waterproof bags; A reliable companion for adventurous trips

“Dry bag” (Dry bag), which is also known as “waterproof” bag or “dry bag”; The bag is water resistant. Waterproof bags have many varieties and are sold as handbags, shoulder bags, backpacks, etc. Dry bags are often used for traveling and camping; But they are also suitable for water sports such as kayaking, boating, paddle boarding, etc. In order for the dry bag to perform its function properly and prevent the equipment from getting wet, it must be of high quality and purchased from reputable brands such as “Naturehawk”, “Exped”, “C2 Summit”, etc.

What we need to know about waterproof bags:

Key features of waterproof bags

Despite their minor differences, waterproof bags are produced with similar features.

_{Photo source: expeditionportal.com website; Photographer: Unknown}

• Waterproof property: The most important feature of dry bags is their resistance to water and humidity. Manufacturers usually use waterproof fabrics such as nylon and polyester to produce these bags. Also, the seams of these bags are sealed so that water does not penetrate into the bag through them.
• Simple design: Waterproof bags are designed in a simple way so that people can easily use them while traveling and do not spend a lot of time opening and closing the bag. In fact, people can easily put the equipment in the dry bag and, if necessary, quickly remove the equipment from the bag. Usually, the interior of these bags is one piece and there are no multiple pockets inside them. Also, these bags have few straps.
• Light weight: Waterproof bags are often used for travel, and that’s why manufacturers design them to be light and compact.
• Durability: Waterproof bags are exposed to many damages such as wear, scratches, etc. during the trip; Therefore, dry bags are produced with resistant materials. Therefore, these bags can resist damage in adverse conditions.

A variety of waterproof bags for different applications

In addition to traveling and camping, waterproof bags are used in sports such as sailing, rafting, kayaking, paddle boarding, etc. These bags are produced in different types such as backpacks, handbags, waist bags, shower bags and handbags, and their main use is to protect accessories from water; But dry bags are a multipurpose device and have other uses.

_{Photo source: travelandleisure.com website; Photographer: Unknown}

• Water bucket: The container of dry bags does not transfer water to the outside and therefore they are also used as water buckets.
• Laundry: Waterproof bags are a kind of travel mini wash. Put the dirty clothes in the bag and pour some water and washing liquid into the compartment. Then shake the dry bag several times until the clothes are washed.
• tube: If the waterproof bags are filled with air, they will float on the water and act like a tube.
• Garbage basket: You can put dirty and wet clothes in a waterproof bag during the trip so that these clothes don’t get wet and contaminate other accessories.
• pillow: Waterproof bags are often cylindrical; Therefore, if you fill them with clothes, they become like pillows.
• Travel organizer: Drybags can be used to organize things while traveling and in the car.

The best brands of waterproof bags

Many brands in the world produce waterproof bags; But some brands have more fans due to the high quality of the products.

_{Photo source: rockgeist.com website; Photographer: Unknown}

• “sea to summit”: The Australian brand Sea Summit started its work in the field of camping and travel equipment in 1990.
• “Osprey”: The American Asprey brand was established in 1974. This brand is engaged in the production of travel equipment in nature and the city and mountaineering necessities.
• Naturehike: The Chinese brand Naturehike started its activity in 2010 in the field of camping and mountaineering equipment.
• Ortlieb: In 1982, the Ortlieb brand was established in Germany with the aim of producing outdoor waterproof equipment.
• Itiwit: The French brand Etivit was founded in 2015. This brand produces products needed for water sports.
• “Exped”: The Swiss brand EXPED sells outdoor equipment in the world. This brand dates back to 1997.
• Haglofs: The activity of the Swedish brand Haglofs started in 1914. Outdoor equipment and clothing of this brand has many fans in the world.
• “Vaude” (Vaude): The German brand Woude started its activity in 1974. This brand is now known as one of the leading brands in the field of space equipment in the world.

Important points in choosing a waterproof bag

In order for waterproof bags to give you a good travel experience, they must have good quality and be purchased according to the needs and type of travel.

_{Photo source: expeditionportal.com website; Photographer: Unknown}

• Capacity: The measuring standard of waterproof bags is liters. Usually, these types of bags are produced with compartments ranging from 1 to 90 liters; Of course, some waterproof bags have a capacity of more than 90 liters. In general, small dry bags are used for one-day trips and larger dry bags are used for long trips; For example, a dry bag of 1 to 10 liters for small items such as mobile phones and wallets, a dry bag of 10 to 20 liters for meals and large electronics, a dry bag of 20 to 40 liters for camping equipment and sleeping bags, a dry bag of 40 to 60 liters A liter is suitable for clothes for a few days and a dry bag with a capacity of more than 60 liters is suitable for carrying the group’s belongings.
• Bag material: The fabric of the waterproof bag should be able to withstand wear and tear and adverse weather conditions; For this reason, it is better for the fabric of these bags to be thick. Also, these fabrics should not absorb water and become heavy. Many reputable brands in the world reinforce their fabric with materials such as PVC and polyurethane to increase the resistance of waterproof bags.
• Closure type: Waterproof bags are closed in two ways: “Rolltop” and zipper. The roll top system is such that you have to fold the upper part of the bag several times and then close the buckle of the bag so that the weather does not penetrate inside the bag. Usually, roll-top dry bags are more resistant to water penetration than zippered models.

_{Photo source: sailingtoday.co.uk website; Photographer: Unknown}

• Insole: The bottom of the waterproof bag should be stronger and thicker than the body of the bag; Because this part is usually on the ground and exposed to sharp objects such as stones and plant thorns. If the sole is strong, the bag can be placed on any surface without worry.
• Design: When buying a bag, you should pay attention to points such as light weight, adjustable straps, and tight and sealed seams.
• Waterproof test: To choose the best dry bag, make sure the bag is completely waterproof. There are two methods to ensure that the bag is waterproof; In the first method, you have to fill half of the dry bag with water. Then close the buckle or zipper without letting the extra air out of the bag. Finally, press the bag with your hand for a minute; If the bag is not waterproof, water will leak out. In the second method, you have to fill the dry bag compartment with air and then drop the bag into the water until it is completely immersed in the water. If you see air bubbles under water, it means that the bag is not water resistant.
• “IPX” rating: The IPX rating indicates the resistance of the dry bag to water. A higher number means more resistance of the bag against water; For example, rating 6 means that the bag has a good resistance to heavy rain, or if the waterproof rating of the bag is 7, the bag can be immersed in water up to one meter deep and will not let the water in.

Waterproof bags with special and innovative designs

There is a lot of competition among manufacturers of waterproof bags; That’s why brands try to outdo their competitors by producing unique waterproof bags.

_{Photo source: walmart.com website; Photographer: Unknown}

• Appearance of the bag: Most waterproof bags have a simple appearance; But some models are decorated with beautiful designs of nature and animals, and therefore they are welcomed by many people.
• Mobile phone pocket: Some waterproof bags have special transparent pockets for placing mobile phones. These pockets protect the mobile phone from water like a cover. It is also possible to use a mobile phone from this cover.
• Multiple pockets: For some dry bags, several pockets are considered; This allows people to organize their things well inside the bag.
• Transparent models: Some waterproof bags are produced with transparent materials; Therefore, the space inside them can be observed. This feature helps people find the items in the bag more easily.
• Air outlet valve: On some waterproof bags there is a small vent that lets the air out of the bag. In fact, you should first put your supplies in the bag and close the top of the bag. Then leave the valve open to let the air out. This will compress the equipment and reduce the volume of the dry bag.
• Heat and cold insulation: Some waterproof bags are made in such a way that they can act as heat and cold insulation. These types of dry bags are suitable for picnics and camping. In fact, they keep food and drinks hot or cold.
• Reflective strip: Some waterproof bags have reflective tape. These strips reflect light in dark and foggy weather and help people find their dry bag easily.

Opinions and experiences of users about waterproof bags

Reading user reviews before buying a dry bag will help you make an informed purchase.

_{Photo source: themanual.com website; Photographer: Unknown}

• Waterproof: One of the most important features for users is the waterproofness of the dry bag. According to the users, the dry bag should be able to prevent moisture and wetness after being immersed in water for a few moments.
• Durability: Users attach great importance to the durability of waterproof bags and are willing to pay a high price for quality bags. According to users, cheap bags are less durable and become unusable after a while.
• Easy to use: Users welcome waterproof bags that are easy to open and close and do not have specific and complicated instructions for their use.
• Weight: Lightweight dry bags are very popular among users; Because they are easy to transport.
• Compatibility with the environment: One of the points that users pay attention to when buying a dry bag is the ability to recycle the bag.
• Color: Some users prefer to buy a waterproof bag with dark colors such as black; Because bright colors get dirty easily.

Guide to buying a waterproof bag

For a pleasant shopping experience, it is necessary to follow some points while shopping.

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• Price: Usually, a higher price means a better quality waterproof bag. Buying a cheap dry bag is tempting; But it is possible that these types of bags have little durability.
• Warranty: It is better that the waterproof bag you buy has a warranty so that you can easily solve the problem in case of a defect. Also, warranty is a guarantee of product quality.
• Brand: Buy dry bags from well-known and reliable brands.
• Comparison: When shopping, first compare the price and features of different waterproof bags and then make your purchase according to your budget and needs.

_{Photo source: seagear.com.mv website; Photographer: Unknown}

Do you have experience using a waterproof bag? In your opinion, which brands produce the best waterproof bags? We would be happy if you share your thoughts and experiences with us and Kajaro companions.

_{Cover photo source: eco-beach.co.uk website; Photographer: Unknown}