Dry Bag

Dry bags are available in a range of designs, each suited to different levels of water exposure and durability requirements. Lightweight dry bags are typically made from thinner, often siliconised nylon or Cordura, offering good water resistance and packability for protecting clothes or sleeping bags inside a larger backpack. They are generally suitable for light rain or splash protection.

Heavy-duty dry bags, conversely, utilise thicker materials such as PVC, TPU-coated nylon, or reinforced vinyl. These materials are more resistant to abrasion and punctures, and often feature welded seams for superior waterproofing. They are designed to withstand harsher conditions, including temporary submersion, making them ideal for boating, kayaking, and scuba diving.

Beyond the material, variations include dry backpacks with shoulder straps, dry duffel bags with larger openings, and smaller pouches for electronics that might feature a zipper and additional internal padding. Some advanced dry bags include purge valves to compress air, making them more compact when filled with soft goods, or transparent windows to easily identify contents.

Properly using a dry bag is crucial for ensuring your items remain dry. The most common closure method involves the roll-top. To seal effectively, first, ensure there's enough air inside the bag to create buoyancy, but not so much that it prevents rolling. Then, align the top edges and roll them down tightly 3-4 times (approximately 15-20 cm / 6-8 inches), expelling excess air as you roll. Finally, clip the buckles together, either to each other or to a side strap, to secure the seal.

Overfilling a dry bag can compromise the seal, so always leave sufficient space for the roll-top closure. After use, especially in saltwater, it's advisable to rinse your dry bag with fresh water and allow it to air dry completely, both inside and out, before storing. This prevents mildew growth and preserves the integrity of the material and seals. Regularly inspect seams and material for signs of wear or damage, as even small punctures can lead to water ingress.

For liveaboard diving, dry bags transition from being a convenient accessory to an essential piece of equipment. The marine environment, with its constant spray, humidity, and the occasional rogue wave, poses a significant threat to electronics, passports, and even dry clothing. A good dry bag ensures these valuables are protected, whether they are stowed on deck during transits, taken onto a zodiac for a dive site transfer, or kept in your cabin's less-than-hermetically-sealed compartments.

Divers often use multiple dry bags: a larger one for general items like a change of clothes or a towel, and smaller ones for specific valuables such as cameras, phones, and documents. On dive tenders, a robust dry bag can protect your primary camera rig or surface interval snacks. Their bright colours also make them easily identifiable amidst other gear. Having a reliable dry bag means less worry about water damage and more focus on enjoying your dive safari.

Myth: All dry bags are completely submersible and waterproof. Fact: Dry bags have varying levels of water protection, indicated by an IP (Ingress Protection) rating. While many are IPX6 rated (resistant to strong jets of water), only those with higher ratings like IPX7 or IPX8 are designed for temporary or continuous submersion, respectively. Always check the specific rating if full submersion is a requirement.

Myth: Once sealed, a dry bag provides airtight protection for electronics. Fact: While dry bags keep water out, they do not necessarily create a vacuum or fully protect against condensation build-up inside, especially in humid environments or with temperature changes. For highly sensitive electronics, consider adding desiccant packets or using a dedicated waterproof hard case.

Myth: Overfilling a dry bag makes it more secure. Fact: Overfilling a dry bag is a common mistake that compromises its waterproof seal. To ensure effective protection, always leave ample space (typically 15-20 cm / 6-8 inches) at the top to allow for the necessary tight rolls that form the watertight closure. An overstuffed bag will leak.