Dry Bags 101: How to Choose the Right Size + When You Need One

A dry bag is cheap insurance. It keeps your layers, electronics, and food dry when weather turns — and it keeps sand and dust out when it’s dry.

When you actually need a dry bag

• Canoe/kayak days and beach camps

• Rainy shoulder-season weekends

• Dusty roads and overlanding

• Any trip where your phone, headlamp, or battery matters

Sizing: the quick rule

• 5–10L: phone, headlamp, wallet, small layers

• 15–20L: a full change of clothes + towel

• 30L+: bulky insulation or shared gear

What to look for

• Roll-top closure that seals cleanly

• Tough fabric (abrasion matters more than ‘ultralight’ marketing)

• Simple carry points

• Bright color helps you find it fast

Base Kamp pick

If you want one bag that covers most weekend trips, start with a mid-size waterproof dry bag and scale up only if you’re packing bulky insulation.

Add a link to your TrailDry Waterproof Dry Bag product page here.