internal air pressure that could force the seal open.
3. Start the Roll: Press the air out and fold the top of the bag over itself to create a clean, tight first roll. The tighter this initial fold, the better the seal.
4. Roll It Down: Continue rolling the top down firmly toward the body of the bag. Most bags require at least three complete rolls for a secure seal.
5. Secure the Closure: Fasten the buckle or clip if your bag has one. This keeps the rolls in place but is not the primary waterproof seal—the tight rolls are.

Organizing Gear Inside Dry Bags

Smart organization turns a dry bag from a simple container into an efficient packing system. The goal is to keep related items together and protect delicate gear, even from moisture you might bring inside the bag.

Use Internal Sacks: Place items inside smaller stuff sacks, zip-top bags, or even dedicated electronics pouches before putting them in the dry bag. This adds a second layer of protection and makes it easy to find things without unpacking everything. Your sleeping bag should always have its own compression sack.

Pack by Category and Need: Group items logically. Keep all your clothing in one bag, your kitchen kit in another, and your sleeping system in a third. Pack items you’ll need first (like a rain jacket or headlamp) near the top or in an easily accessible outer pocket.

Protect Electronics and Food: For critical electronics like GPS units or satellite communicators, use a hard-sided case inside the dry bag for crush protection. For food, odor-proof bags are a wise addition to prevent attracting wildlife to your camp. Always follow Leave No Trace principles for food storage and waste.

Dry Bag Uses Beyond the Backpack

While keeping gear dry in a backpack is the primary use, dry bags are versatile tools around camp and on the water.

• Camp Organization: Use a small dry bag as a “camp essentials” kit for items you want at hand but protected from dew or rain, like fire starters, a camping lantern, or a notebook.
• Water Crossings and Boating: When fording a stream or taking a kayak out, a dry bag is essential for securing your most important gear against full submersion.
• Seating and Padding: A soft, well-packed dry bag can serve as an improvised seat or pillow, keeping you off damp ground. For more comfort, check our guide on selecting a portable camping chair.
• Wet/Dry Separation: Pack your wet rain gear or soggy swimsuit in a separate dry bag to prevent moisture from dampening the rest of your kit.

Care and Long-Term Storage

Proper care extends the life of your dry bags. After each trip, empty them completely and turn them inside out if possible to air dry. Wipe them down with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris. Store them loosely rolled or folded in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, which can degrade the materials over time. Avoid storing them while still damp, as this can lead to mildew. Always refer to the manufacturer’s care instructions for specific cleaning recommendations.

FAQ

How many dry bags do I need for a weekend camping trip?

For a typical weekend trip, three bags often work well: a large one for your sleeping bag and sleep clothes, a medium one for your spare clothing layers, and a small one for critical electronics and personal items. This modular approach, detailed in our Camping Basics resources, provides organization and redundancy.

Can I submerge my dry bag?

Most quality dry bags are designed to withstand splashes, rain, and brief, accidental submersion. However, they are not designed for prolonged underwater use like a diving bag. The depth and water pressure can compromise the seal. Always check the manufacturer’s specifications for submersion ratings.

What should I do if my dry bag gets a tear or puncture?

Small punctures can often be repaired with a patch kit designed for the bag’s specific material (often included with the bag). Clean and dry the area thoroughly before applying the patch according to the kit’s instructions. For larger tears or seam failures, contact the manufacturer for repair options.

Are dry bags completely airtight?

No, they are waterproof, not airtight. While a properly sealed bag will keep liquid water out, some air can still slowly pass through the material. This is why squeezing out excess air before sealing is important—it minimizes this effect and keeps the bag compact.

How do I know what size dry bag to get for my sleeping bag?

Check the packed volume of your sleeping bag (often listed on its stuff sack). Choose a dry bag with a liter capacity that meets or slightly exceeds that volume to allow for easy packing and a proper seal. Compression sacks can help reduce volume before the bag goes into the dry bag.